Family-friendly resort in Varadero. Mid-Range, Family Resort.
Atmosphere
Room Upgrades
Amenities
Traveler Insights(7 discussions)
Sol Palmeras sits comfortably in Varadero's mid-tier all-inclusive market - good enough for a Cuban beach week, recently renovated, and on one of the world's most photogenic stretches of sand. Travel agents who've sent clients here report positive experiences, and multiple travelers commenters who've visited Cuba multiple times single out Varadero as a go-to for its incredible white sand beaches and generally calm water. Sol Palmeras is a sensible choice within that context.
Like every Cuban resort, the food situation is where expectations need to be managed. Cuba's supply chain issues affect every property on the island, and Sol Palmeras is no exception. You'll eat - eggs, chicken, rice, bread, fresh fruit when available - but it won't be the sophisticated buffet you'd find in Mexico or the Dominican Republic. The beach and sunshine are what you're really paying for, and on those metrics, Sol Palmeras competes well.
This resort works best for travelers who've either been to Cuba before and know what to expect, or budget-minded first-timers who want the famous Varadero beach without spending Mexico prices. The adults-only Sol Varadero section next door provides an easy upgrade in atmosphere if you want more energy. At the right price point, Sol Palmeras is genuinely good value for a Cuban getaway focused on beach relaxation.
Pros
- +Recently renovated property that has improved meaningfully from its older iteration - travel agents specifically report happy clients
- +Beautiful beach - Varadero's stunning white sand strip is the main draw and Sol Palmeras delivers good beach access
- +Part of the Sol / Melia family, giving it reliable management standards for a budget Cuba property
- +Good value entry point for Varadero - typically one of the more affordable options on the strip
- +Adults-only section (Sol Varadero) available if you want a livelier experience while staying in the same complex
- +Family-friendly main section works well for multi-generational groups who still want a decent resort
- +Manageable size - not an overwhelming mega-resort, which makes navigation easier especially for first-timers
- +Solid choice for Cuban beach vacation priorities: sun, sand, and relaxation over gourmet dining
Cons
- −Food is the standard Cuban AI complaint - limited variety, repetitive, and subject to supply chain shortages
- −Cuba's broader infrastructure issues (power, food supply) affect all resorts including Sol Palmeras
- −The Sol Varadero adults-only section is described as potentially having 'blasting techno music' - not for the quiet-seekers
- −Very limited travelers discussion makes it hard to verify current conditions with confidence
- −Not a premium experience - this is a budget-tier Cuban resort and should be booked with those expectations
- −Amenities and activities are basic compared to Mexican or Dominican alternatives at similar price points
- −Distance from Havana limits cultural excursions compared to Varadero properties slightly closer to the capital
- −No Iberostar-level kitchen standards - Cuban resorts across the board struggle to compete with DR or Mexico for food quality
Common Questions
Google Rating
Google Reviews
“Third visit. Excellent ! Beach of course is amazing. No issues with loungers, plentiful, and the resort was busy. Staff inside and out work diligently to assure cleanliness. I have yet to see an unwanted insect anywhere on the inside. Buffet offers...”
“Hidden gem!!! We had an absolutely amazing stay at this resort in Cuba. I know many people worry about mosquitos and food when visiting Cuba, but I can honestly say there were no issues at all here. What truly stood out was how much the staff go abo...”
“This was our second visit to Melia Sol Palmeras this year. We absolutely love it here, the staff in the buffet, the staff in the al la carts are amazing and so welcoming. The food.....well you definitely do not go hungry. We eat more when we are ther...”