Cayo Levantado Samana, Dominican Republic
Renovated
2023
Price
$$$$
Outside the door
The brand
Bahia Principe Hotels & ResortsSecluded wellness hideaway
Arrive by boat to Victorian gingerbread gables rising above palm groves, where dedicated ambassadors coordinate quiet days on private sands.
Where it shines
Remarkable
Dedicated personal ambassadors coordinate island activities, supported by private boat transfers and spacious plunge-pool villas.
Remarkable
The standalone Yubarta center integrates a cenote, whale-shaped pool, sound baths, and four personalized holistic paths.
Remarkable
A private island enclave offering secluded beaches, boat excursions into Los Haitises, and seasonal humpback whale watching.
What they say
Forbes Four-Star
Forbes Travel Guide
2026
Also in Condé Nast Traveler.
Far from the raucous crowds of Punta Cana, Cayo Levantado Resort aims to bring a tranquil wellness getaway to the Dominican Republic.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Surrounded by Samana Bay, the island offers front-row seats for winter humpback whale migrations and boat excursions into Los Haitises caves.
The rooms
Suites showcase palm wallpaper and wicker details, while standalone signature villas add private plunge pools tucked into lush tropical gardens.
The pools
Bring a swimsuit.
Curving freshwater pools wind through palm groves, stretching toward infinity edges that look out across Samaná Bay.
The spa
A thatched palapa hosts gong meditation and astrological rituals, alongside massages using local Dominican amber and larimar.
Hydrotherapy and gym
An indoor hydrotherapy circuit sits under vaulted timber ceilings, and the fitness studio looks out over tropical gardens.
At the table
Dining ranges from poolside slow food at Santa Yuca to regional Dominican tasting menus and breezy thatched beach bars.
the current property has little in common with its predecessor. Instead, it has been completely transformed into a true luxury resort, something that is clear from the moment you enter the huge reception area
How it began
Grupo Piñero completely reimagined the former 1990s property in 2023, collaborating with local craftspeople to celebrate Dominican Victorian heritage.
Good to know
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Cayo Levantado Resort
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.