Guide: The Best Resorts and All-Inclusive Hotels in Cuba

Updated Jun 2, 2025
Un chemin en bois traverse des palmiers et mène à une plage de sable blanc
To the point Discover the best All-inclusive hotels in Cuba for your next vacation in the sun. From Varadero to the Cayos and Holguín, here's our selection for families, couples or groups of friends.

A favourite destination for Canadians, Cuba attracts visitors with its white sandy beaches and guaranteed sunshine. From Varadero to the Cayos and Holguín, each region offers a unique experience to suit your preferences and budget..

Discover our selection of the best All-inclusive resorts in Cuba, as well as strategies for maximizing your reward points and reducing the cost of your next warm-weather vacation.

melia cayo coco

Pay for Your All-Inclusive Trip to Cuba with Points

Several points programs offer significant savings on your All-inclusive package in Cuba. Here are the main options available to you.

Air Canada Vacations - Aeroplan

Air Canada Vacations is an excellent choice for booking your all-inclusive trip to Cuba with points. Enjoy competitive pricing on all-inclusive packages to Cuba, comprehensive travel protection, and the accumulation of points on the portion paid in cash.

Booking is simple: log on to your Aeroplan account on the Air Canada Vacations website, select your All-inclusive package for Cuba and choose to pay in full or in part with your points.

cuba melia internacional varadero aeroplan fr

Aeroplan points can be redeemed at 1 cent per point with Air Canada Vacations, not the best value for Aeroplan points, which are worth more for flights, but it’s an option if it fits your travel style and goals.

Plus, Air Canada Vacations regularly runs promotions, such as the latest offering a 15% bonus on of Aeroplan point redemptions, or up to 12,000 bonus points on certain packages.

To maximize your rewards, we recommend the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite and merican Express Aeroplan cards, each offering excellent welcome bonuses and the first checked baggage free on Air Canada, plus full insurance coverage.

National Bank À la carte Rewards

The National Bank À la carte Rewards program lets you book your All-inclusive package to Cuba through À la carte Travel, in partnership with Transat. The system is simple: 10,000 points give you a $100 discount on your reservation.

You can easily book online via the National Bank rewards portal or by telephone with an agent. The advantage is that you have access to the full range of Transat packages for Cuba, with the option of using your points as you see fit.

The National Bank World Elite Mastercard allows you to earn 2 points for every dollar spent on À la carte Travel. It also offers a $150 annual travel credit, unlimited access to the National Bank lounge at Montreal airport and comprehensive travel protection, including cancellation insurance and emergency medical care.

WestJet Holidays

Since WestJet’s acquisition of Sunwing in 2025, you can now book your vacation to Cuba via two platforms: WestJet Vacations for departures from Toronto or Calgary, and WestJet Vacations Quebec for departures from Montreal, Quebec or Bagotville.

The new version of the WestJet Rewards program offers simple, predictable value: 10,000 points give you $100 off your vacation package. This flexibility lets you choose exactly how many points to use according to your budget.

To earn WestJet Rewards points quickly, the WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡ is your best ally. It allows you to earn 2 points per dollar on WestJet purchases, in addition to offering an attractive welcome bonus and additional travel benefits (such as a first bag free and preferential rates for travel companions).

Scene+

Although Scene+ Travel, powered by Expedia, does not offer All-inclusive packages to Cuba, the Scene+ program is still an advantage for your next vacation. In fact, you can book your package with any travel agency and use your Scene+ points to reimburse the expense.

The redemption rate is also 10,000 points for a $100 rebate.

The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card is particularly attractive for an All-inclusive trip to Cuba. It offers six complimentary airport VIP lounges passes per year. With over 1,300 lounges available worldwide, including the Plaza Premium lounges in Montreal and Toronto, your trip begins in comfort right from the airport.

The absence of currency conversion fees is a notable advantage, especially when paying for on-site excursions which are usually sold in US dollars. The card also includes comprehensive travel insurance, offering extra peace of mind for your vacation.

CIBC Aventura

CIBC’s online travel agency is also powered by Expedia, so it doesn’t offer All-inclusive packages to Cuba.

