Saona Island Guide: Tips for the #1 Dominican Excursion
Discover Saona Island with our guide on how to get there, what to do, when to visit, what to pack, dos and don’ts, and the best tours. Plan your trip today!
NATURE & OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
9/6/202515 min read
Saona Island (Isla Saona) is the #1 excursion in the Dominican Republic, known for its white sand beaches, clear turquoise water, and stunning location inside the protected Cotubanamá National Park. Just off the southeastern coast, it’s a popular day trip from Punta Cana, Bayahibe, and La Romana, making it one of the easiest islands to explore.
Most Saona Island excursions include a scenic boat ride, time at the island’s famous natural pool with starfish, and a visit to the fishing village of Mano Juan, home to fewer than 500 residents. In this Saona Island guide, you’ll find tips on choosing the best tours, what to expect when you arrive, and how to make the most of your visit. Book a Saona Island day trip and experience why it’s considered the top excursion in the Dominican Republic.
Table of Contents
How To Get To Saona Island
The easiest way to visit Saona Island is by booking an organized Saona Island excursion, which usually includes hotel transfers, boat transportation, lunch, drinks, and a stop at the famous natural pool.
Some people also arrange trips directly with local fishermen or boat operators in Bayahibe. These private rides can be cheaper and more personal, but they are typically cash-only and may not include extras such as food, drinks, or safety equipment.
For a smooth and worry-free experience, an organized Saona Island tour is generally the better choice. Later in this guide, you’ll find our Best Saona Island Excursions section with top-rated tours and booking options.
Step 1: Getting to Bayahibe
Most Saona Island tours leave from Bayahibe, a small fishing village on the southeast coast. If you book an organized excursion, hotel pickup is usually included, making the process simple.
If you prefer to drive yourself, the journey is easy and well-marked. From Punta Cana, take the highway toward La Romana and follow the signs for Bayahibe; the trip takes around one to one and a half hours. From La Romana, it’s just a twenty-minute drive on the main road, and from Santo Domingo, the fastest route is via the Autopista del Este, which takes about two hours. Parking is available in Bayahibe near the marina, making it convenient if you’re arriving by car.
Renting a car can give you more flexibility if you plan to explore other nearby areas. Check car rental prices here
Step 2: Choosing Your Boat
When you book a Saona Island tour, you can travel by speedboat, catamaran, or enjoy a mix of both. Taking a speedboat gets you to Saona in about forty to fifty minutes and gives you more time on the island. The ride is fast and fun, and most tours include a stop at the natural pool, where you can swim in crystal-clear water and see starfish up close.
A catamaran takes longer, about one and a half to two hours, but the journey is part of the experience. You can relax on deck with music, enjoy a drink, and take in the open views of the Caribbean.
Many tours combine the two options, letting you start with a speedboat and return on a catamaran, or the other way around. This is the most popular choice because it gives you both excitement and relaxation in a single trip.
Best Time to Visit Saona Island
The best time to visit Saona Island depends on the weather, crowds, and prices. Around 2,000 to 2,500 people visit the island daily, and during busy months, the number can be even higher. If you want sunny days and calm water, the high season from December to April is the most popular time. But if you prefer fewer people and better deals on tours, the months outside the peak season are worth considering.
December to April – Best Weather and Busiest Time
From December to April, Saona Island has the best weather of the year, with temperatures between 27°C and 29°C (81°F to 84°F). Most days are sunny, the water is calm, and conditions are great for boat tours and snorkeling. This is also the busiest period, so expect more visitors and higher prices. If you plan to visit during these months, book your Saona Island tour early to get the best spots and avoid last-minute price increases.
May to June – Fewer Crowds and Comfortable Weather
May and June are a good choice if you prefer a quieter atmosphere and smaller groups. Temperatures range from 28°C to 30°C (82°F to 86°F), and while there may be occasional short showers, most days are sunny and pleasant.
