Hidden Paradise: Discover the Best of Las Terrenas in 5 Days

Getting to Las Terrenas: Reaching Las Terrenas, Samaná is easier than you might think—especially for Canadian travelers who benefit from direct flights to Samaná El Catey International Airport (AZS). Both Air Canada and Air Transat offer nonstop service from Toronto (YYZ), Montreal (YUL), and Quebec City (YQB).

If a direct flight isn’t available, no worries—there are plenty of alternatives. Major Dominican airports like Santo Domingo (SDQ), Santiago (STI), and Punta Cana (PUJ) are well-connected to US and European cities. From there, you can reach Samaná by rental car, private transfer, or a domestic flight.

Check-in & beach walk: Once you’ve checked into your hotel, stretch your legs with a relaxed walk along Playa Las Ballenas or Playa Punta Popy. These golden beaches are perfect for soaking in your first impressions of this laid-back coastal town.

Dinner with a view: Ease into the evening with a scenic dinner. Choose El Lugar or El Dieciocho for excellent Latin American cuisine in a stylish setting. For something more casual with strong local vibes, El Mosquito Art Bar offers a fun atmosphere and great food just steps from the beach.

Tip: Feeling stiff after travel? Book a beachside massage to kick off your trip in full relaxation mode. Let the sound of waves and ocean breeze melt the stress away—your hotel can arrange one for you.

Beach-hopping: Start your day at Mosquito Beach Club on Playa Bonita, known for its excellent food and mellow, beachy party vibe. It’s one of the hippest spots in town, perfect for lounging or people-watching. Playa Bonita also has a gentle surf break—ideal for renting a board or taking a surf lesson.

Next, make your way to Playa Cosón, a wide, scenic stretch of golden sand lined with swaying palm trees. Restaurant Luis is a rustic gem tucked along the beach. It’s worth the long walk or bumpy taxi ride for the fresh grilled seafood, rum cocktails served in pineapples, and laid-back, toes-in-the-sand ambiance.

Closer to town, Playa Las Ballenas offers the calmest water, great for swimming and relaxing. You’ll find several low-key beach clubs here where you can unwind with a drink or light bite.

Evening: As the sun sets, head to Pueblo de los Pescadores, the lively waterfront strip lined with colorful restaurants and bars. Enjoy dinner at La Terrasse, which offers a delicious fusion of Mediterranean and Caribbean flavors in a relaxed yet stylish setting.

Tip: Whatever you do, don’t skip the hidden row of tiny restaurants between the cemetery and the beach (yes, that’s the official Google Maps location!). Top picks include Zu Ceviche for fresh seafood, Sunset Bar for a buzzy local vibe, and Candelita for a more romantic, candlelit experience.

Morning excursion to El Limón Waterfall: Just a half hour from Las Terrenas lies the trailhead to the stunning 52-meter-high El Limón Waterfall. There are two ways to reach the falls: on horseback (about 15–20 minutes) or by hiking (30–45 minutes), depending on your fitness level. The trail winds through lush jungle and small rivers, leading to a secluded cascade that drops into a crystal-clear natural pool—perfect for a refreshing swim. Don’t forget your swimsuit and water shoes!

Lunch: Stop for lunch at a local favorite like Santi Ranch, a charming family-run spot known for its welcoming atmosphere and authentic Dominican cuisine.

Afternoon: Head back to Las Terrenas for some downtime—relax at your hotel’s pool or soak up the sun at Playa Bonita or Playa Las Ballenas.

Dinner: Enjoy dinner at El Lugar, a chic restaurant with modern ambiance and dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients.

Evening tip: If you’re up for it, grab a nightcap at Etno Beach Club, which often transforms into an open-air dance party on the sand. Or head to El Mosquito Art Bar—a multi-level venue with rooftop views, live music, and great cocktails.

Choose your adventure

Option 1: Catamaran escape to hidden beaches: Set off on a half-day catamaran trip from your hotel beach to the untouched shores of Playa Ermitaño. This secluded paradise—accessible only by sea—is framed by coconut trees and lush jungle-covered cliffs. Swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the white sand without another soul in sight. Alternatively, opt for a sailing excursion to Cayo Levantado, a postcard-perfect island known for its turquoise waters and vibrant marine life.

Option 2: Surf & chill: Stay local and start your morning with a surf lesson at Playa Bonita, one of the best beginner-friendly spots on the island. Local instructors offer one-on-one guidance, making it a fun and approachable experience—even if it’s your first time on a board.

Evening wind-down: After your adventure, head to the rooftop bar at Mosquito Boutique Hotel for a perfectly timed sunset cocktail.

Dinner: Dine at Hotel Atlantis Restaurant, an elegant open-air spot on Playa Bonita. Known for its refined French cuisine and fresh seafood, the setting is intimate, tropical, and effortlessly romantic—an ideal way to end the day.

Tip: If you opt for the catamaran, pack sunscreen, a towel, and water shoes. If you’re surfing, your hotel or instructor can provide gear and transportation