To use your Aventura points, you need to book your stay with the travel agency of your choice. Once the transaction is pending on your card, you can easily apply your Aventura points to reimburse the expense, at the rate of 10,000 points per $100.

The CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card includes four annual passes to DragonPass airport lounges and full travel insurance, making your trip more comfortable right from the start.

All-Inclusive in Cuba - Which Region to Choose?

Planning a vacation in Cuba and not sure which destination to choose? This comparison chart will help you make an informed choice based on your budget and preferences:

Destination Distance from airport Ideal for Highlights Price per person
Varadero 30 mins (VRA) Families, groups
  • Long beach
  • Nightlife
  • Easy excursions
$950 to $2,000
Holguín (Guardalavaca) 60 mins (HOG) Families
  • Local culture
  • Wild beaches
  • Low prices
$1,100 to $1,900
Cayo Coco 15 mins (CCC) Families, small budgets
  • Low prices
  • Pink flamingos
  • Quiet beaches
$1,000 to $1,600
Cayo Santa María 90 mins (SNU) Couples, groups of friends
  • Modern hotels
  • Nightlife
  • Infrastructure
$1,200 to $1,600
Cayo Guillermo 45 mins (CCC) Couples, athletes
  • Playa Pilar
  • Kitesurfing
  • Privacy
$1,000 to $1,300
Cayo Cruz 75 mins (CCC) Couples, luxury
  • New hotels
  • Tranquility
  • Pristine Nature
$1,300 to $1,700

VRA: Juan Gualberto Gómez International Airport(Varadero)
CCC: Jardines del Rey International Airport(Cayo Coco)
SNU: Abel Santamaría International Airport(Santa Clara)
HOG: Frank País International Airport(Holguín)

Prices are approximate in Canadian dollars, per person, double occupancy, including round-trip flights from Montreal (YUL), transfers, 7-night all-inclusive accommodation and taxes. Prices vary according to exact period, hotel rating, available promotions and airline.

Note that packages are generally about $50 to $100 cheaper from Toronto (YYZ).

For departures from Quebec (YQB), expect to pay between $50 and $200 more than for a departure from Montreal.

The Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Varadero, Cuba

Cuba’s most popular seaside destination, Varadero features a 20 km beach, lively nightlife and an excellent selection of hotels to suit all budgets.

Its international airport (VRA) accommodates daily direct flights from Montreal, Quebec City, Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton, Halifax, St. John’s, and Moncton, and is located just 30 minutes from the hotel resorts.

Must-do excursions include a visit to Havana (2-hour drive), a catamaran tour of Cayo Blanco and the Varadero ecological reserve.

varadero plage

Meliá Internacional Varadero

The Meliá Internacional Varadero impresses with its 946 modern rooms located on one of Varadero‘s most beautiful beaches.

The adults-only The Level section offers exclusive privileges including a private lounge, butler service and dedicated swimming pools.

The dining options include 13 restaurants, 11 of which are à la carte. The facilities are complemented by three main pools, a full-service spa, a fitness center, tennis courts, and a daily activities program.

melia internacional varadero

Paradisus Varadero

The Paradisus Varadero welcomes guests in 805 rooms spread over eight hectares of tropical gardens bordering a white sandy beach. Two distinct sections enrich the experience: Royal Service for adults and Family Concierge for families.

Seven à la carte restaurants and three swimming pools, including one reserved for Royal Service, make up the main facilities. The resort offers non-motorized water sports, a spa, a fitness room and evening entertainment. Children aged 4 to 12 enjoy a dedicated mini-club.

paradisus varadero

The Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Cuba: Holguín and Guardalavaca

The gateway to authentic Cuba, the Holguín region combines magnificent beaches, local culture and great value. Frank País airport (HOG) welcomes direct flights from Canada, with 45-60 minute transfers to the hotel areas.

Popular excursions include the city of Santiago de Cuba, the Bahía de Naranjo natural park and the historic site of Biran, Fidel Castro’s birthplace.

santiago de cuba

Paradisus Río de Oro

The five-star adults-only Paradisus Río de Oro features 354 rooms in an ecological reserve overlooking Esmeralda Beach in Holguín. The Royal Service section enriches the experience with its private lounge, butler service and exclusive swimming pool.

