Samaná is a narrow peninsula in the northeastern corner of the D.R. Right in the heart of the Caribbean. It’s the country’s most serene section and truly is a natural treasure. The area is lush, wild, verdant, with remote and secluded beaches and coves, amazing bays, waterfalls, dramatic rolling hills and awe-inspiring views. For visitors, there really is a lot to explore. 

It is a real town rather than a resort strip of all inclusive resort hotels.

Samana is for independent and adventurous travelers. Since decades Europeans have come to the peninsula as tourists and stayed, setting up local businesses that give Samana its laid back and cosmopolitan vibe. Samaná offers a European style vibe as strong as an Italian espresso; it’s where escape is the operative word. French and Italian are as useful as the Spanish or English language.

Samaná Town is the whale watching center. Sleepy Las Galeras is the base for visiting famous Playa Rincón and Fronton beaches. Sophisticated Las Terrenas is the place for those who crave a lively social scene. It is the main hub and still retains a very easygoing and relaxed beach town feel, with lots of great shops, restaurants, and bars.

laid-back and more cosmopolitan, Las Terrenas offers a vibe as strong as espresso

Looking across bay at sunset, Las Galeras, Samana.

Las Terrenas is the authentic Caribbean as it used to be.  Living in Las Terrenas is not insular. It’s common one interacts with another and with the locals. It’s a very dynamic community. The whole town feels like a neighborhood in itself. It is a real town with local commuter traffic, on scooters, quads, pickups, and buses. It is a town rather than a resort strip of all inclusive resort hotels.