10 Best Hotels in Samana, Dominican Republic to Stay
Looking for the ultimate tropical paradise?
Why not head to Samaná in the Dominican Republic?
On this list, you’ll find the 10 best hotels in Samana for your perfect relaxing getaway.
From luxury seaside resorts to hidden island gems, and from unique bungalows to relaxing SPA hotels, I’m sure you’ll find your ideal spot for a revitalizing and fun vacation.
Ready to find out where to stay in Samana?
Let’s dive right in!
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Where to Stay in Samana, Dominican Republic
Before I tell you all about the best hotels in Samana, Dominican Republic, let me share with you the best places to stay on the peninsula.
We’ll start with the main city, Santa Bárbara de Samaná. Samana for short overlooks Samaná Bay. The spectacular Bridge to Nowhere connects it with the islets in the bay.
Stay in Sant Barbara de Samana if you want to explore the lively old town and watch humpback whales, which is one of the best things to do in Samana. But unless you come in the right season – between January and March – my advice is to head to other parts of the peninsula.
I personally enjoyed the beach towns of Las Terrenas and Las Galeras a lot more. Both are surrounded by some of the best beaches in Samana. They offer a laid-back, relaxing atmosphere and an excellent culinary scene.
If you want to spend your vacation chilling, surfing, or beach hopping between Playa Bonita, Playa Las Ballenas, and Playa Punta Popy, choose to stay in the vibrant Las Terrenas. From there, you can easily explore the best-known attraction of Samana – Cascada El Limón. The most famous waterfall in the Caribbean is less than an hour away from town.
For the privacy of the secluded Playa Rincon and Playa Fronton, pick an accommodation in the more relaxed Las Galeras.
Last but not least, you can also stay on the famous Cayo Levantado. A Bacardi rum advertisement in the 1970s made the tiny island popular. Choose to stay there if you want to relax on a postcard-perfect stretch of sand. However, keep in mind that the island is small and apart from sunbathing and snorkeling, there isn’t much to do outside the resort.
✔️ Tip: If you want to visit Cayo Levantado on a day trip, you can still do it from almost anywhere in the Dominican Republic.
10 Best Hotels in Samana for Your Unforgettable Vacation
Now that you know which places offer the best experience on the peninsula, let’s get into the important stuff.
Here are my recommendations for the best hotels in Samana, Dominican Republic.
1. Cayo Levantado Resort, Samana
Cayo Levantado Resort is the ultimate tropical luxe and extravaganza island retreat. It’s the first wellness all-inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic.
The world-famous “Bacardi Island” is a postcard-perfect spot to relax and forget about everyday stress. The only resort on the island will seduce you with five gourmet restaurants, five bars, and a specialty coffee shop. Two swimming pools, a private beach, a top-notch spa center, and a personal training studio will make your vacation unforgettable.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the treatments at the wellness center. They’re carefully designed to help you best revitalize your body, mind, and spirit.
Apart from enjoying the amenities of your posh resort, you can also snorkel the pristine waters at the private beach or watch the magnificent humpback whales (the season is from January to March).
2. Chalet Tropical Hotel & Restaurant, Las Galeras
Chalet Tropical in Las Galeras is a funky collection of unique bungalows. Don’t let the rustic look of this awesome accommodation fool you, though. One of the best hotels in Samana offers both budget-friendly, shared rooms and luxurious houses that you can rent by yourself.
Some even come with stone jacuzzi pools!
All chalets are of different sizes and decors. On top of the funky, unique design of the bungalows, the fabulous tropical garden with relaxing hammocks will steal your heart.
And if that’s not enough to make you book a room at Chalet Tropical, how about I tell you about their fantastic breakfast? It consists of fresh fruits and juices, fragrant pastries, and freshly brewed coffee, served directly on the terrace of your chalet.
3. Hotel Villa Serena, Las Galeras
The beachfront Hotel Villa Serena in Las Galeras attracts with its lush gardens and fine dining restaurant.
Relax by the outdoor pool or on your room’s balcony. The balconies are equipped with a hammock, a chaise lounge, or a rocking chair. All rooms at Hotel Villa Serena come with fantastic sea views and tropical-style décor. The deluxe rooms also feature a hot tub.