Eight restaurants, including six à la carte, offer international, Italian, Mediterranean and seafood specialties.

The site features two main pools, a spa, a fitness room and a PADI diving center (for a fee). Included activities range from catamaran sailing and kayaking to snorkeling and introductory pool diving. A shuttle bus provides access to the beach.

paradisus rio de oro

Playa Pesquero

Playa Pesquero stretches its 912 rooms along a five-kilometer beach in Holguín. The Playa Luxury section elevates the experience with its spacious suites, butler service, exclusive restaurant and private pool with bar. Privileges include a reserved lounge, personalized check-in and 24-hour room service.

Seven restaurants, including five à la carte, offer Cuban, Japanese, Mediterranean and seafood specialties. The resort features four swimming pools, including a semi-Olympic pool, a spa, a fitness room and a diving center (fee payable).

Families enjoy a water park and a mini-club for 4-12 year-old kids. A dynamic entertainment program and non-motorized water sports activities, such as kayaking and snorkeling, complete the offer.

hoteles holguin hotel playa pesquero hotel 2

The Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Cuba: The Cayos

Cuba’s islands (the Cayos) each offer a unique experience:

  • Cayo Coco, more accessible and affordable, is ideal for families and relaxing breaks, with its calm beaches and pink flamingos.
  • Cayo Guillermo, more exclusive, attracts couples and beach enthusiasts with the renowned Playa Pilar.
  • Cayo Santa Maria, more developed and modern, attracts travellers looking for more activities and nightlife.
  • Cayo Cruz, a new upscale destination, is winning over travellers in search of privacy and more modern facilities.

cayo santa maria cuba

Cayo Coco

lA true tropical paradise at an affordable price, Cayo Coco charms travelers with its pristine beaches, unique wildlife, and laid-back atmosphere. Jardines del Rey Airport (CCC) serves the island with direct flights, and is located 15-20 minutes from the hotels.

Don’t miss a visit to the colonial town of Morón, flamingo watching and a boat trip through the mangroves.

cayo coco plage flamants

Meliá Cayo Coco

The Meliá Cayo Coco, an adults-only resort with 250 rooms, stands out for its location on a white sand beach and its overwater bungalows above a natural lagoon. The Level section offers a sea-view lounge, exclusive areas, and butler service.

Six restaurants, including four à la carte, offer a variety of cuisine from Mediterranean to seafood. Facilities include two swimming pools, a spa, a fitness room and tennis courts.

Nautical activities include catamaraning, kayaking and snorkeling, with an introduction to scuba diving in the pool. Shows and entertainment complete the experience.

melia cayo coco piscine

Memories Flamenco Beach Resort

Memories Flamenco Beach Resort welcomes guests to 624 rooms on a white-sand beach in Jardines del Rey. The Diamond Club section enriches the stay with its private lounge, butler service, reserved areas and 24-hour room service.

Seven restaurants, including five à la carte, offer Italian, Asian, seafood and grilled specialties. The complex features three swimming pools, a fitness room and a spa (for a fee). Evening shows are held in the theater.

Families can enjoy a mini-club for children aged 4 to 12, a club for teenagers and non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and snorkeling.

memories flamenco cayo coco

Cayo Santa Maria

This modern hotel island offers a perfect balance between luxury and authenticity, with its high-end resorts and pristine beaches. Santa Clara Airport (SNU) serves as the main gateway, with a transfer time of approximately 90 minutes to the hotels.

Popular excursions include the colonial town of Remedios, the fishing village of Caibarién and a visit to Santa Clara with its Che Guevara monument. Catamaran tours to Cayo Ensenachos are also very popular.

iberostar selection ensenachos

Meliá Buenavista

The Meliá Buenavista, an intimate adults-only resort with 105 rooms, is nestled between three distinct beaches in Cayo Santa Maria. Operating entirely under The Level format, it offers all guests personalized butler service, exclusive beach areas, and 24-hour room service.