The sea remains calm, which is perfect for snorkeling and boat trips. Fewer visitors make it easier to book tours, and prices are often lower compared to the high season. Humidity is slightly higher during these months, but mornings and evenings are still comfortable.
July to August – Hot, Sunny, and Busy with Families
During July and August, temperatures rise to 29°C to 32°C (84°F to 90°F), and the sea stays warm for swimming. Many families visit during this period, so Saona Island feels busier than usual. Short tropical showers are common but pass quickly, leaving plenty of sunshine for the rest of the day. If you plan a Saona Island excursion, it’s best to start early in the morning when the weather is cooler.
September to November – Quiet Beaches and Lower Prices
From September to November, Saona Island is much quieter, and prices for tours and accommodations are usually lower. Temperatures range from 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F), and you’ll often have more space to enjoy the beaches.
Short tropical showers are common but are often followed by clear skies and beautiful sunsets. Since this period falls within the hurricane season, it’s a good idea to check the Saona Island weather forecast before booking and stay flexible with your plans.
For more details about the weather in the Dominican Republic, visit our Dominican Republic Weather Guide.
Best Things to Do on Saona Island
There’s plenty to enjoy once you arrive. You can relax on soft white sand, swim in shallow natural pools, explore the island’s small fishing village, or snorkel in the clear waters of Cotubanamá National Park. Most Saona Island excursions include a mix of relaxing, sightseeing, and activities, so you get to experience the island’s highlights in one visit.
Relax on Saona Beaches
Saona Island is famous for its stunning beaches, and each area offers something different.
Canto de la Playa is one of the quietest spots, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying untouched nature. There are no facilities here, so bring your own water and essentials.
Mano Juan Beach, close to the Sea Turtle Sanctuary, is calm and peaceful, offering a more local atmosphere.
For a livelier setting, Playa del Gato is included in many Saona Island excursions and has restaurants, bars, and loungers right by the water.
If you prefer fewer people, Playa El Toro is a quieter stretch where you can relax away from the crowds.
Swim in the Natural Pool
The Natural Pool is one of Saona’s highlights and is included in almost every excursion. Just off the coast, this shallow sandbank lets you stand waist-deep in turquoise water surrounded by the Caribbean Sea.
Here you can spot bright-orange starfish on the sandy bottom, sip a cocktail served right in the water, and take some of the best photos of your trip.
Snorkeling and Wildlife
Although Saona Island excursions aren’t mainly sold as snorkeling trips, some tours include short stops where you can explore the reefs. Around El Peñón and Catuano Beach, you’ll find colorful fish, sea turtles, and sometimes stingrays gliding through the clear water. Since most tours don’t provide snorkeling gear, bringing your own full-face mask snorkeling gear (Buy here) makes the experience much better.
Wildlife isn’t limited to the water. You might see frigatebirds and pelicans flying above, dolphins swimming near boats, and bright starfish in the Natural Pool.
Dance Bachata, Merengue, and Reggaeton
Music is part of the Saona experience, and the staff often invites guests to dance during the trip. On the beach, you’ll hear Bachata, Merengue, and Reggaeton, and everyone is welcome to join in.
If your excursion includes a catamaran, the music continues on board with drinks and dancing as the boat sails back along the coast.
Explore Mano Juan and Shop Local
Mano Juan is the only inhabited village on Saona Island and offers a closer look at everyday life. The streets are sandy, the wooden houses are painted in bright colors, and the atmosphere is calm and simple. Walking through the village feels like stepping into a postcard, far from resorts and large developments.
You can visit the Sea Turtle Sanctuary to learn about local conservation work and see how rescued turtles are cared for before being released into the sea. Around the village, small vendors sell handmade jewelry, wood carvings, paintings, and other souvenirs. Prices are usually negotiable, so polite bargaining is expected and part of the experience. Supporting these local artisans helps the community while letting you take home something unique. For more tips, check out our Shopping Guide.
After exploring, you can relax under the palms with a fresh coconut, book a beachfront massage, or join a game of volleyball on the sand before continuing your tour.
