Saona - a tropical paradise
Tour Details
Saona
Where is the tour?
We will set sail from Bayahibe, approximately 1 hour from Punta Cana
Transportation
We will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel or another designated area, this is included in our service at no extra charge.
Price
Our Saona excursion is $65 per person.
Availability
Every day!
Q&A
Saona
Do kinds get a discount?
Yes, kids up to 12 years pay half off.
How long is the tour?
Visiting Saona is an experience that takes the whole day, you can expect to be leaving your hotel between 8am and 9am and be back by 6pm.
What kind of boat are we going on?
You will be enjoying a ride on both a sailing catamaran and a speed boat.
Where do we eat lunch?
You will eat lunch at Saona
Here’s More Details On Our Saona Adventure:
The excursion to Isla Saona is guaranteed to be an unforgettable adventure in one of the most paradisiacal corners of the Dominican Republic; its stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush palm trees that frame the perfect landscape for a tropical getaway. The journey begins with a comfortable land transfer from your hotel to Bayahibe, where you will board a catamaran or speedboat, starting a day full of fun and natural beauty in the DOminican’s Republic biggest National Park.
The first stop at the natural pool offers an idyllic moment to relax and capture dreamlike photographs, immersing yourself in a serene environment that invites full enjoyment of nature.
Upon arriving at Isla Saona at noon, a buffet lunch with typical Dominican dishes awaits you, allowing you to savor the local cuisine in an unparalleled setting. During your stay on the island, you will have free time to explore, relax, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this Caribbean paradise, always with deep respect for the environment, avoiding to leave behind anything that was not there prior to your visit. Read more about the activities you can do once on the island, and remember that you will be served complimentary drinks for the duration of your trip.
At the conclusion of this magical and discovery-filled day, the return by catamaran or speedboat (whichever one you did not take in the morning) followed by land transport will take you back to your hotel, closing a day that will undoubtedly be etched in your memory as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
What to do in Saona
In Saona Island, a Caribbean paradise within Cotubanamá National Park, the activities to enjoy are as diverse as they are exciting. Here are the 4 best things you can do during your visit:
Explore the world's largest Natural Pool: On your way to Isla Saona, you cannot miss the unique experience of swimming in an extensive "natural pool" of crystal-clear and shallow waters. This phenomenon is created by the accumulation of sand in a specific area, reducing the ocean level to just a few meters and forming a natural pool in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. It is the perfect place to relax in its calm waters, dance merengue on a boat, and enjoy a delicious Dominican rum, without forgetting the search for the fascinating starfish that inhabit this place.
Enjoy the pristine beaches: The beaches of Isla Saona have been recognized for their incomparable beauty, with white sand, turquoise waters, and abundant palm trees, offering an ideal setting to relax with a cocktail or engage in activities like volleyball. For adventurers, snorkeling is an excellent option to explore the rich marine life of the area, however you must remember to bring your own gear as you wont find any on the island. It will be easy to purchase some before you board your boat at Bayahibe.
Experience a beach spa day: If total relaxation is what you seek, Isla Saona offers you the opportunity to receive a massage on an idyllic white sand beach, under the shade of palm trees, with a piña colada in hand. It is the perfect getaway for those who need a break and wish to recharge their energy in a natural and serene environment.
Observe unique animal species: Since Isla Saona is part of a national park, it is home to several rare and endangered animal species, such as the rhinoceros iguana, the manatee, and dolphins. This is an exceptional opportunity for nature and wildlife enthusiasts to spot these creatures in their natural habitat, contributing to an unforgettable experience. To find them we suggest you go on a walk inside the island, however remember to keep an eye on the time as you don't want to become a permanent resident.
About Saona
Saona Island, the largest island of the Dominican Republic, stands as a symbol of biodiversity and natural conservation in the heart of the Caribbean. Located in the south of the country, within the boundaries of Cotubanamá National Park in La Romana province, this ecological gem is just 137 km from Santo Domingo and about 55 km from Punta Cana. Spanning 42 square kilometers and with a population of approximately 1,200 inhabitants mainly dedicated to fishing and tourism, Saona is a clear example of respectful coexistence with nature.
The island is notable for its serene white sand beaches, flanked by palm and coconut trees, warm and crystal-clear waters, and unique geography that includes rock formations, caves, and grottos with Taíno archaeological remains. As part of one of the largest natural reserves in the Dominican Republic, Saona is home to a rich biodiversity, including more than 500 endemic plant species and an impressive array of fauna with 112 bird species, 40 fish species, and 10 coral species, among others. This natural sanctuary is not only a paradise for diving, snorkeling, and hiking enthusiasts but also a haven of tranquility for those seeking to relax on its idyllic beaches. Visiting Isla Saona is to immerse oneself in a world where nature preservation is paramount, inviting all its visitors to care for and respect this unique ecological treasure.
What to bring
To ensure a pleasant and safe experience on your excursion to Isla Saona, it is essential to pack accordingly.. Don't forget to bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from the intense Caribbean sun rays. Since you will spend the entire day outdoors, it is crucial to apply and re-apply plenty of sunscreen with a protection factor of at least +30, to safeguard your skin from the harmful effects of prolonged sun exposure. Include in your backpack comfortable and appropriate beachwear to enjoy the activities on the sand and sea.
