Playa Ermitaño
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Playa Ermitaño

4.8
·186 reviews·, Dominican Republic

A secluded Caribbean gem with crystal-clear waters and a unique warm-over-cold current, accessible by boat or jungle hike.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Tranquil vibes, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Playa Ermitaño

Playa Ermitaño

Best Time

Morning

Tranquil vibes, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A secluded Caribbean gem with crystal-clear waters and a unique warm-over-cold current, accessible by boat or jungle hike.

4.8
(186 reviews)

"The best crystalline water in the north coast reached only by boat. Highly recommended!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Boat Trip Recommended

Easier access via boat from Playa Morón or El Valle. Enjoy the scenic ride!

Jungle Hike Prep

Wear sturdy shoes, bring bug spray for the jungle hike.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Clear Waters

Crystal Clear Waters

The entire beach stretch

Dive into incredibly clear, refreshing waters with a unique warm-over-cold current phenomenon. Perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Reddit
Jungle Hike Adventure

Jungle Hike Adventure

From Playa La Cana

Embark on a 30-minute hike through dense jungle to reach this secluded paradise. An adventure for the intrepid!

Reddit
Fresh Coconut Water

Fresh Coconut Water

Beach vendors

Sip on refreshing, freshly opened coconut water while soaking up the sun and enjoying the serene atmosphere.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Getting to Paradise: Boat or Hike?

Playa Ermitaño is a secluded gem. Access is primarily by boat from nearby Playa Morón or El Valle, offering a scenic 20-minute journey. Alternatively, adventurous souls can embark on a 30-minute jungle hike from Playa La Cana, but be prepared for dense terrain and bring insect repellent. Reddit

Embrace the Elements: Unique Waters

Experience the unusual phenomenon of cold currents beneath warm, crystal-clear waters at Playa Ermitaño. Locals attribute this to freshwater springs from the mountains. It's a refreshing and unique sensation perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Tranquil vibes, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Warm sun, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Boat Trip Recommended

Easier access via boat from Playa Morón or El Valle. Enjoy the scenic ride! Reddit

Jungle Hike Prep

Wear sturdy shoes, bring bug spray for the jungle hike. Reddit

Swim the Full Stretch

Explore different areas of the beach for the best swimming spots. Reddit

Pack Essentials

Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen as amenities are limited. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Boat Trip Recommended

Easier access via boat from Playa Morón or El Valle. Enjoy the scenic ride! Reddit

Jungle Hike Prep

Wear sturdy shoes, bring bug spray for the jungle hike. Reddit

Swim the Full Stretch

Explore different areas of the beach for the best swimming spots. Reddit

Pack Essentials

Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen as amenities are limited. Reddit

Respect the Nature

Help keep this beautiful beach clean by taking your trash with you. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(186 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Playa Ermitaño is lauded as a beautiful, secluded paradise with crystal-clear waters and a unique warm-over-cold current phenomenon. Visitors appreciate the refreshing swim, the option for jungle hikes, and the tranquil atmosphere. However, some reviews note the presence of trash, which detracts from the otherwise pristine natural beauty.

"Wonderful place! You can get here by hiking through the surrounding woods and exploring the fruits and vegetation on your way to the beach. You can take a boat from playa Moron and get there in less than 20 minutes.
Spend a few hours here swimming, snorkeling, hiking, watching the cows roam around and drinking up some fresh coconut water. You can also camp out here.
I haven’t yet, I will update this review when I camp out here.
It really is a beautiful experience. Unlike many other beaches, the current underneath is cold while the water above is warm. According to locals the cold current underneath is due to the fresh water going into the beach from the nearby mountains. The water is Crystal clear and so refreshing. Make sure you walk and swim the entire stretch of the beach, some areas are better than others."

Jasmin E

"Went here on an Excursuon from The V Samana Resort.
The Beach is nice and the water is clear. Unfortunatly there is a lot trash which is a shame.
Nontheless I had a good time."

Terence Hill

"Gorgeous secluded beach! Crystal clear water. Generally a place where people party but vibe is respectful and there is plenty of beach to do your thing. Have been twice via a boat ride from El Valle.

Follow along on our journey by subscribing to our YouTube channel Newtons Abroad."

Newtons Abroad

What People Like

Crystal clear waters
Unique water temperature
Secluded paradise

What People Dislike

Trash on beach

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common ways to reach Playa Ermitaño are by boat from Playa Morón or El Valle, which takes about 20 minutes. For the adventurous, a 30-minute hike through the jungle is possible from Playa La Cana, but be prepared for dense terrain and bring insect repellent. Reddit

Transportation to the departure points (Playa Morón or El Valle) might require renting a scooter or arranging a taxi. The boat trip itself is usually arranged locally. Reddit

The hike from Playa La Cana is described as spectacular but challenging, starting on a clear path that fades into dense jungle. It's recommended for hiking enthusiasts who don't mind a bit of an adventure. Reddit

No, Playa Ermitaño is not accessible by car. Access is either by boat or by hiking. Reddit

Yes, excursions from resorts like The V Samana Resort have been mentioned, and boat trips are commonly offered from nearby beaches. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no official entrance fees or tickets required for Playa Ermitaño itself, as it's a natural beach. However, you will incur costs for boat transportation or any scooter rentals for the hike. Reddit

Playa Ermitaño is a natural beach and does not have set opening or closing hours. It's accessible during daylight hours. Reddit

