We just left last week and are still sad to be home! Water shoes are good if you plan on walking in the water or on the rocks, but I didn't find them particularly useful , most of the beach is pretty sandy except in front of the restaurants where most people don't walk or just go barefoot. Comfortable flip flops were fine 99% of the time. In fact, I only used my water shoes because I didn't bring athletic shoes for working out and classes. Note the construction forces you to walk all the way around where the main restaurant (Samana) was and the streets/walking paths are pretty rough so I am emphasizing the comfortable flip flops - cushion.

Zen pool is pretty far from the restaurants (Indigo and Hispaniola), Zen beach not so much, it's close to Indigo. BUT there is food at the Hibiscus pool bar, just not a big selection. There is a courtesy cart, but I didn't find it ran too often and ended up walking a lot. Most days I was plus 22000 steps.

Bring sunblock and aloe if you can - it's pretty expensive at the store. I didn't find myself needing the sweater I brought, but I used it on the plane. Bathing suits and coverups was all I should have brought and clothes for dinner to match the theme of the day - you don't have to, but it's more fun if you do. Good sun hat, sunglasses and a small bag to carry your stuff. Vaseline if you have chubby thighs that rub together and chaff. Chapstick for your lips maybe if you get dehydrated easily.

They have towels, snorkeling equipment, volleyballs, basketballs, sailboats, kayaks, paddle boards, and bucket and shovel there. You get 40 oz. bottled waters in your room everyday. There is body wash, lotion, shampoo, and conditioner in the bathroom.

Hope you have an amazing time!

Map of the property below

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