17 Best Things To Do In Samana Peninsula in 2023
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The Samaná Peninsula in the Dominican Republic is known for its amazing natural scenery and a variety of outdoor attractions. Our family spent about four months here exploring this beautiful county. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Samana peninsula, search no further. Below is a sample of the things this awesome place has to offer.
- Whale Watching
- Beautiful Beaches
- Waterfalls
- Los Haitises National Park
- Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island)
- Eco-Tourism
- Zip lines & ATV adventures
- Delightful Little Towns
Why Visit Samana Peninsula?
In Samaná, Dominican Republic, we have found so much to love. Discover this captivating paradise offering the best land and water adventures waiting to be explored. Embark on a thrilling boat tour to Los Haitises National Park or witness the majestic humpback whale migrations during the winter months.
Dive deep into the heart of nature as you hike through the lush rainforest of El Limón, unveiling a gorgeous waterfall. Adventure seekers will find their haven with exhilarating activities like zip-lining and kiteboarding, while those seeking relaxation can bask on lovely beaches.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant local cultures, flavors, and influences by wandering through the charming towns of Samaná, Las Terrenas, and Las Galeras. Each one offers a unique taste of Dominican culture and cuisine, making the Samaná Penisula a must-visit destination for every traveler.
17 Best Things To Do In Samana Peninsula
1. Visit Cayo Levantado
Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardi Island, is a secluded islet off the coast of Samaná in the Dominican Republic. This tiny paradise features a 5-star hotel, white sand beaches, clear waters, and tropical vegetation. Visitors can relax on the beach, snorkel in the coral reefs, or dine at the island’s restaurants.
Fun Fact: Bacardi Island earned its nickname because the rum company often chooses its stunning beach as a location for filming commercials.
How To Get There
From Puerto Bahia Marina:
Samana Yacht Charters A privately owned & operated catamaran by a lovely US couple that we personally know. They can accommodate private groups as small as 2 up to 12 people.
La Esperanza Samana: WhatsApp +1-849-707-3800
From the government pier in downtown Samana:
There are many tour companies to choose from to book either a private or group tour and many are coupled with other activities mentioned in this blog. Start by checking out two locally owned companies: Moto Marina Tours and Tauro Tours as well as the German-owned and operated Samana Tours which has great reviews.
2. Zip Lines
Samana Zipline, El Valle
The Samana Treetop Zipline in El Valle is an exhilarating adventure that allows visitors to soar 400ft. above the lush tropical canopy of the Samana Peninsula. Nestled within the El Valle region, this zipline experience offers not only heart-pounding thrills but also stunning panoramic views of the surrounding natural beauty that the Dominican Republic has to offer.
With 12 well-maintained ziplines and 13 stations that crisscross the verdant landscape, participants will glide through the treetops, feeling the rush of the wind and the adrenaline of adventure. Open every day except Tuesdays from 8 am, last runs at 4 pm.
You will end the zip line tour in the refreshing waters of the Cascade Lulu waterfall, a much appreciated stop. This is a must-visit attraction for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
Runners Adventures, Samana
Runners Adventures is right out of downtown Samana, off the same road you’d take to get to the El Limon waterfall. The closest zip line to town, this is a fantastic option if you are looking for an exhilarating last-minute nearby excursion. This zip line boasts 10 lines and 20 platforms flying over the copious mountains in Juana Vicente.
It’s super easy to book online direct or you can book here! During high season they are open every day for morning zip line adventures starting at 8 am (including transport time). If you choose to arrive on your own, the first run typically begins at 9 am.
3. Whale Watching
Whale watching in Samaná is an exhilarating and awe-inspiring experience, attracting nature enthusiasts from around the world. Every year, from mid-January to late March, the warm waters off the Samaná Peninsula become a haven for humpback whales as they migrate to mate and give birth. You can embark on boat excursions to witness these magnificent creatures breaching and tail-slapping, providing an opportunity to observe their behaviors in their natural habitat.
4. Whale Museum & Nature Conservatory
Want to learn a bit more about the whales before you witness them? We highly recommend supporting this local business and learning a bit more about the whales.
Bring pesos for the small museum admission fee and if you’d like a memento there is a small local craft shop. Admission & gift shop purchases help support the conservation of whales and the natural resources of the Samaná region.
