Excursion to Saona Island:Tropical Paradise whit Lunch

Exploring Saona Island: A Tropical Getaway with Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to Punta Cana and craving a day of sun, sea, and a break from hotel life, the excursion to Saona Island might be just what you’re looking for. This full-day adventure, lasting approximately 8 to 10 hours, takes you from your hotel through the lush Dominican countryside to the Bayahibe port, where you’ll hop aboard a catamaran and speedboat combination cruise. The highlight? Several stops at crystal-clear natural pools, a visit to the stunning island with golden beaches, and a lively onboard atmosphere complete with music and drinks.

What we love about this tour is the thoughtfully curated experience — from the short stop at Blue Lagoon where you can relax on a sandbar to the delicious buffet lunch with pasta, salads, and rice that fuels your afternoon fun. Plus, the open bar on the catamaran turns the return trip into a mini party, with the crew dancing and inviting everyone to join in. The experience is relaxed but lively, perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and a festive vibe.

One potential consideration is the pickup logistics. Some reviews mention initial confusion or late pickups, and additional charges may apply if your hotel is outside certain zones. That said, the overall value — considering the multiple stops, food, drinks, and the beautiful setting — makes this a worthwhile splurge for most travelers.

This tour suits those who love beach relaxation with a touch of adventure. It’s especially great for first-timers to Saona, families, or anyone wanting a memorable day exploring the Caribbean waters with friendly guides and fellow travelers.

Key Points

• Stunning Natural Settings: Crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and golden beaches.
• All-Inclusive Vibe: Buffet lunch and open bar enhance the experience.
• Varied Activities: Stops at Blue Lagoon, a sea star sanctuary, free time on the island.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides help make the trip smooth.
• Flexible Options: Hotel pickups across Punta Cana and Bayahibe.
• Value for Money: Combines transportation, activities, meals, and drinks in one package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

This experience made our article of Discover 15 Great Lunch Experiences In Punta Cana.

The Full Experience: A Deep Dive into the Saona Island Tour

When we first read about this tour, it immediately caught our attention for its promise of a full day of Caribbean escape, with just enough activities to keep everyone engaged without feeling rushed. The pickup from Punta Cana hotels begins early, around 7 to 8 a.m., giving you plenty of time to settle into the day ahead. The transport, provided by Journey Punta Cana tour and cab transfer, is generally smooth, though some reviews note late pickups or initial confusion—these are minor hiccups in what’s otherwise a well-organized trip.

Starting the Day: From Hotel to Bayahibe

The journey kicks off with a comfortable transfer from your hotel to Bayahibe, a charming coastal town known for its proximity to several beautiful islands. The ride gives you a chance to enjoy the lush scenery of the Dominican Republic, with some guides sharing tidbits about local life and the marine environment you’re about to experience.

Once at Bayahibe, the real adventure begins with a boat trip heading toward Saona Island. The boat ride itself is a highlight—especially if you’re a fan of speedboats and catamarans. We loved the way the tour maximizes fun with lively music, an open bar, and a crew eager to keep energy high. You might humorously find yourself trying to dance or sing along, just like many reviewers who mention the crew’s dance moves.

The Stops: Blue Lagoon and Sea Star Sanctuary

About halfway to Saona, you’ll stop at Blue Lagoon, a shallow sandbar surrounded by water. Here, you’re encouraged to relax on the soft sand, take photos, or swim in the calm waters. Many reviews appreciated this stop, with one raving about the “chill vibes” and “beautiful scenery.” You’ll also visit a sea star sanctuary, where the bright, multi-colored stars are safe to touch—an unexpected delight for many travelers, especially families or nature lovers.

The 40-minute stop is enough to enjoy a few photos and a quick swim, and it offers a nice break from the boat ride. Expect to see plenty of sea stars in various colors—an Instagram-worthy moment that’s well worth the brief detour.

Main Attraction: Saona Island

Arriving at Saona, the real treasure reveals itself—pristine beaches with powdery sand and coconut palms. You’ll have about two hours and 45 minutes to explore at your own pace. Many visitors use this time for sunbathing, swimming, or simply strolling along the shoreline. The coral reefs nearby make for colorful snorkeling sessions, and the overall scenery is postcard-perfect.

From a review perspective, the island delivers on its promise of natural beauty. Several visitors mention the “unreal” water and “beautiful” environment. However, some note that it can get crowded with other travelers, especially during peak season.

