Cayo levantado

Also known as Bacardi Island because of a Bacardi commercial filmed here in the 1970s, the small, picturesque island of Cayo Levantado sits just five kilometers (three miles) from Samaná Bay, and boasts brilliant white sand and palm-fringed beaches. Boat taxis depart regularly from the Samaná port on Avenida Marina, bringing visitors daily to this small island. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, kayaking or paddle boarding, and enjoy fresh fish on the public side of Cayo Levantado. You can also overnight at the on-site luxury hotel, occupying the other half of the island. Note that there may be restrictions for visits on days when large cruise ships dock off the island.