Las Terrenas Explorer
Las Terrenas Explorer
Your Digital Gateway to Las Terrenas
Discover and explore Las Terrenas — and stay connected to its stories, people, and spirit, wherever you are. From breathtaking beaches to hidden corners of town, your unforgettable journey begins here.
Called “The Promised Land in the Caribbean” by The New York Times, Las Terrenas is more than a destination — it’s a hidden treasure on the Samaná Peninsula.
With 18 km of golden coastline and six unique beaches, each with its own charm, it invites you to dive into water sports, explore tropical islands, and enjoy unforgettable excursions across Samaná. Here, Dominican warmth blends with over 40 nationalities, creating a unique Caribbean vibe.
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The complete digital guide to discovering Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic
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El Portillo Beach stretches for nearly 5 kilometers, just a short drive east of Las Terrenas. Its turquoise waters and lush greenery create a picturesque setting that captures the essence of the Caribbean. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling along the coral reef, family walks, or horseback riding on the long golden shore. El Portillo is also recognized as one of the best kite surfing spots in the Dominican Republic, thanks to its steady trade winds. [Visit Playa El Portillo →]
Following El Portillo Beach and leading into the town of Las Terrenas lies Playa Poppy, the most lively beach in the area. Lined with a pedestrian promenade, it invites visitors to enjoy terraces, bars, and restaurants day and night with friends. Its cosmopolitan atmosphere makes it one of the most vibrant meeting points in town. At its eastern end lies Punta Poppy, one of Las Terrenas’ most charismatic and photographed spots. [Visit Playa Popy→]
Located at the heart of Las Terrenas Bay, the tourist center brings together all the essential services for visitors, with shopping plazas, stores, and a wide variety of dining options. Among its most emblematic spots are the fishermen’s market by the beach, the traditional restaurants at Puerto de los Pescadores, and a seaside playground for children. As night falls, the area becomes the hub of nightlife, with ice cream parlors, bars, restaurants, and clubs. The iconic Pueblo de los Pescadores adds a relaxed yet cosmopolitan atmosphere, making it a must-visit meeting point for both locals and travelers. [Visit the Tourist Center →]
Just beyond the tourist center lies Playa Las Ballenas, where the waves are gentler thanks to the protection of the coral reef. The beach’s orientation also softens the trade winds, creating a calm and pleasant atmosphere. Its wide sandy shoreline stretches along the coast, lined with hotels, bars, and restaurants that bring life while preserving its natural charm. It is the perfect beach for long walks, relaxing by the sea, and enjoying a variety of water activities. [Visit Playa Las Ballenas →]
Selected in 2025 by National Geographic as one of the world’s 20 best beaches, Playa Bonita truly lives up to its name. This small bay offers contrasting landscapes in a single stretch: on the right side, the waters are protected by a small cay that creates a lagoon-like setting, perfect for calm swimming. At the center, the lack of a coral reef produces constant waves, making it a favorite spot for surfers. At the far end lies Punta Bonita, which separates it from Playa Cosón and stands as another majestic landmark of Las Terrenas, admired for its stunning beauty. [Visit Playa Bonita →]
Beyond Punta Bonita lies Playa Cosón, often regarded as the most authentic beach in Las Terrenas. Stretching for 6 kilometers, it combines lush vegetation, small farmland, rivers flowing into the sea, and traditional beachfront restaurants. It is the perfect setting for nature lovers and surfers alike, offering a serene environment that still feels untouched. [Visit Playa Cosón →]
‘Lively’ is perhaps the best word to describe it: local shops, small shopping plazas, and national franchises blend together along its streets, creating a dynamic atmosphere. With a large and diverse international community, Las Terrenas also offers a safe and welcoming environment, both day and night, making it a place that invites exploration and enjoyment. [Visit Town Center →]
The Wonders of Samaná
In the magical Samaná Peninsula, Las Terrenas opens the gateway to a natural paradise still waiting to be discovered. Lush mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, pristine beaches, and idyllic cays make Samaná one of the Caribbean’s most captivating destinations. Here you can enjoy unique experiences: whale watching each winter, a hike to the famous El Limón Waterfall, boat trips to Cayo Levantado, and exploring Los Haitises National Park with its mangroves, limestone formations, and Taíno caves. Samaná blends unspoiled nature, authentic culture, and warm Caribbean hospitality, offering an unforgettable journey for travelers in search of a hidden gem. A full “Wonders of Samaná” page is coming soon — stay tuned.