Everything about the Dominican Republic's most popular day trip: what's included, what a Saona day looks like, what to bring and prices from each area.
If there’s one excursion almost every visitor to the Dominican Republic has on their list, it’s Saona Island. White sand, turquoise water and a full day on the Caribbean Sea make it the country’s most popular day trip. Here’s what the excursion is like, what’s included, what to bring and how much it costs from each area.
Where is Saona Island?
Saona is the largest island off the coast of the Dominican Republic. It sits in the southeast, inside Cotubanamá National Park (also known as the East National Park, “Parque Nacional del Este”), a protected area known for its beaches, mangroves and calm, shallow waters.
Because it’s a protected area, the island has very little development. That’s exactly why the beaches look like a postcard.
What’s included in the excursion
The Saona excursion with Wally’s Tours is a full-day trip that includes:
- Pickup and drop-off at your hotel in the area you booked from.
- Transportation by minibus, catamaran and speedboat. Part of the journey is on a relaxed catamaran and part on a fast speedboat.
- Buffet lunch on the island, for example grilled chicken, fish and/or pork chop, rice, pasta or sautéed potatoes, salads, bread, fruit and coffee.
- Open bar with rum, beer, soft drinks and water.
- Taxes.
Not included: photos (independent photographers may offer them on the day; that’s a direct deal between you and them).
Saona excursion prices by departure area
| Departing from | Adults (12+) | Children (2–11) |
|---|---|---|
| Bayahibe | from USD $59 | USD $45 |
| Uvero Alto | from USD $69 | USD $45 |
| Boca Chica | from USD $75 | USD $45 |
| Juan Dolio | from USD $75 | USD $45 |
| Punta Cana / Bávaro | from USD $79 | USD $45 |
| Santo Domingo | from USD $79 | USD $45 |
Prices at the time of writing. See the live price and availability on each tour page.
What a Saona day looks like
Plan for a long, full day: the excursion lasts around 10–11 hours door to door, depending on where your hotel is. Pickup is early in the morning, and the exact time is confirmed with your booking.
- Morning: road trip to the boat departure point, then sail across the Caribbean.
- Midday: free time on Saona’s beaches to swim, relax under the palm trees and enjoy the open bar. The buffet lunch opens around 12:45 p.m.
- Afternoon: boat ride back and return to your hotel.
During the boat rides you’ll pass shallow, crystal-clear areas where starfish live. You’re welcome to look, but please don’t take starfish out of the water: it harms them.
What to bring
- Swimsuit (wear it under your clothes), an extra towel and a change of clothes
- Reef-friendly sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. The Caribbean sun is strong.
- A waterproof phone pouch for photos on the boat
- Some cash in small bills for tips or souvenirs
- Your booking confirmation on your phone (the voucher is electronic)
Good to know before you book
- Book in advance. You can book up to 9 hours before, if there’s space, but popular dates fill up.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the excursion.
- Accessibility: wheelchair users can join. Please mention it when booking; a companion is required.
- Not recommended for pregnant women.
- Pets are not allowed.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the cheapest place to do the Saona excursion from?
Bayahibe, because it’s the closest area to the island. If you’re staying in Punta Cana, Uvero Alto, Boca Chica, Juan Dolio or Santo Domingo, the price includes the longer road transfer from your hotel.
Is Saona good for kids?
Yes, families love it. Children aged 2–11 pay the child rate. Keep in mind it’s a long day, so bring snacks and sun protection for the little ones.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch and open bar are included in the price.
What if I’m staying somewhere else?
Browse all our excursions by area: Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, Boca Chica, Juan Dolio, Bayahibe and Uvero Alto.
