While La Península de Samaná is a magnet for independent travelers seeking the uncommon track in the Dominican Republic, Las Galeras is for those who seek an even more potent version of that. Those who like small village life as an alternative to their regular hectic lives at home will fall in love with the coconut plantations, numerous secluded and private beaches, and the tropical lushness of the undulating hills throughout this region.

Las Galeras went virtually unnoticed until the early 1990s. Its remarkable beaches (some that you’ll have to reach by boat or hike to in order to enjoy), remote location on the Samaná Peninsula, and the slow-paced tranquility of the village have created a following among independent travelers from Europe and Canada over the past two decades.

Whether you drive from Samaná or Las Terrenas on your way to Las Galeras, it is a gorgeous trip. Turn up the bachata, maybe some Anthony Santos, roll the windows down, and enjoy your trip to the tip of paradise. But when you arrive, don’t expect supermarkets, huge resorts, travel agencies, and night-bumping discos. Your choices may be more limited, but your satisfaction will be deeper if you are looking for calmness.

Las Galeras is known for its untouched beaches. Walking the white sands, you might find yourself on a secluded beach, surrounded by tall palms. These beaches have been hailed by many Dominicans as the most gorgeous in all of the Dominican Republic. Certainly, if you are not staying overnight in Las Galeras, their splendor alone is reason for a day trip.

Getting to Las Galeras

Las Galeras enjoys its remote location on the peninsula, and therefore transportation options are limited. From Samaná, the best way to go about this is by car or guagua since there is no bus service. Where Highway 5 intersects with Calle Principal, right at the entrance to the beach, is where all guaguas stop to pick up passengers traveling to and from Samaná. A one-way trip between Las Galeras and Samaná costs US$2 for the 45-minute ride. You can expect to find one leaving every 15 minutes 7 a.m.–5 p.m.

You can take a taxi from the Aeropuerto Internacional El Catey for about US$90 one-way.