Saona Island Excursion from Punta Cana: Complete 2026 Guide
White sand, palm trees down to the water's edge and a natural pool with starfish: the Saona Island excursion from Punta Cana is the most famous beach day in the Dominican Republic. Here is everything you need to know before booking.
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In this guide
What is Saona Island and where is it?
Saona Island is a tropical island of about 110 km² off the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic, in La Altagracia province. It is part of Cotubanamá National Park, a protected area that preserves mangroves, coral reefs and seagrass meadows.
The island has two permanent villages, Mano Juan and Catuano, and is separated from the mainland by the Catuano Channel. Boats leave mostly from Bayahibe and La Romana; from Punta Cana, the excursion includes the road transfer to the departure port.
History of Saona Island
According to historical sources, Christopher Columbus reached the island in May 1494, during his second voyage, and named it “Saona” in honor of Michele da Cuneo, a friend of his from Savona (Italy). To this day the island and that Italian city remain twinned.
Long before that, the island was inhabited by the Taíno. Around the year 1500 it supplied cassava bread to the newly founded Santo Domingo, which shows its importance at the time.
What the Saona excursion is like, step by step
The order may vary depending on the operator and sea conditions, but the typical itinerary is this:
- Early pickup or meeting and road transfer to the departure port.
- Catamaran or speedboat trip to the island, with music and drinks on board.
- Stop at the natural pool: a shallow sandbank where you can see starfish.
- Free time on the beach to swim, walk or relax under the palm trees.
- Dominican lunch by the sea.
- Boat ride back and return transfer.
What is included and how much it costs
The Caribexus Saona Island excursion costs from $65 USD per person and usually lasts 8 to 10 hours. Location: Departure from Punta Cana / Bayahibe.
Includes: transportation, guide, lunch, drinks, catamaran or speedboat.
Prices and services may change depending on the date and the number of people. If you prefer to receive the quote by email, use the quote button at the end of this page.
Best time to visit Saona
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November, and the driest, most stable period is usually December to April, which is also the busiest. In any month it is best to leave early: the sea is calmer in the morning and the island feels less crowded.
Nature and responsible tourism
Saona is the most important site in the country for sea turtle nesting. To take care of it: do not touch or take starfish out of the water (it is prohibited), do not step on the coral, use biodegradable sunscreen and do not leave trash on the beach.
Its scenery has also served as a film location: parts of “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” were filmed there.
Tips before you go
- Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunglasses and biodegradable sunscreen.
- Do not touch or take starfish out of the water.
- Bring some cash for crafts and tips.
- Book in advance in high season (December to April).
Combine Saona Island with other activities
- Isla Catalina, Dominican Republic: Catalina Island guide: reef snorkeling, history of Columbus and pirates, the Quedagh Merchant shipwreck, price and how…
- Altos de Chavón, La Romana: Altos de Chavón guide: Mediterranean-style village in La Romana, amphitheater, church, museum and crafts. How to visit…
- Catamaran off the Punta Cana coast: Guide to the catamaran cruise in Punta Cana: snorkeling, natural pool, what is included, cost, best time and tip…
Getting there: private transfer to your hotel
Book your private transfer from the airport and arrive rested at your hotel. Book without a card and pay on arrival.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the Saona Island excursion from Punta Cana?
With Caribexus the Saona Island tour costs from $65 USD per person. The final price may vary depending on the date and type of service.
How long is the Saona Island tour?
Between 8 and 10 hours, including the transfer from Punta Cana, the boat ride, the stop at the natural pool and beach time.
Can you see starfish in Saona's natural pool?
Yes, it is the best-known stop because the sandbank is shallow and there are usually starfish. It is prohibited to touch them or take them out of the water.
Are the natural pool and Saona the same thing?
No. Saona Island is the island; the natural pool is a shallow-water stop that many excursions include in the route.
Where does the excursion depart from?
Location: Departure from Punta Cana / Bayahibe. Confirm the exact meeting point when booking.
Is it suitable for children?
Many families take this excursion, but the minimum age and conditions for minors depend on the service. Ask when booking.
Saona Island tour from Punta Cana: quick guide
Saona Island is a protected island in Cotubanamá National Park, about 110 km² of white-sand beaches, palm trees and clear Caribbean water. The full-day Saona Island tour from Punta Cana usually includes round-trip transport, a catamaran or speedboat ride, a stop at the shallow natural pool with starfish, beach time and a Dominican lunch. Please do not touch the starfish. Book with Caribexus from $65 USD per person.
Book this activity: Saona Island
From $65 USD per person
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