The 13 places the travel guides we read name most, what they say about each, and fares from your city.
The places, most named first
From the 9 guides that rank for "best beaches in cuba"
Named by 7 of 91. VaraderoHicacos Peninsula, Matanzas, CubaA 20 km stretch of white sand on the Hicacos Peninsula, about 140 km east of Havana.The most developed coastline in Cuba, which makes it easy for first-time visitors.
Named by 5 of 92. Cayo CocoJardines del Rey, CubaReefs for snorkeling and diving, with starfish, clownfish and turtles.Reached by a 25 km causeway from the mainland.
Named by 4 of 93. Playa PilarCayo Guillermo, Jardines del Rey, CubaNamed for Hemingway's boat; often called the most beautiful beach in Cuba.Known for high sand dunes, clear water and snorkeling.
Named by 4 of 9
4. Playa Ancón
Near Trinidad, south coast, Cuba
Sits on a peninsula near Trinidad with mountains behind it.
About 12 km from Trinidad, so it pairs beach time with the colonial town.
Named by 4 of 95. Cayo Largo del Sur (Playa Paraíso)Southwest coast, CubaPlaya Paraíso is on Cayo Largo del Sur, with no large developments and shallow warm water.Snorkeling is listed as excellent at Playa Paraiso.
Named by 4 of 96. GuardalavacaHolguín, eastern Cuba, CubaDescribed as the best beach of the east, less commercial than Varadero.Coral reefs make it good for divers.
Named by 2 of 97. Playas del EsteEast of Havana, CubaA string of beaches about 20 minutes from Havana city.Busier with locals in summer and quieter in winter.
Named by 2 of 98. Playa FlamencoCayo Coco, CubaA favorite for calm water and scenery.Shallow water and soft white sand suit families.
Named by 2 of 99. Playa EsmeraldaJardines del Rey / Holguín, CubaListed near Guardalavaca as a secluded cove with marine life.
10. Playa BacuranaoEast of Havana, CubaA bay with calm water, the closest Playas del Este beach to Havana.A shipwreck offshore draws some scuba divers.
11. Cayo Santa MaríaJardines del Rey, CubaLinked to the mainland by a 48 km causeway, with shallow water for families.
12. Playa GirónSouth coast, CubaA quiet south-coast beach with golden sand, calm water and good snorkeling.
13. Playa SirenaCayo Largo del Sur, CubaHas an old shipwreck, a draw for underwater photographers.
Fares from your city
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When to go
Travel guides most often name November to April as the best time to visit Cuba.
Named by 7 of 91. VaraderoA 20 km stretch of white sand on the Hicacos Peninsula, about 140 km east of Havana.The most developed coastline in Cuba, which makes it easy for first-time visitors.Named by 5 of 92. Cayo CocoReefs for snorkeling and diving, with starfish, clownfish and turtles.Reached by a 25 km causeway from the mainland.
Named by 4 of 93. Playa PilarNamed for Hemingway's boat; often called the most beautiful beach in Cuba.Known for high sand dunes, clear water and snorkeling.
