The best all inclusive resorts in Varadero, Cuba
Varadero is a Cuban tropical paradise for sun seekers. As the country’s number one tourist resort, it’s experiencing a surge in popularity from those who want a taste of Cuba’s beaches, with guaranteed sunshine, and lower prices compared to other Caribbean islands. Varadero also boasts one of the best beaches in the world; seriously! It was voted #2 beach in the world on TripAdvisor, and we completely understand why.
Life in Varadero is quiet and relaxing, making it an ideal place to get away from work and the outside world. Sip rum cocktails by the pool or bathe in the warm sea… As a destination with countless hotel options, some with better reviews than others, it can be difficult to decide where to stay.
In this guide, we share the very best all inclusive resorts in Varadero to save you the work of researching yourself. Hotels in Cuba might not be as luxurious and well-equipped as other destinations, so it’s even more important to do your research and choose a resort that you’ll want to return to. Each of the Varadero all inclusive hotels we’ve featured has excellent TripAdvisor reviews and is regarded be one of the best places to stay.
What area of Varadero Beach should I stay in?
One key consideration when planning your trip to Varadero is location. The beach strip stretches a whopping 21 kilometres (13 miles), with countless hotels to choose from. The start of the Varadero peninsula is where Varadero Town is located, whilst the far end of the beach strip hosts a marina with boat excursions to nearby islands, and more remote relaxation spots. See below for an overview on each of the main areas to stay in Varadero.
Varadero Town
The beating heart of Varadero, home to a flea market, public access to the beach, many shops, bars, restaurants, and the entertainment complex known as ‘Varadero Boulevard’. Varadero Town has the largest concentration of hotels, many of which are 3 star or less. It’s a great place to stay for those that want to experience the Varadero nightlife, or be within walking distance of everything that’s going on in town.
The centre of the peninsula
Stretching across the centre of Varadero Beach is where many more hotels are located, including the top-rated Iberostar Selection Varadero and Royalton Hicacos. The area has some of the best beach areas. It also has less crowds and seemingly whiter sands compared to the Varadero Town beach. It’s a great location for quiet relaxation in the comfort of a luxury all-inclusive resort.
Varadero Marina
The marina is at the very tip of the Varadero Peninsula, around a 15-minute drive from town. It has a good selection of hotels, plus the shops, cafes and restaurants of the marina to enjoy. The beaches here are also excellent! The only downside to staying in the Varadero Marina area is the longer drive to get to Downtown Varadero if you fancy eating out or experiencing the local nightlife. This shouldn’t be too much of a problem if you’re all-inclusive.
The best all inclusive resorts in Varadero
Iberostar Selection Varadero
View on TUI.CO.UK | TripAdvisor rating 4.5/5
Starting with the star of the show, Iberostar Selection Varadero is currently the number-one rated hotel in Varadero on TripAdvisor. This sprawling 5-star resort has a wide array of facilities, ranging from 3 swimming pools, a spa, wellness activities, a kids’ water park, 3 ‘a la carte’ restaurants, water sports; and last but not least, a grand theatre for evening entertainment.
The Iberostar Selection is split into small village areas of colourful accommodation, with beautifully manicured tropical grounds. It also has direct access to Varadero Beach across three wooden walkways. One of the key factors that makes the Iberostar Selection one of the best all inclusive resorts in Varadero is the quality of food. It’s known for having some of the best food out of all hotels in the peninsula. However, it’ll come at a cost. The hotel is often the most expensive place to stay.
Best for: Families, couples, luxury holiday seekers
What we like: The staff were some of the best hotel staff we’ve ever met! The evening entertainment and food were also firm highlights.
What we dislike: Organisation of events, activities and getting around the hotel could be better.
Royalton Hicacos
View on TUI.CO.UK | TripAdvisor rating 4.5/5
Standing strong with the Iberostar Selection, the Royalton Hicacos hotel is another 5-star resort that’s up there with the best. It’s an adult-only hotel, so it perfectly suits those that want a quiet getaway, with entertainment catering solely to adults, romantic dining experiences, and all of the facilities you’d expect in a 5-star Caribbean resort. The Royalton has some of the best bar and a la carte restaurant options out of all hotels in Varadero. It also comes with a swanky ‘butler’ service if you upgrade.
The only downside of the Royalton Hicacos, in our opinion, is the slightly dated décor. It’s was formerly a ‘Sandals’ resort and has retained much of the original theming. Expect less modernised rooms compared to other hotels. Nevertheless, it’s an amazing place to stay!
