Cayo Levantado, Dominican Republic

Cons

• Less attentive service than most luxury properties

Bottom Line

The D.R.’s only luxury resort set on its own island, the Luxury Bahia Cayo Levantado offers a relaxing atmosphere for couples and families. There are scenic beaches, beautiful pools, and some of the best rooms in the country (each with private Jacuzzi tubs). The beauty is incredible, but the dining and service lag behind even less expensive resorts.

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Scene

Romantic weekenders who go to bed after early-evening cocktails.

The Cigar Bar is a main attraction

The vibe here is quiet and calming. Seniors and a few families visit from Europe or Canada, as with so many D.R. resorts. Lounging at the Bahia pool, a beautiful winding grotto, the only sounds that can be heard are the pool filter, the gentle wisps of palm trees, and the occasional bird splashing down into the water. The pulse here is relaxed, so relaxed that some guests find it boring. All of the bars shut down by midnight.

Before sunset, guests gather on the terrace for coffee or cocktails. The fountain bubbles, the sun sets, and a professional cigar roller sets up a table to twist personal cigars. Welcome to the Dominican Republic - you've made it.

Location

Cayo Levantado is located on its own private island off the Samana Peninsula. Getting to the resort is a hassle. From the Samana airport (El Catey International Airport), it’s a 45-minute cab ride to the Bahia ferry station. (Parking is available at the station.) From there, it’s a 10- to 15-minute ferry ride to Cayo Levantado. In lieu of the ferry, you can also hire a private panga boat to take you from Samana, which will likely be a bumpy, wet ride.