Saona Island

Saona Island tour from Punta Cana

The Caribbean's #1 day trip — speedboat across turquoise water, the famous natural starfish pool, Dominican buffet on the beach, and a catamaran with open bar all the way back at sunset.

Last updated Reviewed by cana.tours editorial team

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What a Saona Island day looks like

Hotel pickup at 07:30, 60-minute scenic drive to Bayahibe marina, 35-minute speedboat to Saona. Stop at the natural pool (waist-deep, calm, full of starfish), then beach buffet and free time. Catamaran with rum-punch and music brings you back at golden hour. Home by ~17:30.

What's included

Round-trip hotel transfer from Punta Cana, Bávaro, Cap Cana and Uvero Alto; bilingual guide; Dominican buffet lunch; open bar; snorkel gear; insurance. Only the $5 national park fee is extra.

The Premium 4 Beaches Tour (Saona Island)

Unlike standard tours that only visit the Natural Pool and one crowded beach, our Premium 4 Beaches program uses speedboats BOTH ways for more beach time. Four distinct stops: Palmilla Natural Pool (starfish, 45-60 min), Toro Beach (1h), Mano Juan village (1.5h + Dominican buffet lunch), and the remote Canto de la Playa (1h). USD 120 per person, all-inclusive (park fee included). Open bar with local rum, beer, water, and soft drinksâno loud DJs, 'Jungle Juice', or 'Presidente' beer. 10-hour day, back by 6 PM.

Best time to go

Year-round. December–April is calmest and busiest; May–November is warmer water and quieter beaches with the same gear. Wednesdays and Sundays tend to be the least crowded days.

Our Selection

Curated excursions

Quick comparison

TourFrom (USD)DurationCheck availability
Private YachtsPrice on request tailored quote4–8 hoursCheck availabilityView
Private CatamaransPrice on request tailored quote4–8 hoursCheck availabilityView
Saona Island Premium 4 Beaches Tour$1208 hoursCheck availabilityView
Macao Buggy & Cenote Adventure$554 hoursCheck availabilityView
Party Boat & Snorkeling$753 hoursCheck availabilityView
Catalina Island Tour$998 hoursCheck availabilityView
Samaná, Cayo Levantado & El Limón Waterfall$12013 hoursCheck availabilityView
Santo Domingo City Tour: The First City of the Americas$8011 hoursCheck availabilityView
Dominican Adventure Kingdom$1298 hoursCheck availabilityView
Los Ojos Eco Journey$904 hoursCheck availabilityView
Horseback Beach Riding$652 hoursCheck availabilityView
Taíno Night Journey$1395.5 hoursCheck availabilityView

FAQ

Common questions

How many beaches do we visit?+

Four: Palmilla, Toro, Mano Juan, and Canto de la Playa. Most operators only show you two.

Is there a catamaran?+

No, we use speedboats both ways to avoid the slow catamaran crawl and maximize your time at the actual island.

How much is the Saona Island tour?+

From $85 per person all-in (group tour). Private boats from $750 for up to 10 guests.

Is hotel pickup included?+

Yes — from all major resorts in Punta Cana, Bávaro, Cap Cana and Uvero Alto.

Is it good for kids?+

Excellent. Calm shallow water, kids' menu, life jackets for all ages. Under 4 free; 5–12 discounted.

Speedboat or catamaran — which to pick?+

Most tours give you both: speedboat there, catamaran back. If you want only one, catamaran is the relaxed pick, speedboat is the fast pick.

Can I book the day before?+

Often yes, especially May–November. In peak season WhatsApp us 48 h ahead.

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Book your Saona day on WhatsApp

Book your Saona day on WhatsApp