Sabana De La Mar is a fantastic spot for lunch experiences that combine stunning scenery with authentic local flavor. Whether you’re after a relaxing beachside meal after exploring Los Haitises or craving an active day swimming at waterfalls, this small town offers options that go beyond just eating — they’re about enjoying the natural beauty and local culture. Our favorites include the boat tour with lunch at the beach and natural pools, known for its combination of wildlife, caves, and delicious seaside food, and the kayak tour from Samaná that lets you paddle through mangroves then enjoy a fresh Dominican-style meal.
If you’re looking to see waterfalls and enjoy a hearty local lunch, the Yanigua Waterfalls Tour offers a chance to swim in emerald pools and relax in natural mud. For a full day of sightseeing, the Salto Limon with Cayo Levantado cruise combines waterfalls, horseback riding, and beach time, making it ideal for those who want variety. Below, we’ll explore each of these top lunch experiences in detail, helping you pick the one that fits your style and schedule.
1. Los Haitises: Boat + Lunch at the beach & Natural pools
At number 1 on our list, the Los Haitises: Boat + Lunch at the beach & Natural pools tour is a standout for combining incredible scenery with a tasty meal. This 8 to 11-hour adventure from Sabana de la Mar takes you into the heart of Los Haitises National Park, famous for its limestone formations, caves, and mangroves. You’ll cruise through the waterways, observing diverse wildlife and learning about the unique ecosystem from your guide, who will share insights into the flora, fauna, and history of the area.
The highlight is visiting Cueva de la Arena and Cueva de la Linea, caves with ancient Taino petroglyphs, offering a glimpse into the island’s past. After exploring, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch on the beach at Cueva de la Arena, where fresh seafood and Dominican flavors are served right by the water. The tour is praised for its engaging guides and the chance to swim in natural pools afterward. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, culture, and good food. The tour’s comprehensive itinerary ensures you see the park’s best while having a relaxed, satisfying meal at a picturesque spot.
Bottom Line: If you want a full-day experience with wildlife, caves, and a beachside lunch, this tour offers excellent value and unforgettable scenery.
2. Sabana de la Mar: Salto Limon, Cayo Levantado with lunch
At number 2, the Salto Limon, Cayo Levantado with lunch tour provides a full day of sightseeing from Sabana de la Mar with a focus on natural beauty and local charm. The trip begins with a scenic cruise along the coast, passing through rural landscapes before reaching the El Limon Waterfall. Here, you’ll take a horseback ride up to the waterfall, where you can swim in the rushing waters and enjoy the thunderous splash.
Afterward, the journey continues to Cayo Levantado, a small island with a stunning beach. You’ll have free time to relax or explore, and the tour concludes with a tasty lunch on the island, featuring fresh seafood and local dishes. This experience is especially good for those wanting a mix of adventure and leisure without long hikes. The tour is well-rated for its friendly guides and the variety of sights packed into one day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who enjoy waterfalls, island beaches, and authentic Dominican lunch in a relaxed setting.
3. Sabana de la Mar: Yanigua Waterfalls Tour with Lunch
Coming in at number 3, the Yanigua Waterfalls Tour with Lunch is a shorter but highly engaging option. Over about five hours, you’ll visit the Yanigua Waterfalls, where you can swim in the lush, emerald pools and enjoy the soothing rush of water. The tour also takes you through the surrounding coconut groves, giving a glimpse into rural Dominican life and farming practices.
What makes this tour stand out is the inclusion of a natural clay mud experience, used locally for skin healing and relaxation. After the waterfalls, you’ll share a traditional Dominican lunch at a nearby eco-ranch, complete with local specialties. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly choice for those who want to combine nature, local culture, and good food without a full day of travel.
Guests say the mud bath is “refreshing and fun,” making it a memorable part of the day. It’s best suited for travelers interested in nature and local customs who prefer a shorter tour.
Bottom Line: If you love waterfalls and want a taste of rural Dominican life with a soothing mud bath and authentic lunch, this tour hits the spot.
4. Samana: Los Haitises, Caño Hondo, Kayak Tour with Lunch
Rounding out our list at number 4, the Samana: Los Haitises, Caño Hondo, Kayak Tour with Lunch combines adventure and relaxation into a full-day trip. Starting from Samaná, you explore the tranquil mangroves and lagoons of Los Haitises by kayak, getting up close to the natural surroundings.
The tour includes a delicious Dominican-style lunch on a secluded beach inside the park, giving you a true escape from the crowds. After lunch, you’ll enjoy swimming in Caño Hondo Pools, crystal-clear springs fed by underground streams, perfect for cooling off after paddling. The tour balances active paddling with leisurely swims and scenic views, ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and natural beauty.
Reviewers appreciate the peaceful kayak routes and the opportunity to unwind amid lush greenery. The combination of kayaking, waterfalls, and a hearty lunch makes this a comprehensive eco-tour. It’s suited for active travelers who want to combine water sports with relaxing downtime.
Bottom Line: For those who love paddling and exploring nature from water level, this tour offers a memorable experience wrapped in a full-day adventure.
How to Choose
When selecting your perfect lunch experience in Sabana De La Mar, consider your interests and physical activity level. Do you want a full-day adventure with caves and wildlife? Then the Los Haitises boat tour is a prime pick. If waterfalls and beach relaxation appeal, the Salto Limon and Cayo Levantado tour offers a balanced mix of activity and leisure. For a shorter, nature-focused trip, the Yanigua Waterfalls provides a refreshing swim and local culture. And for the active and adventurous, the Kayak tour combines paddling, swimming, and scenic beauty.
Think about your fitness level, how much physical activity you enjoy, and the kind of scenery that excites you most. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and tour.
In summary, Sabana De La Mar offers a variety of lunch experiences that showcase its natural beauty and authentic flavors. Whether you prefer a day paddling through mangroves, swimming at waterfalls, or relaxing on a beach with fresh seafood, you’ll find an option that suits your style. For a full, immersive experience, the boat trips with local meals stand out, but shorter adventures like Yanigua provide a quick dose of nature and culture. Whichever you choose, these tours promise a memorable, delicious day in the Dominican Republic.