3 Best Hotels in Varadero, Western Cuba

If an active beach vacation is what you're looking for, this centrally located, really big, all-inclusive resort combines two properties that share a plethora of pools, restaurants, and activities. The Arenas Blancas side has a striking interior courtyard adorned with hanging plants that fall for the length of the four-story construction, along with newer, more contemporary rooms than the older Solymar side. This is a busy complex, attracting families with kids of all ages, as well as younger crowds who mass at the property's main bar every night. Close to the center of town, it's also the ideal location if you want to get away from the crowd and explore on your own.

This towering, sloping structure has the boldest architecture in Varadero and an excellent reputation as a family-oriented resort. Inside the peninsula's highest building there's an impressive, 100-foot high atrium, draped with ivy that cascades down to a contemporary lobby. Sports facilities are abundant, with a huge quatrefoil-shape pool, tennis and basketball courts, and water-sports facilities. A walkway passes through a narrow band of trees to the wide beach. The brightly colored, contemporary rooms have two twins or a king-size bed. Suites have a separate living room and two terraces. The first child, age 2 to 12, stays free. Be sure to book a room facing the ocean rather than the road.

This upscale, family-focused resort has a village-like feel, with avenues of palm trees leading to white-clapboard, Key West-style buildings. The open-design entryway is pleasing, with classical columns, contemporary furniture, and naturally lighted interior gardens that offer a pleasant welcome. Classic rooms occupy the two- and three-story buildings; Grande Suites are close to the beach and have two bathrooms. Premium rooms are in an adults-only area, while the 10 family-friendly junior suites are close to the kids' pool and have two bedrooms, one with a single bed plus a bunk bed. All rooms, decorated in a peach-and-watermelon "Caribbean" style have walk-in closets. On the waterside, there are picturesque lagoons and three pools—two of them for kids—plus a baby paddling pool. The 400-meter-wide beach edges calm, shallow water. There are nine restaurants and snack bars to choose from, plus nightly entertainment and programs for both kids and teenagers.