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

Updated Jul 29, 2026
Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba
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 wins people over with its white-sand beaches and guaranteed sunshine. From Varadero to the Cayos via Holguín, each region offers a unique experience depending on your preferences and budget.

Discover our selection of the best all-inclusive resorts in Cuba, along with strategies to optimize your rewards points and reduce the cost of your next warm-weather getaway.

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - melia cayo coco

Paying for your all-inclusive in Cuba with points

Several points programs can help you save significantly on your all-inclusive package in Cuba. Here are the main options available to you.

Air Canada Vacations – Aeroplan

To optimize your rewards, we recommend the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite and Aeroplan American Express cards, each offering excellent welcome bonuses and a first free checked bag on Air Canada, plus comprehensive insurance coverage.

National Bank À la carte Rewards

National Bank’s À la carte Rewards program lets you book your all-inclusive package to Cuba via Voyage à la carte travel agency, in partnership with Transat. The system is simple: 10,000 points gives you a $100 discount on your booking.

You can easily book online through the National Bank rewards portal or by phone with an agent. The advantage is that you have access to the full range of Transat packages to Cuba, with the option to use your points however you like.

The National Bank World Elite Mastercard lets you earn 2 points per dollar spent at Voyage à la carte. It also offers a $150 annual travel credit, unlimited access to the National Bank lounge at Montreal airport, and comprehensive travel protection, including trip cancellation and emergency medical insurance.

WestJet Vacations

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

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

To rack up WestJet Rewards points quickly, the WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡ is your best ally. It lets you earn 2 points per dollar on WestJet purchases, plus an attractive welcome bonus and extra travel perks (like a first free checked bag and preferred fares for travel companions).

Scene+

Although Scene+ Travel, powered by Expedia, doesn’t offer all-inclusive packages to Cuba, the Scene+ program is still a great option for your next vacation. You can book your package through any travel agency and use your Scene+ points to cover the expense.

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

The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite* Card is particularly interesting for an all-inclusive trip to Cuba. It offers six free airport VIP lounge passes per year. With over 1,300 lounges worldwide, including Plaza Premium lounges in Montreal and Toronto, your trip starts in comfort right at the airport.

No foreign transaction fees is a notable advantage, especially for paying for excursions on-site, which are generally 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 through the travel agency of your choice. Once the transaction is pending on your card, you can easily apply your Aventura points to cover the expense, at a rate of 10,000 points for $100.

The CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card includes four annual passes to DragonPass airport lounges and comprehensive travel insurance—perks that will make your trip more comfortable from the start.

All-inclusive in Cuba – Which region should you choose?

Planning a vacation in Cuba and hesitating between several destinations? This comparison table will help you make an informed choice based on your budget and preferences:

  • Local culture
  • Wild beaches
  • Great value

  • Great value
  • Pink flamingos
  • Calm beaches

  • Modern hotels
  • Nightlife
  • Infrastructure

  • Playa Pilar
  • Kitesurfing
  • Privacy

  • New hotels
  • Peace and quiet
  • Unspoiled nature

Prices are approximate in Canadian dollars, per person, double occupancy, including round-trip flights from Montreal (YUL), transfers, 7 nights all-inclusive accommodation and taxes. Prices vary depending on the exact dates, hotel level, available promotions and airline.

Note that packages are generally about $50 to $100 cheaper when departing 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 in Cuba – Varadero

Cuba’s most popular beach destination, Varadero stands out for its 20 km beach, lively nightlife, and excellent selection of hotels for every budget.

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

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

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - varadero beach

Meliá Internacional Varadero

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 pools.

The dining offering spans 13 restaurants, including 11 à la carte. Three main pools, a full spa, a fitness room and tennis courts round out the facilities, along with a daily activities program.

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - melia internacional varadero

Paradisus Varadero

Paradisus Varadero welcomes visitors into 805 rooms spread across eight hectares of tropical gardens along a white-sand beach. Two distinct sections enhance the experience: Royal Service for adults and Family Concierge for families.

Seven à la carte restaurants and three 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 shows. Kids aged 4 to 12 enjoy a dedicated mini-club.

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - paradisus varadero

The best all-inclusive in Cuba – Holguín and Guardalavaca

A gateway to authentic Cuba, the Holguín region combines gorgeous 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, Bahía de Naranjo Nature Park, and the historic site of Biran, Fidel Castro’s birthplace.

