Family-friendly resort in Cuba.
Amenities
Traveler Insights(524 discussions)
Hotel Club Amigo Ancón is not trying to be a luxury resort, and travelers who understand that come away far more satisfied than those who don't. It's a budget-category Cuban property on what many visitors describe as one of the genuinely beautiful beaches in the country - long, white, calm, and far less commercialized than Varadero. The beach is the entire reason to be here, and it delivers consistently. The resort sits in an isolated stretch of Playa Ancón with nothing but Caribbean water in front and the Trinidad hills behind, creating a setting that feels more like discovering a hidden beach than checking into a package resort.
The Cuban hospitality that defines the property comes through most strongly in the entertainment and beach staff, who guests across many reviews describe as energetic, fun, and genuinely invested in making the stay enjoyable. The evening shows and animation program get specific praise as highlights that exceed what a basic category resort would normally offer. Food is a more complicated story - the buffet is functional and filling but limited in variety, and occasional food quality issues have been flagged seriously enough to warrant realistic expectations. The nearby city of Trinidad is one of Cuba's crown jewels and a compelling reason to base yourself in this region rather than Varadero, but the 13km distance means every Trinidad visit requires planning and transportation.
This resort is the right choice for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize a beautiful, uncrowded beach and authentic proximity to Trinidad over comfort and resort amenities. It works particularly well for independent-minded guests who plan to spend most days at the beach and most evenings in Trinidad. Those who want to experience Cuba beyond the tourist infrastructure will find the Sancti Spíritus region genuinely rewarding. Travelers who need reliable Wi-Fi, consistent food quality, or comfortable modern rooms should look at more developed Cuban resort areas.
Pros
- +Located directly on Playa Ancón, consistently listed among Cuba's most beautiful beaches - a long, wide stretch of fine white sand with calm, clear Caribbean water
- +Only 13 kilometers from Trinidad, one of Cuba's most extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage colonial cities, making cultural day trips genuinely accessible
- +Excellent entertainment team that guests single out across multiple reviews - the evening shows and animation program punch above the resort's budget classification
- +Unbeatable value for money by any Caribbean comparison - travelers from Canada and Europe frequently describe it as the best beach deal they've found in the region
- +The beach itself requires no travel, no taxi, and no planning - it's immediately outside the hotel, which guests coming from busier Caribbean destinations find refreshingly simple
- +Staff warmth and genuine Cuban hospitality create a feeling of personal welcome that larger, more corporate resorts rarely match
- +The Sancti Spíritus province location means far fewer international tourists than Varadero or Havana - the sense of visiting authentic Cuba is much stronger here
- +Calm, swimmable water directly in front of the hotel with good conditions for snorkeling along the reef nearby
Cons
- −This is a budget-category Cuban resort and the accommodations reflect that - rooms are basic, some are small, and furnishings are functional rather than comfortable
- −Food quality is inconsistent and the buffet variety is limited by Cuban supply chain realities - guests with dietary restrictions or high food expectations will find it challenging
- −Some guests have reported poorly prepared food at the buffet, which is a significant concern for a property where the dining hall is the primary meal option
- −Front desk staff have received mixed feedback, with some guests noting an unwelcoming or indifferent attitude at check-in compared to the warmly regarded entertainment and beach staff
- −Internet connectivity is very limited even by Cuba standards - Playa Ancón is more remote than resort areas with better infrastructure
- −The resort is 13km from Trinidad, which is the primary cultural draw of the region, but that distance requires organized transportation or expensive taxis for every visit
- −No swimming pool reported by most visitors, meaning the beach is the only water option - guests who prefer pool environments will find the property limiting
- −Playa Ancón's remoteness means there are no local restaurants, bars, or shops outside the resort - you are entirely dependent on the hotel's food and beverage offerings
Common Questions
Google Rating
Google Reviews
“I had no bad experiences at this resort. For the price paid the overall quality was expected, and I am not one to complain. Unlimited drinks, great beach, overall nicely renovated and clean resort. Rooms are cleaned and towels are replaced daily. A 1...”
“We were there for the last two weeks of December. The weather was great. The rooms are clean. Location is perfect. Very safe. Special thanks for Jose Nuebla for making our experience better. 7+!!!”
“Visited this place recently in Dec 2024 for a week with my family. I have no complaints. Given the overall economy Cuba is going through at the moment, services and food are above than average. Staff was very pleasant and always welcoming.”