Playa Madama

Palm trees over turquoise water and a rocky headland at Playa Madama
Beach guide · Playa Madama

Playa Madama.

A tiny hidden cove at the end of a forest trail. How to get there from Las Galeras, how long the walk takes and what to bring.

Las Galeras · Samaná · Dominican RepublicPlaya Madama
Hidden cove40-min trailBoat tripsNo services
The beaches › Playa Madama
About the beach

The secret cove.

Playa Madama is a small crescent of sand tucked between rocky headlands east of Las Galeras, with clear water and forest right down to the shore. It is quiet, sheltered and small, which makes it feel like your own private beach on a good day.

Getting there is part of the fun: a walk past an orchard and through the trees, or a short boat ride along the coast.

How to get there

Trail or boat.

On foot

Get a ride (taxi or motoconcho) to the trailhead a few kilometers east of town. From there, the walk takes about 40 minutes each way, through an orchard and then forest. Ask your driver to drop you at the right spot and arrange the pickup.

By boat

Many boat trips from the town beach combine Madama with Playa Frontón. Agree on the price, the stops and the pickup time before you set off.

Plan ahead

What to bring.

  • Walking shoes for the trail.
  • Water and snacks. There are no facilities.
  • Snorkel gear: the clear water is good for snorkeling on calm days.
  • Sun protection, insect repellent and a dry bag.
No lifeguards and no services. Tell someone where you are going, and take your trash with you.
Questions

Playa Madama FAQ.

How long is the walk to Playa Madama?

About 40 minutes each way from the trailhead east of Las Galeras.

Can I get to Playa Madama by boat?

Yes. Boats from the Las Galeras town beach often combine Madama with Playa Frontón.

Is there food at Playa Madama?

No. Bring water and snacks.

More beaches

Keep exploring.

Cliffs and reef at Frontón, or a long day at Rincón.