Saona Island — known as Isla Saona — is the #1 rated excursion in the Dominican Republic. Located within Parque Nacional del Este, this pristine Caribbean island features crystal-clear turquoise water, white-sand beaches, the famous starfish pool, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Every visitor to Isla Saona leaves with memories that last a lifetime.
Discover Saona Island: The Crown Jewel of the Dominican Republic
Isla Saona is accessible only by boat from the village of Bayahibe, approximately 1.5–2 hours from Punta Cana hotels. The island sits within a protected national park — no large hotels, no commercial development, just untouched natural paradise. The turquoise lagoon surrounding Saona Island is shallow, warm, and perfect for swimming and snorkeling year-round.
What Makes Saona Island So Special
The iconic natural starfish pool is the most photographed spot on Saona Island. Here, hundreds of large orange cushion starfish gather in just 1–2 feet of clear water on a shallow sandbar. Snorkeling the coral reefs reveals sea turtles, nurse sharks, rays, parrotfish, and dozens of tropical species. After exploring, a traditional Dominican beach lunch of grilled fish, rice, beans, tostones and unlimited tropical cocktails awaits.
How to Book Your Saona Island Tour from Punta Cana
All Isla Saona tours from Punta Cana include hotel pickup, catamaran or speedboat transfer, snorkeling gear, beach lunch, and open bar. Shared group tours are the most popular and social option, while private charters offer an exclusive experience for couples, families, and special occasions. Book at islasaonard.com — the official tour operator for Saona Island.
Frequently Asked Questions: Saona Island (Isla Saona)
How do I get to Saona Island from Punta Cana?
Tours from Punta Cana include hotel pickup and a 1.5–2 hour bus transfer to Bayahibe, followed by a 30–40 minute catamaran ride to Isla Saona. Most tours depart at 7–8 AM and return by 5–6 PM.
What is included in a Saona Island tour?
Included: hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip catamaran or speedboat, snorkeling equipment, Dominican beach lunch, and open bar with beer, rum cocktails and soft drinks. Some tours include national park fees.
Is Isla Saona safe for children and non-swimmers?
Yes — Isla Saona is very family-friendly. The beach water is calm and shallow. Life jackets are available. Children of all ages and non-swimmers enjoy the island safely.
When is the best time to visit Saona Island?
December through April offers the driest weather and calmest seas. However, Saona Island is beautiful year-round. Morning departures always offer the best light and smaller crowds regardless of season.
Can I see starfish at Isla Saona?
Absolutely. The natural starfish pool at Isla Saona is one of the most iconic spots in all of the Caribbean — hundreds of large orange starfish in crystal-clear shallow water. It is included on every standard tour.
Book Your Saona Island Excursion Now
Experience the magic of Saona Island for yourself. Whether you choose a shared catamaran tour, a private speedboat, or a VIP charter — a day on Isla Saona will be the highlight of your Dominican Republic vacation. Visit islasaonard.com to check availability and reserve your spot today. Spaces are limited and fill up fast!
Reserve Your Tour with Saona Island Tours
Book directly with the operator — departures from BlueMall Cap Cana, Punta Cana:
- Catalina Island Tour — snorkeling and white-sand beaches at Catalina Island
- Saona Island Group Catamaran Tour — shared catamaran day trip with natural pool, beach time, lunch and open bar
- VIP Saona — 3 Beaches Experience — small-group VIP day visiting three beaches
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