🏨 Where to go in Cuba: 15 all inclusive hotels

Cuba doesn't sell hotels, it sells sun. You leave winter Europe behind, and ten hours later it's 28 degrees and turquoise water all around. All that's left is to choose which 5-star all-inclusive hotel will live up to your expectations. Cuban five stars are not the same as European ones. In some places the room has been begging for renovation for years. In others, the buffet is more modest than the promotional photos. The country's official portal lists contacts for free INFOTUR information centers, where you can get maps and on-the-ground advice (as of 09/2026, Cuba Travel). We've organized the hotels by region and noted who each one suits.

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5-Star hotels in Cuba: what you need to know

💡 In short:

Regions: Varadero, Cayo Santa Maria, Cayo Coco.
Format: all-inclusive; meals, local drinks, and entertainment are included in the price.
Age: some hotels are adults-only.
Availability and format: 09/2026, verified on the official Cuba tourism portal.

A Cuban five-star isn't Maldives-level service, it's an honest beach vacation for your money. All fifteen hotels operate on an all-inclusive basis. You get meals, local rum, entertainment, and beach access with no extra charges. You only pay extra for excursions, the spa, and imported alcohol. The difference between hotels comes down to the details: how fresh the rooms are, the food, the guest age range, and the size of the property.

Geography matters a lot. Varadero is a peninsula with hotels along the coast, easy to reach from the airport, and with more city life. The islands of Cayo Santa Maria and Cayo Coco stand apart: you fly there or drive across a causeway, but the beaches are wider and less crowded. Most of the hotels on our list are concentrated in Varadero and its surroundings, with the rest scattered across the islands.

1. Iberostar Varadero

yellow hotel building with balconies among palm trees

The hotel sits on the first line of Varadero, right by the ocean. It's the best option for families with children: there's a Star Camp kids' club, and younger guests get their own amusement park. While the kids are busy, you can choose between the pool, the sea, and a trip to Havana.

There are five restaurants and five bars on the property, including a lobby bar with Cuban cigars. In the evening there's live music on the grounds, and a spa with massage services is open. The rooms are cozy, with a full set of basic amenities, and the courtyard is quiet even in high season.

Who it's for: families with children who need a kids' club and a gentle slope into the sea.
Not for: couples looking for quiet without children's voices.
Location: first beachfront line in Varadero, right by the ocean.
Price: depends on the season and dates, check current options on Trip.com.

see prices at Iberostar Varadero on Trip.com

2. Ocean Varadero El Patriarca

Ocean Varadero El Patriarca hotel entrance with sign and palm trees

The second hotel also sits on the Varadero coast. The modern-style rooms are fresh and comfortable, the grounds are lush with tropical greenery, and the beach is almost always clean. The staff is warm and hardworking, though the service falls short of flawless. The shore is even, with no rocks, and the water entry is easy for everyone.

The weak point here is the food. Guests complain about the buffet selection and the quality of the cocktails. The a la carte restaurants get more praise. Guests also mention the towel figures the housekeepers make in the rooms and the well-organized excursions around the area. Visitors with a positive mindset advise not looking for perfection in the hotel, but starting from the beach.

Who it's for: guests who care about green grounds and fresh rooms, and for whom food is not the main thing.
Not for: guests for whom food and cocktails matter.
Price: depends on the season and dates, see current options on Trip.com.
The catch: a modest buffet and weak cocktails.

see prices for Ocean Varadero El Patriarca on Trip.com

3. Grand Memories Varadero

Varadero beach at sunset with palm trees and waves

The hotel is in Matanzas Province, not far from Varadero and east of Havana. Nearby is the picturesque city of Matanzas, called the Cuban Venice because of its collection of bridges. The grounds are well kept: tall palms and a scattering of residential buildings. The surrounding area has cave paintings in stone labyrinths, and excursions go there.

Despite the proximity to the ocean, guests more often use the two pools. The bartenders at the pool bars quickly make cocktails from rum and fruit juices. The staff speaks English well. In the evening you can listen to live music and watch a show.

Who it's for: those who want to combine the beach with trips to Matanzas and the caves.
Not for: guests who expect quiet by the pool.
Location: Matanzas Province, east of Havana.
Price: depends on the season and dates, see current options on Trip.com.
The catch: the pools are crowded during the day.

see prices for Grand Memories Varadero on Trip.com

4. Ocean Vista Azul

Varadero beach at sunset with palm trees and loungers

The hotel is aimed primarily at privilege-category guests. Premium rooms get access to a separate pool, their own Coral restaurant with lobster and oysters, and a second drinks area in the main building. Other guests also receive service, but the contrast is felt from day one.

The hotel has two private sandy beaches, and they differ noticeably from each other. The first is wide, with rows of umbrellas, clean white sand, and fine grains. The second stretch is littered by tourists themselves: the sand is finer, but there are cigarette butts and plastic cups everywhere. The sunsets over the Atlantic are equally good on both sides.

