Varadero Weather, When to Go and Climate Information

(Varadero, Matanzas, Cuba)

The archipelago of Cuba, set in the Caribbean Sea close to the Tropic of Cancer, enjoys a subtropical climate. Trade winds and sea breezes blow all year round in Varadero, with those from the north during the short winter months cooling land temperature to around 20°C / 68°F.

During the rest of the year, temperatures can reach as high as 35°C / 95°F, with humidity averaging at 80 percent and increasing the 'feel' of the heat. Sea temperatures are warm year-round due to the nearby Gulf Stream, with an average of over 25°C / 77°F. Winter evenings may feel cool enough to wear a sweater or light coat. The eastern region of the island tends to experience hotter weather than the western areas, and coastal plains enjoy less day to night temperature variations than inland.


Annual rainfall averages around 1,320 mm / 52 inches in Varadero, with the May to October wet season receiving 60 percent, and thunderstorms and torrential downpours occurring regularly during these months. Due to its position at the mouth of the Bay of Mexico, Cuba lies right in the path of tropical hurricanes, which usually occur in September and October, but can manifest during the rest of the wet season, as can cyclones.

Seasonal Climate Variations / When to Go

For beach-lovers, Varadero is a good holiday destination almost year-round, with the exception of the hurricane season during September and October. Bear in mind, though, that Varadero is a modern town and its structures are able to bear strong winds. The most popular time to visit is during the winter months, when the climate is more comfortable and the sea is still beautifully warm.

At this time, beaches may be crowded and prices may rise. During the rest of the year, if heat and high humidity are not a problem, the town may be quieter, although it tends to fill up again with northern European visitors during high summer. If hiking or travelling around Cuba's remoter regions is on the agenda, it is best to avoid the height of the wet season, as floods can and do occur and country roads may become impassable.

Varadero Weather and Climate Chart (Averages)

	Maximum	Minimum
January	25°C / 77°F	16°C / 61°F
February	26°C / 79°F	17°C / 63°F
March	27°C / 81°F	17°C / 63°F
April	29°C / 84°F	19°C / 66°F
May	29°C / 84°F	21°C / 70°F
June	30°C / 86°F	22°C / 72°F
July	30°C / 86°F	22°C / 72°F
August	31°C / 88°F	23°C / 73°F
September	30°C / 86°F	22°C / 72°F
October	28°C / 82°F	21°C / 70°F
November	26°C / 79°F	19°C / 66°F
December	26°C / 79°F	18°C / 64°F