Tucked away on the northeastern tip of the Dominican Republic, the lush, verdant hills and pristine beaches of the Samaná Peninsula are gaining an international reputation as a paradise for nature lovers and eco-tourists.

Located 171 kilometres from Santo Domingo, travellers often visit Samaná in search of solitude and some of the most stunning beaches in the Dominican Republic. But beyond the famous beaches, the peninsula’s charming seaside towns and its rugged tropical landscape – a popular backdrop for feature films – make it a great destination for outdoor adventures.

Ready to pack your bags? Book a direct flight to El Catey, Samaná’s International Airport, and stay in one of the numerous hotels in town!

Stroll the Malecón in Samaná town

The splendid “Malecón”, a seaside promenade is the heart and pulse of the town of Santa Bárbara de Samaná. Relax on a shaded bench facing the bay and enjoy the cool ocean breeze on an evening stroll. Or take a boat to Cayo Levantado, a picturesque island that sits just five kilometres from the Samaná port on Avenida Marina. On the western edge of the boulevard, you’ll find rows of bright pastel-hued wooden houses, shops, and souvenir shacks. Read more.

Beach Day in the picturesque seaside town of Las Terrenas

Rise and shine. Today, you’ll visit some of the best beaches in Las Terrenas. The first beach stop is Playa Cosón, a five minute drive from the Viva Wyndham V Samaná and 25 kilometres from Samaná. Up for a scenic walk? Walk along Playa Cosón’s length to the eastern end, and you will end up at Punta Bonita, a stretch of sand jutting into the sea where it connects to your second stop, Playa Bonita. With its golden sand and rolling waves, Playa Bonita is a crescent-shaped beach as pretty as its name. Next, visit Playa Las Ballenas (beach of whales) in honour of the majestic humpbacks who come to Samaná each winter. Once you are rested, leave the beach and wander the local shops of Las Terrenas in search of hand-carved artifacts. Finally, enjoy sundowner cocktails at the famous Mosquito Art Bar, with its bohemian Caribbean vibe. Read more.

See prehistoric Petroglyphs in Los Haitises National Park

Spend the day exploring Los Haitises National Park, one of the crown jewels of the Dominican Republic’s national park system, 30 kilometres from Samaná by boat. Its unique landscape alone is worth a glimpse: a magnificent series of 30-metre rock formations jutting out the water. While there, kayak along the lush mangroves, hike the rainforest, or tour a series of caves known for having one of the highest numbers of petroglyphs and pictographs in the country. Read more.

Experience the best humpback whale watching in the world

Every winter, between January and March, approximately 2,500 humpback whales come to Samaná to give birth to their young and mate. It is estimated that about 85% of all humpbacks are born in Samaná, and it’s considered one of the best places in the world for whale watching. On the boat excursions, you can listen to the male humpback’s solitary courting song and witness incredible displays of flippering, tail lobbing and breaching. This is truly an excursion not to be missed. Read more.

Experience and explore the beauty and thrills on a 4-wheel tour

Today, the adventure begins 24 km from Samaná in the region of El Limón for a 4-wheel tour. Ride through rural roads, cross rivers and stops to see the view of the Peninsula towards Playa Morón. Don’t worry if you get hungry. At the half way point, the tour stops at a Dominican-style country house and organic farm for a tasting of fresh honey, coffee, chocolate and tropical fruits. The tour ends at Playa Morón but don’t forget to stop and taste the famous pan de coco on your way back.

Try the highest zipline in the country at El Valle

Samaná Ziplines, the longest zipline run in the country, is also its most adrenaline-pumping, towering over the lush hills of El Valle. The course allows you to glide in pairs, and flip upside down with speeds reaching up to 64 kilometres per hour. The beach is a short ride away when you’re ready to replenish your energy with a fresh seafood lunch. Read more.