The Beach! | Varadero, Cuba

Varadero Beach

It’s considered by many the number one attraction and main reason to visit Varadero, and for a good reason, this white sandy beach is rated as one of the best in the world! It covers almost the entire length of the northern coastline of the Hicacos Peninsula. The 21-km (13 mi) strip of nearly uninterrupted beach is great for taking long walks or simply relax under the sun. The calm turquoise waters also makes this popular beach the perfect place for swimming and do all-kinds of water sports. Most parts have a sandy and gentle sloping entrance to the water.

Most all-inclusive resorts have lounge chairs and palapas (shade structures with a thatched roof made out of palm fronds) on their segment of beach, and beach towels are usually provided. In Cuba all beaches are public but chairs and palapas belonging to a hotel can be used only by their guests.

A typical sight on Varadero’s beaches are the bicycle souvenirs kiosks. They are made of shelves and hooks built over a bicycle that can be rolled along the beach by the vendors who have a government’s permit.

Beach Safety — Although the sea is usually calm and safe for swiming, it can sometimes be more dangerous due to higher surf, strong currents or undertow, especially during bad weather (strong winds, tropical storm or hurricane). You should always follow the flag system:

Green Flag: Low hazard calm condition.
Yellow Flag: Medium hazard moderate surf and/or current. Be cautious.
Red Flag: High hazard high surf and/or strong currents. No swimming. At your own risk!

Most of the all-inclusive hotels have life guards who are usually wearing a shirt with the Red Cross symbol and/or the word "Salvavidas" (life guard).