Discovering Paradise
Discovering Paradise
Type
Island
Location
East National Park
Entrance Fee
Included in tour packages ($60-120 USD)
Hours
Tours depart 7:00-9:00 AM
Duration
Full day (7-8 hours)
Best Time
December to April for calmest seas
Difficulty
Easy
Guided Tours
Available
Parking
Available
Accessibility
Boat transfer required; beaches are sandy and flat
Saona Island (Isla Saona) is the crown jewel of the Dominican Republic's natural attractions and the country's most popular day trip. Part of the East National Park (Parque Nacional del Este), this 110-square-kilometer island is the postcard-perfect Caribbean paradise you've always imagined.
Think powdery white sand beaches stretching for kilometers, crystal-clear turquoise water so calm it looks like a swimming pool, gently swaying coconut palms, and a natural sandbar where you can stand in waist-deep water surrounded by starfish. Add a catamaran cruise with Dominican rum and bachata music, and you have an unforgettable day.
Saona Island is reached by boat from Bayahibe or La Romana. Most tours include bus pickup from Punta Cana/Bavaro hotels, a boat ride, beach time, lunch, and a catamaran return.
Yes — it's consistently rated as one of the top experiences in the DR. The combination of the natural pool, pristine beaches, and catamaran party makes it a complete day of Caribbean bliss.
There are very limited accommodation options on Saona Island. Most visitors come on day trips. For an overnight island experience, nearby Catalina Island has more options.