Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island)

Cayo Levantado island, also known as Bacardi island is located in Samana Bay, at a distance of only 7 Kilometers (About 4 Miles) from the Port of the town of Samana. This is a “not-to-be-missed” place to visit when vacationning in Samana. Cayo Levantado is a tiny island of about only 3 square kilometers in size. We can easily say that this is the BEST BEACH near the small town of Samana, pure white sand beach with crystal clear waters that is totally idyllic, gorgeous and exceptional… paradise truly found.

There are actually 2 beaches on Cayo Levantado island, one that is open to the public and the other one that is private and accessible only for the guests of the Gran Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado hotel. On the public beach side you will find many restaurants serving fresh fish and seafood caught the very same day, small bars with tropical drinks and nice cold beers. My personal favorite Restaurant & Bar located oceanfront is called Bacardi Seafood Restaurant which is owned and operated by a very friendly guy called Alexi. Also on the island you’ll find many shops selling authentic handmade artifacts from Dominican Republic. Public bathrooms can be found in two different places on the island, you can also pamper yourself with a relaxing massage done by professionals.

Cayo Levantado island is also knowned as Bacardi Island because of an advertising campaign done for the Bacardi rhum in the 80’s.

The island is only accessible by boat, most departures are from the main dock of the Port of Samana town, on a 50 foot vessel serving the island every day, cost per person is about US $10 ( About RD $500) for round trip leaving around 9:00 AM. ( Check locally at the main dock of Samana for the precise schedule. During high season they might have various boats leaving daily ). You can also arrange a private trip by talking to the locals at the main dock of Samana who will take you there on their small 18 to 23 foot motor boats ( called Yolas ), prices will depend on your group size, your personal schedule and your negotiate skills !