Samaná (Cayo Levantado Island), Dominican Republic
Rating8.1
Rating6.6
Rating6.6Very Good
Based on 313 reviews
Private Island Exclusivity
Guests consistently praise the resort's unique private island setting for its unparalleled serenity and seclusion, offering a truly peaceful escape from the everyday.
Exceptional Service
The staff's attentive, professional, and friendly demeanor, including the personalized Ambassador service, is a major highlight, making guests feel valued and cared for.
Luxury Accommodations
The high quality, elegant design, and spaciousness of the rooms and villas, many with private plunge pools, receive top marks for comfort and luxury.
Pristine Natural Beauty
The meticulously maintained lush grounds, beautiful landscaping, and stunning private beaches with no vendors are frequently admired, contributing to a picturesque environment.
Gourmet Dining Experiences
Specialty restaurants are generally highly acclaimed for delicious and outstanding food, with breakfast also receiving strong positive feedback.
Quiet Ambiance vs. Nightlife
The resort's quiet and relaxing atmosphere may not appeal to guests seeking vibrant entertainment, parties, or extensive late-night socializing, as bars close early.
Dining Inconsistencies
While often excellent, some guests note inconsistencies in food quality across different venues or limited options at pool/beach restaurants, especially during low occupancy.
Additional Costs
Despite being all-inclusive, several premium services like extensive wine lists, spa treatments, private transfers, and certain high-end dining options incur significant extra charges.
Logistical Minor Issues
Occasional delays with mainland check-in or boat transfers to the island, along with slow service at some casual lunch spots, have been noted by a few guests.
Aggregate score derived from public review platforms. Category scores reflect our editorial assessment based on analysis of guest reviews. ResortFlock is not affiliated with or endorsed by any review platform.
Four Stars for 'verified luxury'
2025
Forbes Travel Guide
Best of the World 2024 (wellness destination)
2024
National Geographic
Travelers' Choice awardee
As of April 2018
TripAdvisor
Cayo Levantado Resort (formerly Luxury Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado) occupies an entire private island in Samaná Bay — accessible only by a short boat transfer from the mainland. This physical separation from the rest of the Dominican Republic all-inclusive market is the defining characteristic: no road access, no day visitors (the public beach section of the island is separate), and a naturally contained, quiet atmosphere. It reopened in 2023 after a comprehensive refurbishment and rebranding from the former Luxury Bahia Principe name.
The accommodation range is the widest in the Bahia Principe portfolio. From the 575 sq ft standard Junior Suite to the 2,719 sq ft Cayo Levantado Signature Villa with private plunge pool and sea views, this is the only Bahia Principe property where the accommodation itself is a primary reason to book. The 1-bedroom plunge pool villas and beachfront adults-only villas are the sweet spot — genuinely private water access in a setting that most Caribbean all-inclusives can't replicate.
The vibe is deliberately slow. Bars close by midnight. Entertainment is minimal by all-inclusive standards. This is correct positioning for the audience — guests who reviewed this property positively consistently mention the tranquility as the point. Guests who wanted a party atmosphere and found it too quiet are not the target guest.
Food consistency is the honest limitation — guest reviews note the same dish can vary in quality between visits, and some specialty restaurants are more reliable than others. Don Pablo Gourmet and Mediterráneo get the most consistent positive marks.
Samaná El Catey Airport is 49–56 km away (1–1.5 hours). December–March is humpback whale season — Samaná Bay offers one of the Caribbean's best whale watching opportunities, and the island position puts you directly on the bay.