Saona Island (Isla Saona)
La Romana, Dominican Republic, 23000
Saona Island (Isla Saona) is the Dominican Republic's island gem, a tropical paradise that film buffs may recognize from Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl or The Blue Lagoon. Part of the Cotubanamá National Park, this nature reserve is small but mighty, featuring plenty of photo-worthy white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters for an unplugged vacation.
The basics
Set sail across the Caribbean Sea on a speedboat or catamaran trip to Saona Island to spend a day swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing at the Saona beaches and coral reef lagoons. Full-day Saona Island tours run from Punta Cana, La Romana, Bayahibe Beach, and Santo Domingo, and often include visits to mainland sights such as Altos de Chavon. Alternatively, book a tour on a private helicopter to enjoy spectacular views along the island's southern coast.
Things to know before you go
Be sure to take everything you need for your day excursion as there are no shops on the island. Sunscreen, a swimsuit, and a sunhat are essentials.
Bring cash if you want to purchase food or drinks from open bars and kiosks on the beach—most do not accept cards.
There is no Wi-Fi on the island.
Many passenger ferries and private speed boats to Saona Island are wheelchair accessible, but it's best to check with the operator in advance.
How to get there
Saona Island is located at the southeastern tip of the Dominican Republic, and is only reachable by boat. The closest mainland town is Bayahibe. From there, Saona Island is 40 minutes away by speedboat, or two hours away on a leisurely catamaran cruise.
When to get there
The most popular time to visit Saona Island is during the dry summer months from December through February, and resorts can fill up quickly during this time. Thanks to the mild Caribbean climate, it's possible to visit year-round, but while off-season visitors can benefit from reduced prices, boat tours can be canceled due to rough weather during hurricane season from August through November.
Exploring Saona Island
After visiting the village of Mano Juan, exploring Cotubanamá Cave, and strolling the pristine Canto de la Playa beach, take a dip at a natural pool filled with giant starfish or swim and snorkel at Palmilla Beach. The island has plenty of offshore wonders too—look out for bottlenose dolphins, turtles, manatees, and whales as you cruise around the coast.
Ways to explore
Set sail across the Caribbean Sea on a speedboat or catamaran to Saona Island, where you can spend a day swimming, snorkeling around the coral reefs, and sunbathing on the island's beaches. Full-day Saona Island tours run from Punta Cana, La Romana, Bayahíbe Beach, and Santo Domingo, and often include visits to mainland sights such as Altos de Chavón, a replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean-style village. Alternatively, book a tour on a private helicopter to enjoy spectacular views along the island's southern coast.
Accessibility
Most of the terrain on Saona Island is sandy, which might pose problems for those traveling in wheelchairs. You’ll also need to check whether boat tours can accommodate mobility aids.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Make sure your sunscreen is reef-safe to help preserve the delicate underwater ecosystems that the island is famous for.
What to wear
Be sure to pack lightweight, breathable clothing and bathing suits that will help protect you from the sun and dry easily.
Not allowed
Touching marine life such as starfish
Amenities
Saona Island only has a few hundred inhabitants, so while you can stay overnight in rustic accommodations, there are limited amenities.
Address
Saona Island is located at the southeastern tip of the Dominican Republic and is only reachable by boat; the easiest way to get there is on a day trip with convenient round-trip transfers.
Driving
Saona Island is car-free; the closest place you can drive to is Bayahíbe. From Punta Cana, follow Autopista del Coral (DR-3) west. Near the La Romana/Bayahíbe exit, leave the highway and take the access road (often signposted Carretera Bayahíbe).
Public transportation
The closest mainland town is Bayahíbe. Once you get there, you can hop on a speedboat to Saona Island (an approximately 40-minute journey) or take a leisurely catamaran cruise (about two hours).
Best times to visit
If you stay overnight on Saona Island, you’ll be able to explore the island in the morning before the tour groups arrive.
Best days to visit
While Saona is nearly always busy with day-trippers, weekdays might provide some respite from the crowds.
Best months to visit
December through April is undoubtedly the best time to visit Saona Island, as that’s when the Dominican Republic experiences its dry season.
Special events
In late February and early March, the island celebrates Carnival with colorful parades and performances.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!