Taking a family vacation to Cuba is an amazing opportunity to experience a rich culture and enjoy a new adventure. Since the area has become a travel hot spot but still undergoing growth, the destination is perfect for a kid-friendly vacation that will make your children appreciate the luxuries of home. While the Caribbean island is relaxing and free of large attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Cuba.
Related: 11 Exciting Things to Do in Mexico for an Epic Family Vacation
Things to Do in Cuba on Your Family Vacation
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Go Local
Families are very social, so don’t be surprised to find an amazing experience in simply socializing with the locals. You’ll easily stumble upon pickup games of baseball or bump into a friendly family sharing tables at eateries. Don’t be afraid to chat with those outgoing Cubans.
Havana
The Cuban hot spot and history-packed Havana will be a great place to find street performers and opportunities to enjoy unique experiences.
- Visit the small museums that house obscure but interesting items like chocolate or old vehicles. It will be refreshing to enjoy the humble yet interesting sites that help your kids understand the roots and past of Cuba.
- Stop at the pirate-era forts for some historic fun. Make sure to find the Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabaña – an 18th century fort. You can spend the bulk of a day checking out the colossal attraction.
- Stroll around Old Square (Plaza Vieja) and take in the sites. Visit local coffee shops, pick up souvenirs and listen to live street music.
Varadero
The beach resort town stretches along the Atlantic, providing warm waters and white sand for your family to enjoy. It’s a place to unwind and relax, but one of the top draws for Cuba, so be prepared to be joined by other tourists. Snorkeling, paddle boarding, and kayaking are abundant all over the island, but this peninsula has the biggest draw.
- Travel to the eastern tip to visit Reserva Ecológica Varahicacos. The preserve boasts trails and an ancient burial cave kids will find wildly interesting.
- For more foliage, go to Parque Josone. The park is beautiful and features gardens to walk through along with live music.
Dolphin Encounter
- There are several places to experience an encounter with a dolphin in Cuba. Dolphinarium in Cayo Naranjo is a top pick along with Delfinario de Cienfuegos.
- If you want to step outside the dolphin encounter, try Parque Zoologico Nacional for more wildlife sightings. Elephants, giraffes, and lions are just a few animals you’ll see.
Cuban Vacation Tips
*Avoid traveling to Cuba in November. It’s the peak of hurricane season. Santiago is typically the hardest hit point.
*Crime is low, but happens. Airport luggage theft, pickpocketing in Havana, and scams are three of the most reoccurring crimes. Pack your cash and valuables in your hand luggage and keep your electronic gadgets stored somewhere safe. Be social, but don’t accept invites to dinner or drinks later in the evening and always avoid sharing the location of where you are staying.
*Stay hydrated! Cuba is very hot and humid. Just make sure you do not drink the tap water.
*When hiking or going on forest adventures wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts. Don’t forget the bug spray, too!
Cuba may be a family-friendly beach destination, but the real draw beyond the beautiful water activities is the culture. While you soak up the sun and enjoy the family-friendly vacation to Cuba, make sure you try and focus on the local experience. Your children will love a visit to the island and it will be an experience your entire family will treasure.
I’ve never traveled to Cuba but it seems like there is a ton to do. Thanks for sharing!
We have been considering a visit to Cuba in the next year or so, but not with family. More and more I am sure it will be a family destination.
i never knew that there was SO much to do with family while in Cuba!
I have never traveled out of the country. Cuba would be nice to visit, being so close to the US. Havana would be especially neat.