Samaná was originally larger covering the area of what is now the María Trinidad Sánchez province, before being divided during the Trujillo era.

The highest mountain in this range (and in the province) is located in the eastern portion and is called La Meseta.

This is considered to be the first instance of violent opposition to the Spanish conquistadors in the Americas, as they were attacked with a barrage of spears and arrows from the native warriors.

[4] In 1756, the city of Santa Bárbara de Samaná was officially established, with European families mostly from the Canary Islands of southern Spain, in a place called Carenero Grande.

The town was organized as a Parish of the La Vega Party, within the territorial division that the Captaincy General of Santo Domingo had then.

Their culture contrasted with the Hispanic culture of the country as they maintain many elements of 19th century African-American culture—such as their brand of English, food, games, community organizations, English names, manners, music and some recipes that have been preserved as a result of their isolation, which until the 20th century was accessible only by boat.

When it was created it covered both sides of the Samaná Bay, but then in 1938 Sabana de la Mar became part of the El Seibo province.

When the Julia Molina province (currently María Trinidad Sánchez) was created in 1958, most of its territory was taken from Samaná.

Lately tourism is becoming the main economic activity in the province due to its white sand beaches and clear waters.

There is a significant tourist development evident throughout the Samaná peninsula, particularly that of large all-inclusive resorts, in anticipation of the increased tourism to follow the road's completion.