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Virgin Voyages' guide to Samaná, Dominican Republic

Tucked away on the lush northeast coast of the dazzling Dominican Republic you’ll find Samaná, a Caribbean haven boasting jungle waterfalls, whale-ladened waters, pristine white sand beaches and rainforests boasting raucous wildlife.

SAMANÁ

A Sea of Natural Wonders & Beach Bliss

In a sea of glossy, resort-heavy island destinations, Samaná offers a refreshing take on what paradise should look like. Here you can easily stumble upon anything from palatial palm groves and enchanting inlets featuring white sand beaches to jungle-draped mountain tops and mystical lagoons.
While this beachy oasis offers a magical vibe to it all year round, every winter those vibes radiate on a different level when thousands of humpback whales migrate to the sapphire waters of Samaná to mate and give birth, making whale-watching season incredibly special.

In addition to being a favorite hotspot for whales, beachgoers and wanderlust-seekers alike hail Samaná for its legendary beaches and awe-inspiring wonders. Find yourself on the world famous sandy shores of Cayo Levantado or Playa Rincón sipping rum from a freshly cracked coconut. Horseback ride through the emerald jungle to Salto El Limón’s 130-foot waterfall. Explore the labyrinths of mangrove forests via kayak at Los Haitises National Park, head to Las Terrenas to window shop, indulge in some fresh seafood or have a drink while you take in the surrounding beauty.

Whether you’re chasing thrills, chasing waterfalls or chasing the waiter to order another mamajuana, from the moment you step onto the welcoming white sand you’ll feel right at home.
Shore Excursions

Samaná Superlatives

Sunset Sails, Crystalline Coves & Breathtaking Beaches.

Buggy Rincón – A Natural Adventure in Las Galeras

Embark on the unique opportunity to explore the lush countryside of the Las Galeras area via buggy. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and anybody looking for a true glimpse of Dominican culture, this buggy tour will take you down verdant rural trails with picturesque views before visiting a local family’s garden to learn about native Dominican flora like coffee and cacao – even making some of your own chocolate, before heading to Monte Azul for stunning views and a delicious lunch before returning.

Catamaran Sail, Snorkeling & Beach Escape

Embark on the Caribbean adventure of your dreams with this Catamaran adventure. You’ll start your day taking in the breathtaking coastal views from the comfort of your catamaran, stopping at Punta Lirio to taste freshly-grown tropical fruit and soak up the sun. Then you’ll snorkel at Cayo Farola, taking in the countless varieties of marine life and coral gardens that call these waters home. Next, you’ll relax on the white sands of Cayo Levantado before returning to your ship via a local tender.

Cave & Mangrove Exploration

Set out by boat across sparkling Samaná Bay to discover the untouched beauty of Los Haitises National Park. Glide through mangrove tunnels and past bird-packed cays before stepping ashore to uncover centuries-old caves. Inside, your guide reveals original Taíno petroglyphs — vivid traces of the island’s ancient story. A journey of nature, history, and hidden wonder.

More Shore Things for your wishlist...

We have even more in our curated catalog.

Hollywood lights aren’t as far away as you may think

Samaná's lush backdrop has been used for films including Jurassic Park!
Shore Excursions

Los Haitises & Playa Madame Excursion

Catamaran from the Santa Barbara de Samaná Harbor to Los Haitises to explore caves and bask at Playa Madame, a Pirate of the Caribbean filming site.

DISCOVER MORE SHORE THINGS

When the time comes to sail away don’t be surprised if Samaná lingers with you like salt water on sun-kissed skin. Whether you’re leaving with memories of whales breathing the bay water, the cool spray of El Limón’s cascading waters on your cheek, the feeling of the white sand beaches under your toes or a litany of adventures you’ll never forget, Samaná will imprint on your soul for a lifetime.

Spend the day weaving through mangrove trees at Los Haitises, exploring the streets of Las Terrenas, finding hidden coves you’ll come back to forever and immersing yourself in the laid-back vibes and verdant views of this Caribbean Oasis – because now when you think of the Dominican Republic you’re memories will go beyond the busy beaches of Punta Cana and to the whimsical wildlife and sprawling shores of Samaná.