This All-villa Retreat in the Dominican Republic Is on a Gorgeous, Little-known Peninsula Far From the Crowds of Punta Cana

"the Samaná Peninsula is nothing like the super-developed Punta Cana, or the colonial capital of Santo Domingo. Instead, the 40-mile-long peninsula delivers tranquil beaches, mountainous rainforests, and a front-row seat to the humpback whales that migrate here between January and March."

"Ocama, which means 'to listen' in the indigenous Taíno language, originally opened in 2023 as a passion project by Mark Andrus, the co-founder of Stacy's Pita Chips. Inspired by his travels to Bali, Thailand, Africa, and the Caribbean, he designed eight, modern glass-and-wood villas, and initially listed them on Airbnb and other rental platforms."

"Each villa spans three levels, and features its own pool, deck, outdoor shower, and full kitchen. Careful attention went into nestling each unit amid the lush greenery to maximize both views and privacy. You'll need a golf cart to get around the expansive grounds, which slope down to Playa del Amor, an intimate beach that feels private."

The Samaná Peninsula in the Dominican Republic's northeast provides a tranquil alternative to developed tourist areas, featuring 40 miles of unspoiled coastline, mountainous rainforests, and seasonal humpback whale migrations from January to March. Its remote location, with the nearest airport three hours away, has protected it from overdevelopment. Ocama, a luxury all-villa retreat on 35 acres overlooking Rincón Bay, recently transitioned from private rental property to full-service hotel. Originally opened in 2023 by Stacy's Pita Chips co-founder Mark Andrus, the property comprises eight modern glass-and-wood villas, each featuring three levels, private pools, decks, outdoor showers, and full kitchens. The villas are strategically positioned throughout lush grounds sloping toward Playa del Amor, an intimate private beach.

Read at Travel + Leisure