Food and Drinks on Saona Island
A trip to Saona Island is also an opportunity to enjoy fresh, delicious Caribbean flavors in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable.
Most Saona Island excursions include lunch and drinks, but what’s offered can vary depending on the tour you book. Standard trips usually serve a buffet with grilled meats, rice, pasta, salads, and plenty of fresh tropical fruits. Drinks are also included, with unlimited rum, soft drinks, and water to keep you refreshed.
Premium or VIP tours often take the experience a step further. Some include freshly prepared seafood such as grilled fish or lobster, though lobster is becoming less common to help protect local populations. Higher-end tours also tend to offer better-quality cocktails, upgraded bars, and private dining setups on quieter stretches of sand.
If you have dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free preferences, it’s best to confirm menu options when booking. Bringing a few snacks can also be helpful if you want extra options.
Dominican Dishes Served on Saona Island
While there are no restaurants on Saona since it’s a protected area, the meals offered on excursions often feature classic Dominican dishes. You might be served La Bandera Dominicana, a traditional plate of rice, beans, grilled chicken or pork, and fresh salad. Whole pescado frito, or fried fish served with lime and crispy tostones, is another favorite.
Fresh tostones are a common side, and tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, passion fruit, and coconut are usually part of lunch. These dishes give you a simple but authentic taste of Dominican cuisine while enjoying the island setting.
For more local food tips, check our Dominican Food Guide
Drinks Available During Saona Island Excursions
Most tours include a selection of refreshing drinks throughout the day. Cuba Libres, made with rum, Coke, and lime, are the most common choice, alongside chilled Piña Coladas made with pineapple, coconut cream, and rum. Fresh coconuts are often available to buy directly from locals, and they can add a splash of rum if you’d like.
Some excursions also include Mamajuana, the traditional Dominican mix of rum, red wine, honey, and spices.
For longer days on the beach, bringing a Travel Tumbler (Buy here) helps keep your drinks cold under the Caribbean sun.
Bringing Your Own Food or Drinks
Although most Saona Island tours include food and drinks, you can bring extras if you prefer. Snacks are especially useful if you’re traveling with kids or have specific dietary needs. You can also bring your own drinks, but glass bottles aren’t allowed to help keep the island clean. Some visitors bring a small bottle of premium rum to mix into the cocktails provided if their tour doesn’t include top-shelf option
What to Pack for Saona Island
Packing smart makes your Saona Island excursion easier and more enjoyable. Since you’ll spend most of the day on the beach, in boats, and at the Natural Pool, focus on lightweight, waterproof, and comfortable essentials.
✅A Small Backpack, Dry Bag or Waterproof Beach Bag – A lightweight, sand-proof design is best to carry your essentials without hassle.
✅ Towel – Towels are not provided on the island. Check if your resort allows you to bring their towels, or bring a lightweight, quick-drying travel beach towel.
✅ Waterproof Phone Case – Protect your phone while capturing stunning moments, especially at the Natural Pool with starfish!
✅ GoPro or Action Camera – Perfect for underwater and adventure shots.
✅ Reusable Water Bottle or Tumbler – Most tours provide water, but bringing your own ensures you stay hydrated throughout the day. Look for an insulated one to keep your drink cool.
✅ Cash (Dominican Pesos or USD) – There are no ATMs on Saona Island. Bring cash for souvenirs, tips, or extra drinks from local vendors.
✅ Swimsuit (Bring an Extra!) – You’ll be in and out of the water all day. Having a dry change makes things more comfortable. Quick-drying swimsuits are best.
✅ Light Cover-Up or Dry Clothes – After a full day of sun, salt, and swimming, changing into something fresh makes the return trip more comfortable. Quick-dry cover-ups are ideal.
✅ Flip-Flops or Water Shoes – The beaches are soft and sandy, but if you're visiting the Natural Pool or walking on rocky areas, water shoes help.
