Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island) | Samana

Cayo Levantado, often referred to as Bacardi Island, is a small, picturesque island located in Samaná Bay off the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic. Known for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical vegetation, Cayo Levantado is a popular day-trip destination for tourists visiting the Samaná Peninsula. The island's association with the Bacardi rum brand, thanks to a famous commercial filmed here, has contributed to its iconic status.

Location and Accessibility

• Region: Samaná Bay, Samaná Province, Dominican Republic
• Nearest Town: Las Terrenas, approximately 30 minutes by boat
• Distance from Samaná City: About 15-20 minutes by boat
• Nearest Airport: El Catey International Airport (approximately 25 minutes by car, followed by a boat ride)

Cayo Levantado is located about 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the mainland, near the entrance to Samaná Bay. It is accessible by boat from the towns of Las Terrenas, Samaná, and Cabo Cabrón. Many day trips are available for visitors wanting to explore the island's beautiful beaches, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the region.

Features of Cayo Levantado

Beaches:

• Cayo Levantado is famous for its pristine white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. The island features two main beaches:
  • Playa de Cayo Levantado: The island’s main beach, where most visitors spend their time lounging in the sun, swimming, and enjoying the crystal-clear water. It's surrounded by palm trees and offers beautiful views of the surrounding bay.
  • Playa Bonita: Another smaller beach on the island that is slightly more secluded, providing a peaceful escape for visitors looking for a quieter spot.

Natural Beauty:

• The island is covered in lush, tropical vegetation, with palm trees, flowering plants, and colorful foliage creating a vibrant, serene atmosphere. The surrounding waters are home to coral reefs, making the area excellent for snorkeling and marine life observation.

Views and Landscape:

• From the island’s hilltop, you can enjoy panoramic views of Samaná Bay, the Samaná Peninsula, and nearby islands. The views are especially breathtaking during the late afternoon, when the sun sets over the bay.

Activities and Attractions

Beach and Water Activities:

• Swimming and Sunbathing: The calm, warm waters and soft sand make Cayo Levantado ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beaches are generally less crowded than those on the mainland, offering a relaxing escape.
• Snorkeling: The waters surrounding Cayo Levantado are home to various species of fish, coral reefs, and marine life. Snorkeling tours are available, allowing visitors to explore the underwater world near the shore.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: The clear, shallow waters make kayaking and paddleboarding popular activities on the island, and rentals are often available from local operators.

Whale Watching:

• From January to March, Samaná Bay becomes a prime location for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate to the area to mate and give birth. While on Cayo Levantado, you can take a boat tour to see these magnificent creatures up close, often from the boat or the island’s lookout points.

Boat Tours and Excursions:

• Many visitors choose to take boat tours around the island, exploring the coastline, nearby smaller islands, and the Samaná Bay. Some tours also include visits to El Limón Waterfall or the Los Haitises National Park.
• Glass-bottom boat tours are also available, allowing guests to see the marine life beneath the surface without getting wet.

Hiking and Exploration:

• Though the island is small, there are walking paths and a few trails that lead through its tropical forests. Visitors can hike to the island's lookout point for spectacular views of the surrounding area.

Relaxation and Dining:

• Cayo Levantado has a few restaurants and bars, mostly serving fresh seafood and traditional Dominican dishes. Many of the island’s restaurants are located along the beach, providing the perfect setting for a relaxing meal with a view.
• Some resorts and hotels also offer all-inclusive packages for day trips, where visitors can enjoy meals, drinks, and beach activities.

Getting to Cayo Levantado

• By Boat: The most common way to reach Cayo Levantado is by boat. Boat tours depart from the town of Samaná and Las Terrenas, taking passengers on a scenic ride across Samaná Bay. The journey takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on the departure point.
• Private Boat Charters: For a more exclusive experience, you can charter a private boat to the island. This allows you to customize your trip, including the duration of your stay and the activities you want to do.

Accommodation

While there are no major hotels or resorts directly on Cayo Levantado, luxury resorts are available nearby, such as Bahía Príncipe Luxury Samana located on the mainland. Some all-inclusive resorts in Las Terrenas or Samaná offer day trips to Cayo Levantado for guests who want to enjoy the island’s beauty without staying overnight.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (November to April): The best time to visit Cayo Levantado is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather is sunny and warm, with less chance of rain, making it ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.
• Rainy Season (May to October): The rainy season in the Dominican Republic is from May to October. While Cayo Levantado remains beautiful, rain showers are more frequent, and there is a higher chance of humidity. The island may be quieter during this time, which some visitors prefer.

Tips for Visiting Cayo Levantado

1. Pack Light: As there are no major shops on the island, it’s best to bring only what you need for the day, such as sunscreen, a hat, a camera, and comfortable footwear.
2. Cash: While most places accept cards on the mainland, it’s a good idea to bring cash for small purchases or tips, as some vendors on the island may not accept credit cards.
3. Sun Protection: The sun on Cayo Levantado can be intense, so make sure to bring and apply sunscreen regularly, along with sunglasses and a hat for extra protection.
4. Respect Nature: The island is a protected area, so be mindful of the environment. Avoid littering and be cautious not to disturb the wildlife, both on land and in the water.

Conclusion

Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island) is a beautiful and peaceful tropical destination, offering pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a variety of activities for visitors. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore the island’s natural beauty, or engage in water sports, it provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its proximity to Samaná Bay and Las Terrenas makes it a convenient and memorable day-trip destination for those visiting the Dominican Republic.