Three à la carte restaurants serve international, Mediterranean and seafood specialties. The site features three infinity pools, a spa and a fitness room. Yoga and stretching classes are offered daily.

Nautical activities include catamaran, kayak and snorkeling, complemented by introductory diving courses in the pool (at an additional cost).

melia buenavista cayo santa maria

Iberostar Selection Ensenachos

The Iberostar Selection Ensenachos hosts its 506 rooms nestled between two spectacular beaches: Playa Ensenachos and Playa El Mégano. The Coral Level section (18+) offers concierge service, a private restaurant and lounge, as well as exclusive beach and pool areas.

Six restaurants, including four à la carte, offer Mediterranean, Japanese, Cuban, and seafood specialties. The resort features three pools, a spa (additional charge), a fitness center, and tennis courts. Entertainment and shows provide amusement for guests.

Families benefit from a mini-club (for ages 4-12) and a water park. Non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking and snorkeling, complete the offer.

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Cayo Guillermo

More exclusive and intimate than neighbouring Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo is renowned for its spectacular Pilar beach and world-class kitesurfing spots. Travellers land at Cayo Coco airport (CCC), followed by a 45-minute transfer.

Featured activities include deep-sea fishing, water sports at Playa Pilar and catamaran excursions.

cayo guillermo iberostar playa pilar hotel 5

Iberostar Selection Playa Pilar

The Iberostar Selection Playa Pilar boasts 482 rooms on the magnificent Pilar beach in Cayo Guillermo. The Star Prestige (18+) section enriches the experience with its private lounge, reserved beach with concierge service and exclusive restaurant.

Six restaurants, including four à la carte, offer Asian, Mediterranean, Cuban and seafood specialties. The resort features three swimming pools, a spa (for a fee), a fitness room and a tennis court. Entertainment and shows punctuate the day.

Children can enjoy Star Camp (for ages 4-12) and a water park, while kayaking and snorkeling are available to all guests.

iberostar selection playa pilar cayo guillermo EDIT

Grand Muthu Cayo Guillermo

The Grand Muthu Cayo Guillermo offers 500 contemporary-designed rooms in the Jardines del Rey archipelago. Its modern and luxurious architecture makes it a noteworthy addition to the region. The Muthu Royal section provides private check-in, a VIP lounge, and personalized butler service.

Six restaurants, including a rotisserie and an Italian restaurant, put gastronomy in the spotlight. The resort has four swimming pools, including a children’s pool area, and a modern spa (fee payable) offering beachfront treatments.

A mini-club keeps children entertained while adults can enjoy dance classes or the infinity pool. Daytime activities and evening shows add excitement to your stay.

grand muthu cayo guillermo

Cayo Cruz

lAs the newest of Cuban destinations, Cayo Cruz attracts travelers seeking exclusivity with its new luxury hotels and untouched beaches. It is accessible via Cayo Coco Airport (CCC), with a transfer time of approximately 90 minutes.

The region is popular for sport fishing, sea excursions and visits to the city of Ciego de Ávila.

cuba cayo cruz

Valentín Cayo Cruz

Valentín Cayo Cruz, a new 546-room resort for adults, combines elegant design with colonial touches in the Jardines del Rey archipelago. The Privilege section offers an exclusive gourmet restaurant, a private beach and a premium rum bar with personalized services.

Seven restaurants, including a sea-view buffet, offer French, Japanese and Mediterranean cuisine. An infinity pool lined with luxurious cabanas and a sophisticated beach club make up the central facilities. The spa (fee payable) offers treatments in double suites with ocean views.

The experience is distinguished by its refined activities: wine tastings, mixology classes and yoga on the beach. Non-motorized water sports and a diving center complete the offer.

valentin cayo cruz

Iberostar Selection Esmeralda

The Iberostar Selection Esmeralda features 450 rooms on the beach of Cayo Cruz, combining modern luxury with a tropical atmosphere. The Star Prestige section (adults only) offers a signature restaurant, a panoramic lounge, and personalized concierge service.

