12 Shockingly Beautiful Beaches in Cuba – You Can Actually Visit
If you’re dreaming of a beach vacation, maybe it’s time to consider Cuba. Located just 90 miles off the coast of the United States, Cuba is home to some of the most impressive beaches in the Caribbean. These are the most impressive beaches in Cuba to add to your itinerary.
Cayo Levisa
Located off Cuba’s northwestern coast, Cayo Levisa is a remote island paradise renowned for its untouched beauty. Accessible only by boat, its powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters provide a serene escape from the bustle of modern life. Snorkelers and divers are drawn to its vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, while beachcombers bask in the tranquility of this secluded haven. With limited development, Cayo Levisa offers a rare opportunity to experience nature at its most pristine.
Cayo Cruz
Nestled within Cuba’s Jardines del Rey archipelago, Cayo Cruz is a hidden gem characterized by its secluded beaches and untouched landscapes. Surrounded by mangrove forests, its shores offer a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. The absence of large resorts preserves its pristine environment, making it a haven for eco-conscious travelers and nature enthusiasts. Whether lounging on its soft sands or exploring its coastal trails, visitors to Cayo Cruz are immersed in a tranquil paradise.
Cayo Ensenachos
Cayo Ensenachos is a picture-perfect destination renowned for its idyllic beaches and serene ambiance. Its powdery white sands stretch along the shoreline, inviting leisurely walks and lazy afternoons spent soaking up the sun. Crystal-clear waters gently lap the shore, providing ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling amidst colorful coral gardens.
Cayo Las Brujas
Situated within Cuba’s Villa Clara province, Cayo Las Brujas is a pristine island paradise surrounded by azure waters and untouched wilderness. Its secluded beaches, framed by swaying palms and mangroves, offer a tranquil escape from the outside world. Sunset vistas paint the sky in hues of orange and pink, creating a breathtaking backdrop for romantic evenings. Whether lounging on the shore or exploring its hidden coves, visitors to Cayo Las Brujas are immersed in the untouched beauty of nature.
Playa Ancon
Just a short drive from Trinidad, Playa Ancon is a postcard-perfect beach with powdery white sands and calm turquoise waters. Fringed by swaying palm trees, its shoreline invites visitors to relax under the Caribbean sun or take a refreshing dip in the sea. Snorkelers will delight in the colorful marine life just offshore, while beachcombers can stroll along the coast in search of seashells and solitude.
Playa Jibacoa
Playa Jibacoa is a tranquil retreat blessed with golden sands and crystal-clear waters, just a short drive from Havana. Surrounded by verdant vegetation, its secluded beaches offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Gentle waves lap the shore, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply wading in the shallows.
Playa Pilar
Named after Hemingway’s beloved boat, Playa Pilar dazzles with its powdery sands and shimmering turquoise waters. Located on Cayo Guillermo, part of Cuba’s Jardines del Rey archipelago, this beach is a paradise for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts, and has some of the best resorts in Cuba. The offshore coral reefs beckon snorkelers and divers to explore their vibrant underwater ecosystems.
Cayo Paredon
Its rugged coastline is characterized by limestone cliffs and sandy coves, offering a striking contrast against the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea. Accessible by boat or small aircraft, this remote island provides a pristine escape from the hustle of modern life. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs, birdwatching along the shores, or simply unwinding on its secluded beaches. Cayo Paredon is one of the emerging beach destinations in Cuba offering a unique opportunity to experience the untouched beauty of Cuba’s natural landscape.
Cayo Largo
Situated off the southern coast of Cuba, Cayo Largo is a pristine island paradise renowned for its powdery white sands and azure waters. Surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, its beaches offer world-class snorkeling and diving opportunities, plus spectacular resorts. Whether lounging in a hammock beneath swaying palms or exploring the island’s hidden coves, visitors are immersed in the tranquility of Cayo Largo’s natural beauty.
Varadero
Stretching along Cuba’s northern coast, Varadero is a renowned beach destination famous for its miles of pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters. Lined with luxury resorts and vibrant nightlife, it offers something for every traveler, from beachside relaxation to lively entertainment. Water sports enthusiasts flock to its shores to snorkel, sail, and parasail amidst the stunning Caribbean backdrop. With its picturesque beaches and array of amenities, Varadero is a paradise, easily accessible from Havana.
Playa Caletones
One of the lesser-known destinations to make our list of the best beaches in Cuba is Playa Caletones, hidden along the coast of the province of Holguin and far off the beaten path. This beach is very infrequently visited by foreigners who often head to nearby Playa Esmeralda and Playa Pesquero, but its untouched feel is a big part of what makes it so special.
Playa Pesquero
Playa Pesquero is only about 15 minutes away from Guardalavaca. Protected in a curved bay, Playa Pesquero’s white sand and shallow, clear water will make you feel like you’re taking a dip in a swimming pool rather than an ocean – it’s almost too beautiful to believe. Playa Pesquero also has some of the best resorts in Holguin.
José Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based editor, content marketer, and web developer. He is the co-founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana and has written for publications like MSN and Thrive Global. José is a Havana, Cuba native and serial entrepreneur. Find him scouting out the best hiking trails around town and teaching himself yet another programming language.