A gorgeous public beach lies on the western third of this lush island, 7km from Samaná, the only section that's open to the public (a five-star hotel occupies the rest). Boatmen at the pier make the trip for RD$250 per person round-trip; groups up to 15 people can negotiate a private full-day boat round-trip for RD$3000.
Note that the idyll can be somewhat marred by the commercialisation of the experience. Touts wander the sands looking for tourists wanting to have their photographs taken with exotic animals, some endangered and on leashes, such as parrots, boa constrictors, monkeys and even sea lions. Large cruise ships dock here regularly, and the facilities, including a few restaurants and bars, don’t offer much peace and quiet. If you choose to visit, try going mid-to-late afternoon, when most of the activity is winding down.
