If you’re visiting La Romana, you’ll quickly see that this part of the Dominican Republic offers much more than just beautiful beaches. It’s a fantastic place for lunch experiences, especially if you want to combine scenic views with authentic local cuisine. Whether you prefer relaxing on a pristine island, snorkeling in coral reefs, or enjoying lively boat rides with included buffet lunches, La Romana has options suited for all tastes. Our favorites include tours that balance natural beauty with genuine Dominican flair, like the Saona Island Tour with Lunch and Pickup for its easy logistics and relaxed pace, or the Punta Cana Speed Boat to Saona Island with Lunch & Natural Pools for its energetic vibe and scenic boat rides.
These tours are more than just trips—they’re ways to enjoy authentic local flavors and the stunning Caribbean scenery while keeping things hassle-free. If relaxing on white sand beaches and swimming in natural pools sounds like your ideal lunch break, you’ll find plenty of options here. On the other hand, if you like a bit of adventure along with your meal, the high-speed boat tours will suit you perfectly.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of lunch experiences around La Romana, from full-day island excursions to shorter boat trips with included buffet meals. Some tours focus on Saona Island, renowned for its untouched beaches and crystal-clear water (see the Saona Island Tour with Lunch and Pickup). Other options include snorkeling adventures at Catalina Island, such as the Punta Cana: Island escape to Catalina, which combines marine exploration with a buffet lunch on a private beach. For those seeking a lively atmosphere and local music, the Saona IsIand Experience from Punta Cana with Lunch offers a fun mix of entertainment and natural beauty. Now, let’s explore each tour in detail.
1. Saona Island Tour with Lunch and Pickup
At number 1, this tour is ideal if you want a relaxed day on Saona Island with included lunch and convenient hotel pickup. The tour includes round-trip transfers from your hotel in Punta Cana, Cap Cana, Bavaro, La Romana, or Uvero Alto, making it a hassle-free way to escape for the day. You’ll travel by catamaran—an experience that’s often slower than speedboats but offers a more leisurely journey—and spend about 2 hours on the water. Midway, you’ll stop at the famous Natural Pool (Blue Lagoon) or sandbanks, where you can paddle in shallow waters up to your waist or just relax.
Once on Saona Island, you’ll have around 2 hours and 45 minutes of free time to enjoy the beaches, take photos, or simply soak in the surroundings. The buffet-style lunch at 1 pm features various meats and sides, making for a satisfying meal. Several reviews mention that the slower catamaran ride might be less appealing if you’re eager to get on the island sooner, with one reviewer saying, “I’d prefer faster boats to save time on water.”
Bottom line: A great choice if you value a relaxed pace, included lunch, and worry-free transfers. Perfect for families or travelers wanting a comfortable day on the beach.
$57.97 per person
2. Punta Cana Speed Boat to Saona Island with Lunch & Natural Pools
For those craving more adrenaline and scenic speed, this speed boat tour offers an energetic ride across the Caribbean, with a highlight stop at the Natural Pools near Palmilla. Priced at $125 per person, it’s a slightly more expensive but shorter and more thrilling experience. The tour lasts about 8 hours, including round-trip hotel pickup, so your day is packed with action.
The highlight is cruising through the Catuano Channel on a fast boat, giving you a sense of speed that catamarans can’t match. Once at Saona Island, you’ll have time to swim, sunbathe, and relax, with a full buffet lunch and drinks included to keep you refreshed. The reviews note a high level of fun and the chance to see more of the coast in less time, making it ideal for active travelers.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventure lovers who want a quick but energetic trip with great scenery, excellent for those with limited time or looking for a bit of thrill.
3. Punta Cana: Island escape to Catalina • snorkeling & lunch
At number 3, this tour combines snorkeling, relaxing on a private beach, and a buffet lunch. The trip starts with pickup at Punta Cana, followed by a scenic bus ride. The snorkeling at “The Aquarium” coral reef is a highlight, presenting vibrant marine life in clear waters. The day includes around 2 hours and 40 minutes at Catalina Island, where you can lounge on the beach or explore the underwater world.
Included is a buffet lunch and free time for photos and relaxation, making it a good option for families or couples wanting a mix of adventure and leisure. The guide provides insights into the marine sanctuary, enhancing the experience. The tour is fairly long, at 9.5 hours, but the variety of activities and the chance to unwind make it worthwhile.
Bottom line: Ideal for snorkelers and beach lovers who want a balanced day of activity and rest, with a scenic island setting and tasty buffet.
4. Saona Island Experience from Punta Cana with Lunch Included
This tour focuses on combining lively entertainment with natural beauty. Starting with a vibrant catamaran ride filled with music and drinks, it moves to the tranquil waters of the natural pool, then on to Saona Island’s pristine beaches. The buffet lunch features traditional Dominican dishes, adding cultural flavor to the day.
The tour’s lively atmosphere is perfect for travelers looking to have fun while soaking up the scenery. The inclusion of drinks and music make it feel more like a Caribbean party, and the natural pool swim provides a refreshing break. It has a rating of 3.5/5 from three reviews, which mention the fun vibe but also note that the day can be quite busy.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who want a lively, fun-packed day with plenty of entertainment and culture, especially if dancing and music are your thing.
$75.00 per person
5. Full-Day Tour to Saona Island from Bayahibe with Lunch
This is the classic full-day trip for lovers of natural scenery and Dominican cuisine. Starting from Bayahibe, you visit Saona Island, a natural park with stunning beaches. The itinerary includes a stop at the Natural Pool, where you can enjoy water at waist level, surrounded by dramatic coral formations. About 4 hours are spent on the island, with plenty of time for lounging, swimming, or taking photos.