Best Beaches In Samana Peninsula
5. Playa Rincón:
- Unique Features: Playa Rincón is known for its wide crescent-shaped beach with fine white sand and clear green-blue waters. Most unique is the Rio Cano Frio (a cold underground spring-fed river) that joins the ocean here. It’s a nice refreshing freshwater swim. It’s a salty sweet pleasure!
- Accessibility: Playa Rincón is relatively accessible both by boat or car. If you drive there it’s about an hour’s drive from Samana. Roads are well maintained.
- Activities: This beach offers various water activities like swimming, snorkeling, and boat tours. It also has beachfront restaurants and amenities, making it suitable for a more comfortable beach experience.
- Crowd Level: Playa Rincón can get crowded during peak tourist seasons due to its popularity.
6. Playa El Valle:
- Unique Features: Playa El Valle is a secluded beach at the end of the road, characterized by its grand ruggedness. It’s surrounded by dense tropical forests and cliffs and there is a freshwater river at the far west end for swimming. Swimming in the ocean here can be dangerous and locals will usually tell you if it’s unsafe. Both times we went we were told not to swim and to use extreme caution. Thank goodness for that freshwater river. It’s so fun!
- Accessibility: Playa El Valle is a little less accessible than Playa Rincón, the road from Samana is paved most of the way but it does get a little rough. We made it in our car but you just need to go slow. Tip: Speed bumps aren’t painted!
- Activities: Visitors to Playa El Valle can enjoy hiking in the nearby forests and exploring caves and natural pools. It’s an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts and those looking for solitude. There are two places to eat, Claritza’s Restaurant on the east end and Valley Restaurant Bar & Grill towards the river.
- Crowd Level: Playa El Valle isn’t that crowded. We were there off-season on the weekend with maybe sixty people.
7. Playa Frontón:
- Unique Features: Playa Frontón is renowned for its dramatic rocky cliffs that provide excellent opportunities for cliff jumping. The beach itself is small and tucked between these cliffs.
- Accessibility: Playa Frontón is accessible by boat from Las Galeras or by car via a moderate hike along a scenic trail, which adds an adventurous element to the visit.
- Activities: The main attraction here is cliff diving, with various heights to choose from. Snorkeling is also popular due to the underwater caves and coral formations in the area.
- Crowd Level: Playa Frontón tends to be less crowded than Playa Rincón but can still attract visitors, especially those seeking adventure.
In summary, Playa Rincón offers a classic beach experience with amenities and activities, Playa El Valle is a remote and pristine natural retreat, and Playa Frontón is an adventurous destination known for its cliff diving opportunities. The choice between these beaches depends on your preferences for scenery, activity level, and crowds.
8. Visit Los Haitises National Park
Visiting Los Haitises National Park is like stepping into a prehistoric world (seriously no joke!) of grandeur. We spent a week here exploring mangroves, caves, and soaking in the raw beauty. Located on the southern shore of Samana Bay, this protected area is renowned for its dramatic karst limestone formations, lush mangrove forests, and diverse bird species.
Exploring the park on a boat tour takes you through a network of winding rivers and hidden caves adorned with ancient Taino petroglyphs, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history and indigenous culture.
As you glide through the emerald-green waters, you’ll encounter an array of wildlife, including frigatebirds, yellow village weavers (our personal favorites!), and manatees. Los Haitises offers a captivating adventure for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a truly unique and immersive ecological experience in the Caribbean. If you have extra time we recommend staying at the eco lodge for a couple of nights to more fully explore and enjoy all this place has to offer.
How To Get There
- As with most of the major tourist attractions in this area, there are many tours you can book. We recommend Moto Marina Tours, Tauro Tours, Booking Adventures, Samana Tours, and Samana Yacht Charters.
9. Swim At Paraiso Cano Hondo
Paraiso Cano Hondo Eco Lodge is yet another hidden gem nestled up a mangrove river on the edge of Los Haitises National Park. Guests are immersed in the serenity of the rainforest, with rustic and charming lodges perched along the cliffs overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Yanigua River.
