The Best Time to Visit Cuba in 2023

Nestled on the Caribbean Sea, Cuba boasts sunshine, white sandy shores, and several all-inclusive resorts serving cold mojitos and warm buffets. Cuba is a traveler’s paradise waiting to be discovered.

The country is a much-loved destination for many travelers, including family vacationers, retired couples, and students looking for palm trees and good times in the sun. Knowing the best time to visit Cuba is the key to a fabulous vacation!

In this article, discover the best time to visit Cuba to enjoy the warmest weather, breathtaking views, and less-crowded sandy beaches. Plus, uncover our ultimate selection of one-of-a-kind places to explore in the Cuban sun.

Don’t worry about going at a bad time – we’ll also fill you in on the worst times to visit and provide travel tips and tricks to make your vacation to Cuba a memorable one.

Why You Should Visit Cuba

Cuba is the ultimate destination for a budget-friendly vacation filled with sunshine, sandy beaches, and friendly locals, helping to make your stay an unforgettable experience on and off the resorts.

Besides soaking up the sun, there’s plenty to do for all ages in Cuba!

You’ll enjoy visiting waterfalls and parks, swimming with dolphins, taking a safari ride, and enjoying water sports. You’ll find world-class scuba diving, fishing, and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters here.

Other popular activities to explore in Cuba are catamaran and boat tours, scenic horse and buggy rides through picturesque villages, and day trips of souvenir shopping.

You can always indulge in a mouthwatering, authentic Cuban meal or hit the dance bars after an eventful day spent in glorious sunshine.

The island nation boasts countless beautiful cities, towns, and villages, filled to the brim with rich history and stunning architecture. This gorgeous destination is a tropical oasis in the sun, no matter how you choose to enjoy your vacation! 

Overall Best Time to Visit Cuba

Cuba is enchanting all year round, but November to April is the best time to book your vacation to the country. The late fall and winter months are when the Caribbean climate is perfect and boasts warm temperatures, sunshine, and fewer rain storms.

The period from November to December sees the tourist industry dramatically pick up after a relatively quiet period. You’ll have a variety of activities to experience, but the crowds will be substantial.

Still, there are also plenty of events to keep you entertained, including the Days of Cuban Culture and the Havana International Ballet Festival. Keep in mind that hotel costs do surge during Christmas and New Year.

Spring is the dry season for Cuba and many travelers love to take advantage of the weather. March and April are the driest months and usually offer the most pleasant weather, ideal for a scenic vacation.

Other benefits of booking your holiday to Cuba during the spring months include:

• Fully staffed resorts ready for tourists
• More excursions are available for tourists during the busy season
• Hotel amenities are available during peak season
• Buffet selections are more plentiful

The tropical weather during the early spring months of March and April boasts longer days, minimum humidity, and warm temperatures sitting between 80-84ºF (27-29ºC) during the day and between 66-69ºF (19-21ºC) during the evenings for comfortable sleeping.

However, if you plan to travel during the second week of March, be prepared to pay higher than normal resort prices. This covers spring break when college students are out of school and looking for a warm place to get away, too!

While November to April is highly recommended, the overall best time to visit Cuba really depends on your situation and preferences. For instance, if you want to experience the vibrant Carnival Santiago de Cuba—the biggest carnival in the Caribbean—you’ll need to travel in July.

Cheapest Time to Visit Cuba

The cheapest time to visit Cuba is between May and September, which is Cuba’s wettest season. During summer, the weather is humid, with the country experiencing the hottest temperatures of the year.

Hurricane season in Cuba runs from June to November, causing treacherous downpours and strong winds. Of course, being caught in a hurricane can put a real damper on your holiday plans while visiting Cuba! Keep this in mind when booking your holiday in the sun.

Even though Cuban weather is the wettest during May and September, there are still some benefits of traveling this time of the year, including the following pros:

• Resorts and beaches are less crowded
• Weather is hot and perfect for swimming and water sports
• Prices for resorts and plane tickets are cheapest during off-season months
• There is plenty of room for your beach towel at the pools

In addition, you’ll still get the chance to experience some lively events according to the month you’re visiting. Some of the most popular include Semana de la Victoria, celebrating the failed Bay of Pigs invasion, and the Camaguey Carnival.

Least Busy Time to Visit Cuba

The least busy time of the year to plan a holiday in Cuba is between September to November. These months are peak hurricane season and many tourists are hesitant to travel to the Caribbean during turbulent weather.

During hurricane season, Cuba sometimes has to shut down tourist attractions due to damage caused by strong winds, increased risk to life, and lack of tourists. These factors make it economically unsustainable for attractions to stay open.

However, if you’re up for some excitement and don’t mind the risk of hurricanes, humidity, winds, and wet weather, there are several benefits to traveling during this period, including:

• Fewer tourists at beaches, attractions, and resorts
• Hotels and planes are more affordable
• Upgraded hotel suites at discount prices
• Cheaper attraction tickets and fewer lines

Worst Time to Visit Cuba

The worst time to visit Cuba is hurricane season, which runs from September to early November. Although you can save money by traveling in the fall, the weather is humid and Cuba experiences the greatest chance of hurricanes.

Other times to avoid travel to Cuba include the second week of March when kids are out for spring break and ready to hit the beaches. Of course, it’s a great time to visit if you are a college student and look forward to mixing and mingling in a tropical oasis!

Resort and plane tickets are usually jacked-up in price during the March spring break, which is another downfall of traveling at this time of the year. However, if you book early, you might find some discounted flights.