A towel will be indispensable after a refreshing swim in the island's crystal-clear waters or the Natural Pool. If you would like to snorkel, remember to bring your gear with you. Finally we can't stress enough the importance of sunscreen, as you will be on boats and in the water all day you won't feel the sun burning on you, but trust us when we say that even locals get scolded by the sun on a day trip to Saona. By preparing these essentials, you will be ready to fully enjoy your adventure in Isla Saona.
Fun facts about Saona
Isla Saona is not only a paradisiacal destination for its beaches and crystal-clear waters but also hosts curious facts that make it even more special:
Turtle Conservation Center: Isla Saona is a vital sanctuary for the breeding of sea turtles, where an impressive conservation project led by the local community is carried out. This project is dedicated to relocating turtle eggs from high-risk areas to safe environments for hatching, thus ensuring the survival of these magnificent creatures and their safe return to their natural habitat, highlighting the community's commitment to environmental preservation.
Sustainable Energy: Despite its remote location, Isla Saona is an example of sustainability, operating entirely on solar energy. The island is not connected to the Dominican Republic's electrical grid, so it uses solar panels to generate all the energy it needs. This ecological approach not only reduces the island's carbon footprint but also promotes the use of renewable energies in protected areas.
Iconic Movie Settings: The natural beauty of Isla Saona has captured Hollywood's attention, serving as a setting for famous movies like "Pirates of the Caribbean" and "The Blue Lagoon." Additionally, it has been the idyllic backdrop for Bounty Chocolate commercials, presenting its stunning landscape of white sand beaches and turquoise waters as the quintessence of a paradisiacal deserted island. This fact not only underscores the cinematic beauty of the island but has also made it an even more sought-after destination for visitors from around the world.
The History of Saona
The history of Isla Saona is as fascinating as its natural beauty.
Originally known as "Adamanay" by its first inhabitants, the Taíno indigenous people, this small island of 42 square kilometers has witnessed numerous changes over the centuries.
The arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1494 marked a significant turning point in the island's destiny, renaming it in honor of his friend Michele de Cuneo from Savona, Italy, who later became its first governor. However, the Spanish conquest brought diseases and brutal living conditions that decimated the Taíno population, leaving the island uninhabited for a long period.
It was not until the 1940s that Isla Saona came back to life under the mandate of dictator Rafael Trujillo, who established the village of Mano Juan and used the island as a place of exile. Today, Isla Saona is a vibrant tourist destination, known for its pristine white sand beaches, which have even served as the setting for the iconic Bounty chocolate ads. Despite its popularity, the island has managed to retain its charm and tranquility, especially in its two fishing villages, Mano Juan and Catuano, where life still revolves around fishing, art, and serenity."
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Adult $125
Child $105
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We have availability everyday, reach out to book your date and time.
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What kind of boats are they?
The boats we use are catamarans, which are known for their characteristic of minimizing motion while cruising
What kind of drinks will be served?
Well you are in the Caribbean so rum is a must! You can choose to mix it with a variety of soft drinks. If rum is not up your alley we got you covered with some of the best Dominican beer.
Can I go if I get seasick?
Even though catamarans are not particularly turbulent, as you will be in the water while drinking for a few hours we do not recommend this as you a likely to feel sick.
What do I wear?
You just have to bring a bathing suit, a towel, and sunscreen.
What safety measures are in place?
We think that safety in places where you naturally can’t breath is particularly important…. Especially when there’s alcohol involved. Here are the simple yet highly effective ways we will keep you safe
1. We have plenty of floaties for everybody
2. Our staff will be in the water with you at all times
3. You will have a guide with you while you snorkel
4. If you look like you have had a glass to many, our staff will ask you to stay on the boat and keep partying (we do want you to have fun)
Do we have insurance?
We told you that we would take care of all of the boring stuff, when you have fun with Sun Fun all of your experiences are cover by insurance! We do everything we can to make sure that it will not be needed, but we like to be prepared and always keep you safe!
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Minimum age 18 years old
Pregnant women are not allowed on this tour.
Beyond the Boat: More Excursions to Explore
At Sun Fun, we strive to offer a comprehensive suite of Punta Cana excursions to enhance your holiday.
For thrill-seekers, our buggies in Punta Cana provide an adrenaline-pumping ride through the diverse terrains of the Dominican Republic Roar through lush landscapes and feel the wind on your face as you experience this unique adventure.
For a bird's eye view of our stunning scenery, step off solid ground and onto our exhilarating zip line in Punta Cana. Sail through the treetops and marvel at the beauty of the Dominican Republic from this unique perspective.
What's included
The excursion to Isla Saona promises an unforgettable experience, starting with round-trip transportation from your hotel to the pier of Bayahibe, where you will embark on a maritime adventure. On board a comfortable boat and catamaran, you will enjoy the crystal-clear Caribbean waters and a stop at the charming Natural Pool.
The experience is enriched with a delicious buffet lunch served on the beach, accompanied by refreshing drinks like rum, water, and soft drinks, all included in the package. In addition, taxes are covered, and a bracelet is provided to ensure your access to all facilities.
During your free time on the island, you can relax in the chairs and hammocks arranged for your comfort. The excursion is designed to enrich your experience with the knowledge of specialized guides and the constant support of trained staff, ensuring a day full of fun, discovery, and relaxation in one of the most paradisiacal destinations in the Caribbean.