Among Samaná’s most secluded and historic beaches, few make it to the golden Playa Morón–approximately 6 kilometers (4 miles)–but the trek rewards those who find its long, golden sands. You’ll ride past farmlands, fruit trees and bumpy gravel roads to reach the beach entrance. Once there, it’s a world of seclusion with turquoise waters for a swim. Stay close to shore, as there are strong currents. While on the beach, notice the original 18th century French canons once used by Napoleon’s army in 1802, when France occupied these parts to mount a defense and crush the revolt of enslaved Africans in neighboring Haiti.

 *Photo and Content Courtesy of GoDominicanRepublic.com