July and August are also busy months for travelers visiting Cuba because children are out of school. This period is popular with families wanting to take a vacation together as well. If you’re the type of person who likes fewer crowds, then summer is not the best time for you to visit Cuba.

Even though the weather is humid and hot during July and August, vacationers can still enjoy the beauty and sunshine of a vacation to Cuba. Just keep in mind that the beaches will be jam-packed, and you might find fewer accommodation vacancies.

With that in mind, if you’re set on a trip during the summer, you’ll want to book your hotel and any tours well in advance. If you visit Cuba during the summer, remember to bring bug spray! There are plenty of mosquitoes and black flies that thrive in the heat.

Things To Consider

Cuba is a majestic tropical destination ‌that’s perfect to visit any time of the year. However, from November to early April, the weather is more favorable and activities are in full swing.

Are you still on the fence about the best time to visit Cuba? Here’s a list of tips and tricks to consider before planning your vacation to ensure you have the best trip to Cuba possible.

• Book your trip early to avoid the disappointment of sold out accommodations and flights
• Winter has some downfalls, including higher prices, and more people at beaches, attractions, and resorts
• Shop around to find the best resort and flight prices available
• Plan your daily activities before you go so you don’t miss out on any attractions
• Buy travel cancellation insurance in case emergencies arise
• Taking a plane is often the most effective way to travel around the island
• Trains are great transportation in Cuba – the government has been investing in its railways since 2019
• Cuba has shared taxis called colectivo and almendrones used extensively by locals, but might not accept tourists as passengers

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve discussed the best and the worst times for visiting Cuba, but what else should you know?

If you’re thinking about planning a trip to the sunny destination, here’s a list of frequently asked questions and answers about vacationing in Cuba to help you with your decision. 

Can U.S. citizens travel to Cuba?

Yes, U.S. citizens can visit Cuba! Historically, holders of a U.S. passport weren’t allowed to travel to the country directly. Many visitors often had to take a circuitous route through Mexico or Canada. Today, you’re able to visit with the right documents.

You will need travel insurance, a Cuban Tourist Card, and self-certification affirming your travel to the country meets one of the island nation’s 12 categories of authorized travel.

Is Cuba a safe place for a vacation?

Yes, Cuba is a relatively safe place to visit. However, there are some recommended precautions to take, just like anywhere else you travel. Consider carrying smaller amounts of cash, leaving flashy jewelry at home, avoiding contact with street vendors, and the following tips. 

• Leave valuables in the hotel safe to avoid theft, or pick-pocketing
• Keep your passport and travel documents in a safe place
• Carry a photocopy of your passport in case it gets lost or stolen
• Keep your purse secured in front of you at all times

It’s also advisable to travel in pairs. Avoid less-populated areas where you’re at a greater chance of being mugged or harassed. So long as you take precautions, Cuba can be a safe place to visit.

Where are the best places to stay in Cuba?

For decades, Cuba was isolated from the world due to a U.S. embargo, leading many hotels to suffer in quality. However, since the 21st century, Cuba’s tourist industry has really blossomed.

Cuba has a rich architectural history, with numerous grand colonial-era buildings now converted into hotels. One spot, the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana, became the first five-star hotel in the country when it opened in 2017. It features a luxury shopping mall on the ground floor.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective trip that offers outstanding tropical views, local hospitality, and plenty of sunshine, there are also several all-inclusive resorts in Cuba.

Due to the country’s long-standing isolation, many accommodations have a retro, nostalgic feel, perfect for a vacation that takes you back to the glamour of the past.

In addition, you can rent a private home to get a more intimate experience of life on the Caribbean island. Some of the top tourist areas of Cuba include Havana, Varadero, Cayo Coco, and Holguin.

What is the weather like in Cuba by month?

The weather in Cuba changes each month. Here’s a rundown of what to expect when visiting the tropical destination of Cuba:

• January-February: Average daily temperature is 73°F (23°C)
• March: Average daily temperature is 75°F (24°C)
• April: Average daily temperature is 77°F (25°C)
• May: Average daily temperature is 80°F (27°C)
• June-September: Average daily temperature is 82°F (28°C)
• October: Average daily temperature is 80°F (27°C)

What are the do’s and don’ts when visiting Cuba?

Visiting Cuba is an experience rich in culture and diversity. The country is friendly and welcoming to tourists, so it can be a wonderful experience with lifelong memories.

Here’s a list of the must-know do’s and don’ts to help ensure your trip is the best possible!

Do:

• Convert your cash into Cuban pesos – it’s the only legal currency permitted
• Invest in a data plan to avoid roaming data charges on your phone
• Keep your passport and boarding pass in a safe place
• Bring snacks from back home that are hard to find in Cuba
• Be open-minded and appreciate the beauty of the country

Don’t:

• Misplace your tourist visa card because you need it to get out of Cuba
• Drink the local tap water, which can lead to stomach upset
• Rely on your debit card or credit card for cash – they rarely work in Cuba
• Fall for street scams, where you could lose money or possessions

So, What’s the Best Time to Visit Cuba?

Cuba is a cost-effective, friendly vacation destination that has plenty to offer everyone. It doesn’t matter if you’re 6 or 65! There’s always something to do in Cuba, from scenic waterways and rich culture to authentic Cuban foods, vibrant nightlife, and stunning tourist attractions.

We hope we’ve provided you with lots of helpful information to consider on your next visit to the tropical destination of Cuba. This is a stunning destination where lifelong memories are waiting to be made in the tropical sunshine!