Samana Hotels with Gym

WHALES! We returned to this resort after a marvelous 1st experience in March 2023. This year, as we sat on our terrace, lounged at the two luxurious swimming pools and even at the resort's restaurant, we watched mother Humpback whales and their one month old calves frolicking in the Samana Bay Whale Sanctuary, the third largest in the world. The view from the apt. is simply breathtaking whether it's of the full Bay from the mountain-top buildings or closer to the seashore by the beach front apartments. All apartments are equipped with everything needed for a comfortable stay including laundry equipment. We arranged to have a local cook come to prepare a full meal with local produce and freshly caught fish. We enjoyed her homemade coconut rice & peas, tossed green salad, fried plantains and deliciously crispy fried fish followed by a most velvety smooth vanilla custard a.k.a. ”flan”. Total cost for both of us to eat for at least two nights: $60 (US). The stay, available through Airbnb and other travel search engines was also incredibly reasonably priced. They have accommodations for couples and families with condominiums for up to 8 guests with 2 & 3 bedrooms. We decided to make it an annual tradition! We will return to Xeliter Vista Mare to enjoy the sunsets, the view of Samana Bay, the Humpback Whales, and, the most wonderful local dishes. Hasta el 2025!

We stayed at the Bahia Principe Luxury Samana March 11-18. Here is our feedback There are some potential “negatives” about this resort, although they were not issues for us (except perhaps the last one) 1) Resort is a small boutique 140 room resort, if you are looking for nightlife and party atmosphere, go elsewhere 2) The beach is rather small and little washed out, but nonetheless very accommodating and private 3) The resort has a lot of stairs, there are elevators in certain areas but be advised that you may need to use your legs! That’s good since the food and drinks are so excellent you need to burn off calories 4) The road is close to the resort, depending where you are you can sometimes hear the noise. Thankfully the rooms have soundproof doors that work well to hide the noise 5) There is nowhere to walk outside the resort, road is not safe to walk As for the positive, there are so many to list I don’t know where to starts 1) The Food – So EXCELLENT, really (like really!) good, at both buffet and “a la carte” restaurants. They are all really good, and great attention to service by staff. I loved the option of pre-booking all our restaurants 5 days before our arrival, very nice 2) The views are amazing, from every location, all you see is the sea, absolutely stunning. Our favorite was the view at breakfast and lunch from the buffet, we even saw whales swimming in the bay in front of the resort 3) The drinks and bar service are superb, we enjoyed the “Drink of the day” every day. They always use fresh ingredients (fruits etc) and top shelf spirits for mixing. So good!!! 4) All the staff are so nice, I can’t compliment them all personally here, but special shout-out to Dario (Mamajuana!) and Rosa at lobby bar, Ingrid was our favorite server, Daurelin at front desk was always smiling, and Leandro for his Yoga/Pilates/Workouts. Really amazing people 5) Free Day-trip to Cayo Leventado was really pleasurable, beach there is amazing (but public) 6) Rooms are nice and comfortable, we paid for Junior Suite upgrade and honestly, I think the standard Balcony Room would be great 7) The resort is so small that you get to know all the guests, which was very nice. Met some very nice people from Canada, France and Germany. Adults-only is also nice! We definitely recommend this resort for those looking for a peaceful, relaxing and intimate holiday with great food, good drinks and panoramic views.