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Island · Santa Bárbara de Samaná, Samaná
Cayo Levantado
A small islet covered in vegetation in Samaná Bay, with a public white-sand beach and calm water, a classic stop after the whale tour.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cayo Levantado
Cayo Levantado is a small island covered in vegetation in the middle of Samaná Bay, a few kilometers from the town. The islet has a white, fine-sand beach, coconut trees and a calm, light-green sea, sheltered from the Atlantic. It became known abroad for appearing in rum commercials, which earned it the nickname Bacardi island.
The western side of the island receives tour visitors, with a public beach, restaurants, stalls and chairs. The eastern side is occupied by a hotel, with access restricted to guests. The water is good for swimming and for snorkeling near the rocks, and from the sand you can see the whale boats passing in season.
The island usually fills at midday when tour groups arrive; before and after that time the beach is quieter. The boat trip from Samaná is short.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From two hours to half a day.
Best time
Early morning or mid-afternoon, outside peak tour hours. From January to March, combine it with whale watching.
How to get there
Only by boat, departing from Samaná's pier, in about 15 to 20 minutes; the whale boats usually stop at the island.
Tip
Bring cash for chairs and food on the public beach. The hotel's area is reserved for guests.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cayo Levantado
Is Cayo Levantado public?
The beach on the west side is public; the east side is occupied by a hotel.
How long does the boat to Cayo Levantado take?
About 15 to 20 minutes from the Samaná pier.
Why do they call Cayo Levantado Bacardí island?
Because it appeared in rum advertisements that became famous abroad.