Cayo Levantado island, also known as Bacardi island is located in Samana Bay, at a distance of only 7 Kilometers (About 4 Miles) from the Port of the town of Samana. This is a “not-to-be-missed” place to visit when vacationing in Samana. Cayo Levantado is a tiny island of about only 3 square kilometers in size. We can easily say that this is the BEST BEACH near the small town of Samana, pure white sand beach with crystal clear waters that is totally idyllic, gorgeous and exceptional… paradise truly found.
There are actually 2 beaches on Cayo Levantado island, one that is open to the public and the other one that is private and accessible only for the guests of the Gran Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado hotel. On the public beach side you will find many restaurants serving fresh fish and seafood caught the very same day, small bars with tropical drinks and nice cold beers. My personal favorite Restaurant & Bar located oceanfront is called Bacardi Seafood Restaurant which is owned and operated by a very friendly guy called Alexi. Also on the island you’ll find many shops selling authentic handmade artifacts from Dominican Republic. Public bathrooms can be found in two different places on the island, you can also pamper yourself with a relaxing massage done by professionals.
Cayo Levantado island is also known as Bacardi Island because of an advertising campaign done for the Bacardi rum in the 80’s.