After spending most of your time at the beach and swimming laps at the pool, it’s time to venture out of the resort to explore the rest of Varadero.
Getting Around
The peninsula is quite spread-out, so walking will only get you so far. If you want to see any of the sights you’ll require transportation.
Bus
This is the most common way to get around. These double-deck buses running up-and-down the peninsula are a great, cost-effective option.
Purchase a ticket which will last for the entire day and hop on-and-off as often as you like. You will likely have a bus stop near your resort and the buses show up every few minutes. This is a great way to explore the town of Varadero and get a good look at the entire peninsula.
CoCo Taxi
You’ll notice these yellow football helmets riding all over Varadero. These 3-wheeled scooters are uniquely Cuban and easy to find. Good for a quick getaway!
Taxi
For a custom-tailored way to explore the area (with a little more style), taxi cabs are a great option.
This is also a good way to experience those famous classic cars from the 50’s & 60’s first-hand. Check with your resort to order a local taxi.
Points of Interest
Marina Gaviota
This marina was recently built at the far end of the Varadero peninsula. You will find it located right beside the Melia Marina Hotel.
Large catamarans and scuba diving boats are docked here. It’s quite the impressive facility and I couldn’t help but notice all the empty boat slips. They sure have a lot of room to grow here.
There are a handful of shops and restaurants. Locals sell similar crafts found at the other shopping markets, but there are a few unique finds as well.
Don’t expect to spend too much time in the area, but it’s definitely worth a visit.
Josone Park
In the middle of Varadero sits a little oasis. When looking for a little quiet time, this is the place.
There are a few bars and cafes to grab a bite to eat. Some will tell you the best piña coladas around are found here.
Nice place to spend some time and relax away from the beach. Don’t pass by. Explore this little hidden gem.
T. K.
The park amenities are a little run down compared to a few years ago, but it’s still the perfect place to go for a stroll or let your kids run around. Hop off the bus and check it out on your way to town.
Varahicacos Ecological Reserve
For a small fee you can wander through the forest in search of wildlife, tropical flowers, and explore ancient caves. The indigenous Taíno people left markings in the caves, which are still occupied by bats.
Very different impression from the rest of they peninsula. Highly recommended if you’re interested in nature.
Sergey K.
The hike to the cave is approximately 45 minutes and you can explore at your own pace. Expect to be out in the hot sun if you are there mid-day. Cold beverages are available for purchase so you can tour the area refreshed.
If you’re interested in learning more about what can be found here, check out the Reserva Ecologica Varahicacos reviews from previous visitors.
Delfinario
Marine parks have fallen out of favour in recent years. Some people feel that aquariums help with education and animal conservation. Other people have strong feelings when it comes to dolphin captivity and the methods used to obtain the animals.
One thing that both sides agree on: we love dolphins!
If you want to see these friendly and intelligent aquatic mammals up close, head over the Varadero Dolphinarium. There is even the option to swim with the dolphins.
Reviews of the Delfinario are generally positive, but do a bit of research before making a decision.
Even though you came to Varadero for the beach, there is so much more to discover.
Take an afternoon or two and venture beyond the walls of the resort. It will make you appreciate this slice of paradise that much more.
~ Varadero Life
Enjoy this article? Share the love with your friends: