A destination famed for its spectacular beaches, the pristine shorefronts of Dominican Republic alone would be enough to add this Caribbean island to any traveler’s list. Yet in destinations like Samana, those unspoiled white sands are only the beginning.
Lesser known than its trendy cousin Punta Cana, the northeastern peninsula makes a splash all its own. Secluded rather than subdued, Samana offers all of the world-class service, but with a more peaceful air. Mangrove reserves, sprawling forests, and limestone caves surround the coconut-shaded coasts that have helped make Dominican Republic the Caribbean’s most-visited island. Seaside towns and all-inclusive resorts provide quick access to scenery that feels gloriously hidden away.
That meeting of the luxurious and the untamed is what gives Samana its easy appeal. Travelers happiest outdoors will find this underrated destination an ecotouristic dream, while couples will be hard-pressed to find a more romantic spot than Cayo Levantado, a tiny islet in Samana Bay that’s quickly become a top attraction. The fully inclusive, five-star Bahia Principe Luxury Cayo Levantado further ups the appeal; on-site Treasure Ambassadors never fail to recommend experiences that let guests get lost in the beauty of nature … and each other.
Of course, those who prefer the mainland won’t have any shortage of options for discovery. Culture hounds can sniff out a number of marvels along the Mediterranean-inspired avenues of beach town Las Terrenas. French bistros, stylish boutiques, and waterfront restaurants lend themselves to a low-key afternoon. For a dash of adrenaline, art enthusiasts can head to Las Haitises National Park, where Taino Indian cave art passes down ancient stories. Over a hundred species of brightly colored birds give art and nature lovers both ample reasons to explore the park’s lush mangroves and tranquil estuaries.
Travelers who vacation for the adventure of it all will discover thrills onshore and off: ziplining past towering palms, riding the waves on a kiteboard, trekking through canyons and past glittering waterfalls, riding horseback along Samana Bay. Perhaps the greatest sense of wonder, however, comes just once a year. From mid-January until the end of March, some 2,500 humpback whales make their annual journey to the protected waters of Samana to mate and give birth. Human visitors hoping to catch a glimpse can search by boat in the Marine Mammal Sanctuary or at the Land Whale Observatory point.
Drawing travelers year-round, the beaches that edge those waters hold their own claims to fame. West of Las Terrenas, Cosón’s golden sands have earned it the title of Dominican Republic’s most beautiful beach; Playa Rincon, easily reached from the charming fishing village of Las Galeras, ranked second on Condé Nast Traveler’s list of best beaches in the world.
Equally renowned, resorts known for the warmth of their hospitality tempt guests off the sand and into gourmet restaurants, sumptuous spas, and rooms that take full advantage of the views. All-inclusive properties from brands like Bahia Principe—offering one option for families and one just for adults—and Viva Wyndham add their personal touches to beachfront relaxation.
Ensuring that peace of mind never wavers, stepped-up health and safety protocols now hallmark every stay. Part of Dominican Republic’s larger health initiative #ToRecoveryAndBeyond, increased sanitation measures have helped grant the island its Safe Travels seal, awarded by the World Travel and Tourism Council.
Taking its dedication to protecting travelers and their vacations even further, Dominican Republic is the only Caribbean nation offering complimentary COVID-19 antigen tests to all international travelers. Nor do your clients have to worry about a COVID test prior to arrival; breath tests are administered at El Catey International Airport at random instead.
Showing the same commitment to traveling safely as to convenience, direct service to El Catey has seen updates as well, with new flights beginning June 5 out of Charlotte via American Airlines each Wednesday and Saturday.
From safety measures that let you breathe easy to moments that make your heart race, the one thing travelers can count on when choosing Samana is that it really does have it all.
Give in to the pull of the Dominican Republic with Travel Impressions.
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