Many visitors write to us with the same question: “How to Get to Saona Island from my Resort?”
Saona Island, also known as Isla Saona, is located off the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean Sea. It is part of the Parque Nacional del Este (Eastern National Park) and is situated relatively close to the mainland. It is the largest island of the Dominican Republic. The island is accessible by boat, and it is a popular destination for tourists seeking beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a serene tropical environment.
Once on arrived on the island of Saona white sandy beaches, sea greapes, mangroves and countless coconut palms await vistors. The island is famous for its crystal clear waters along the coast of Saona and the chest deep natural pools.
How to Get there:
During a vacation in the Dominican Republic, a visit to Saona Island is one of the activities you “must-do”. From the beach resorts in Punta Cana and La Romana, multiple companies offer day tours and excursions on a daily basis to the island. The typical tour includes a catamaran ride from Bayahibe to the island. During the Catamaran, ride guests get entertained by dancing and drinking. Most packages also include a buffet lunch and a speedier motorboat trip back.
The highlight of each trip is a stop at natural pools (shallow sandbank with clear water). These sandbanks are home to hundreds of starfish. Booking one of these guided tours is the most popular way to get to Saona.
To find a company you can trust and that delivers the type of experience you are looking for you may check TripAdvisor or other resources online.
What you should know:
There is a large number of boats leaving from Bayahibe every morning. Every hotel, restaurant, and shop in La Romana / Bayahibe advertises taking an excursion to Isla Saona. If you are staying in Punta Cana we recommend you to prebook your trip online, so you won´t have to worry about transportation from your hotel to the pier. Guided Tours range anywhere from $ 80 – $ 120 depending on the package you select. During low season you may be able to find discounts between $ 10 and $ 20 with smaller tour companies. This is definitely the most comfortable way of how to get to Saona Island.
What to Bring:
Be prepared to spend a full day under the Caribbean sun. Onboard a boat or catamaran the sun will even feel more intense than at the pool of your resort. Make sure to bring beach clothing, a bathing suit to enjoy the natural pools, a towel, if you have a waterproof camera, sunscreen depending on your skin type, and cash for souvenirs and tips.
Remember to be respectful of the environment and the local community while visiting Saona Island. Avoid leaving any trash behind and adhere to any conservation guidelines set by tour operators or park authorities. Enjoy your time on this beautiful Caribbean island!