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - Santiago de Cuba

Paradisus Río de Oro

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

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

The property includes two main pools, a spa, a fitness room and a PADI dive centre (extra cost). Included activities range from catamaran to kayaking, snorkelling and a pool scuba introduction. A shuttle provides access to the beach.

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - paradisus rio de oro

Playa Pesquero

Playa Pesquero spreads 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 has four pools including a semi-Olympic one, a spa, a fitness room and a dive centre (extra cost).

Families enjoy a water park and a mini-club for ages 4-12. A lively entertainment program and non-motorized water activities, like kayaking and snorkelling, round out the offering.

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - holguin hotels hotel playa pesquero hotel 2

The best All-inclusive in Cuba – The Cayos

The islands of Cuba (the Cayos) each offer a unique experience:

  • Cayo Coco, more accessible and affordable, is ideal for families and relaxing stays with its calm beaches and pink flamingos.
  • Cayo Guillermo, more exclusive, appeals to couples and fans of pristine beaches with the famous Playa Pilar.
  • Cayo Santa Maria, more developed and modern, attracts travellers looking for more activities and nightlife.
  • Cayo Cruz, a new upscale destination, wins over travellers looking for privacy and more modern facilities.
Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - cayo santa maria cuba

Cayo Coco

A true tropical paradise at an accessible price, Cayo Coco charms travellers with its pristine beaches, unique wildlife and laid-back vibe. Jardines del Rey Airport (CCC) serves the island with direct flights, 15-20 minutes from the hotels.

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

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - cayo coco beach flamingos

Meliá Cayo Coco

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

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

Water activities include catamaran, kayaking and snorkelling, with a pool scuba introduction. Shows and entertainment round out the experience.

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - melia cayo coco pool

Memories Flamenco Beach Resort

Memories Flamenco Beach Resort welcomes its visitors in 624 rooms along a white sand beach in Jardines del Rey. The Diamond Club section enhances 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 grill specialties. The resort has three pools, a fitness room and a spa (extra cost). Shows liven up the theatre in the evening.

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

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - memories flamenco cayo coco

Cayo Santa Maria

This modern hotel-island offers the perfect balance between luxury and authenticity, with its upscale resorts and preserved beaches. Santa Clara Airport (SNU) is the main gateway, with a transfer of about 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.

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - iberostar selection ensenachos

Meliá Buenavista

The Meliá Buenavista, an intimate 105-room adults-only resort, is nestled between three distinct beaches in Cayo Santa Maria. Operating entirely under The Level concept, it offers all guests personalized butler service, exclusive beach areas and 24/7 room service.

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

Water activities include catamaran, kayaking, and snorkeling, complemented by pool scuba intro classes (extra cost).

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - melia buenavista cayo santa maria

Iberostar Selection Ensenachos

Iberostar Selection Ensenachos welcomes its 506 rooms 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 areas at the beach and pool.

Six restaurants, including four à la carte, offer Mediterranean, Japanese, Cuban and seafood specialties. The resort includes three pools, a spa (extra cost), a fitness room and tennis courts. Entertainment and shows keep vacationers amused.

Families benefit from a mini-club (ages 4-12) and a water park. Non-motorized water activities, like kayaking and snorkelling, round out the offering.

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - iberostar ensanachos 2 EDIT

Cayo Guillermo

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

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

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - cayo guillermo iberostar playa pilar hotel 5

Iberostar Selection Playa Pilar

The Iberostar Selection Playa Pilar has 482 rooms along the stunning Playa Pilar beach in Cayo Guillermo. The Star Prestige (18+) section enhances 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 has three pools, a spa (extra cost), a fitness room and a tennis court. Entertainment and shows set the pace for the days.

Kids can enjoy Star Camp (ages 4-12) and a water park, while kayaking and snorkeling are offered to all vacationers.

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - iberostar selection playa pilar cayo guillermo EDIT

Grand Muthu Cayo Guillermo

Grand Muthu Cayo Guillermo offers 500 contemporary-design rooms in the Jardines del Rey archipelago. Its modern and luxurious architecture makes it a remarkable addition to the region. The Muthu Royal section offers 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 pools, including a kids’ water area, and a modern spa (extra cost) offering beachfront treatments.

A mini-club entertains kids while adults enjoy dance classes or the infinity pool. Daytime activities and evening shows liven up the stay.