✅ Sunglasses – The sun in the Dominican Republic is strong—protect your eyes with polarized sunglasses.
✅ Sun Hat – A wide-brim hat provides extra shade and protection.
✅ Reef-Safe Sunscreen – Regular sunscreens damage marine life and coral reefs. Use reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen to protect Saona’s waters. Buy this before your trip so you don’t overpay at airport shops or local tourist stores.
✅ Bug Spray – Mosquitoes aren’t a huge problem on the beach, but if you visit Mano Juan village or explore inland, a good mosquito repellent is essential.
✅ Motion Sickness Pills if You Get Seasick - The speedboat ride can be rough on windy days. If you’re prone to seasickness, bring medication just in case.
Saona Island Dos & Don’ts
Planning ahead helps you make the most of your Saona Island excursion while protecting the island’s delicate ecosystem. These practical tips will help you enjoy your trip, avoid common mistakes, and respect the natural beauty and local communities.
✅ DO: Book Your Tour with a Reputable Operator
Choosing the right operator can make or break your Saona trip. Some companies overload boats, serve low-quality food, or rush the entire experience. To avoid surprises, book in advance with a well-reviewed tour company where you can compare prices, inclusions, and real reviews. Websites like Viator are great for finding the best Saona tours with honest reviews.
✅ DO: Prepare for a Full-Day Trip (Especially from Punta Cana)
A Saona Island excursion is a full-day trip of about ten to twelve hours from Punta Cana, including hotel pickup, a transfer to Bayahibe, and a scenic boat ride to the island, so prepare accordingly to make the most of your day.
✅ DO: Protect Yourself from the Sun
The Caribbean sun is stronger than you think. Sunburn can happen FAST, and nothing ruins a trip like painful, peeling skin. Prepare by using reef-safe sunscreen, wearing a hat, sunglasses, and a light cover-up, reapplying sunscreen after swimming, and bringing aloe vera gel for quick relief if needed.
✅ DO: Respect the Environment & Wildlife
Saona Island is a protected national park, and everything you do matters. Leave no trash behind. Bring a small bag to collect your own trash; even biodegradable items like fruit peels can disrupt the natural ecosystem. Observe wildlife from a distance. Picking up or touching the starfish in the Natural Pool can harm or even kill them.
✅ DO: Bring Cash (Small Bills Preferred)
Saona Island has no ATMs, and while most tours include food and drinks, you might want to tip your guide or boat crew, buy souvenirs, or grab an extra cocktail. Cash is the only way to pay. Credit card machines are rarely available.
✅ DO: Choose Your Drinks Wisely
Most tours offer unlimited rum and soft drinks, but be careful with alcohol in the heat. Drinking too much under the sun can lead to dehydration, dizziness, or even heat exhaustion
✅ DO: Respect Local Culture & Communities
If your tour stops in Mano Juan village, it’s important to be a respectful visitor. Ask before taking photos of locals. Engage with the community, chat with vendors, and buy souvenirs directly from them. Learn about the turtle sanctuary. If you have extra school supplies, kids' toys, or small gifts, donating them to the village school or local families is greatly appreciated.
✅ DO: Take Amazing Photos (But Be Present, Too!)
Saona Island is one of the most breathtaking places in the Dominican Republic. You’ll want to capture the moment, so bring a waterproof phone case or GoPro to capture great shots for Instagram and social media, but also take time to enjoy the views without the camera.
✅ DO: Consider If Saona Island Is Right for Kids and Elderly Travelers
Saona Island can be family-friendly, but the long journey may be challenging for some. If you’re traveling with young children, bring floaties, extra snacks, and plenty of shade. Seniors can enjoy the trip too, especially on catamaran tours, which are more comfortable than speedboats. The island is not wheelchair accessible, as boats lack ramps and sandy terrain makes movement difficult.
❌ DON’T Expect Luxury Facilities
There are no five-star hotels, fancy restrooms, or high-end restaurants. The island is rustic, which is part of its charm.
