Samana, Dominican Republic – one of the most beautiful resorts in the country, where there is everything for a good holiday: kilometers of white sand beaches, tall coconut palms, bright turquoise water and bright natural attractions.
General information
The Samana Peninsula is one of the best holiday destinations in the Dominican Republic. Tourists coming here are attracted by the beautiful nature (coconut palms, turquoise sea, waterfalls) and semi-desert beaches.
Samana is located in the northeastern part of the Dominican Republic, and the capital of the peninsula since 1824 is the city of Santa Barbara de Samana. Most of the Samana population lives in Las Galeras and Las Terrenas, where most of the hotels are located.
Attractions and entertainment
There are no man – made attractions on the Samana Peninsula-only natural ones.
Los Haitises National Park
Los Aitises is perhaps the most popular nature reserve in the Dominican Republic. A significant advantage of this place, in comparison with other national parks, is the alternation of zones. For example, a small area of mangrove forest is replaced by a landscaped area with swimming pools and benches.
The reserve is divided into the following natural parts::
- mangrove swamps;
- cotton plantations;
- palm jungle;
- green islands;
- rock caves.
The National Park covers an area of more than 200 square kilometers, but less than half of it is accessible to tourists. Please note that you will also not be able to visit Los Aitises on your own – you need to buy a guided tour.
Since you can’t see everything at once, travel agencies offer several types of programs. The most popular and spectacular is a trip through mangrove forests and visiting caves where you can see rock carvings, stuffed gods and various symbols of shamans.
- Location: Los Aitises National Park, Samana, Dominican Republic (northwestern part of the peninsula).
- Opening hours: 9.00-18.00.
- Cost with a guided tour: 160-200 dollars.
El Lemon Waterfall
“El Lemon” or “Millionaires ‘ Waterfall is the most famous and most visited waterfall in the Dominican Republic. It is located in the northern part of the Samana Peninsula, at an altitude of 300 m above sea level. The height of the waterfall itself is about 40 meters, so it has long been considered the largest in the Caribbean.
Experienced tourists recommend visiting this attraction in December – it is in this month that the waterfall is the most full-flowing. Also bring your own bathing suits, and take a refreshing dip in the natural pool under the waterfall.
Unlike other attractions, it is offered to get to the El Limon waterfall not only by standard buses or minibuses, but also:
- On a horse or mule. Oddly enough, this is the most popular option (according to statistics, about 90% of tourists choose this method). To do this, you need to come to any travel agency or ranch, where you will be registered as part of a horse expedition. Groups of tourists will start from the following villages: Rancho Espanyol, Arroyo Surdido, El Cafe or El Limon. The location you choose depends on the terrain and how long you will be traveling.
- On foot. You can walk the same distance as in the first case. It will take from 3 to 4 hours (round trip). It should be borne in mind that after the rains, the road through the jungle can be blurred, and it is very difficult to walk.
- Canyoning. This is the most extreme option, and it should be chosen only by physically prepared people. So, on the way to the waterfall, you will have to do rock climbing and swim along the river in boats.
Location: Las Terreras, Dominican Republic.
Boca del Diablo
Boca del Diablo or Devil’s Mouth is a wide crevice in the rock, which is located in the eastern part of the Samana. The uniqueness of this place lies in the fact that water regularly comes out of this gap in a column, as well as powerful air currents break out. The force of this natural phenomenon is so great that coconuts that fall from palm trees are thrown up several meters in height, and people can not always resist especially powerful shocks.
It is better to go to this attraction in the afternoon – the sun is not so bright.
Locals do not recommend going to Boca del Diablo on your own – this part of the island is quite dangerous, and to avoid unnecessary excitement, it is better to buy an excursion tour.
Location: Samana Peninsula (eastern part), Dominican Republic.
Whale watching
If you have long dreamed of seeing real whales, then it’s time to go to Samana Island. From December to March, hundreds of mammals not only breed here, but also show various tricks during the mating season.
In the northern and eastern parts of the peninsula, there are several points where you can watch whales. The most famous is Whale Beach, where hundreds of people come every day. You will not be able to see the mammals on your own here – you will only be allowed to pass with a guide.
Location: Samana Peninsula (north-eastern part), Dominican Republic.
Cayo Levantado Island
Cayo Levantado Island or Bacardi Island (often referred to as Bacardi Island because it was the site of a commercial for Bacardi rum) is one of hundreds of small islands located to the east of the Samana Peninsula.
This area attracts tourists with its spacious beaches, the absence of a large number of people (there is only one hotel on the island) and unique wildlife.
Here it is worth:
- watch a dozen birds that live on the island (most of all pelicans);
- buy freshly caught fish that the aborigines sell;
- find beautiful seashells in the sea;
- try the “Pina Colada ” cocktail in pineapple ;
- take a walk in the rainforest.
Since the island itself is small (1 sq. km), a few days will be enough to relax and explore the territory. Tourists note that if you are lucky with a rented hotel, then there is no point in going to this island.
Location: Cayo Levantado, La Barbacoa, Dominican Republic (eastern part of the peninsula).
Beaches
There are dozens of beaches on the peninsula, and everyone can find a place to suit their taste: with white or golden sand, wild or crowded, for surfing or for a relaxing holiday.
The water in different parts of the island is equally clean, and its temperature varies from +26 to +29 degrees.
