Saona Island from Punta Cana is the most popular day trip in the Dominican Republic: white-sand beaches, palm trees and a natural pool in the Caribbean, inside Parque Nacional del Este. This guide explains how to get there and which tour to choose, with Saona Island Tours.
See the photos: take the visual tour of the day on our Saona Island tours from Punta Cana page.
Book a private rideShort answer: Isla Saona is about 1.5–2 hours from Punta Cana. Most visitors go on a full-day tour with transport, catamaran or speed boat, the natural pool and lunch. Group tours start at $75 per adult; book online on islasaonard.com/tours.
Where is Saona Island?
Isla Saona is off the south-east coast of the Dominican Republic, inside Parque Nacional del Este, between Bayahíbe and the open Caribbean. Boats leave from Bayahíbe and from the Punta Cana area.
Open Isla Saona in Google Maps · See reviews of Isla Saona from Punta Cana on Google
Saona Island tours from Punta Cana
| Tour | Price | Departs | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group Tour | $75 adult · $37.50 child (4–9) | Punta Cana | First-timers and families |
| VIP 3 Beaches | $135 | Punta Cana | More beach time, smaller group |
| Private Speed Boat | $799.95 / boat (up to 8) | Punta Cana | Families and celebrations |
| Private Catamaran | $1,999.95 / charter (up to 20) | Bayahíbe (hotel pick-up) | Weddings and large groups |
Also from the same team: Catalina Island for snorkeling, fishing tours and helicopter tours in Punta Cana.
What a Saona day looks like
- Morning pick-up in Punta Cana.
- Boat ride along the coast of Parque Nacional del Este.
- Swim in the natural pool, a waist-deep sandbank with starfish.
- Lunch and free time on Saona’s beaches.
- Return to your hotel in the late afternoon.
What to bring
- Reef-safe sunscreen and sunglasses
- Swimwear and a towel
- Cash for souvenirs and tips
- Camera or GoPro
Quick answers about Saona Island
How far is Saona Island from Punta Cana?
About 1.5–2 hours including the drive and the boat ride.
Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, tours include pick-up from Punta Cana and Bávaro hotels. Pick-up from Miches and La Romana is also possible.
Can I book Saona Island at the last minute?
Yes, book at least 24 hours before the tour. Payment is by card online.
Can children go to Saona Island?
Yes. The child rate applies to ages 4–9.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before the tour; see the terms on islasaonard.com.
Book your ride with your tour
Booked your excursion? Add a private, air-conditioned ride for the days you are not on a tour: airport transfers, shopping at Downtown Punta Cana or dinner out. See how to get a private driver around in Punta Cana or see your price.
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Sources
Prices and details from Saona Island Tours, checked November 2026. Prices can change, so confirm on the booking page.
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