Things To Do
in Samaná
Samaná is a lush peninsula on the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic, famed for its pristine beaches and dramatic coastlines. Its green hills, sheltered coves, and turquoise waters attract nature lovers and sun-seekers alike. Whale watching in Samana Bay during peak season adds a dramatic seasonal highlight.
The region blends fishing-town charm with laid-back beach life and a welcoming, close-knit vibe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at El Catey International Airport and take in the stunning views of the native landscape on the drive to your accommodation. Settle into your beachfront hotel and enjoy a refreshing welcome drink. Spend the morning relaxing by the pool or strolling along the pristine beach.
After lunch, explore the local area by visiting Samaná town, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, sampling traditional Dominican cuisine in one of the charming local restaurants. Don’t forget to try a fresh coconut water as you wander through the streets.
As the sun sets, head back to your hotel for an exquisite beachfront dinner. Experience the local nightlife by visiting a nearby bar that features live music, enjoying the lively ambiance. Wind down with a nightcap, soaking in the tropical sounds of the island.
Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you embark on a whale watching tour in the Samaná Bay, which hosts the majestic humpback whales from January to March. Enjoy breakfast on your boat while you search for these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Keep your camera ready to capture the thrilling moments of breaching and tail slapping.
After your whale watching excursion, enjoy a satisfying lunch at a beachside restaurant and swap stories with fellow travelers about your thrilling encounters. In the afternoon, take time to relax on the beach or engage in water sports like snorkeling or kayaking in the calm, turquoise waters. Feel the warmth of the sun as you soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Return to land and unwind at your hotel before heading out for dinner. Opt for a traditional Dominican buffet where you can sample an array of local dishes. End the day by enjoying a quiet evening walk under the stars, reflecting on the breathtaking sights of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🚕Taxi or short ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🍺Local beer or drink at bar | $2-4 |
| 🚤Boat tour or day trip | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and pristine beaches
- Warm, welcoming local communities
- Strong wildlife and outdoor activity opportunities
- Seasonal hurricane risk and variable weather
- Limited infrastructure in remote areas
- Smaller scale of services outside tourism hubs
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Hola, buenos días" - Hello, good day
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers!
Places to Visit in Samaná
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic waterfall reached via a forest trail; lush greenery and a natural pool for refreshing photos.
Idyllic white-sand beach with turquoise water ideal for iconic Caribbean beach photography.
Dramatic limestone formations, mangrove channels, and cave interiors perfect for wide-angle and nature shots.
Remote, powdery beach with clear water and dramatic shorelines; spectacular sunrise and sunset opportunities.
Palm silhouettes, boats, and warm skies over calm Caribbean water.
Food in Samaná
Samaná Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Plantain mofongo stuffed or topped with mixed seafood, garlic sauce, and lime.
Must-Try!
Rice, beans, and fried plantains with your choice of meat; a staple meal found in most eateries.
Hearty root-vegetable and meat stew reflecting the rural kitchen of the region.
Coconut-infused rice served with grilled fish—classic coastal comfort.
Fresh whole fish fried and served with tostones or rice; a beach shack favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market with fruit stands, produce, and everyday snacks; great for sampling fresh fruit and local bites.
Bustling market with fruit stalls, crafts, and seafood vendors; a good place to try street snacks.
On-the-go options like arepas, tostones, empanadas, and fresh coconut water along the coast.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with ‘Buenos días’ or ‘Buenas tardes’; a friendly handshake is common in everyday encounters.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in small communities or families.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural areas; swim attire is reserved for beaches and pools.
Safety
Tipping in Samaná
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurant tips of 10–15% are appreciated if not included. Small tips for guides and drivers are common and well-received.
Cash (DOP and USD) is widely accepted; credit cards common in tourist areas; ATMs are readily available in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with tropical sea breezes; brief daily showers common; great sea conditions for swimming and snorkeling, but expect crowds on peak weekends.
Rainier months with tropical downpours and higher humidity; plan flexible outdoor activities and monitor weather alerts for tropical storms.
Pleasant and drier air; ideal for outdoor exploration; whale-watching season (Jan–Mar) brings additional boat trips and tours.
Warm days with clearer skies; shoulder season with fewer crowds and good sea conditions for water activities.
Samaná at Night
Hiking in Samaná
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trail leading to a scenic waterfall and natural pool; suitable for a short hike.
Mangrove and coastal trails accessed by boat; combines hiking with boat excursions.
Coastal viewpoints offering panoramic Caribbean vistas and photographic opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Samaná by plane.
A regional airport serving Samaná; convenient access to Santa Bárbara de Samaná and Las Terrenas by road.
Major international gateway near Santo Domingo; roughly 2.5–3.5 hours by car to Samaná.
Large airport serving the northern region; drive to Samaná typically 4–5 hours.
Puerto Plata area airport; usable for some itineraries with longer transfers to Samaná.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly mixed Afro-Caribbean heritage with strong family and coastal community ties.
Growing communities of Europeans and North Americans in Las Terrenas and nearby areas.
Visitors drawn to beaches, nature parks, and whale-watching excursions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A national passion; local games and street play are common in towns and villages.
Widely played in schools and on public fields; informal matches are common in communities.
Traditional coastal activity; many locals participate in inshore and deep-sea fishing.
Swimming, snorkeling, and occasional windsurfing/kitesurfing on windy beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Samaná.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Samaná, vegetarian options include rice and beans, plantain dishes, salads, tropical fruits, and veggie-friendly preparations. Ask for veggie versions of seafood dishes and avoid heavy sauces.
Many dishes are naturally gluten-free (rice, beans, plantains). Opt for grilled fish or chicken with vegetables; verify sauces and marinades.