The lodge is known for its cascading waterfalls and natural pools. Visitors can swim, relax, and rejuvenate in harmony with nature. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and a genuine eco-conscious experience. We highly recommend checking out tours to Los Haitises that include the Eco Lodge as part of the experience.
There is another property just down the way called Altos de Cono Hondo. You can book a room and get access to the amenities of the Paraiso Cono Honda.
10. Hike To El Limon Waterfall
Hiking to El Limón waterfall is a must-do adventure. We embarked on the hike with enthusiasm. The trail’s uneven and sometimes muddy terrain and occasional elevation changes sure made for an adventurous hike. Another alternative is to rent a caballo (horse). This is a popular choice among most visitors, allowing you to ride for the majority of the way.
Note: No matter how you get there, the last section of the hike is a long steep stairway with fairly well-maintained handrails. You’ll know you have reached this section as you pass the tourist shops that offer trinkets and snacks. Just take your time…it’s worth it.
We were delighted with the opportunity to collect ripe mangos along the trail and see bananas growing in the trees. The water flow at this waterfall exhibits significant fluctuations in intensity. During our visit in May, as depicted in the image above, the flow was relatively low; however, it remained a worthwhile experience.
In the peak winter season months, you can anticipate a powerful and breathtaking cascade of water. Be prepared for larger crowds during this time and consider embracing the opportunity to swim amidst fellow travelers – it truly rewards with a memorable experience!
How To Get There
By Car: If you have rented a car for your stay simply follow the directions to El Limon. Expect to pull off the side of the road at one of the marked signs. We parked at Parada La Palma restaurant.
It’s about 10 miles from the intersection of Samaná – El Limón Rd and RD5. There’s a 5-foot-high wall in front of it, along with a sign displaying a trail map. The coordinates for the parking are 19.26795′ N, 69.45660′ W.
If you come on your own you can expect:
- Parking fee: We negotiated parking only/no tour guide for 300 DOP (~$6 USD)
- Entrance Fee: As of May 2023: 100 DOP ($2 USD) per person (collected at the El Simon community shop before you take the flight of stairs down to the falls.
- OPTIONAL: Drinks/Snacks/Souvenirs: $5-$100
What To Bring
- Some cash (pesos only)
- Plenty of water
- Snacks or picnic
- Hat
- Towel
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen,
- Good walking/hiking shoes
- Trail map
Free Things To Do In Samana Peninsula
11. Samana Boardwalk
Cayo Vigia, a quirky little island, is linked to the mainland by a structure some affectionately refer to as “the bridge to nowhere.” This charming 1/2 mile stroll proved to be a pleasant evening activity for us with wonderful views of the town. As we explored further, a concrete path extended into the island’s far end with intriguing and strange structures that invite your imagination to run wild.
How To Get There
12. Duck Into A Local Colmado
You will be surprised by the number of little shops along the streets anywhere you drive in the Dominican Republic. One of our favorites is the many Colmados (convenience store) we have passed. Each one is unique and different. If you need a little snack don’t pass up the experience.
We have made it our goal to buy a little something from at least one Colmado for every town that we pass through. Support local!
13. Visit A Local Baseball Field
Baseball is BIG in the Dominican Republic. It is no wonder that over 10% of major league baseball players come from here. During weekday afternoons, you are likely to see kids practicing. When we visited, our children expressed a keen interest in playing. We embarked on a mission to locate the nearby fields. To our surprise, both fields were undergoing construction but we stopped anyway and let the kids play.
Are you a baseball enthusiast? Would you like to give back in some way as part of your travels to this beautiful country? If your answer is yes, consider exploring the local baseball fields to watch locals play. And check out the Island Family Baseball Foundation. Another amazing cause to donate to!
14. Samana Open Air Market
The Samana open-air market is a sight to see. The middle contains fruit, veggies, and spices, while the perimeter has pre-packaged goods, from oils to toilet paper. We found a few other street vendors we visit on a regular basis. We like them because they are smaller and less intimidating. The larger market is a definite must-do if you visit.
Brush up on your basic Spanish skills as most only speak Spanish. Many use a calculator so you can ask to look at that to confirm the cost. To give you an idea we spent about $10 on 2 pineapples, 4 each of mangos, beets, cucumbers, carrots, and bananas.