From one of the best hotels in Samana, you can easily explore the surrounding area. The accommodation provides free kayaks, bicycles, and snorkeling equipment.
If you have your own wheels – which I strongly recommend – explore some of the best secluded Dominican Republic beaches from Las Galeras. Playa Fronton and Playa Rincon are both worth the drive.
4. Albachiara Hotel, Las Terrenas
Albachiara Hotel offers cozy elegant suites right next to the beach in Las Terrenas.
The 4* gem seduces with a private beach area and an outdoor swimming pool. The posh apartments are equipped with kitchen facilities, so you can take care of all your cravings. My advice is to stock on fresh tropical fruit and replace all other snacks with a healthy portion of vitamins.
From one of the top hotels in Samana, you can easily explore the gorgeous Las Terrenas and its secluded beaches. Check out Playa Punta Popy east of town and the small Punta Bonita to the west of Las Terrenas. The latter is a perfect cove worthy of the title “tropical paradise”.
Back at your accommodation, you can relax on your balcony with the view of the sea or hang out in the gorgeous garden or by the pool. Don’t miss the hotel’s massage services that will make you relax even further.
5. Aligio Aparthotel & Spa, Las Terrenas
Aligio Aparthotel & Spa is steps away from the gorgeous Playa Las Terrenas and Playa Punta Popy. One of the top hotels in Samana also offers two swimming pools, an onsite restaurant, a cozy bar, and a spa and wellness center.
The modern apartments feature fully-equipped kitchens, while the hotel’s spa and wellness center seduces with top-notch relaxing treatments and beauty procedures.
The area of the hotel is popular for horse riding and snorkeling. You can also enjoy various sports activities in the surroundings, including windsurfing, diving, and cycling.
The center of Las Terrenas is only a few minutes walk away and the famous Cascada El Limón is about a 20-minute drive from your lodging.
6. Hacienda Samana Bay Hotel, Santa Barbara de Samana
Hacienda Samana Bay Hotel is a luxury oasis on the outskirts of the main town of Samana, overlooking the bay.
One of the top hotels in Samana offers an outdoor swimming pool, a well-equipped fitness center, and a relaxing garden. You can enjoy the fantastic views of Samana Bay not only from the terrace and the onsite restaurant but also while exercising in the gym or chilling in the pools.
The location of Hacienda Samana Bay Hotel is unbeatable, too. It’s close to the port where you can take a romantic boat tour to the stunning Cayo Levantado. The best bars and restaurants in town are also within short walking distance.
Other important hotel services include an airport shuttle and facilities for disabled guests. Some rooms come equipped with a kitchenette so you can enjoy a healthy snack between meals.
7. 21 Palms Bed & Breakfast, Las Galeras
21 Palms Bed & Breakfast is the most budget-friendly of the best hotels in Samana, Dominican Republic on this list. You’ll find it in Las Galeras, a small fishing village still untouched by mass tourism. The cozy bed and breakfast establishment will enchant you with its unique rustic design.
Flowers adorn the property, which sits in a quiet area just a few feet from one of the most beautiful beaches in Las Galeras. The B&B consists of four 2-floor bungalows and a bar surrounded by coconut palms.
The rooms at 21 Palms B&B are clean and comfortable, and have access to a terrace with ocean views.
The eco path Ruta Ecoturistica Samana is right outside the door. If you follow it, it will take you to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic. Don’t miss to explore Playa Madama, Playa Fronton, and Playa la Caleta when you stay at 21 Palms B&B.
✔️ Tip: One of my favorite Dominican Republic facts is that the country is a leader in environmental and sustainable tourism.
8. Mahona Boutique Hotel, Las Terrenas
Mahona Boutique Hotel is another funky establishment with unique decor and fantastic sea views.
Located in Las Terrenas, one of the top Samana hotels is just 2 minutes from the stunning Playa Punta Popy. Other attractions near Mahona Boutique Hotel include Las Ballenas Beach, Playa El Portillo, and Pueblo de los Pescadores.
Mahona Boutique Hotel is perfect for a romantic getaway. The interior, the garden, the dining space, the birds, and the huge plants will make you fall in love with the place.
