
Cayo Levantado Bacardí Island
Experience the iconic Bacardí Island: pristine white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a tropical paradise setting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best sunbeds

Cayo Levantado Bacardí Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best sunbeds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the iconic Bacardí Island: pristine white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a tropical paradise setting.
"Amazing beach to spend the day. Warm clear waters. We had a drone take this and many other great videos and pictures."

🎯 Arrive Before 9:30 AM
Secure prime sunbeds and enjoy the tranquility before the main crowds arrive. :sunriseovermountains:
💰 Sunbed Rental
Sunbeds are available for rent, typically around 200 pesos for the day. :moneywithwings:

Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bacardí Rum Ad Beach
Main beach area
Relive the iconic Bacardí rum commercials on this stunning, postcard-perfect beach. Pure tropical bliss!

Crystal Clear Waters
Shoreline
Immerse yourself in warm, inviting waters with breathtaking turquoise hues. Perfect for a refreshing dip.

Pristine Sands
Beachfront
Enjoy soft, clean sand with no visible litter. The beach is meticulously maintained for a perfect day out.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Paradise
Island Excursion Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cayo Levantado Resort
Planning on going to Cayo Levantado for our honeymoon this July. Wondering if anyone on here has gone and what their experience was? Looking for any information but specifically - what was included and what wasn’t? - were the pay restaurants worth it? - what excursions were…
🎯 Arrive Before 9:30 AM
Secure prime sunbeds and enjoy the tranquility before the main crowds arrive. :sunriseovermountains:
💰 Sunbed Rental
Sunbeds are available for rent, typically around 200 pesos for the day. :moneywithwings:
Honeymoon - Cayo Levantado Resort vs. Hilton La Romana (Adults only) vs. Excellence El Carmen - Honest Thoughts
My husband and I are thinking of going to the Cayo Levantado resort in Samana sometime early this December for our honeymoon. Has anyone been since the ownership changed? What are your honest thoughts? Is it worth paying a bit more than the usual prices for all inclusive?…
Tourism - Los Haities National Park and Cayo Levantado
Hi, I'll be in Punta Cana and want to visit these two locations. I'll have a car. Will it be possible for me to go on day trips to these locations by myself without booking a tour? I read online that you need to find a guide to enter Los Haities but couldn't find more past that…
🍹 Pina Colada Delight
Don't miss trying a refreshing Pina Colada while soaking in the island vibes. 🍹
🚶♀️ Beware of Traders
Be prepared for persistent beach traders; a polite 'no thank you' usually suffices. :shopping_bags:
Is Samana Safe?
Hi! I booked an excursion in Samana to el limón and cayo levantado. Recently a travel advisory was updated for the Dominican Republic due to crime and I wanted to know how safe you all think it is to go on this excursion. I have really been looking forward to this but I’m not…
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Before 9:30 AM
Secure prime sunbeds and enjoy the tranquility before the main crowds arrive. :sunriseovermountains:
💰 Sunbed Rental
Sunbeds are available for rent, typically around 200 pesos for the day. :moneywithwings:
🍹 Pina Colada Delight
Don't miss trying a refreshing Pina Colada while soaking in the island vibes. 🍹
🚶♀️ Beware of Traders
Be prepared for persistent beach traders; a polite 'no thank you' usually suffices. :shopping_bags:
🤿 Snorkeling Potential
While visibility can vary, there are snorkeling opportunities around the island. 🌊
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Cayo Levantado's stunningly clear turquoise waters and pristine, clean beaches, often comparing it to a postcard-perfect paradise. The island's association with Bacardí rum commercials adds to its allure. While some find the beach traders a bit bothersome and note a sharp drop-off when wading, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, especially for those who arrive early to avoid crowds.
"Amazing beach to spend the day. Warm clear waters. We had a drone take this and many other great videos and pictures.
The hotel there is classic, had family stay there and enjoyed it."
Vic Ram
"We went on 11 January. We arrived at around 9.20am. It was fantastic as we were the first ones. We could choose sunbed where we wanted (200 pesos by sunbed for the day). It was not as busy as expected. We had an amazing day. We use Excursiones Roustand to take us there, very easy."
Miss F M V
"Nice beach where they recording comercial the Baccardi rum ad. I recommend seeing it and drinking Pina colada."
Łukasz Hodurek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Cayo Levantado is by boat excursion from Samaná Peninsula. Many tour operators, like Excursiones Roustand, offer convenient transport. You can also arrange private boat transfers.
Cayo Levantado itself is a popular tourist destination and generally considered safe for excursions. However, it's always wise to check current travel advisories for the Dominican Republic and travel with reputable tour operators.
The boat trip is typically pleasant and offers scenic views of the Samaná Bay. Excursions are designed to be comfortable and enjoyable, making the journey part of the experience.
No, Cayo Levantado is an island and can only be accessed by boat. You will need to arrange transportation to a departure point on the mainland, usually in Samaná.
Public ferry options are limited; most visitors opt for organized boat excursions or private transfers arranged through hotels or tour companies.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's recommended to book excursions in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates. Some operators may allow on-the-day bookings if space is available.
Cayo Levantado is typically accessible during daylight hours, with excursions usually running from morning until late afternoon. Specific hours depend on your chosen tour operator.
The cost varies depending on the excursion package. Expect to pay for the boat trip, and there's a separate rental fee for sunbeds on the beach (around 200 pesos).
While there isn't a separate 'entrance fee' for the island, the cost of your boat excursion typically covers access. Sunbed rentals are an additional charge.
While possible to arrange private boat transfers, most visitors find organized excursions to be the most convenient and cost-effective way to experience Cayo Levantado.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy swimming in the clear waters, relaxing on the beach, sunbathing, and taking photos. Some areas offer snorkeling opportunities.
It can get crowded, especially when tour groups arrive. Arriving early in the morning (before 9:30 AM) is the best way to experience it with fewer people.
Basic facilities are usually available on the island, including restrooms. It's advisable to bring your own towel and essentials.
Yes, beach recliners (sunbeds) are available for rent on the island, typically costing around 200 pesos per day.
The water is warm, clear, and inviting, with beautiful turquoise colors. There's a gentle drop-off as you wade into the sea.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are usually beachside restaurants and vendors offering local Dominican dishes, seafood, and drinks like the famous Pina Colada.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's common for visitors to purchase food and drinks on the island to support local businesses. Check with your tour operator if you have specific concerns.
Options may be limited, but you can often find fresh fruit and salads. It's best to inquire at the restaurants upon arrival.
Prices can be higher than on the mainland due to the island location. Expect to pay tourist prices for meals and beverages.
Yes, trying local cuisine is part of the experience. Enjoying a meal with a view of the ocean is highly recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire beach offers stunning backdrops. Look for areas with clear water, palm trees, and the iconic Bacardí ad signage for memorable shots. Drone photography is also popular.
Drone photography is popular and has been used for creating great videos and pictures of the island. Ensure you are aware of any local regulations regarding drone usage.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful golden hour light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. Waterproof camera or phone cases are useful for capturing shots in the water.
Generally, photography is welcomed. However, always be respectful of other visitors' privacy and ask permission before taking close-up photos of people.










Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit