The Samaná peninsula in the Dominican Republic has reached a transformative turning point for its tourism and real estate sectors, as developer Blu Terrenas has formally opened the first phase of its ambitious mixed-use master development and launched construction on the highly anticipated Almare Beach Resort Las Terrenas, Curio Collection by Hilton.
This dual milestone signals the start of a project that is projected to reshape the region’s economic profile while prioritizing environmental stewardship. Enzo Odoguardi, chief executive officer of the Mirage Group — the parent firm behind the large-scale development — emphasized that the entire project is conceptualized as a purpose-built sustainable tropical city. It is designed to deliver broad-based long-term economic growth to the region, balancing cutting-edge modern urban infrastructure with proactive protection and preservation of the area’s unique natural ecosystems.
Covering a sprawling footprint of more than 3 million square meters, the full build-out of Blu Terrenas will pack an extraordinarily diverse range of residential, commercial, leisure and public amenities into the development. Future residents and visitors will have access to 2,375 residential units ranging from apartments to private villas, multiple internationally branded hotels, a full-service regional shopping center, a curated lineup of themed dining destinations, a European-inspired French promenade, a classic Italian public piazza, an exclusive beach club, a 1.7-kilometer navigable inland waterway, a large protected ecological park, an open-air amphitheater for cultural events, a modern convention center for business gatherings, and a wide range of dedicated wellness and recreational facilities.
Beyond its physical infrastructure, the development is built around a core commitment to supporting local communities. Project analysts estimate that the full build-out and ongoing operation of Blu Terrenas will generate more than 2,500 direct and indirect jobs for local residents. To ensure local workers can access these new employment opportunities, the development will also include a specialized tourism industry training academy, targeted youth skills development programs, and a suite of additional community-focused social initiatives designed to lift up regional livelihoods.
Alongside the completion of the first phase of the broader mixed-use development, construction has officially commenced on the Almare Beach Resort Las Terrenas, which will operate under Hilton’s upscale Curio Collection brand. The 226-key beachfront resort is currently on track to welcome its first guests in 2028, and will feature a host of premium amenities including four distinct swimming pools, a full-service luxury spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, outdoor paddle courts, a private resort beach club, and multiple chef-led dining venues. The new resort will mark a major expansion of Hilton’s luxury hospitality footprint across the Dominican Republic, cementing the country’s position as a top Caribbean tourist destination for international travelers.