Located at the eastern tip of the Samaná Peninsula lies Las Galeras, an enchanting and picturesque ocean-side town, nestled between the protected areas of Cabo Samaná and Cabo Cabrón. To the south, it is bordered by the serene waters of Samaná Bay, while to the north it looks out into the vast Atlantic Ocean.
The main area of town is situated about 20 minutes away from the Ocama Retreat.
With a rich and complex culture and history, Las Galeras has been home to the indigenous people known as Ciguaÿos, local “criollos” (a mix of indigenous, African, and European), freed enslaved peoples from the Americas and the Caribbean, pirates and colonizers from Spain, France, and England, as well as people from all over the world who have decided to call Las Galeras their home.
The town gets its name from two galleon ships anchored in the Bay of Rincón, sent by the King of Spain in the 16th century to prevent smuggling and to fight against French corsairs.
To experience the local culture in this emerging, and still quiet, tourist town, take a short ride to explore the beaches of La Playita, Playa Grande, and Playa Asserradero, as well as a variety of bars and restaurants.