Best for: Couples, adults, singles
What we like: A fun yet relaxing ‘adults-only’ atmosphere that suits couples and friends of all ages.
What we dislike: The hotel is a little outdated in some areas (notably the rooms).
Sanctuary At Grand Memories Varadero
View on Tripadvisor | TripAdvisor rating 4.5/5
Quite possibly the best all inclusive resort in Varadero for those that like luxury alongside a lively atmosphere, the Sanctuary at Grand Memories Varadero has raving reviews amongst Canadian travellers. It sits at the far end of the beach peninsula, only a short drive from Varadero Marina. The Sanctuary shares many of the same facilities of the Grand Memories hotel next door, but is known to be a more luxurious hotel experience compared to its sister hotel.
Rated 5 stars, it’s an adult-only hotel that boasts complimentary butler service, direct beach access, a top-rated a la carte restaurant and some excellent bar and entertainment options. It’s the type of hotel that makes it easy to socialise and meet other travellers. Many visitors return year after year and call the hotel home.
Best for: Entertainment, luxury, an adult’s only experience
What we like: The complimentary butler service is an excellent touch. You’ll feel like royalty!
What we dislike: This hotel is very popular. As it’s on the smaller side, it can often appear to be busy.
Starfish Cuatro Palmas
View on tRIPADVISOR | TripAdvisor rating 4.5/5
Located right in the heart of the Varadero Town area, right on the beach, Starfish Cuatro Palmas is an excellent choice 4-star hotel for those that want to be in the middle of everything. You’re only a short walk from many bars, restaurants, cafes, shops, and even a nightclub. This is great for those occasions where you want to get away from the resort.
The hotel is bright, colourful and very ‘Cuban’ in style. It has a unique charm to it compared to the other more modern hotels. Key features include a spacious patio area overlooking the beach, multiple swimming pools, organised events, and fitness activities. It always has a lot going on so you’ll never get bored! It’s also very affordable, presented as one of the cheapest hotels on our list.
Best for: Nightlife, a lively town atmosphere and those looking for a classic Cuban hotel experience
What we like: The central location is great for exploring Varadero.
What we dislike: The hotel is a little old and dated compared to others on our list. It also sits on a busier area of Varadero Beach.
Melia Internacional Varadero All Inclusive
View on TUI.CO.UK | TripAdvisor rating 4.5/5
The Melia Internacional is one of the newest hotels in Varadero, with sleek tower design and modern décor. Its rooms are light and trendy, with balcony views that overlook the seafront or Varadero Town. It’s the best all inclusive resort in Varadero for those that like modern hotels with an all-in-one appeal. Walk to a bar, restaurant, or the pool area in a matter of minutes.
The hotel is very large, with a total of 946 rooms. Therefore, it can get a little busy during peak seasons. The Melia’s location gives you the best of both worlds too. You’re a short walk to the beach, and Varadero Town is a few minutes’ taxi or bus ride away.
Top facilities include a sea-view spa, beauty salon, huge swimming pool, an infinity pool and spa pool with a hydro-massage feature.
Best for: Those that like modern hotels, couples, families and friends
What we like: Everything in this hotel is very sleek and the rooms are some of the best in Varadero.
What we dislike: The high-rise hotel style isn’t for everyone. It can make the hotel feel busier. We tend to prefer ‘Caribbean village-style’ hotels with smaller buildings.
Blau Varadero
View on TUI.CO.UK | TripAdvisor rating 4.5/5
The Blau Varadero hotel dominates the skyline of Varadero Beach and is instantly recognisable from a mile away. It has a grand triangular design that hosts all of the rooms at the hotel. As it’s a high-rise design, unlike many of the other ‘village style’ hotels in Varadero, everything is in one place and you’re only a short walk away from many of its bars, restaurants and activities. Once a family hotel, Blau now provides an adult-only experience.
It features 5 bars, 4 themed restaurants, multiple swimming pools, plus plenty of spa and wellness activities. Fancy a game of tennis? Maybe you want to partake in a salsa class? There’s plenty going on here when you want a break from relaxing on the beach, which it has direct access to.
Best for: Couples and singles that want an ‘adults-only’ atmosphere
What we like: The lush tropical scenery surrounding the pool and the vast number of facilities on offer.
What we dislike: Being a central building with facilities all in one place, it can appear busier than other hotels. Some people may not like the large ‘tower’ design.
Melia Las Americas
View on TUI.CO.UK | TripAdvisor rating 4.5/5
The new Melia Internacional hotel is currently taking centre stage as the latest resort from the hotel chain. However, the older but just as luxurious Melia Las Americas is another great place to stay in Varadero. The gorgeous resort has a tropical feel everywhere you walk, with tall palm trees, colourful flowers and a nice view of the beach from the main swimming pool. It’s also a beautifully romantic ‘adults only’ hotel.
Enjoy a private dinner on the beach with your partner, indulge in a couples massage with a beach view or check out one of the many themed bars and restaurants. It’s also a popular place for weddings! Other key draws to the hotel include the onsite golf course and the size of the resort. Melia Las Americas is a lot smaller and intimate than most other Varadero hotels.
Best for: Couples, singles, those seeking a great value hotel
What we like: Romantic and intimate with some excellent experiences for couples.
What we dislike: The hotel has signs of ageing and could do with refurbishment in some areas.
Frequently asked questions
If you can afford it, the Iberostar Selection Varadero is the best hotel in Varadero for families. It boasts an excellent kids club, amazing staff, family entertainment and non-stop games and activities. It also has an excellent beach area. Another great family option is the Melia Internacional.
In our opinion, the most romantic resorts in Varadero are the adult-only Royalton Hicacos and Melia Las Americas. The Iberostar Selection Varadero is also excellent, but only if visited outside of school holidays, as it’s a family hotel.
Travelling solo? You’re not alone. It’s becoming increasingly common to visit Varadero for a relaxing break by yourself. For solo travellers, we recommend the Sanctuary at Grand Memories resort, or Starfish Cuatro Palmas. Both hotels have a social atmosphere and are adults-only.
That wraps up our guide on the best all inclusive resorts in Varadero. There are plenty of other hotels to choose from. However, the hotels we’ve featured are the highest regarded and you can’t go wrong with a stay at any of these accommodation options. Compare prices between hotels to find the best option for your dates. You can get some excellent deals if you shop around!
The final thing to keep in mind about Varadero hotels is the quality difference between Cuban resorts and those elsewhere, such as Mexico or Dominican Republic. With a developing tourism industry, the quality of hotels may not blow you away compared to other destinations, particularly for food. However, the Cuban hotel staff, places to visit and unique experience all make it completely worthwhile. Keep an open mind and enjoy your all-inclusive resort experience to the fullest!
By Ricky MARSHALL
Author bio:An adventurer at heart that loves anything outdoors. Beaches, mountains and amazing scenery is everything I love about travel! I also enjoy home comforts and need a nice place to relax and re-charge after every trip.
It’s nice to hear about some of the best hotels in varadero. However which are the hotels that are overated and should be classified as 2 or 3 stars less than they claim. Such as Valentin patriarca.
Hi Ricky, were going to blau veradero in October, we were under the impression this hotel was adult only and not for family’s, can you please verify, thanks David Reilly
Hi David, Blau used to all families with kids. However, it has recently changed to an adult-only hotel. Rest assured that it’s now adults-only 🙂 I’ll update the article.
Can you recommend between Melia Internacional and Paradisus Princess Del Mar. We are active Seniors Thanks
Hi Rob, thank you for your comment and sorry for only getting back to you just now. Out of the two hotels, Melia International is a higher level hotel, with all the new and modern amenities. The hotel is also nearer to town. Paradisus is an older hotel that’s in a more secluded location. Have a look online and check the TripAdvisor reviews of both, have a look on YouTube and look at pictures and see which one you prefer. We stayed at the Iberostar Selection and loved it! If you’re also looking for things to do in Varadero, you can also check out our YouTube video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaWfwTrr2GE&t=6s
Susie
what is the best melia international or iberstar selection varedero ??
and are reptiles brought on any of these resorts thank you
Hi Joann, both hotels are luxury, 5* hotels and are both recommended. Melia is closer to town and generally attracts more of a younger crowd. The hotel is new and modern if you like that vibe. Iberostar Selection is a more classic Cuban-style hotel. It’s located in a fantastic area, right on Varadero beach, which we personally prefer. I can’t comment on the quality of food/ entertainment at Melia, but we stayed at the Iberostar and loved it. You can check out our detailed guide here: https://worldtraveltoucan.com/iberostar-selection-varadero-review/ Hope this helps!
In terms of reptiles being brought in, I’m not sure about Melia, but at Iberostar, they did not.