Saona Island Natural Pool is one of those Caribbean spots that instantly make you want to sit down and enjoy a good meal while soaking in stunning views. What makes this location stand out for lunch is its combination of natural beauty and diverse tour options. We’re particularly fans of the Saona Island Tour from Santo Domingo with Lunch because it offers a well-rounded day of speedboat rides, swimming, and a delicious Dominican-style buffet. It’s a practical choice for travelers looking for a full experience with a hearty meal included. On the other hand, the Catamaran Tour to Saona Island with Tropical Buffet Lunch shines if you’re after a more exclusive, relaxed vibe with a touch of luxury. Both tours provide wonderful opportunities to enjoy great food amid breathtaking surroundings, but they cater to different preferences.
Quick Overview
Our list of top lunch experiences on Saona Island focuses on two fantastic options: one is a full-day adventure starting from Santo Domingo, combining speedboat rides, wildlife viewing, and a buffet lunch; the other is a VIP catamaran trip from La Romana that emphasizes comfort, exclusivity, and a tropical buffet. Both are highly rated and offer distinct ways to enjoy a meal amidst the island’s natural splendor. Now, let’s explore each in detail to help you choose the best fit for your trip.
1. Saona Island Tour from Santo Domingo with Lunch
Starting with the Saona Island Tour from Santo Domingo with Lunch, this tour provides a comprehensive day out that’s perfect for travelers wanting a little of everything. It’s a 9.5-hour journey that kicks off with a coach ride from Pizzarelli Zona Colonial, followed by sandboarding in Bayahibe, and then a 30-minute speedboat ride across the Caribbean. The highlight is the visit to the Saona Island Natural Pool, where you can swim in shallow waters and take stunning photos.
The tour then continues with a visit to Saona Island for about three hours, during which you’ll get to enjoy free time, wildlife viewing, and a traditional Dominican buffet lunch with panoramic ocean views. After lunch, you’ll hop on a 1.5-hour catamaran cruise, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the scenery. One of the key advantages of this tour is its variety — from adrenaline-pumping rides to laid-back wildlife watching, it offers a balanced experience. The lunch is praised for being tasty and well-presented, featuring local flavors that give you a taste of Dominican hospitality. The day concludes with a bus ride back to Santo Domingo.
This tour is best suited for travelers keen on a full-day adventure that covers multiple activities and includes a substantial meal. The reviews highlight excellent organization and friendly guides. The price-value ratio is strong, especially given the variety of experiences included.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a well-rounded trip with plenty of water activities and authentic local cuisine in a single day.
2. Catamaran Tour to Saona Island with Tropical Buffet Lunch
Next on our list, the Catamaran Tour to Saona Island with Tropical Buffet Lunch, offers a more upscale, leisurely experience. Starting from La Romana, it includes pickup options from Punta Cana, Higuey, or Uvero Alto, and lasts about 8.5 hours. This tour stands out for its focus on comfort and exclusivity — think spacious catamarans, fewer crowds, and a refined atmosphere.
The trip begins with a scenic 50-minute van ride to the coast, followed by a guided tour of the island’s natural pool. What sets this experience apart is its VIP approach — you’ll have ample time to relax, swim, and explore, with a full six hours of free time on Saona Island. The highlight is the tropical buffet lunch, served in an elegant setting, offering a variety of local and international dishes. During the trip, you’ll enjoy stops for photos and gentle hikes, making it perfect for travelers who want a mix of relaxation and light activity.
Reviews mention the luxurious feel of the boat and the high-quality food, though some say the experience is less lively than more energetic tours. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort and a quieter, more exclusive atmosphere over a packed schedule. The price reflects its premium positioning, but for those after a more refined day at sea, it’s a worthwhile splurge.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a sophisticated, relaxed day with excellent food and fewer crowds.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two lunch experiences on Saona Island, consider your travel style and priorities. If you’re after a full-day adventure with diverse activities and local flavor, the Saona Island Tour from Santo Domingo with Lunch offers great value. It’s lively, varied, and includes a hearty Dominican buffet that hits the spot after all the water fun.
If you prefer a more laid-back, upscale trip that emphasizes comfort, scenic cruising, and quality service, then the Catamaran Tour to Saona Island with Tropical Buffet Lunch is your best choice. It’s ideal for travelers who want to relax without feeling rushed and enjoy a more exclusive atmosphere.
Think about your budget, how much activity you want, and whether you prefer a lively or tranquil experience. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular excursions.
Final Thoughts
Both options showcase the incredible natural beauty of Saona Island but cater to different tastes. The full-day Santo Domingo tour is excellent for travelers craving variety, adventure, and local cuisine. Meanwhile, the VIP catamaran trip appeals to those seeking comfort, elegance, and a quieter day at sea.
No matter which you choose, both tours promise memorable meals with stunning ocean views and opportunities to swim, relax, and capture fantastic photos. If you’re planning your trip soon, consider booking early—these experiences fill up fast, especially in peak season. With a little planning, you’ll be enjoying a delicious lunch on one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful islands in no time.