❌ DON’T Fall for Tourist Traps
Some vendors overcharge for souvenirs, photos, or “exclusive” tours. Stick with your pre-booked tour to avoid extra fees.
❌ DON’T Expect Phone Service or fast WiFi
Once you’re on the island, you’ll be almost offline. Enjoy the break!
Bonus: Can You Stay Overnight on Saona Island?
Yes, you can stay overnight on Saona Island, but options are very limited, so booking in advance is essential. A few small guesthouses offer simple, comfortable stays close to the beach, giving you a chance to experience the island after the day-tour crowds leave.
Casa Rosada Beach Front (Book here) is the most popular choice, with private rooms, air conditioning, a terrace, and an on-site restaurant just steps from the sand. For a more rustic experience, Saona Lodge (Check prices) offers a quiet, nature-focused stay for those looking to disconnect.
Spending the night on Saona feels very different from a day trip. Once the boats leave, the island becomes peaceful and calm, perfect for enjoying quiet beach walks, stargazing, and watching the sunrise over the Caribbean Sea.
Keep in mind that amenities are basic. While Casa Rosada offers more comfort, most guesthouses have limited electricity and use fans instead of air conditioning. If you prefer more facilities, staying in Bayahibe or Punta Cana and joining a day tour might be a better option.
For the latest availability and rates, check trusted booking platforms like Hotels.com and Booking.com
Book Your Saona Island Experience
Now that you know everything about visiting Saona Island, it’s time to book your trip! With so many tour options, it can be hard to know which one is the best value for your money. We will help you choose the perfect tour and find the best deals.
1️⃣Saona Island (Small Group Tour)
Why Choose This Tour?
✔️ Smaller Group, Better Experience – Enjoy a more personalized tour.
✔️ Visit a Local Village – Explore Mano Juan, a unique fishing village and home to a turtle conservation project.
✔️ Relax on Secluded Beaches – Discover the untouched beauty of Abanico Beach and Palmilla Beach with crystal-clear waters.
✔️ Swim in the famous Natural Pool.
✔️ Delicious Meals & Drinks: Start with a simple breakfast and enjoy a Dominican-style buffet lunch by the beach.
2️⃣ Quetzal Catamaran Cruise Prestige to Saona Island
Why Choose This Tour?
✔️ Luxury Catamaran Experience – Sail on a spacious and comfortable 75-foot catamaran
✔️ Snorkeling at Catuano Reef – Discover vibrant marine life with provided snorkeling gear.
✔️ Relax at Las Palmillas Natural Pool – Swim in crystal-clear waters and spot starfish.
✔️ All-Inclusive Food & Drinks – Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch on board with unlimited beer, rum, and soft drinks.
✔️ Explore Saona Island – Spend time on pristine beaches with soft white sand and turquoise waters.
3️⃣ Saona Island Private Tour
Why Choose This Tour?
✔️ Exclusive & Personalized – Enjoy a private Saona Island tour tailored just for you.
✔️ Luxury Transportation – Travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle from Punta Cana.
✔️ Flexible Itinerary – Customize your trip with snorkeling, sightseeing, or relaxing on a secluded beach.
✔️ Beachfront Lunch & Drinks – Enjoy a freshly prepared meal with the option to upgrade to lobster & wine.
✔️ Visit the Natural Pool
✅ Final Checklist Before Booking Your Saona Trip
✔️ Pick the right tour – Want a party vibe? Go for a catamaran. Want luxury? Book VIP.
✔️ Book early – Prices go up during peak season (December–April). If you see a tour at a great price, book it ASAP. Saona Island is one of the most popular day trips in the Dominican Republic, and the best tours sell out fast!
✔️ Check what’s included – Some tours charge extra for drinks or snorkeling gear.
By now, you’re fully prepared for your trip to Saona Island! You know which tours to book, what to pack, and how to make the most of your experience.
It’s time to make it happen! Book your Saona tour today
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