Punta Cana: Saona Island Exclusive Private Beach, Open Bar & Premium Lunch

When you think of a day trip from Punta Cana that combines luxury, exclusivity, and fun, the Saona Island tour by Bahia de las Aguilas Tours fits the bill beautifully. Priced around a moderate rate, this 9-hour adventure whisks you away from the busy resorts to a slice of Caribbean paradise, with highlights including a private beach, a catamaran cruise with open bar, and a visit to the Natural Pool.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it caters to travelers seeking comfort and a touch of class without losing sight of authentic Caribbean charm. The limited group size means you’re not lost in a crowd, and the exclusive access to a private section of the island ensures you can relax away from the crowds. The lively boat ride with music, entertainment, and unlimited drinks helps set the tone for an enjoyable day.

One potential downside is the long journey to the island, which some reviews mentioned as a bit tiring or disorganized — so packing patience might be wise. Also, the premium lunch might not be quite as exclusive as some expect, according to one review, but overall, the value is still noteworthy for those wanting a more refined experience.

This tour is perfect for couples, families, or groups eager to enjoy the beauty of Saona Island with a touch of luxury and privacy, especially if you value a well-organized trip with plenty of time to relax and soak up the scenery.

This experience made our article of 3 Of The Best Drinking Tours In Santo Domingo.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to a private beach on Saona Island offers tranquility away from crowds.
• Lively catamaran cruise with music, entertainment, and an open bar enhances the Caribbean vibe.
• Visit to the Natural Pool provides a unique experience of crystal-clear waters and sandbanks.
• Limited groups ensure personalized service and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible pickup options from multiple locations in Punta Cana make planning easier.
• Duration of 9 hours strikes a nice balance between adventure and relaxation.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with pick-up from your hotel or one of five designated locations—Macao Beach, Uvero Alto, Punta Cana, Bávaro, or Cabeza De Toro. This flexibility makes it easier to fit into your schedule. After a transfer to Bayahibe, you’ll board a catamaran that takes you across the Caribbean for about an hour.

The catamaran ride is one of the highlights, as it sets a festive mood with music, lively commentary, and a full open bar. You can expect to enjoy tropical drinks, soft drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere. Several reviews praised the professionalism of the crew, with one traveler mentioning, “Les équipes savent mettre de l’ambiance,” highlighting the genuine effort to create a fun environment.

The Journey and Expectations

The trip includes a speedboat ride to the Natural Pool, a shallow area famed for its stunning clarity and sandbanks. During the trip, you’ll stop for approximately three hours at Saona Island itself. Here, you’ll find exclusive access to a section of the island that is quieter and less crowded, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply unwinding on the sand.

Some reviews mention that the long transfer might feel a bit tedious, but the scenery, music, and company help pass the time. A traveler from the UK noted that while the activity was very nice, the organisational issues and the long journey left them feeling it wasn’t entirely worth the effort. On the other hand, others praised the well-organized aspect and the stunning views, like Minerva from the Dominican Republic, who called it “spectacular.”

Lunch and Relaxation

After some beach time, you’ll enjoy a premium buffet lunch. The menu typically offers fresh options, Dominican dishes, meats, salads, and tropical fruits. However, one review pointed out that the “buffet premium” was not significantly different from the standard offerings, which may disappoint if you’re expecting a gourmet experience.

This is followed by free time to swim, sunbathe, or explore the shoreline. The private beach area ensures you can relax without being jostled by other travelers. Be aware that the actual privacy of the beach has received some mixed reviews; some travelers felt it was less exclusive than advertised, with the beach feeling somewhat public or rocky.

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The Natural Pool Experience

The highlight for many travelers is a speedboat ride to the Natural Pool, which is just a short trip from the island. Here, the water’s transparency and the sandbanks make for some fantastic photos and a chance to cool off. The water is shallow enough to stand in, and the scenery is genuinely striking.

One traveler pointed out that the coral and marine life might be limited, with no starfish or stingray seen, but the natural beauty of the area still impresses. The sandbanks are perfect for lounging and wading—an ideal spot for a quick, serene break.

Return and Final Thoughts

The return route takes you past Bayahibe before heading back to your pickup point. The entire day wraps up around the 9-hour mark. Although some reviews detail disorganization during the transfer or boat swaps, most agree that the overall experience is worth the effort—especially if you’re after quality service and authentic Caribbean scenery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits couples and families seeking a peaceful yet lively day in the Caribbean, especially those who enjoy a well-organized trip with a focus on comfort. If you’re looking for luxury and exclusivity, this tour offers a slice of that with its private beach and limited group size. However, if you’re sensitive to long transfers or expect a totally seamless operation, some reviews suggest that you might want to keep your expectations in check.

Practical Tips

• Bring a towel and sunscreen to stay comfortable and protected.
• The tour not suitable for pregnant women, so plan accordingly.
• The duration allows plenty of time to relax, but be prepared for the travel time involved.
• While drinks are unlimited, the selection may be limited to popular sodas like Sprite and Coke.
• The language of the guides includes English, Spanish, French, Italian, Russian, and Portuguese, making the tour accessible to many.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation to Bayahibe, a catamaran cruise with open bar, visits to Saona Island’s private beach and Natural Pool, a speedboat ride, and a buffet lunch.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, with the itinerary including multiple stops and free time for relaxing and swimming.

Is the beach private?
Yes, you get access to a private section of Saona Island, away from the crowds, although some reviews have indicated it may still feel somewhat public or rocky.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there’s an open bar on the catamaran, offering unlimited drinks including soft drinks and alcohol, although options might be limited to sodas and local spirits.

What should I bring?
Pack a towel and sunscreen to stay protected and comfortable during the day.

Can I go if I am pregnant?
No, this tour is not suitable for pregnant women due to the boat rides and activity levels.

How is the food?
The buffet offers fresh Dominican dishes, meats, salads, and tropical fruits, but some travelers found it not as exclusive or high-end as expected.

Is it a good value?
Considering the boat rides, private beach, lunch, and natural pool access, many find it a good value, especially if you appreciate comfort and personalized service.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a tour that balances luxury and authentic Caribbean charm can make a big difference in your vacation. This Saona Island experience offers just that — a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy some of the most beautiful sights in the Dominican Republic. While some reviews highlight organizational hiccups and a long transfer, the majority agree that the stunning scenery, friendly guides, and quality amenities make it worthwhile.

If you’re after a relaxed, upscale day with ample time to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for those who value a well-maintained, intimate experience over the chaos of larger, more commercial excursions.

In the end, this trip can be a highlight of your Dominican vacation, provided you’re prepared for some travel time and appreciate the finer touches of Caribbean hospitality.

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