The resort features six restaurants, including a sea-view buffet and four à la carte options, offering a varied culinary experience: an outdoor steakhouse, Mediterranean cuisine with a wine cellar, and Japanese teppanyaki specialties. There are three pools, one of which is exclusive to Star Prestige guests, complemented by swim-up bars.

The hotel stands out for its eco-responsible program: stargazing, marine discovery and sustainable cuisine. The Star Camp offers educational activities for families, while the spa (for a fee) uses natural local products.

iberostar selection esmeralda cayo cruz

Bottom Line

Cuba remains a destination of choice for Canadians in search of an All-inclusive vacation in the sun, especially during the winter months. Whether you’re travelling as a family, a couple or with friends, several resorts stand out for their excellence.

Here are our recommendations based on your profile:

likAdditionally, thanks to reward points like Aeroplan, NBC Rewards, WestJet Rewards, CIBC Aventura or Scene+, you can enjoy the best of Cuba while saving money.

Do you prefer adventure to All-inclusive? Find our complete guide with itinerary to discover the authentic Cuba.

All-Inclusive in Cuba - Practical Information

Credit Cards, Currency, and Tipping

Although your package covers most expenses, please bring cash for daily tips. Excursions and extra services can be paid for by credit card directly at the hotel.

U.S. dollars are preferred, but Canadian bills are accepted for tips. Bring only bills in perfect condition, and avoid coins, which are unusable by Cubans.

For tips:

  • Allow around CAD 10 per day (and an extra CAD 5-10 per person if you’re planning an excursion).
  • Use small denominations (USD 1-2 or CAD 5)
  • You can give them to housekeeping staff, servers, and bartenders.
  • Avoid the hotel exchange office, which offers unfavourable rates.
  • Cuban pesos are not required for All-inclusive packages

Gifts and Items to Bring to Cuba

Cubans face chronic shortages. Here’s what you can bring as gifts that will be greatly appreciated:

  • Over-the-counter medicines and first-aid products (antihistamines, vitamins, analgesics, disinfectant wipes). Tylenol and Advil are considered gold in Cuba!
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Feminine hygiene products (tampons, pads)
  • Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes
  • Tissues and wet wipes
  • Children’s Clothing
  • Gardening gloves, socks, caps, hats
  • School supplies (pencils, notebooks, pens, erasers)
  • Non-perishable foods such as juice powder, milk powder, candy, instant noodles, etc.
  • Basic spices such as salt, pepper, paprika and etc.

You’ll find most of these items at very low prices at Dollarama before you leave. Pack these items individually or in small batches and distribute them discreetly throughout your stay.

Visa and Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for Cuba have recently changed. Starting July 1, 2025, the tourist card will be replaced by an electronic visa system (eVisa).

Canadians are exempt from visa requirements for tourist stays, but must complete an entry form. This form is available online, free of charge, on the government website D’Viajeros. This form should be completed no earlier than 48 hours before departure.

Next, you’ll receive a QR code that will be required at the airport before boarding. Without this proof, you won’t be able to board your flight to Cuba. Remember to keep a copy of the QR code (digital or printed) easily accessible, as you may also be asked for it on arrival.

Electricity and Internet

The Cuban electrical grid operates on 220V/60Hz, unlike the 110V system in Canada. The outlets are hybrid, accepting both American flat prongs and European round prongs.

Important: check that your appliances are 220V-compatible (e.g. electric toothbrushes, razors, flat irons, etc.). A voltage converter will be required for appliances only compatible with 110V.

Wi-Fi access is available at all All-inclusive hotels in Cuba. On arrival, you will receive a personal access code for the duration of your stay. Although quality has improved in recent years, speed may vary depending on the area of the hotel and the time of day.

Come to discuss that topic in our Facebook Group!
Alexandrine Bertrand
Alexandrine Bertrand
An avid solo traveller, Alexandrine is an expert on loyalty programmes such as Aeroplan, Avios, AIR MILES, Flying Blue and Marriott Bonvoy. With a budget-conscious approach, she helps travellers make the most of their points and miles to experience affordable, off-the-beaten-path getaways. She also shares a love of gastronomy and enjoys exploring local flavours and culinary traditions.
All posts by Alexandrine Bertrand
Region
Cuba

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