Who it's for: privilege-category guests who want a separate pool and restaurant.
Not for: guests without privilege status who care about consistent service.
Price: depends on the season and dates, see current options on Trip.com.
The catch: part of the beach is littered, and regular service pales next to the privileged service.

see prices for Ocean Vista Azul on Trip.com

5. Barcelo Solymar

Barcelo Solymar resort buildings with green roofs by the sea

Here the simple truth about Cuban five stars is immediately obvious. The rooms are badly in need of renovation, and the service is average. On the other hand, the staff tries to please, and the beach remains excellent: the warm turquoise water of the Atlantic washes away the minor inconveniences. The best rooms are the bungalows next to the neighboring hotel in the complex.

Barcelo Solymar is part of the Varadero Resort by Barceló complex along with Occidental Arenas Blancas and Allegro Palma Real (as of 09/2026, barcelo.com). The three hotels share common infrastructure, including a restaurant right on the shore with fresh-caught seafood and live Cuban music). Solymar shares its beach strip with Arenas Blancas, so the shore here is wide, and the sunsets over the ocean are considered among the best in Varadero.

Who it's for: guests willing to overlook the old rooms for the sake of the beach.
Not for: those who demand a fresh room and high-level service.
Price: depends on the season and dates, see current options on Trip.com.
The catch: the rooms have not been renovated in a long time, and the service is average.

see prices for Barcelo Solymar on Trip.com

6. Iberostar Laguna Azul

Pool with loungers and yellow hotel building

This is another Iberostar chain hotel, and in terms of service it falls well short of its sibling. On paper, everything is here: a sandy shore, four outdoor pools, and fifteen restaurants and bars, including four a la carte restaurants with different national cuisines. Tour operators love to present these numbers as the main selling point.

In reality, the furniture in the rooms is worn out by the constant flow of tourists. The same cooks work both the main restaurant and the a la carte venues, so the Italian and Japanese cuisine comes with a Cuban accent. At the same time, guests praise the clean beach, the calm ocean, and the friendly staff. The cheerfulness and openness of the employees are mentioned most often here.

Who it's for: guests who value a wide choice of bars and a calm sea.
Not for: guests who care about the food at the a la carte restaurants.
Price: depends on the season and dates, check current options on Trip.com.
The catch: worn-out furniture in the rooms and uneven food at the a la carte restaurants.

check prices at Iberostar Laguna Azul on Trip.com

7. Memories paraiso azul beach resort

The hotel sits on one of Cuba's islands, and its main strength is the staff.

The beach has silky sand and deep ocean hues, with everything you need on site. The food is considered one of the best options among Cuban resorts. There are enough loungers and umbrellas, so you don't have to rush out in the morning to claim a spot. The shoreline is well maintained, and the water entry is gentle and free of rocks.

Who it's for: guests who care about good food and a gentle water entry.
Not for: those looking for nightlife and a town nearby.
Price: depends on the season and dates, check current options on Trip.com.

check prices at Memories Paraiso Azul Beach Resort on Trip.com

8. Grand memories cayo santa maria

The hotel is located on Cayo Santa Maria, where people fly for the white sand and ultramarine water. Guests say the long flight is worth it. Service in the restaurants and rooms sets a high bar, and the staff works with genuine warmth and tries to make your vacation special.

The grounds are divided into pool areas and a park zone. The bars pour Cuban Havana Club rum, as well as mojitos and pina coladas. The water keeps its deep ultramarine color all day, and the sand stays white. Among the dishes, tuna, avocado, and pineapple get the most praise. At the a la carte restaurant, the chefs surprise with unexpected combinations, so book a table in advance.

Who it's for: couples and families who don't mind a long flight for the beach.
Not for: guests who want a full entertainment program.
Location: Cayo Santa Maria island.
Price: depends on the season and dates, check current options on Trip.com.
The catch: the entertainment programs are still limited.

check prices at Grand Memories Cayo Santa Maria on Trip.com

9. Ocean Casa del Mar by H10

The hotel is a favorite with Canadian guests who come to soak up the sun all winter. The beach is cozy, with fine crystal sand and soft shells along the edges. The sea is calm, the water entry is pleasant, and you can go in without water shoes.

The main issue is the food and service. The all-inclusive system works poorly, with few ripe fruits and fresh fish dishes. The specialty restaurants disappointed with their selection. The main restaurant turned out to be noticeably better, but it's still far from a five-star level. The staff has a vague idea of professional service and hints at tips.

