Itineraries — Samaná Peninsula

Samaná is the Dominican Republic's nature and authenticity gem — the region not to miss for those wanting to leave all-inclusive resorts and experience a deeper Caribbean. This 60 km long and 12-15 km wide peninsula, set in the country's north-east, concentrates some of the Caribbean's most spectacular natural landscapes and offers three major experiences that alone justify the detour: humpback whales (mid-January to mid-March, one of the world's best observations), Rincón beach (regularly ranked among the world's 10 most beautiful by Condé Nast Traveler), and preserved authenticity contrasting radically with Punta Cana.

The peninsula is organised around three complementary hubs. Samaná Town (Santa Bárbara de Samaná, 60,000 inhabitants) is the southern bay gateway — active fishing port, colourful fish market, base for whale and Cayo Levantado excursions. It's the peninsula's most authentic town but not very charming itself. Las Terrenas (north coast, 25,000 inhabitants) is the main tourist hub — European expat village since the 1990s (French, Italian, Spanish), international gourmet restaurants, Playa Bonita and Playa Coson beaches nearby, sophisticated international atmosphere. Our priority recommendation for a first Samaná stay. Las Galeras (eastern tip, former preserved fishing village) is the most authentic and exclusive option — gateway to Rincón beach and more secluded beaches (Playa Madama, Playa Frontón).

The tourist offering is more modest and diverse than Punta Cana — charm eco-lodges (€60-130/night), Las Terrenas boutique hotels (€90-180), rarer resorts (Bahia Principe Cayacoa near Samaná Town, Bannister Hotel at Las Terrenas, at €130-250/night). The pitch is not industrial all-inclusive but bespoke experience — local and international restaurants, guided excursions, deserted beaches, immersion in Dominican culture.