Samana is a fantastic spot for canoe & kayak experiences thanks to its lush mangroves, pristine waters, and abundant wildlife. Whether you want to paddle through tranquil lagoons, explore caves, or watch whales in their natural habitat, Samana offers something for every water-loving traveler. One of our personal favorites is the From Samana: Los Haitises Hike, Boat Trip, and Kayaking, which combines hiking in the rainforest with kayaking through mangrove channels—imagine paddling past towering trees and spotting tropical birds. It’s a perfect mix of adventure and scenery.
If you’re after a full-day experience with swimming and a tasty local lunch, the Samana: Los Haitises Kayaks & Caño Hondo Pools Tour offers a guided paddle through calm park waters, plus a refreshing dip in spring-fed pools. For whale-watchers, the Samaná: Whale, Cayo Levantado, & Kayak in Samaná Bay combines the thrill of spotting humpbacks with time on Cayo Levantado’s beaches and exploring Samaná Bay by kayak. Finally, the Las Terrenas Ferry Kayaking and Natural Pools offers a full-day eco-adventure including a ferry ride, mangrove paddling, and natural river pools—great for families or those wanting a comprehensive nature trip.
Below, we take a closer look at each of these top kayak and canoe experiences in Samana, helping you choose the best fit based on your interests and time.
1. From Samana: Los Haitises Hike, Boat Trip, and Kayaking
At number 1, this comprehensive day trip from Samana offers a well-rounded look at Los Haitises National Park. The tour begins with a guided rainforest hike—perfect for nature lovers wanting a taste of tropical flora and fauna. Afterward, you’ll navigate to the Cueva de la Arena, a fascinating cave with ancient Taino petroglyphs and impressive rock formations. But the highlight for many is the kayaking through mangroves, where you glide past twisting roots and spot herons, kingfishers, and maybe even a heron or two.
The tour’s focus on both land and water makes it ideal for travelers seeking variety. With a rating of 4.8/5 from four reviews, it’s clear that explorers appreciate the mix of adventure and education. The guides are knowledgeable and eager to share insights about the park’s ecosystem. An added perk is the opportunity to see Samana Bay from a different perspective when paddling along its calm waters.
Bottom Line: If you want a full-day, active excursion that combines rainforest hiking, cave exploration, and kayaking, this trip hits all those marks with high praise and a reasonable length for a comprehensive experience.
2. Samana: Los Haitises Kayaks & Caño Hondo Pools Tour w/ Lunch
Taking the second spot is the Los Haitises Kayaks & Caño Hondo Pools Tour, which provides a fantastic balance of paddling, swimming, and relaxing. This guided tour focuses on paddling through tranquil mangrove channels and serene lagoons within the national park. One of its biggest draws is the chance to swim in the crystal-clear Caño Hondo Pools, spring-fed natural pools that feel like a private oasis.
The tour includes a delicious Dominican lunch served on a secluded beach—an authentic meal that adds to the experience. Rated 4/5 from 21 reviews, travelers find this trip offers good value for its comprehensive nature. The combination of paddling, snorkeling, and relaxing in lush surroundings makes it very appealing for nature lovers, families, and those wanting a leisurely day in the outdoors.
The guides are praised for their friendly service and local knowledge. The tour’s moderate length makes it suitable for most fitness levels and families wanting a mix of gentle adventure and downtime. Be prepared for some paddling, but the calm waters and scenic setting make it manageable.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for those wanting a relaxing yet active day with excellent opportunities for swimming and a genuine taste of Dominican cuisine.
3. Samaná: Whale, Cayo Levantado, & Kayak in Samaná Bay Tour
Number 3 on our list is the Whale, Cayo Levantado, & Kayak in Samaná Bay, which combines whale watching with a kayak adventure. This tour is perfect if your primary interest is seeing humpback whales in their natural habitat—an experience that can be truly awe-inspiring. The season for whale watching is typically from January to March, so plan accordingly.
