Cayo Levantado

A small island paradise just offshore from Samaná Town featuring pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Day trips are easily arranged from the mainland with restaurants and water sports available.

Things to do

• Snorkeling at Coral Gardens — Explore vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish in shallow, clear waters just offshore from the main beach.
• Playa El Paso Beach — A stunning crescent of powdery white sand on the island's eastern side, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
• Paddleboarding Around the Island — Rent a stand-up paddleboard and explore the crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounding Cayo Levantado at your own pace.
• Beach Restaurant Dining — Enjoy fresh seafood and Dominican cuisine at beachfront restaurants operated by local vendors directly on the sand.
• Sunset Viewing from the Pier — Watch the Caribbean sun dip below the horizon from the main dock area, a quintessential island experience.
• Kayaking to Neighboring Cays — Paddle to nearby smaller islands and mangrove areas to spot local wildlife and enjoy secluded swimming spots.
• Marine Life Observation — Look for tropical fish, sea turtles, and occasionally rays in the shallow waters near the beach.

Food to try

• Conch Salad (Ensalada de Caracol) — Fresh conch mixed with lime juice, onions, and cilantro, a signature Caribbean dish available at beachfront vendors.
• Grilled Red Snapper — Whole fresh snapper caught locally and grilled with garlic, lemon, and olive oil, typically served with plantains and yuca.
• Seafood Paella — A Dominican-Caribbean version featuring local shrimp, fish, and mussels mixed with saffron rice and vegetables.
• Johnny Cakes with Fresh Fish — Fried cornmeal patties served alongside grilled or fried local fish, a traditional island staple.
• Coconut Rice and Beans — Rice cooked in coconut milk with kidney beans, a staple side dish that pairs with most seafood meals on the island.

Local customs & good to know

• Arrive Early for Best Conditions — Visit Cayo Levantado in the morning to secure the best beach spots, avoid crowds, and enjoy the calmest water for snorkeling.
• Respect Marine Life and Reefs — Do not touch coral, step on seagrass, or disturb marine animals; the island's ecosystem depends on visitor responsibility.
• Bring Cash for Vendors — Many beach restaurants and water sports operators on the island operate on cash-only basis, so withdraw Dominican pesos before arriving.
• Sun Protection is Essential — The Caribbean sun is intense; apply reef-safe sunscreen generously and frequently, and wear a hat or rash guard while in the water.

Nearby

• Las Galeras — 1 km
• Playa Madama — 3 km
• Samaná Peninsula — 7 km
• Samaná Town — 9 km