Don’t be shy in asking them if they have fresher items or to cut off wilted sections. We really enjoy and find consistency in buying carrots, cucumbers, avocados, peppers, tomatoes, cabbage, zucchini, and ginger root. For fruit, the pineapples and mangos are consistently good.
And if you need limes there is no shortage. You will see little white trucks stacked to the brim. I tend to stay away from leafy greens. They are difficult to wash and when you use vinegar water it makes them taste funny. I’ll keep looking for a solution here because we really miss leafy greens.
How To Get There
You can easily either walk to the market from the Samana government dock or you can hop on a motoconcho. It won’t take you long to find one. As a matter of fact, be ready for many people to approach you.
Have small bills so you can tip and engage as much or as little as you’d like. Some are persistent, but we just nod, smile, and say, “No gracias” and they usually back off. We personally like walking. We are able to see so much more and to get off the beaten path a bit.
15. Fresh Empanadas At D’Jariel’s
On Google Maps, this place is labeled as Mi Cafeteria, but when you arrive in person, you’ll find it’s called D’Jariel, and one hard-working lady owns it. We stumbled upon this place when we were running errands before a visit to the national park.
We ordered a couple of empanadas, and they were so delicious because they cooked them fresh to order. Many other vendors will not be as fresh so we highly recommend getting by for at least one. And if you’d like a little something sweet get yourself a crepe with Nutella while you’re at it!
16. Discover Local Coffee And Cacao
Coffee and cacao are abundant in this region. Take a local tour to experience the coffee and cacao-making process.
- El Limon Parada La Familia: This family-run farm shows you the process of making cacao. Sample cacao pods and help make a batch of cacao nibs and raw chocolate.
- Las Terrenas: Private Coffee Trail ATV Tour: Offered by KiteWorld will take you on an adventurous journey through coffee and cocoa fields.
17. Support The Local Orphanage
Advocates of Love is a non-profit organization that is helping kids in Samana to get their basic needs met. Consider donating your skills, goods, or money while you are in the area.
Getting Around Samana Peninsula
Motoconcho
You can catch a motoconcho pretty much anywhere within each of the towns within the Penisula, but not between towns. It’s a fun way to catch a ride to/from the store especially if you have a few bags of groceries. You can expect to pay a few dollars per ride.
It’s a hilly place so these are best for short rides downtown if you’d rather not walk. Motorbikes are plentiful. Personally, we don’t consider them a safe mode of transportation and would opt not to use them.
Taxi
There are many taxi services to get you from point A to point B around the Samana peninsula. If you are looking for a last-minute taxi downtown I’m sure you can easily hail one down. If you need to book in advance check out these top-rated companies:
Bus
Caribe Tours is an excellent option for cost-effective travel. We have used it three times between Santo Domingo Las Americas airport and Samana. To purchase a ticket, you must visit the Caribe Tours office.
Go to the site to check out the schedule. Show up at least 15 minutes before departure time to buy a ticket and hop on! Below is an image with a sample schedule from Santo Domingo Las Americas to Samana.
Sometimes the destination dropdown will not load. If this happens click a different origin and see if that loads destinations. And note: If you are looking for airport transfer from Santo Domingo Airport select the Santo Domingo Las Americas location.
You will still have to take a taxi from the Airport to the Caribe Tours bus station, 500 to 700 pesos. It’s a short 5-10 minute taxi ride and I recommend catching one from the departures.
Car Rental
Car rentals are not as cheap as you might expect ($15-$45/day) and driving is downright stressful; however, we preferred to rent a car due to our extended stay here. That way we didn’t have to rely on someone else to get us around. You can definitely get away without a rental car here it’s all personal preference.
If you choose to rent a car we highly recommend Samana Econo Car Rental – WhatsApp Alex (849-357-5867) and tell him Debbie & Jade sent you! He also opened a new fast-food restaurant across the street in 2023 called Delicias Express (WhatsApp 809-501-7958 has the menu), check it out!
Is Samaná Safe?
Yes, in general Samana is a safe and welcoming place to visit. You might feel a bit intimidated at first if you haven’t traveled to a busy bustling developing Latin American country before. It’s noisy from all the motorcycles and chaotic as no one really follows the rules of the road. So be alert when crossing streets and if you drive.