The charming boutique hotel has a lovely outdoor swimming pool, a lush tropical garden, and a terrace with fantastic views making it a true oasis of tranquility. Relax at the hotel’s bar or explore the culinary scene of Las Terrenas. The town is a gastronomic heaven.
Don’t forget to book a rejuvenating treatment at the hotel’s spa and wellness center as well.
9. Hacienda Terra Taina, Las Terrenas
Hacienda Terra Taina is a superb adults-only establishment for the perfect romantic getaway. Located in the lush hills overlooking Las Terrenas, one of the best Samana hotels features a fantastic pool and a calming garden.
At Hacienda Terra Taina, you can rent a bike and explore the area while getting in shape. The hotel staff will even prepare a lunch box for you so you don’t have to worry about your calorie intake.
Back at the hotel, a charming patio with an outdoor dining area invites you to enjoy a drink at the end of a day full of exploration.
The hotel’s location provides privacy and tranquility away from the party scene and the city noise. This makes it ideal for a chill vacation with your loved one.
10. Sublime Samana, Las Terrenas
Sublime Samana is another amazing resort in the gorgeous Las Terrenas, known for its unparalleled culinary scene.
The modern, elegant establishment deserves to be among the best hotels in Samana for its modern design and amenities, great beachfront location, and sports facilities. Sublime Samana features two outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, a tennis court, and a spa and wellness center.
The bright, elegant rooms are equipped with a kitchenette and a dining area. Two onsite restaurants invite you to try the delectable Mediterranean and Caribbean creations of their chefs while the bartenders at the bar await to seduce you with their cocktail-making skills.
The refined Sublime Samana Hotel is the perfect getaway for a romantic celebration or a relaxed holiday near the beach.
FAQs About the Best Hotels in Samana, Dominican Republic
Is Samana nicer than Punta Cana?
Samana and Punta Cana offer different experiences. Punta Cana is famous for its large all-inclusive resorts, vibrant nightlife, and long stretches of white sandy beaches. It’s a bustling and tourist-centric destination, ideal if you’re seeking convenience and lively entertainment.
On the other hand, Samana is known for its natural beauty, with lush mountains, hidden coves, and secluded beaches. It’s less crowded and offers unique attractions such as whale watching in Samana Bay and visiting Cascada El Limón, the most famous waterfall in the Caribbean. If you prefer a tranquil, nature-focused vacation, Samana is your place.
✔️ Tip: You can also visit Samana and its highlights on a day trip. It’s one of the top Punta Cana excursions that I recommend.
What is better, Samana or Puerto Plata?
Choosing between Samana and Puerto Plata depends on your preferences. Samana is perfect for nature lovers with its breathtaking landscapes, remote beaches, and opportunities for eco-tourism. Some of the best hotels in Samana also feature unique Caribbean charm that you can’t find anywhere else.
Puerto Plata offers a mix of stunning beaches, historical sites like the Fort of San Felipe, and the lively Malecon area with its restaurants and nightlife. Puerto Plata also has access to adventure activities like the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua and surfing at Cabarete. If you want a blend of cultural experiences, beach relaxation, and adventure, visit Puerto Plata.
Where are the best beaches in Samana?
Samana is home to some of the best Dominican Republic beaches. Near Las Galeras, you’ll find Playa Fronton and Playa Rincon. Next to Las Terrenas, you can explore Playa Punta Popy, Punta Bonita, and Playa Las Ballenas. Don’t miss to hop on a boat to visit Cayo Levantado, aka Bacardi Island as well.
Should I rent a car in Samana?
If you’re wondering how to get around in Samana, I advise you to rent a car. This way, you can explore at your own pace. The peninsula is full of staggering, remote spots that are best reached by car. Public transportation is limited, and taxis can get expensive for long distances. Use my best Dominican Republic travel tips to learn more about road-tripping in the country.
Now You Know Where to Stay in Samana, Dominican Republic
And there you have it – the 10 best hotels in Samana, Dominican Republic.
Whether you’re looking for tranquility, gourmet experiences, or exploring secluded beaches, I’m sure you’ll discover the perfect spot for yourself and your loved ones.
Now, tell me:
Which of the best hotels in Samana will you book first?
Share in the comments below!
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