Playa Rincon
Rincon is the No. 1 beach according to several reputable travel magazines. Its main advantages are the absence of people, gorgeous nature (coconut palms, mountains in the distance) and a diverse animal world.
The nearest town is Las Galeras, which can be reached on foot (the distance is less than 5 km). Since the beach is wild, there are no sun beds, changing rooms or toilets.
The sand is white and very soft. The entrance to the water is smooth, but you should be careful: sometimes you can come across rocks and rocks. The water is clear and has an azure color.
Location: Las Galeras, Dominican Republic.
Bonita (Playa Bonita)
Playa Bonita is one of the most spacious beaches in the Dominican Republic, located in the northern part of the Samana Peninsula. There are always a lot of people here, but there is enough space for everyone.
On Playa Bonita, there are several good cafes and a bar, sun beds and toilets. In windy weather, this place becomes a sports ground – they go surfing here.
The sand has a golden hue, the water is turquoise. There is no debris, shells or fragments. This place is perfect for families with small children.
Location: Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic.
La Playita Beach
La Playita Beach is a wild beach in the Dominican Republic (northwest). Since the town of Las Galeras is located nearby, there are few tourists here. There is no entertainment available.
This is one of those places on the island of Samana where there is no gusty wind and there are no underwater currents, so many people go snorkeling and diving here.
The sand has a white color, the entrance to the water is gentle. Occasionally there are shells on the shore.
Location: Las Galeras, Dominican Republic.
Playa Moron
Moron is located in a small bay, so it is always quiet and there is an opportunity to retire. This is a wild place, and the infrastructure here is completely undeveloped. But there are attractions. For example, on the top of the hill you can see an old pirate cannon – in ancient times, robbers stopped in this part of the island to replenish their water supplies. The El Limon Waterfall is also 5 km from Moron.
There are very few people here in the morning, and if you come to Moron in the evening, there is a high probability that you will not meet a soul here.
The sand is bright gold, the sea is turquoise in color. The entrance to the water is gentle, there are no rocks. This place is perfect for families with children, as well as for lovers of snorkeling.
Location: Las Terreras, Dominican Republic.
Playa Coson
Coson is one of the best in the Las Terrenas resort area. Despite the fact that it is located right in this town, you can easily find a secluded place here.
There are no problems with the infrastructure: there are many good hotels and bars nearby (be sure to try seafood here), toilets work and there are sun beds with umbrellas.
The sand, as on most local beaches, is white. The water is clear. No seashells or large rocks.
Location: Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic.
Whale Beach (Playa Las Ballenas)
Whale Beach is famous not for its beautiful views and snow-white sand, but for its inhabitants-humpback whales. Every year, from December to March, you can observe dozens of individuals who swim and perform various tricks in the water. It is important that people are also allowed to join the animals.
It has the following characteristics: white sand, bright turquoise water and a small number of stones that are found when entering the ocean. The entrance to the water is gentle, there are no rocks and cliffs.
Location: Samana Island, Dominican Republic (north coast).
Where to stay
On the Samana Peninsula in the Dominican Republic, there are the following resorts:
- Las Terranas. This resort town is located in the north-eastern part of the Dominican Republic, and is considered an ideal place for a secluded holiday. It is also home to one of the best surf clubs in the country, and the most convenient way to get to the main natural attractions of the peninsula.
- Las Galeras. Many tourists who have visited different parts of the Dominican Republic say that it is in Las Galeras that the best beaches are located. Compared to the resort of Las Terranas, hotels (one of the best is Grand Paradise Samana in the Dominican Republic) are much smaller, but the famous Whale beach is located nearby.
- Santa Barbara de Samana. This is probably the richest (from a historical point of view) resort on the peninsula. In addition to the clear sea, there is something to see: ancient churches, bright mosaics on the walls of houses and dozens of flower beds.
Prices at all resorts on the island of Samana are approximately the same, and the total number of hotels is more than 500.
So, a room for two in high season at hotel 3 will cost 50-70 dollars. This price includes a spacious room with a terrace (often with sea views), an excellent breakfast and free Wi-Fi. On the territory of almost all hotels there is a green area for recreation, where there are straw gazebos and palm trees.
On the Samana Peninsula, there is a small selection of 5* hotels – there are only 6 options. Prices are very different: there are hotels for both $ 120-140 a day and $ 650 a night. Accommodation conditions are also different. For example, in more expensive hotels, in addition to the room, you will have a private gazebo and a tent on the water. You will also be offered a massage course and will be invited to a local restaurant for free.
Cheaper 5* hotels will offer you a large room with a sea view and provide an opportunity to relax by the pool on site. As for the service, as tourists note, it is at its best in both the first and second cases.
Useful tips
- Despite the popularity of the Dominican Republic, hotel prices here are not higher than in neighboring cities. And if you book a room in advance (4-5 months in advance), you can seriously save money.
- Since most of the islands can only be reached by catamaran or boat, be sure to check the weather forecast before traveling.
- Since the peninsula is still home to many Aboriginal people, visiting some places can be dangerous for tourists. Try not to travel to unknown places on your own, and always consult with local residents or hotel staff before traveling.
- The Dominican Republic is a country of beaches, so wherever you go, always take a swimsuit and sunscreen with you.
Samana, Dominicana – one of the best resorts for a measured holiday with the whole family.
