A layover in Samana is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Samaná El Catey International Airport sits just 60 minutes from the city center by Taxi / Private Transfer, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Samana, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Dominican Republic vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Samana is roughly 60 minutes from AZS via Taxi / Private Transfer. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in DOP. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Getting to Samana from the Airport
From AZS, the Taxi / Private Transfer gets you to Samana in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi / Private Transfer offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Samana layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$6 |
| Meal | ~$12 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$28 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at AZS aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Samana itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What to See and Do in Samana
For a layover visit to Samana, we’d suggest Walk the Samaná Malecón and Playa Las Ballenas (Las Terrenas). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside AZS, you can spend time at Duty-Free Shopping Samaná or try Relax in the Main Departure Lounge. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
In Samana
If you make it into town, El Mosquito Art Bar (Las Terrenas) is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Porto Restaurant & Bar (Las Terrenas).
Inside AZS
If you’re staying in the terminal, AZS Airport Bar & Eatery is your main option. Departure Gate Coffee & Snacks works too if you want something quick.
Need a Nap? Options at AZS
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, AZS has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at AZS for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Samana or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Samana doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from AZS, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.