Things to do in Varadero

Varadero, being among the main tourist destinations in Cuba, offers a number of activities for every taste, age and purse.  Based on my own experience, I would suggest the following.

Check out the great beach in Varadero town

If you are residing on the Hicacos peninsula where most of the all-inclusive hotels are, do take the short trip to Varadero town.

The tourist market is just a tourist market but you can wander further to the well refurbish old part of town, the central park, visit the Museo Municipal or check out the best beach of the area.

Parque Retiro Josone

A sun downer at Parque Retiro Josone, part of the property of former President Batista expropriated by Fidel Castro, is worth the effort.

Las Americas

Have a meal at the restaurant Las Americas, originally the summer residence of the Du Pont family. It is the most expensive place in town but you can later digest the bill of your meal on the 18-hole golf course.

Island Cayo Blanco

One excursion I would recommend is to the tiny island Cayo Blanco. If you are a group of people, you might consider renting a smaller boat as the big ones get rather overloaded.

Having said that, while beautiful, the island does get crowded. Bring or rent snorkeling equipment.

Mercado Artesania

It is located in Varadero town. Vendors sell all sort of items very much geared towards visiting tourists.

Reserva Ecologica Varahicacos

If into a walk, here you will be immersed into the local nature accompanied by plenty of lizards.

Coral beach

This is pretty much the only snorkelling spot close to Varadero offering some underwater adventure.

Jet ski

If into jet ski, the Jungle Tour through the mangrove swamp might be for you. Beware, however, there is a speed limit and you will have to follow the lead driver. There is an included visit to the little zoological park.

Departure point for this tour is on the highway somewhere half way between town and the peninsula on the right hand side.

Archipelago de Sabana

You can go scuba diving or snorkeling at the Archipelago de Sabana. If you do not want to get wet, enjoy the beauty of the sea wild life on a boat with glass floor or even a tiny submarine.

Tropicana Matanzas

A cabaret show is close to mandatory when in Cuba. However, Matanzas is not that close to Varadero.

My most important tip for Varadero

Pretty much all the hotels offer an all-inclusive deal. This makes visitors complacent. But believe me, venture out and explore the area. It is worth it.

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There are more posts on this location and for more tips on Cuba click on tips and What to Pack, Cuba visited as a sole female traveller

My destinations in Cuba were Havana, Trinidad, Vignales, Cienfuegos, Varadero, Santiago de Cuba

You might want to check out how to move around Cuba.

Enjoy the reading!