Hotel Playa Punta Hicacos
Family-friendly resort in Varadero. Romantic, Budget.
Atmosphere
Amenities
Traveler Insights(276 discussions)
Hotel Playa Punta Hicacos sits at the tip of the Varadero peninsula in a genuinely spectacular location, and it has been a beloved fixture for repeat visitors for over two decades. Originally built in 2005 and renovated multiple times since, the resort recently launched an expanded adults-only section called Cayo Libertad that elevates the experience for guests looking for a quieter, more upscale zone within the property. Travelers who have visited multiple times describe returning after a five-year closure for renovations and finding the property genuinely improved, with upgraded facilities and renewed energy. The beach here benefits from the peninsula position - dramatic views in multiple directions and calm, swimmable water directly out front.
The practical experience is one of above-average Cuban all-inclusive quality. Guests rate the food and drinks particularly highly, with one citing 10/10 drinks and 9/10 food - marks rarely given to Cuban properties. The entertainment team is active and creative with a full day of activities from stretching and aerobics in the morning to evening stage shows. The adults-only pool with its swim-up bar is a genuine asset when it's open, and water sports rentals add variety for active travelers. On the other hand, the remote tip-of-peninsula location means guests pay more for taxis into central Varadero, and during periods of low occupancy the resort can feel oddly quiet in a way that affects the atmosphere.
Playa Punta Hicacos competes strongly with similarly positioned Varadero properties like Meliá Las Américas and Paradisus Varadero. Its loyal repeat visitor base - including guests on their 10th or 12th visit - speaks to something the property does consistently right. It suits couples and families alike, and the newly developed adults-only section makes it a better fit for adult travelers than it was before. Travelers coming from North America on packaged holidays will find it delivers solid value; those optimizing for luxury should look at higher-end Varadero options.
Pros
- +Stunning beachfront location at the tip of the Varadero peninsula with sweeping ocean views from multiple vantage points on the property
- +Renovated and well-maintained resort that has recently undergone significant upgrades including an expanded adults-only section called Cayo Libertad
- +Adults-only pool with a shaded swim-up bar is a genuine highlight - travelers who find it early in the day describe it as a perfect spot to spend an entire afternoon
- +Energetic entertainment program with aerobics, stretching, dancing lessons, beach games, and evening stage shows that one guest rated as genuinely impressive
- +Dedicated kids club with a full team of animators running structured activities, making it genuinely useful rather than nominal
- +Food and drinks earn high marks across the board - one guest gave drinks 10/10 and food 9/10, which is exceptional for a Cuban all-inclusive
- +Friendly, helpful staff who make an effort even within Cuba's service culture constraints
- +Water sports rentals, hiking access, and tennis add activity variety for guests who want more than beach and pool time
Cons
- −Located at the far end of the Varadero strip, which means taxi rides into town cost noticeably more than from centrally located resorts
- −The resort can feel very empty during low occupancy periods, with some travelers reporting a ghost-town atmosphere that dampens the energy
- −Staff helpfulness is inconsistent - some guests report rude or unhelpful interactions, particularly when tips in US dollars are not forthcoming
- −Towel shortages at the beach have been flagged by multiple travelers, requiring guests to get to the beach early or go without
- −The adults-only pool is undergoing renovations through early 2026, meaning guests during that period will be redirected to other pools
- −Resort maintenance quality is uneven - some areas look sharp while others show wear that undermines the five-star positioning
- −Cuba's supply chain realities mean specific drinks, food items, or amenities may simply not be available on a given day without advance notice
- −Wi-Fi is unreliable and slow, consistent with island-wide infrastructure limitations
Common Questions
Google Rating
Google Reviews
“A wonderful experience! This hotel has become our home away from home.. this is our fifth visit..💝”
“Hotel Punta Hicacos has a wonderful customer service. Everybody there is very nice, friendly and helpful. The food is excellent; the beach amazing and the girls, yulia y Sandra, from the ice cream service ( La Heladeria ) is Superb. 5 Stars for thi...”
“The world is a very good place if you want to relax and vacation. In December, the sea water almost tepid. The room was spacious and clean well conditioned. The meals and beverage consumption is only limited by self-control. The staff is very friendl...”