Who it's for: guests who care more about the sea and sun than the food.
Not for: foodies who come for the cuisine and a varied buffet.
Price: depends on the season and dates, check current options on Trip.com.
The catch: weak food, few ripe fruits and seafood options.

check prices at Ocean Casa del Mar on Trip.com

10. Melia Marina Varadero

Palm trees and sea at sunset in Varadero

The hotel maintains a steady mid-range level without European glamour or aristocratic polish. That's not a criticism, just an honest description: it's solid, tidy, and predictable. The rooms are stylish and spacious, some facing a scenic bay and the ocean, and you fall asleep under the twinkling stars of the southern sky.

The grounds are large and green, so sometimes it's easier to get around by electric cart. In the evenings, the bar plays Latin American and Spanish rhythms, and there's a disco. From here it's easy to take a trip to Havana and dive into its vibrant character. The pace here is unhurried, with no rush or fuss.

Who it's for: guests who want predictable service and large green grounds.
Not for: those who want a compact hotel where everything is within walking distance.
Price: depends on the season and dates, check current options on Trip.com.
The catch: the grounds are spread out, and the beach and some restaurants can be a long walk.

check prices at Melia Marina Varadero on Trip.com

11. Melia Jardines del Rey

Hotel lobby with wooden wheels and driftwood

The hotel sits on Cayo Coco island, among low palms and tropical greenery. The palms here are still short, so there's less shade than in the old gardens of Varadero. This is a place for those who love water activities and leisurely evenings with live music.

Rooms in the same category can differ noticeably between buildings and bungalows, so pay attention at check-in. There are two multi-level pools with bars. Entertainment runs in the evening, and there's a bowling alley. The restaurants focus on meat dishes with spicy seasonings, and the fresh juices aren't always great. In the evening, rum is poured by the pools to live music, and that's the best time of day on the property.

Who it's for: guests who want pools, bowling, and an active evening program.
Not for: guests who need fast internet for work.
Location: Cayo Coco island.
Price: depends on the season and dates, check current options on Trip.com.
The catch: the internet on the island is weak, and the juices in the restaurants aren't always good.

check prices at Melia Jardines del Rey on Trip.com

12. Iberostar Bella Vista

The third Iberostar hotel on this list, this time with a focus on family vacations. The infrastructure is designed for kids and adults: play areas, sports facilities, and all-inclusive dining with snacks and drinks throughout the day. Four restaurants operate both a la carte and buffet style, so you won't go hungry.

Star Prestige guests get access to the water park, the Spa & wellness center, and the Ranchón Playa restaurant. In the evening, the stage hosts theatrical performances and entertainment shows. Varadero's beaches with loungers and umbrellas are right next door, just beyond the property. It's easy to spend the whole day on a lounger under an umbrella with a book or a cocktail.

Who it's for: families who want a water park and a full daytime program.
Not for: couples without kids looking for quiet.
Price: depends on the season and dates, check current options on Trip.com.
The catch: water park and spa privileges are only available to Star Prestige guests.

check prices at Iberostar Bella Vista on Trip.com

13. Fiesta Americana Punta Varadero

White building with columns, stairs, and palm trees

This hotel has achieved a rare consensus among different types of travelers. Those who love Cuba, those who compare it with other destinations, and those who are not fond of the young Cuban service all agree on one thing: the price-to-quality ratio here is solid. The restaurants get praise for hearty dishes of fish, seafood, chicken and pork, vegetables and legumes.

On the beach there is enough room for everyone at the edge of the emerald water. Free loungers and umbrellas are usually plentiful, so you can sleep an extra hour in the morning. Sweet desserts and ice cream with fruit are served both during the three daily meals and between them. The staff here are good-natured and sincere, glad to see you not only for tips. A smile in return is the norm here.

Who it's for: guests who value price-to-quality ratio and a hassle-free beach.
Not for: those looking for luxury service and lavish interiors.
Price: depends on the season and dates, check current options on Trip.com.
The catch: the sand on the beach is not always cleaned thoroughly.

check prices at Fiesta Americana Punta Varadero on Trip.com

14. Valentin Perla Blanca

This adults-only hotel on Cayo Santa Maria means it's quiet and child-free. It's a solid choice if you want a vacation closer to wild nature. The grounds, with elegant pools, little bridges, and green islands, look well kept, and yachts with bright colored sails line the shore.

The beach is long, with golden sand and clear turquoise water. Loungers and umbrellas are woven from palm leaves and sit under the trees. The hotel occupies nineteen mostly bungalow-style buildings scattered among the vegetation, and the rooms feel almost homey. The private beach stretches over nine hundred meters (as of 09/2026, official website).

Service raises some questions. Staff can be slow to handle everyday requests, the buffet line sometimes gets crowded, and drinks without tips seem weaker. Without basic English or Spanish, you'll spend a long time trying to make yourself understood.

Who it's for: couples and adults who want nature, quiet, and a long beach.
Location: Cayo Santa Maria island.
Price: depends on season and dates, check current options on Trip.com.
The catch: slow staff, buffet lines, and inconsistent drinks.

check prices at Valentin Perla Blanca on Trip.com

15. Royalton Hicacos

© This photo was taken by Anton Zelenov . Please credit this with : Photo : Anton Zelenov in the immediate vicinity of the · CC BY-SAPhoto: This photo was taken by Anton Zelenov . Please credit this with : Photo : Anton Zelenov in the immediate vicinity of the, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Rounding out the list is another adults-only hotel: no children are checked in, there are no playgrounds or kids' menus, and the entertainment staff works with an adult audience. The hotel sits in the Las Morlas tourist village, away from the busy center of Varadero. That makes it quiet but also remote: without a trip into town, there's almost no evening entertainment outside the hotel.

Rooms here come in standard and suite categories, and the all-inclusive dining spans four restaurants, one of which serves familiar Italian cuisine. You can grab a bite almost around the clock at snack bars with fast food. The amenities include a spa with massage areas, a fitness center, and pools with swim-up bars. The experience is geared toward a relaxed pace and recharging.

For active guests, there's a shaded tennis court and a squash court. In the evening, entertainers perform and discos with live music take place. On the wide beach, pelicans and seagulls drop by to visit, and the grounds are thoughtfully designed down to the details. The Royalton brand standard shows in the service and room condition.

Who it's for: couples and adults who want a quiet hotel without children.
Location: Las Morlas, away from the center of Varadero.
Price: depends on season and dates, check current options on Trip.com.
The catch: far from the center, almost no entertainment of its own outside the hotel.

check prices at Royalton Hicacos on Trip.com

5-Star hotels in Cuba on the map

All fifteen hotels are marked on the map below. Open it in a new window to compare the locations of Varadero and the Cayo islands.

Cuba 5-star all-inclusive hotels

Places on the map

1Iberostar Varadero Beachfront in Varadero, Star Camp kids' club Read more
2Ocean Varadero El Patriarca Varadero coastline, modern-style rooms Read more
3Grand Memories Varadero Matanzas province, cave paintings nearby Read more
4Ocean Vista Azul Two private beaches, privilege category Read more
5Barcelo Solymar Varadero Resort by Barceló complex, wide beach Read more
6Iberostar Laguna Azul Four pools, fifteen restaurants and bars Read more
7Melia Marina Varadero Solid mid-range standard, green grounds with electric carts Read more
8Iberostar Bella Vista Family holiday, water park for the Star Prestige category Read more
9Fiesta Americana Punta Varadero Good value for money Read more
10Royalton Hicacos Adults-only, Las Morlas village Read more

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

How do Cuban 5-star hotels differ from European ones?

Five stars in Cuba is a different standard. Service is simpler, furniture in some hotels is tired, and the buffet is more modest than promised. In return, you get large grounds, a beach steps from your room, and a full all-inclusive package at the price of a European three-star. Judge a hotel by the freshness of its rooms and its food, not by the number of stars.

What's included in the all-inclusive package?

The price includes dining in several restaurants, local drinks, entertainment, pools, and beach access. You pay extra for excursions, spa treatments, and imported alcohol. Snacks and drinks throughout the day are usually free, and at Royalton Hicacos the snack bars operate almost around the clock.

Which hotels don't allow children?

Two hotels on this list have an adults-only policy: Valentin Perla Blanca and Royalton Hicacos. They have no playgrounds, kids' menus, or children's entertainment. If you're traveling as a family, choose Iberostar Varadero or Iberostar Bella Vista: both have kids' clubs and activities for younger guests.

Where's the better beach: Varadero or the Cayo islands?

Varadero is a long stretch of soft sand with developed infrastructure near the hotels. The islands of Cayo Santa Maria and Cayo Coco offer wilder nature and shallow, clear water. Getting to the Cayos takes longer by road and flight, but the beaches are less crowded. Choose based on whether you prefer quiet or city access.

Do you need English in Cuba?

Basic English makes your stay noticeably easier. At Valentin Perla Blanca, it will be difficult without English or Spanish. A few words of Spanish always help.

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In short: what's worth booking

Three regions cover almost every need. Varadero means infrastructure, city life, and a short airport transfer. Cayo Santa Maria and Cayo Coco offer seclusion and the best beaches. Choose a hotel based on the company you're with and the season, not the number of stars.

If you're a family with kids: Iberostar Bella Vista or Iberostar Varadero.
If you're traveling as a couple and want quiet: Valentin Perla Blanca or Royalton Hicacos.
If value for money matters most: Fiesta Americana Punta Varadero.
If you need English-speaking staff: Grand Memories Varadero.

Look for available rooms for your dates on Trip.com. Prices change by season, so compare dates and hotels before booking.

15 Cuba 5 star all inclusive hotels: a choice for 2026