Saona Island Travel Guide: Discover the Dominican Republic’s Tropical Paradise

Located just off the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, Saona Island (Isla Saona) is a dreamlike tropical escape known for its turquoise waters, palm-lined beaches, and unspoiled nature. As part of the protected Cotubanamá National Park, the island is a haven for eco-tourists and beach lovers alike.
 

Most travelers visit Saona Island on a day trip from Punta Cana, Bayahibe, or La Romana, making it one of the most popular excursions in the country. But this isn't your average tourist stop—it’s a journey into a postcard-perfect slice of Caribbean paradise.

📍 Where is Saona Island?

Saona Island is located in the Caribbean Sea, approximately:

25 km (15.5 miles) off the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic

Near the town of Bayahibe, the main port for boat tours

About 2 hours from Punta Cana (including drive + boat)

The island is part of the Cotubanamá National Park (formerly Parque Nacional del Este) and covers over 110 square kilometers (42 square miles), making it one of the largest islands in the Dominican Republic.

🏝️ Why Visit Saona Island?

Saona Island offers a rare combination of natural beauty, serenity, and adventure. Visitors come to:

Walk on powdery white sand beaches

Swim in shallow, crystal-clear waters

Snorkel among coral reefs and tropical fish

Enjoy a traditional Dominican lunch under swaying palms

See starfish in natural pools

Explore mangrove forests and bird habitats

Whether you're seeking pure relaxation or eco-tourism experiences, Saona Island delivers.

☀️ Best Time to Visit Saona Island

The island is a year-round destination, but conditions vary slightly:

December to April (Dry Season): The best weather—sunny, dry, and ideal for beach activities.

May to August: Warmer and more humid, but still very popular.

September to November: Fewer tourists, occasional rain; some risk of hurricanes.

Tip:

Avoid Sundays if you want to skip the local crowds. Weekdays are more peaceful.

🚤 How to Get to Saona Island

There are no bridges or airstrips on the island, so you'll need to arrive by sea:

🔹 Common Departure Points:

Bayahibe (most popular and closest)

La Romana

Punta Cana (hotel pickup + transfer to Bayahibe)

🔹 Types of Tours:

Catamaran Cruises – Relaxed ride with music and drinks

Speedboats – Faster and sometimes include stops at mangroves or fishing villages

Private Charters – Customized for families, couples, or groups

Most tours include:

Hotel pickup/drop-off

Round-trip boat ride

Buffet lunch on the island

Open bar (rum, beer, soda)

Snorkeling gear

Stop at a natural swimming pool

🌊 Top Things to Do on Saona Island

1. Relax on Canto de la Playa

This is one of the most secluded and beautiful beaches on the island. Canto de la Playa offers calm waves, fewer tourists, and excellent photo opportunities.

2. Swim in the Natural Pool

On the way to the island, boats often stop at a shallow sandbank known as the Natural Pool (Piscina Natural), where you can walk waist-deep in clear blue water and spot giant starfish.

3. Snorkeling

Although not a diving hotspot, Saona has several shallow reefs with colorful fish and corals. Most tours provide basic snorkel equipment.

4. Visit Mano Juan Fishing Village

This tiny, authentic village is home to a small community of locals. You can visit the Sea Turtle Sanctuary, see painted wooden houses, and buy local crafts.

5. Explore the Mangroves

Some tours include a detour through mangrove forests, rich with birdlife and unique ecosystems that are crucial for marine biodiversity.

🍽️ Dining on Saona Island

Most tours offer a buffet lunch right on the beach, typically including:

Grilled fish or chicken

Rice and beans

Salads

Tropical fruits

Rum and beer

Higher-end tours may offer lobster, gourmet touches, and table service under a cabana. There are no restaurants or supermarkets on the island, so outside of tours, food options are limited.

🏨 Can You Stay Overnight on Saona Island?

Yes—but options are very limited. Saona is protected by national park regulations, so development is minimal.

🌴 Where to Stay:

Eco-Lodge at Mano Juan – Basic guesthouses with solar power and rustic charm

Camping – Some locals offer camping sites near the beach

Tip:

Most visitors opt for a day trip and stay in Punta Cana, Bayahibe, or La Romana, where hotels and resorts are plentiful.

📸 Instagrammable Spots on Saona Island

Natural Pool with starfish in clear water

Palm-fringed beaches with white sand

Rustic wooden huts in Mano Juan

Long catamarans docked on turquoise seas

Hammocks swaying between coconut trees

🐢 Wildlife & Nature on Saona Island

Saona Island is not just about beaches—it’s a protected natural area with diverse flora and fauna, including:

Sea turtles (especially hawksbill turtles)

Pelicans and frigate birds

Starfish and colorful reef fish

Mangroves, seagrass beds, and coral reefs

If you’re into eco-tourism, this island offers a glimpse of Caribbean marine biodiversity and fragile ecosystems in a relatively untouched setting.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is Saona Island Family-Friendly?

Absolutely! With calm, shallow waters and gentle boat rides, Saona is great for:

Kids learning to snorkel

Family beach time

Educational stops (e.g., turtle sanctuary)

Some tours may have age restrictions for speedboats, so check in advance.

📌 Tips for Visiting Saona Island

Bring biodegradable sunscreen – protect the coral reefs

Pack water shoes – rocky patches in some areas

Bring cash – no ATMs; local vendors accept only pesos or dollars

Charge your camera – no power outlets on most of the island

Stay hydrated – it gets hot, especially mid-day

Protect your belongings – dry bags are useful for the boat trip

💸 How Much Does It Cost to Visit Saona Island?

Typical Day Trip Prices:

Group tour (standard): $60–$90 USD per person

Premium/luxury tour: $100–$150 USD

Private charter: $300–$600+ (for small groups)

Prices vary based on departure location, boat type, included meals, and group size.

🧭 Combine With Other Attractions

If you're based in the Punta Cana or Bayahibe area, consider pairing Saona Island with:

Altos de Chavón: Cultural village near La Romana

Scuba diving in Bayahibe

Cueva de las Maravillas: A limestone cave with Taíno petroglyphs

Cotubanamá National Park land excursions

🌐 Is Saona Island Worth Visiting?

Yes—100%. Saona Island is one of those rare places where the reality matches the photos. Its natural beauty, laid-back vibes, and unique ecological character make it more than just a beach day. It’s a Caribbean experience that blends culture, nature, and pure relaxation.

Whether you're sipping a rum cocktail by the shore or swimming with starfish in impossibly clear waters, a visit to Saona Island will stay with you long after the sun sets on your vacation.

📅 Final Thoughts: Plan Your Saona Escape

From the minute your boat sets off to the moment your toes touch the sand, Saona Island captures everything that makes the Dominican Republic a top destination: vibrant colors, warm hospitality, and wild natural beauty.

If you only take one excursion during your trip, make it Saona. It’s more than a day trip—it’s a memory in the making.