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Lunch and Afternoon Festivities

At 1 p.m., you’re invited to a buffet lunch at Palmera Turística Beach. The menu features pasta, salads, rice, and grilled meats, a hearty and satisfying meal that most travelers find offers good value. One reviewer called the buffet “delicious,” highlighting the variety and quality considering it’s part of a day trip.

Post-lunch, the tour shifts into a more lively, celebratory mood aboard the catamaran. With music, dancing, and soft drinks, the ride back to Bayahibe becomes a lively party. Multiple reviews mention the “fun atmosphere”, with one traveler praising a crew member named Black Sexy Banana for his “amazing” guide skills.

Returning and Final Remarks

The trip wraps up with a speedboat ride back to the port, and then transportation to your hotel. Expect to be back around 7-8 p.m., after roughly 11 hours of adventure. While the overall day is packed, some travelers mention minor delays or the need to pay extra if their hotel isn’t in certain pickup zones.

Practical Details to Consider

Transportation & Pickup: The tour offers pickup from various hotel zones across Punta Cana, including Uvero Alto, Bávaro, and Cap Cana. If your hotel isn’t listed, you might be asked to meet at a nearby point or pay an additional fee—around $20 per way for certain zones. For larger groups, the fee increases.

Pricing & Value: The tour isn’t inexpensive, but it’s comprehensive. It includes hotel transfers, boat rides, lunch, drinks, and guided stops. Many reviews highlight the good value given the variety of activities and the scenic locations.

Group Size & Atmosphere: Expect a lively, sometimes crowded group—ideal if you’re looking for social fun but possibly less so if you prefer quiet solitude. The guides and crew are generally praised for their friendliness and energy.

Language & Accessibility: The tour is offered in multiple languages including English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Italian, and Russian. Travelers mention that guides are helpful and engaging.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This outing suits adventurous travelers, families, and groups looking to enjoy a full day of Caribbean scenery with some activity and plenty of relaxation. It’s perfect for those wanting a lively atmosphere with friends, or couples seeking Instagram-worthy beaches and a fun boat ride. If you enjoy good food, open bars, and scenic stops, this tour delivers on all fronts.

For those who prefer less crowded beaches or a quieter, more exclusive experience, this might feel a bit busy. Also, if hotel pickup logistics or extra fees for certain zones are a concern, it’s worth planning ahead.

The Sum Up

The tour to Saona Island offers a beautiful blend of scenery, activity, and Caribbean fun. It’s an affordable way to see some of the island’s most famous beaches, with the added thrill of boat rides, snorkeling, and a festive onboard atmosphere. The guides and crew are often praised for their friendliness and energy, making it a memorable day for most.

While it may not be the best fit for travelers seeking peace and quiet, those eager to enjoy stunning beaches, lively vibes, and a taste of local hospitality will find this tour hard to beat. It’s a solid choice for a full, fun-filled day in paradise that many reviewers say exceeds expectations.

FAQ

How early do I need to wake up for this tour?
Pickup is generally between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m., so you should plan on an early start to make the most of the day.

Are hotel transfers included?
Yes, transfers from select hotel areas in Punta Cana and Bayahibe are included. If your hotel is outside these zones, you might need to pay extra or meet at a nearby point.

Is lunch included, and what’s it like?
Yes, a buffet lunch with pasta, salads, rice, and grilled meats is provided. Many reviews say it’s tasty and satisfying, perfect for fueling the afternoon.

What about drinks?
An open bar on the boat includes soft drinks, and there are pina coladas in pineapples available for purchase. The friendly crew keeps the drinks flowing and the atmosphere lively.

How long is the entire tour?
Expect around 8 to 10 hours, including transportation, stops, and leisure time. The return is usually around 7-8 p.m.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
While not explicitly stated, the proximity to coral reefs suggests snorkeling is possible at some stops, especially near the island.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, many families enjoy the stops at Blue Lagoon and the beaches. The lively atmosphere can be fun for kids, though the boat rides are best for those comfortable with water travel.

Are there any extra charges I should know about?
Extra charges may apply if your hotel is outside certain zones, typically around $20 per way for zones like Cap Cana or Uvero Alto.

What language is the tour guide?
Guides are available in multiple languages: English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Italian, and Russian.

This tour of Saona Island offers a real taste of the Caribbean’s natural beauty combined with lively entertainment and good food. Whether you’re snapping photos of bright sea stars, lounging on soft sands, or dancing to tunes on the boat, it’s designed to create a memorable day — ideal for those eager to soak in the scenery and enjoy the vibrant local vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby