Cuba is a lush island, as lofty as its royal palms, and continues to be one of the top desired islands in the Caribbean. Throughout the years, many destinations in Cuba have continued to develop, featuring new resorts and amenities for visitors. Cuba is one of those places where once you go, you want to keep going back and visit all the different parts of the island.
In this article, I am sharing the best destinations to visit in Cuba, and the top excursions to do while on the resort.
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Varadero
Varadero is considered to be “the primary destination of Cuba”. It is built on the Hicacos Peninsula, a long and narrow strip of land extending into the sea. Its calm, 22-km white-sand beach with crystalline waters ripples in an infinite variety of colours from turquoise to ultramarine. The average temperature of 25° Celsius gives Varadero a year-round warm sea, perfect for swimming and sports.
Varadero is the getaway to Havana, and travelers come here wanting to experience the capital of Cuba. Havana can be done on a day excursion from the many resorts, and there are also 2-day packages that include a hotel for the night. This is a perfect excursion to actually experience life in Cuba’s colonial cities.
Excursions include:
Havana
There is no question that Havana has everything a traveler could ask for: a rich architectural heritage, an intense cultural scene, friendly residents and all the inherent advantages of a tropical destination. The narrow streets and colonial buildings of the Old City, Parque Central and the surrounding neoclassical architecture, the lively Centro and the grand homes of the Vedado and Miramar all evoke the incredibly rich history of this city.
Although there are some beachfront resorts in Havana, most travelers come to Havana to experience the local life in a colonial city. In the evening, the Tropicana Cabaret Cuba show will entertain guests by a colourful medley of song and dance reflecting elements of Cuban culture, in an open-air nightclub.
Cayo Coco
One of the largest islands in the Archipelago of Camaguey, Cayo Coco is gradually becoming one of Cuba’s principal tourist regions. The main attractions of the island off the Atlantic coast are its white sand beaches and crystalline waters ranging in colour from blue to turquoise. Its superb beaches, emerald waters and dramatic landscapes make for a worry-free stay that is sure to leave you well rested.
Travelers can experience the local Cuban life by doing a tour to the city of Moron, which includes a visit to a cigar factory then a ride on a steam train.
Top excursions include:
Cayo Santa Maria
Cayo Largo’s little sister, Cayo Santa Maria is less busy and closer to its natural state, with plenty of little isolated spots that are ideal for sunning yourself in perfect solitude. Long walks along beaches and ecological trails, tarpon fishing and diving are just some of the activities available on the island.
Connected to the main island of Cuba by a 48-km causeway, Cayo Santa Maria appeals to travelers who want to just relax on the resort. Being isolated, couples who enjoy luxurious resorts will love this place!
Top excursions include:
Holguin
Overlooked by most travelers who just stay on the resort to enjoy the beach, Holguin appeals to those who like to venture off the beaten path. The capital of the province of the same name, Holguin proudly bears the name of Ciudad de los Parques (City of Parks). Three pleasant parks lie side by side over several hundred meters, forming the heart of the town. Travelers can explore the main town squares and colonial architecture of this Spanish influenced city, as well as a few good museums and a lively cultural scene. A panoramic view of the entire city can be seen from the top of Loma de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross), situated 275 meters above sea level, with 450 steps to negotiate.
Travelers can also enjoy Holguin’s rich variety of marine life and its well-preserved coral reef system. The Pinares de Mayari Mountains are ripe with fauna and flora as well as beautiful waterfalls.
Top excursions include
Santa Lucia
Travelers visiting Santa Lucia (don’t get confused by the island of Saint Lucia – you’re still in Cuba) can enjoy a place of tranquil relaxation. Santa Lucia is located in Camaguey province, about an hour and a half away from the historic city of Camaguey. There are not a lot of resorts in the area, which makes it a more quiet destination away from city life.
Camaguey is the most interesting town in eastern Cuba. There is nothing more pleasant than losing oneself in this town, which is best explored on foot. In many ways, Camaguey is still like a small European town of the 18th century, with winding, cobbled streets and squares reminiscent of Italian or Spanish Villages
Top excursions include
Conclusion
With so many different destinations, it’s possible that travelers who come to Cuba one time will want to return and experience all corners of this beautiful island. Every time I go to Cuba, I cannot emphasize how beautiful this island is, both on the beach and in its colonial cities. Have I inspired you to visit Cuba? Contact me to book a trip to this beautiful island!