The all-inclusive buffet lunch features chicken, pork, rice, vegetables, and fruit, with options to satisfy most tastes. The tour’s value lies in its balance—ample beach time, natural swimming spots, and a good meal at a reasonable price ($80 per person). The reviews highlight the beauty of the coast and the relaxing pace, making it suitable for travelers who want a calm, scenic day.
Bottom line: A dependable choice for those wanting a comprehensive, relaxing day full of natural beauty and good food.
$80.00 per person
6. From Punta Cana: Exclusive Catalina Island Tour with Transportation and Lunch
This smaller, more exclusive tour offers personalized attention as you explore Catalina Island. Starting from Punta Cana, you’ll enjoy a boat and catamaran tour filled with music, fun, and scenic views. The tour includes a guided city tour of La Romana, followed by snorkeling and relaxing on Catalina’s beaches. The lunch is included, featuring local cuisine, with open bar drinks and tropical fruits.
Rated 2.5/5 from four reviews, this tour is more intimate and emphasizes connecting with nature and local culture. The itinerary offers opportunities for snorkeling, hiking, and photos, making it suitable for travelers who want a mix of activity and leisure in a smaller group setting.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking a more exclusive, personalized experience that combines snorkeling, cultural insights, and a relaxed lunch.
7. Bayahibe: Catalina Island Catamaran Cruise with Lunch
This catamaran cruise from Bayahibe combines snorkeling at “The Wall” and “Aquarium” reefs with a beachfront buffet lunch. You’ll enjoy live music and an open bar, adding to the festive atmosphere. The cruise offers a chance to relax, listen to Caribbean tunes, and admire the scenic coastlines.
It’s ideal if you enjoy water activities combined with lively social settings. The round-trip transfers and multilingual guides ensure comfort and accessibility. Reviews, while limited, praise the opportunity to enjoy snorkeling and the friendly vibe onboard.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a fun, lively day with snorkeling, music, and a generous buffet lunch.
8. Bayahibe: Catalina Island Scuba Diving Tour with Lunch
For serious divers, this scuba diving tour explores Catalina Island’s underwater world. The tour includes two dive sites where you can discover vibrant marine life and coral formations. After the dives, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch on the beach, with time to relax or swim afterward.
Rated without reviews but highly recommended for diving enthusiasts, this tour offers an authentic underwater experience. It’s best suited for certified divers or those eager to learn. The combination of marine exploration and a beachside meal makes it a well-rounded day.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for certified divers or those with snorkeling experience who want a full immersion into Caribbean marine life.
9. La Romana: Catalina Island Day Trip with Lunch & Drinks
This trip from La Romana offers snorkeling at The Wall, relaxing on the powdery beaches, and an all-you-can-eat buffet. You’ll also enjoy unlimited drinks, including rum, beer, and soft drinks. The scenic boat ride along the coast adds a touch of adventure.
It’s a straightforward, enjoyable day ideal for those wanting easy access to Catalina’s beaches combined with good food and drinks. The trip lasts about 7 hours, making it manageable for travelers with limited time.
Bottom line: Great for those who want a relaxed day with plenty of beach time, snorkeling, and unlimited tropical drinks.
10. Punta Cana: Catalina Island Snorkeling Tour with Lunch
This full-day snorkeling tour from Punta Cana includes “The Wall” and “The Aquarium” reefs, where marine life abounds. The tour also offers a beachside buffet lunch and a cruise through the Chavón River, famous from movies. The combination of underwater adventure and scenic river cruise provides an engaging experience.
The tour is ideal for active travelers seeking multiple activities in one day, with a balance of underwater exploration and relaxing beach time. The inclusion of the river cruise adds a unique element.
Bottom line: Suitable for snorkelers and explorers wanting a full-day adventure with scenic river views and authentic Dominican cuisine.
11. Saona Island Speedboat Tour with Lunch & Natural Pool Swim
This tour offers a high-energy day on Saona Island with a focus on speedboat rides and natural pools. The small group size and flexible itinerary make it perfect for sunseekers wanting a personalized experience, with plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying traditional food.
With no reviews yet, the focus here is on speed, fun, and exclusivity. It’s ideal if you want a fast-paced, memorable day with a delicious lunch included.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers eager for a quick, fun, and personalized trip to Saona Island with a focus on natural swimming spots.
$125.00 per person
How to Choose the Best Lunch Experience in La Romana
When selecting your tour, consider your priorities: Do you want a relaxed day on a pristine island? Then the Saona Island Tour with Lunch and Pickup offers comfort and natural beauty. Looking for adventure and speed? The Punta Cana Speed Boat to Saona delivers a faster ride and scenic stops. For snorkeling enthusiasts, the Catalina Island tours combine marine exploration with beach relaxation.
Budget-friendly options include full-day trips with included meals, while those seeking a lively, party atmosphere might prefer tours like the Saona Island Experience. If you’re interested in diving, the Catalina scuba tours offer the most immersive underwater experience.
Practical tips include booking early during peak seasons, checking whether transfers are included, and choosing a tour that matches your activity level and interest in cultural or marine experiences.
Final Thoughts
La Romana offers a varied range of lunch trips from relaxing island days to high-speed boat adventures. For a laid-back experience with authentic Dominican cuisine, the Saona Island Tour with Lunch and Pickup is hard to beat. If you prefer more action, the Punta Cana Speed Boat provides a thrilling ride with scenic stops. For snorkelers, the Catalina Island tours combine marine exploration with relaxing beaches.
Whatever your style, booking early ensures you get your preferred date and tour. La Romana’s lunch experiences promise both delicious food and unforgettable scenery—so pick the one that suits your mood and enjoy a true taste of the Caribbean.