On the southern side of Samaná Bay, Los Haitises National Park is a wonderland of mangrove-lined inlets, vertical limestone karst islands rising from the water, and dark caves that once sheltered Taíno communities. Boat trips from Samaná cross the bay (about 90 minutes) and then weave through the channels between the karst islands.
The boat tours typically include landings at two of the painted caves, time in the mangrove channels, and views of seabird colonies — frigatebirds, brown pelicans, herons. The park is large enough that even on busy days, the islands and channels feel almost empty. Bring rain gear: the southern coast catches showers most days, and the boats are mostly open.