Ottawa to Varadero; The Beach is Calling

Ottawa to Varadero is an easy trip with direct flights with Sunwing from Ottawa International Airport all year long. Factor in Cuba’s affordability, it’s amazing beaches, it’s rich culture, and it’s stellar weather, and it’s not hard to see why Canadians flock to Cuba’s sandy shores year round. 

I love my hometown of Ottawa, but it’s not exactly known for its beaches. A self-titled beach bunny, I seek out white sandy shores on the regular, which is why I love how easy it is to get to Varadero, even in the summer. There is nothing better than flying directly out of Ottawa to Varadero without having to add extra travel time to get to Montreal or Toronto, not to mention the extra costs associated with doing so. 

So, if you’re looking for a beach holiday this summer with the family, then take a closer look at Varadero. Varadero beach boasts 21 km of powdery white sand kissed by turquoise water; it’s beachy perfection. With vacations for families of four comparable to a week at a cottage (without all the preparation and clean-up) it’s an ideal place to for the whole family to relax. 

Ottawa to Varadero; Two Resorts We Loved and Three We Need to Try! 

Paradisus Varadero

We spent a week at the Paradisus Varadero in August and loved every minute of it. You can see why in this video we shot with Sunwing below. Just watching it makes me want to book a trip back stat! 

Grand Memories Varadero

Grand Memories Varadero is the perfect place to head with younger kids. This resort boasts a fantastic kids club, regular appearances from Toopy and Binoo, and a calm stretch of beach. The best part though is two children (ages 2-12) stay free when sharing a room with two adults in Hotel Free Kids and Superior Free Kids room categories. 

One of the things I truly loved about Grand Memories Varadero was how, despite how many people were there, it never felt crowded. With two enormous pool areas, the beach, and countless areas throughout the resort to chill, we often felt like we had the place to ourselves.

Iberostar Varadero

I’m a big fan of Iberostar resorts, since they are known for exemplary service and beautiful resorts. That’s why the Iberostar Varadero hits the top of my must-visit list. Family rooms here are located near the Aquatic Park and Kids Club, and includes a turn down service with milk & cookies for the kids. Word of warning; it may be hard to break the kids of that habit at home. 

Starfish Varadero

The Starfish Varadero is the poster child for “bang for you buck”. A family of four can spend a week at this all-inclusive resort in July for just over $2500 . Considering the current price of gas ($1.40 as I write this – ouch!), hotel room costs in Ontario, meals, and travel time, you’d be hard pressed to find a better deal anywhere here. 

Melia Varadero

The Melia Varadero is perfect for parents who can’t wait to get their golf clubs out. While you’re out driving balls at the Varadero Golf Club, your kids are living it up at the kids club; that is a vacation win/win. 

With weekly flights from Ottawa to Varadero, the beach holiday you need this summer is a short flight away with Sunwing. Read why I think Cuba should be on your family travel bucket list. 

Disclosure: I have a been a proud partner with Sunwing for three years now. This post is sponsored, but as always, opinions expressed are solely mine.