Playa Rincon, Samana - Dominican Republic

Las Galeras, the once small fishing village has awakened. It was once untouched, with a natural beauty found only in the most remote spots. But, because it is close to the city of Samana, wealthy Dominicans made it their weekend paradise.

Since that time, Las Galeras has been set on the map mainly by abundance of beaches and the landscape that is majestic and simple, all at the same time. Las Galeras Beach is here, as well as the more famous Playa Rincon.

Rincon is a quiet beach, usually deserted, on a small bay - but with no hotels in site. And, no vendors, booths, signs, radios - all the paraphernalia that comes with a popular beach. Nearby, a fresh-water lagoon to rinse off in. Sweet.

You don't need a boat to get to Playa Rincon, Dominican Republic. You can get a taxi out of Las Terrenas or Samana to Las Galeras. Just before Las Galeras you'll see the turn-off to Playa Rincon. The road is pretty rugged from here, so plan accordingly (timewise).

Plan to eat at Playa Rincon as the fish and langosta are reportedly the best in the Dominican Republic. And, if time permits, take a tour down to beautiful Playa Bonita. It's romantic and peaceful.

Las Terrenas is busy; Las Galeras somewhat less, and Playa Rincon is sleepy. Enjoy.

Playa Rincon - Beach Index:

• Sand - medium grain.
• Facilities - few, some food huts.
• Shade - palms, trees.
• Sports - none.
• Notes - pretty deserted - enjoy!

When I visited this area earlier this year, I was so impressed, I've decided to invest in real estate here. A nice home right on the beach would suit me fine. OK, doesn't have to be year-round or when the hurricanes are moving in, but it would be paradise to get away from the rat race. And did I mention the cost of living here is cheap?

Cayo Levantado, Samana - Dominican Republic

Cayo Levantado is a small island in Samana Bay. Legend claims that bounty hunters came here long ago. Pirates of the Caribbean? Well, if they didn't find treasure, they did find paradise. And, due to the fact that this island is pristine, many other modern-day treasure seekers have Cayo Levantado on their radar. Construction is booming here. Hopefully the island will retain some of its ancient charm. Time will tell.

The sand here is white and powdery; the turquoise waters crystal clear - perfect for swimming and snorkeling. And, there is plenty to eat here. A few huts and facilities will have you trying all the local cuisine. Sun, beach, food, sand... paradise indeed.

Cayo Levantado is also called Bacardi Island because some of the palm trees look like the ones in the Bacardi ads. Remember that because of the popularity of paradise (Cayo Levantado), several hundred tourists venture here daily. And, cruise ships often use the island for a visit.

Cayo Levantado - Beach Index:

• Sand - white/coral based.
• Facilities - full service.
• Shade - umbrellas, huts and palms abound.
• Sports - full service.
• Notes - can get quite crowded at times. Plan on having company.
  

And now, on the southeast side of the island where the new hotel is going up there's an intimate beach curving around to a point, a few yards beyond which is a rocky islet. Between them, an outlet leads to a lagoon that has to be some kind of paradise. The natural untended lawn is almost like a golf course. A boatman will take you for a few pesos and pick you up later. Ask at Cayo, and... Enjoy!

Our thanks to Leonard Faber of the Dominican Republic for the above tip. If you have tips, please let us know and we'll update our pages promptly, and give you credit. And if you have a photo or video you would like to share, we'd love to be able to display it for all. Send those to the contacts you see at the left. Levantado is really a gem as you can see here. Spend time talking to the locals and take in the wonderful kiteboarding and surfing lifestyle afforded here.