During all the time that Cuba was totally off limits to American travelers, it became a major tourism destination for everyone else — but particularly Canadians, who continue to come to Cuba to search for the best all-inclusive resorts in droves. It’s that demand that led in large part to the continued development of Cuba’s all-inclusive tourism hub of Varadero and other all-inclusive mini-destinations like Jardines del Rey, tailored for those seeking to escape from the cold and into a time-warp paradise.
But Cuba is still very much a burgeoning all-inclusive destination. And that means you’ll often find a departure from what you might expect in other all-inclusive resort hubs like Punta Cana, Cancun and Jamaica. And it also means that navigating the best all-inclusive resort offerings in Cuba can remain tricky — as they’re dominated by a few brands, mostly based in Spain and Canada. That’s why we’re here to help. These are the 10 best all-inclusive resorts in Cuba.
Royalton Cayo Santa Maria Another luxurious adults-only property from Canada’s Royalton, this resort is a departure from the typical Cuban all-inclusive, with just 122 rooms on the northern coast of Cuba. This is an elegant, wonderful beachfront all-inclusive jewel in Cuba’s offering.
Melia Cayo Coco Set on the sandy island of Cayo Coco, this is an adults-only paradise. The 250 rooms are set in two wings: first, the lovely bungalows built on stilts over a lagoon, and second, more traditional rooms near the beach. All in all, this is the essence of a Cuban all-inclusive: laid back, elegant and tranquil.
Paradisus Rio del Oro This is a versatile property with 354 rooms, the vast majority of which are junior suites (including 254 “Paradisus” junior suites, with either balconies or terraces. Set in the area of Holguin on Playa Esmeralda, it boasts seven restaurants and an additional one exclusively for the hotel’s Royal Service guests.
Melia Las Dunas Simply, a Cuban white-sand megaresort. This family-friendly property is massive, with 925 rooms across five categories and 13 restaurants, including two buffets.
Iberostar Varadero Yes, Varadero is the country’s all-inclusive hub, and the Iberostar Varadero is in many ways the quintessential Cuban all-inclusive resort, and perfect for family retreats, with an emphasis on attentive service, despite its size.
Paradisus Varadero Paradisus has carved out a niche at the top of the Caribbean’s all-inclusive offering, and that’s nowhere more true than on the beach on Playa Azul in Cuba. This 510-room property boasts eight restaurants and 10 bars. Think lots of Havana Club.
Melia Las Americas Looking for a golf getaway in Cuba? Or just an adults-only escape? Look no further. This is the perfect place for those seeking a more refined, mature experience. It’s also the only hotel with direct access to the Varadero Golf Club. And with 340 rooms, it’s got the megaresort amenities but not the overwhelming size.
Iberostar Playa Pilar The newest hotel on this list, Iberostary’s Playa Pilar is located on Cayo Guillermo. And this oceanfront resort specializes in a mix of white-sand beach and remarkably good cuisine for Cuba’s often mixed all-inclusive food experience. And it’s family-friendly.
Royalton Hicacos Varadero Resort and Spa Royalton has been steadily expanding its all-inclusive offering around the region, from Jamaica to the Dominican Republic — and now Cuba. The brand, which has come to specialize in contemporary, energetic properties, now has a major presence in Cuba highlighted by this adults-only outpost with 404 rooms in Varadero.
Grand Memories Varadero Relatively new on the scene, this property is part of Canadian travel giant Sunwing’s Cuban portfolio, and it’s a modern, well-designed resort with just enough Cuban flair on the sands of Varadero. (It’s also home to a rather good wine selection). Make sure you go to the adults-only wing, and go for Diamond Club service.
