Saona Island packing list

What to bring to Saona Island

Pack light: it's a day trip on a boat. Below is the exact list we send guests after they book — eight items that matter, three to leave at the hotel, and the things resort gift shops overcharge for at the dock.

Last updated Reviewed by cana.tours editorial team

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The 8-item Saona packing list

1. Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50 (regular brands are banned at the natural pools — guides check). 2. Swimsuit under your clothes — you change on the boat. 3. Quick-dry towel (the boat provides one but it's small). 4. Sunglasses + hat. 5. Dry bag for phone, keys, wallet — you wade from the boat to each stop. 6. Waterproof phone pouch for the Palmilla Natural Pool (shoulder-deep wading). 7. USD cash in small bills for souvenirs at Mano Juan craft stalls — the park entry fee and all food/drinks are already included in your USD 120 fare, no cash needed at the marina. 8. Photo ID — required to board.

Leave at the hotel

Big beach bag (you'll lose it), bluetooth speaker (boats have their own and play their own music), heavy shoes (flip-flops only, you walk on sand).

Buy at the dock, not at your resort

Resort gift shops sell snorkel masks at USD 30–40. The Bayahibe dock has them for USD 8–12. Same for waterproof phone pouches (USD 5 vs USD 20).

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FAQ

Common questions

Is sunscreen really banned?+

Non-reef-safe sunscreen is banned in the protected natural-pools zone — guides check. Bring reef-safe (zinc or titanium-based) or buy at the dock.

Do I need cash?+

Small bills for souvenirs at Mano Juan craft stalls and tips (USD 5–10 per guest is generous). The park entry fee, all food, and all drinks (local rum, beer, water, soft drinks) are already included in your USD 120 fare — no cash needed at the marina or for lunch.

Can I bring my drone?+

Not at the natural pools (national park rules). On the beach at Mano Juan it's tolerated; ask the captain first.

Snorkel mask: bring or rent?+

Bring your own if you have one. Rentals at the dock are USD 5; quality is fine but high-traffic.

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Reserve your spot — we'll send the full kit list

Reserve your spot — we'll send the full kit list