GAESA announces new luxury resort in Varadero

The military-owned conglomerate GAESA, through its tourism branch Grupo de Turismo Gaviota, has announced the opening of the Playa Luxury Varadero hotel on October 23, 2026. Located at the tip of the Hicacos Peninsula in Cayo Libertad, the adults-only resort will feature 85 rooms, including suites and grand suites, and will offer all-inclusive amenities such as a spa, gym, and cigar bar.

This launch occurs amid significant challenges for the Cuban tourism sector. Gaviota is currently operating 3,470 rooms across Havana, Varadero, Topes de Collantes, and Cayo Santa María, which represents only 11.6% of its declared capacity. International visitor numbers in the first eight months of 2026 were reported at 450,353, approximately 35.6% of the figures from the previous year.

To manage these constraints, Gaviota is centralizing services and supplies within specific tourist hubs. Additionally, the group is offering organized transport options between tourist poles and international airports. Executives noted that future expansions depend on operating conditions and the impact of U.S. sanctions on tourism-linked entities.