If it’s low season, you will likely stand out like a sore thumb, and people will notice you and hail you down almost immediately, especially if you are down at the waterfront. We didn’t like this at first but are growing used to it. We just smile and say Hola! and “No, Gracias” A LOT. We also have Google Translate on the ready should we need to speak with a local or just understand what they are asking us.
I personally would use a little extra caution at night and stay on the main roads, but I would do that almost anywhere. In general, people here are lovely and willing to help.
Hotels In Samana
Bahia Principe Grand Cayacoa: An all-inclusive high-end resort right in the heart of Samana Bay near the Samana Boardwalk. You will pass the Whale Museum on your way to this hotel!
Samana Tropical Jungle Village – Tree House Hotel: After passing the Hotel Bannister entrance while leaving town, make the next right turn. Although not visible from the road, you will notice a small school on your left, keep going and the location you’re looking for is just a short distance down that road. If you are looking to sleep in the jungle this is the place. Bring your bug spray!
Hotel Bannister: Onsite, you’ll find two pools, two restaurants, a small mini-market, and a gym. The staff is so friendly and the views are exceptional. Added bonus: If you stay over on a Friday they do outdoor movie nights that are perfect for kids while adults enjoy some free time. They offer complimentary popcorn and a fire pit to roast marshmallows.
Dominican Tree House Village: This hotel is about twenty minutes out of Samana on the road to El Valle. For a secluded jungle experience, you can’t beat this place, and you will be just a short bike ride from Playa El Valle.
Restaurants In Samana
Downtown Samana
D’Jose Pollo Al Carbón: A genuine community eatery frequented by the locals for their daily meals. This was the first place we ate, and it not only met all expectations but also proved to be exceptionally budget-friendly for a family of four. You can expect a large plate of barbecue chicken, rice, or plantains and beans. We paid $12 (~650 pesos) for our family.
Santa Bahia Kitchen & Bar: Toward the upscale side of the spectrum, you’ll find this relatively new, contemporary full-service restaurant and bar. It also features a small take-out deli for those craving a snack, dessert, or a special bottle of bubbly to enjoy in the comfort of your hotel room. The service is outstanding, and we loved the decor and ambiance.
Mi Cafeteria – D’Jariel Empanadas: Fresh made to order empanadas, need I say more. My favorite was the chicken empanada.
Los Hermanos Pizza Pasta: We asked a local for a recommendation on the best pizza in town. We concur it was pretty darn good.
La Rumba de Samana: Try the Monfongo here. It is a popular and unique dish originally from Puerto Rico. It consists of mashed plantains, meats, and spices shaped into a bowl.
It’s been fun to see how people prepare and serve this dish in various ways.
Pollo 999: This place is what we would call the local fast food joint in town. They serve fried chicken, chicken strips, plantains, and fries. Located right across the street from the Samana Open Air Market.
Other Helpful Tips For Traveling to the Samana Peninsula
- Get yourself plenty of cash (DOP): You will need cash for local transportation, small local eateries, street vendors, and for tipping locals. Minimize foreign ATM fees with a fee-free or reimbursing card to avoid high charges when withdrawing cash abroad. We learned the hard way and racked up a bunch of fees. We have since opened a new account with Charles Schwab specifically for withdrawing cash abroad. They seem to have the widest range network with fee reimbursement at the end of each month.
- Get a local phone SIM or an ESIM: Communication is key for getting around these days. You can contact most businesses via WhatsApp, so make sure to download that app on your phone. Claro and Altice are the two local phone companies. You can get a SIM card right in the Los Americas airport. If you just want a data plan try an ESIM by Airalo, it could be a lifesaver!
- Brush up on your basic Spanish: You will inevitably need to communicate with locals if you spend any time here. We recommend LingQ, Babbel, and Duolingo to learn some basic Spanish. We also highly recommend downloading a translation app before you leave. Google Translate has been a lifesaver for us.
Conclusion: 17 Amazing Things To Do In Samana Peninsula
Overall, the Samaná Peninsula is renowned for its natural wonders. A prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts to savor the Dominican Republic’s stunning landscapes and marine life. We are thrilled to call Samana our home this year. We will continually update this post as we continue to learn about the natural wonders of this gorgeous place.