With its crest of palm trees fringed by sugar-white sand and tempting Caribbean water, Cayo Levantado perfectly embodies the idyllic desert island. The small islet sits near the mouth of Bahía de Samaná. An exclusive private resort occupies half of the island, while the other end boasts a gorgeous public beach with calm, shallow water perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is a popular day-trip spot for visitors to Samaná, just a short boat ride away.