No, there is no admission fee to enter Playa Ermitaño. Reddit

Camping is mentioned as a possibility at Playa Ermitaño, offering a unique overnight experience. Reddit

No specific entry restrictions are mentioned, but it's a natural environment, so respecting the surroundings is key. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling in the clear waters, hiking along the beach, and simply relaxing. Some visitors also enjoy watching the local cows roam. Reddit

Yes, the crystal-clear waters make it a good spot for snorkeling, allowing you to see the marine life. Reddit

Locals explain that the water has a unique characteristic of being cold underneath due to freshwater currents from nearby mountains, while the surface water is warm. Reddit

It can be a place where people party, but the vibe is generally respectful, and there's plenty of space. Mornings tend to be more tranquil. Reddit

It's advisable to bring your own water, snacks, sunscreen, and potentially a towel. Some vendors offer fresh coconut water. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there aren't formal restaurants, you can often find vendors selling fresh coconut water. It's best to bring your own snacks and drinks. Reddit

Limited options are available, primarily fresh coconut water. Bringing your own provisions is highly recommended. Reddit

Dining options are scarce directly at the beach. You'll find more choices in nearby towns like Las Terrenas or Samaná if you're not camping. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own picnic is a great idea to enjoy a meal with the stunning beach views. Reddit

Fresh coconut water is the most commonly mentioned drink available for purchase. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the crystal-clear turquoise waters, the lush jungle backdrop, and the unique shoreline. The contrast of the warm surface and cold undertow can be a unique story to tell visually. Reddit

Mornings offer softer light and fewer people, ideal for serene shots. Afternoons can provide vibrant colors, especially if there are interesting cloud formations. Reddit

The entire stretch of the beach offers beautiful perspectives. If you hike, the jungle path itself can provide interesting photographic elements. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean. Waterproof gear is a plus if you plan on getting close to the water. Reddit

Drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in natural areas. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Playa Ermitaño offers a unique experience for families, especially with its clear, shallow waters perfect for younger swimmers. The novelty of warm surface water with cooler undertows can be an exciting discovery for children. While amenities are limited, bringing along snacks and plenty of water is easy enough. The boat trip to the beach can also be an adventure in itself for kids. Reddit

Consider the accessibility for very young children; the boat ride is generally smooth, but the hike is not suitable for strollers or very young walkers. If opting for the boat, it's a fantastic way to introduce children to a more secluded and natural beach environment. Remember to pack sun protection and consider a beach umbrella for added comfort. Reddit

🚶 Adventurous Hikers

For those who love to explore off the beaten path, the hike to Playa Ermitaño from Playa La Cana is a must-do. This 30-minute trek through dense jungle offers a rewarding challenge and the chance to experience untouched nature. Be prepared for a path that can be less defined, requiring a good sense of direction and sturdy footwear. Reddit

Bring plenty of water, insect repellent, and perhaps a small first-aid kit. The solitude experienced during the hike and the feeling of discovery upon reaching the pristine beach are unparalleled. This route is ideal for travelers seeking an active and memorable journey to a less-visited destination. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Relaxation Seekers

If your goal is pure relaxation, Playa Ermitaño delivers with its secluded beauty and tranquil atmosphere, especially during the mornings. The unique sensation of the warm surface water combined with the cool undertow can be incredibly soothing. Find a quiet spot on the sand, listen to the gentle waves, and let the natural beauty wash over you. Reddit

Consider arranging a boat trip that allows you ample time to simply unwind. Pack a good book, your favorite music, and perhaps a comfortable mat. The absence of crowds and commercialization allows for a truly peaceful escape into nature. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating to Playa Ermitaño: Your Options

Reaching Playa Ermitaño is part of its allure, offering a choice between a scenic boat ride and an adventurous hike. The most popular method is by boat, typically departing from Playa Morón or El Valle. This journey takes approximately 20 minutes and provides stunning coastal views as you approach the secluded beach. Many local boat operators can be found at these departure points, ready to take you to this paradise. Reddit

For those seeking a more immersive experience, a hike from Playa La Cana is an option. This 30-minute trek winds through dense jungle, offering a chance to explore the local flora and fauna. While the path can be challenging and may fade at times, it's described as a spectacular adventure for hiking enthusiasts. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring insect repellent for this jungle expedition. Reddit

The Unique Waters of Playa Ermitaño

One of the most fascinating aspects of Playa Ermitaño is its peculiar water temperature phenomenon. Visitors often describe the surface water as warm and inviting, perfect for a refreshing dip. However, beneath the surface, a surprisingly cold current flows. Reddit

Local explanations suggest this unique thermal contrast is due to freshwater springs originating from the nearby mountains that feed into the beach. This creates an unusual but invigorating sensation for swimmers and snorkelers. The water itself is consistently praised for its crystal clarity, making it ideal for observing marine life and enjoying the underwater world. Reddit

Activities and Vibe at Playa Ermitaño

Playa Ermitaño offers a blend of relaxation and gentle activity. Swimming and snorkeling are top choices, thanks to the clear, unique waters. The entire stretch of the beach is worth exploring, as different areas might offer slightly different experiences or better conditions for water activities. Reddit

The atmosphere at Playa Ermitaño is generally described as respectful, even when it's a place for people to gather and party. It's a gorgeous, secluded beach that allows visitors to find their own space. Beyond water activities, some enjoy hiking along the shoreline or simply soaking in the natural beauty. The option to camp out here also adds to its unique appeal for those wanting to extend their stay in this paradise. Reddit

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