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - grand muthu cayo guillermo

Cayo Cruz

The newest of Cuba’s destinations, Cayo Cruz appeals to travellers seeking exclusivity with its new luxury hotels and still-wild beaches. Accessible via Cayo Coco Airport (CCC), allow about a 90-minute transfer.

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

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - cuba cayo cruz

Valentín Cayo Cruz

Valentín Cayo Cruz, a new adults-only resort with 546 rooms, combines elegant design and 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 an ocean-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 (extra cost) offers double-suite treatments with ocean views.

The experience stands out for its refined activities: wine tastings, mixology classes and beach yoga. Non-motorized water sports and a dive centre round out the offering.

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - valentin cayo cruz

Iberostar Selection Esmeralda

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

Six restaurants, including an ocean-view buffet and four à la carte restaurants, offer a varied culinary experience: open-air steakhouse, Mediterranean cuisine with a wine cellar, and Japanese teppanyaki specialties. Three pools, including one reserved for Star Prestige, feature swim-up bars.

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

Guide: The Best Resorts and All-inclusive Hotels in Cuba - iberostar selection esmeralda cayo cruz

Conclusion

Cuba remains a top destination for Canadians looking for all-inclusive vacations in the sun, especially during winter. Whether you’re travelling as a family, as a couple or with friends, several resorts stand out for their excellence.

Here are our recommendations based on your profile:

  • For families: Playa Pesquero (Holguín), Iberostar Selection Ensenachos (Cayo Santa María), and Memories Flamenco (Cayo Coco);
  • For couples: Meliá Internacional Varadero (The Level section), Meliá Buenavista (Cayo Santa María) and Paradisus Río de Oro (Holguín);
  • For groups of friends: Grand Muthu Cayo Guillermo, Valentín Cayo Cruz, and Paradisus Varadero.

Plus, thanks to rewards points like Aeroplan, NBC Rewards, WestJet Rewards, CIBC Aventura or Scene+, you’ll be able to enjoy the best of Cuba while saving money.

More into adventure than all-inclusive? Check out our complete guide with itinerary to discover authentic Cuba.

All-inclusive in Cuba – Practical information

Credit cards, currency and tipping

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

The US dollar is preferred, but Canadian bills are accepted for tips. Only bring bills in perfect condition and avoid coins, which are unusable for Cubans.

For tips:

  • Plan about 10 CAD per day (and an extra 5-10 CAD per person if you plan to do an excursion)
  • Use small bills (1-2 USD or 5 CAD)
  • You can give them to housekeeping, servers and bartenders
  • Avoid the hotel exchange desk, which offers unfavourable rates
  • Cuban pesos aren’t necessary in all-inclusive resorts

Gifts and essentials to bring to Cuba

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

  • Over-the-counter medications and first-aid supplies (antihistamines, vitamins, pain relievers, disinfecting 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 like powdered drink mix, powdered milk, candy, instant noodles, etc.
  • Basic spices like salt, pepper, paprika and others

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

Visa and entry requirements

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

Canadians are exempt from a visa for tourist stays, but must complete an entry form. It’s available online, free of charge, on the D’Viajeros government website. You can complete this form as early as 48 hours before departure.

You’ll then 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. Be sure to keep a copy of the QR code (digital or printed) easily accessible, as it may also be requested upon arrival.

Electricity and internet

Cuba’s electrical grid runs on 220V/60Hz, unlike Canada’s 110V. Outlets are hybrid, accepting flat American plugs and round European plugs.

Important: check that your devices support 220V (like electric toothbrushes, razors, flat irons and others). A voltage converter will be needed for devices that are only compatible with 110V.

Wi-Fi is available in all all-inclusive resorts in Cuba. When you arrive, you’ll receive a personal access code for the duration of your stay. While quality has improved in recent years, speed can vary depending on the hotel areas and the time of day.

DestinationDistance from the airportIdeal forStrengthsPrice per person
Varadero30 mins (VRA)Families, groups
  • Long beach
  • Nightlife
  • Easy excursions

950 $ à 2 000 $
Holguín (Guardalavaca)60 mins (HOG)Familles
1 100 $ à 1 900 $
Cayo Coco15 mins (CCC)Familles, petits budgets
1 000 $ à 1 600 $
Cayo Santa María90 mins (SNU)Couples, entre amis
1 200 $ à 1 600 $
Cayo Guillermo45 mins (CCC)Couples, sportifs
1 000 $ à 1 300 $
Cayo Cruz75 mins (CCC)Couples, luxe
1 300 $ à 1 700 $
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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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