Scuba diving holidays in Samana

The Dominican Republic's rugged northern coastline is breathtaking, but under the water lies a whole lot more to discover for diving enthusiasts. The high, rocky cliffs fall steeply below the clear blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean to form incredible drop offs and pinnacles that rise from 165 feet to 15 feet above the surface around Samana. Combined with exciting tunnels and cave systems to explore, this is undoubtedly one of the best diving spots in the region.

Located close to the end of the Samana Peninsula, Cabo Cabron is one of the most popular dive sites along the northern coastline for advanced divers. Here lies The Tower, a huge underwater pinnacle that rises from 165 feet and is adorned with beautiful gorgonian fans, corals and sponges and inhabited by a wide array of marine life. The scenery is breathtaking.

Other highlights at this spot include The Cathedral, a colossal underwater cave, but Cabo Cabron is also renowned for its beautiful walls. Cave lovers diving along the Dominican's north coast will also enjoy exploring the fascinating Dudu cave system. The cave itself is adorned with majestic stalactites, whilst two tunnels lead to a crystal clear freshwater lake.

Many of the dive sites in Samana are suitable for advanced divers, but plenty of dives can be enjoyed by all levels of experience. Shallow reef sites are ideal for beginners, and the sea life is incredibly diverse and full of colour. Las Ballenas (Whale Rocks) is a popular place to start diving. The site reaches a maximum depth of 17m and features interesting cave and tunnel formations, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Dive centres in Samana will take you to the best and most suitable areas for individual divers, depending on experience and requirements, but training and PADI certification is available for those who want to learn new skills or refresh existing ones.

Samana is also famous for its whale watching, as this is an important place for migrating North Atlantic Humpback whales from December to mid-April when they come to breed or calve in the area. This is an incredible experience not to miss if you take a diving holiday in Samana during this time.