Varadero is well known for its 13 miles of white sand beaches and its water temperatures, which average 75 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. The beach was once a playground for only people who could afford a rich price, but the development of the inland property has opened up a wealth of hotel options for tourists of most income levels.
There are 32 scuba diving sites in and around Varadero, including three marinas that offer equipment, trained staff, courses, emergency personnel and transportation. The Hoyo Azul Ojo del Megano site features an underwater cave that is 230 feet in diameter. Other diving sites include Las Mandarinas and El Barco Hundido, both of which feature sunken ships. There's also the Piedras del Norte Cay Underwater Park, where divers and snorkelers can see ships, planes and vehicles that were intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef that is one nautical mile long.
Hicacos Peninsula, where Varadero sits, is the home of Hicacos Point Natural Park, named an ecological preserve in 1974. It is considered to have the best display of natural flora and fauna in the area. The park features several well-known plants, including El Patriarca, a 600-year-old cactus. Ambrosio's Cave and Mangon Lake are other popular attractions on Hicacos.
A man-made navigation channel separates the peninsula from the mainland.
Varadero has several attractions for people looking for culture. The Museum of Municipal History is an attraction in itself. It is one of the first frame houses built in Varadero. Inside you'll find artifacts depicting the history of the Hicacos Peninsula. Santa Elvira Church, built in 1938, is a fine example of local architecture. An art gallery features important local artists and contemporary Cuban painters. Visitors also can tour an artistic ceramics workshop.
If you're into nature, there's plenty to do. Start with the dolphin aquarium, where you can swim alongside dolphins. Explore Josone Park by foot, bicycle, horse-drawn carriage or boat. Finish the day with a meal at one of the park's four restaurants. Varadero Golf Club was the first of its kind in Cuba. To the west, Bellamar Cave near Matanzas is a 2-mile wonder with 100 percent relative humidity.
