Varadero (Rincon Francés, Punta Francés beach), Cuba
Rating8.0Rating8.0Adults OnlyRating8.2Good
Based on 9.1k reviews
Stunning Beach
Guests consistently rave about the resort's magnificent white-sand beach, featuring clear turquoise waters and ample amenities like sun loungers and a beach bar.
Exceptional Service
The staff, particularly in the Royal Service section, is highly praised for their warmth, attentiveness, and personalized service, contributing significantly to a positive stay.
Quality A La Carte Dining
While buffets can be inconsistent, the specialty à la carte restaurants receive high marks for their food quality and a more refined dining experience.
Premium Spa & Fitness
The YHI Spa is recognized as one of Varadero's best, offering excellent facilities for wellness and relaxation, complemented by a well-equipped gym.
Natural Integration
The resort's unique setting within the Varahicacos Ecological Reserve provides a beautiful and tranquil natural environment, enhancing the overall ambiance.
Food Inconsistency
Guests note that overall food quality and variety, especially at buffets, can be inconsistent and sometimes redundant, which is a common issue in Cuba.
Cleanliness Variances
While generally good, some reviews highlight occasional lapses in cleanliness within rooms or public areas, suggesting varying standards.
Beach Chair Availability
It is advisable to arrive early at the beach or pool to secure preferred sun loungers, as availability can be limited, especially during peak times.
Restaurant Availability
Not all à la carte restaurants may be open simultaneously, which can limit dining choices during the stay, requiring flexibility.
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Travelers' Choice 2024
2024
TripAdvisor
Sustainability Certificate
Recognized for eco-practices
Unspecified
Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa operates at the nicer end of Varadero's all-inclusive market. The property opened in 2000 and was renovated as recently as 2021, with updates to the lobby, pools, rooms, and restaurants. What distinguishes it from the rest of the strip: the integration with the Varahicacos Ecological Reserve means the resort grounds are literally within a protected natural area, which is unusual for a large Caribbean all-inclusive. The sustainability certificate is legitimate, not marketing.
The resort segments into three tiers: standard all-inclusive, The Reserve (family-focused enhanced services), and the Adults-Only Royal Service section with its own private pool, dedicated restaurants (Bella Mar gourmet and Olio Italian), 24-hour room service, and exclusive bar. Families choose The Reserve for concierge services and a dedicated buffet. Couples who want a quieter experience book Royal Service. Standard guests access the same beaches and most restaurants as everyone else.
Culinary range is extensive: 11 restaurants including teppanyaki at both Sakura (general access) and Bana (Reserve/Royal Service exclusive), an Italian restaurant with show cooking, Tex-Mex, Mediterranean with private garden palapas, and the Ara international buffet. As with all Cuban 5-star properties, international standards don't fully align with the Cuban rating system—expect delivery in the strong 4-star range for most experiences.
The YHI Spa Agua Marina is one of Varadero's better hotel spas with six outdoor palapas for open-air treatments, four individual and two couples treatment rooms with jetted tubs and ocean views, a Balinese sensation shower, sauna, two hydrotherapy pools at different temperatures, and two hot tubs. This is meaningfully more infrastructure than most of the competition. The Blue Flag beach certification on Punta Francés beach is a consistent quality marker.