After the whale sighting, you’ll enjoy lunch and beach time on Cayo Levantado, a small island with stunning white sands. Then, the tour takes a more active turn as you paddle in Samaná Bay, exploring iconic bridges and quiet coves. The guide shares insights about the local history and architecture, enriching the overall trip.
Rated without reviews, it’s a newer offering, but the combination of wildlife, culture, and kayaking makes it appealing for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. The tour provides a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, relaxation, and paddling, though it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with boat rides and outdoor activity.
Bottom Line: If you’re eager to see whales and want a combination of cultural and natural sights, this tour offers a memorable, all-in-one experience.
4. Samaná: Whale Watching. Kayaking at Cayo Levantado & Lunch
In fourth place is the Whale Watching, Kayaking at Cayo Levantado & Lunch. This tour provides a complete eco-adventure, combining whale watching with kayaking around Cayo Levantado. It’s a great option if you want to enjoy marine life and coastal scenery in one package.
The experience includes a guided kayak tour of crystal-clear lagoons and hidden coves, with plenty of time to relax on Cayo Levantado’s famous beaches. The lunch is a Dominican-style meal served on the island—simple, fresh, and satisfying. Like the previous whale tour, it’s best during whale season, but the kayaking portion is enjoyable year-round.
There are no specific reviews listed, but the itinerary suggests excellent value for those seeking a mix of wildlife, paddling, and beach time. The combination makes it suitable for active travelers who also enjoy relaxing beach breaks after paddling.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for those wanting everything—whale sightings, kayaking, and beach lounging—during a single day.
5. Las Terrenas Ferry Kayaking and Natural Pools
Rounding out our list is the Las Terrenas Ferry Kayaking and Natural Pools. It’s a full-day adventure, perfect for families and curious explorers looking to maximize their time in Samana. The tour kicks off with a scenic ferry ride across Samaná Bay, offering spectacular views along the way.
Upon arrival, you’ll paddle through stunning mangroves and coastal caves, with plenty of opportunities to admire the natural beauty up close. The tour includes a delicious Dominican buffet lunch at Parador Los Haitises and a guided hike through lush jungle trails. The highlight is visiting Paraíso Caño Hondo, natural river pools where you can relax in warm, clear waters. It’s a longer tour, around 12 hours, making it suitable for those with a full day to spare.
While it currently has no reviews, the itinerary’s emphasis on variety—ferry ride, paddling, hiking, and swimming—makes it attractive for families or travelers seeking a comprehensive nature day.
Bottom Line: For an all-in-one eco-adventure that covers boat rides, paddling, hiking, and swimming, this tour is hard to beat, especially if you have a full day.
$125.00 per person
How to Choose Your Ideal Canoe & Kayak Experience in Samana
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re after a balanced day of rainforest hiking, cave exploration, and kayaking, the From Samana: Los Haitises Hike, Boat Trip, and Kayaking is perfect. For a relaxed, swimming-focused trip with a delicious lunch, the Los Haitises Kayaks & Caño Hondo Pools offers a laid-back vibe.
Those interested in whale-watching combined with kayaking should consider the Whale, Cayo Levantado, & Kayak, especially during whale season. For travelers wanting an all-in-one full-day adventure, the Las Terrenas Ferry Kayaking and Natural Pools is a comprehensive choice.
Remember to consider the season—whale tours are best from January to March— and your desired pace. Book early, especially in peak season, to secure your spot on these popular trips.
Final Thoughts
Samana offers a fantastic range of canoe and kayak experiences that suit different tastes and schedules. For a mix of rainforest, caves, and paddling, the first tour is hard to beat. If a relaxing swim in natural pools appeals more, the second option delivers. Wildlife lovers should look into whale-watching combined with kayaking, while those wanting a full day of adventure will enjoy the comprehensive eco-tour from Las Terrenas.
Each tour has its unique charm, so consider what kind of adventure excites you most. With a little planning, you’ll find a paddling experience that turns your trip into a memorable aquatic adventure. Book early, and prepare to paddle your way through one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful landscapes.