Saona Island from Bayahibe: The Best Departure Point for an Unforgettable Trip

Saona Island is one of the most popular excursions in the Dominican Republic, and Bayahibe is the closest and most convenient departure point to reach this tropical paradise. Located about 15 minutes by boat from Saona, Bayahibe is a small fishing village with a scenic coastline, clear waters, and a variety of boat tours that take visitors to Saona Island.

Why Depart from Bayahibe?

1. Shorter Travel Time

  • Bayahibe is

    only 15–20 minutes by speedboat

    from Saona Island, making it the fastest departure point.

  • Visitors from

    Punta Cana (1.5-hour drive) and La Romana (30-minute drive)

    can take a tour from Bayahibe to avoid long boat rides.

2. More Tour Options

  • Since Bayahibe is closer to Saona Island, it has a wider range of tour options, including:

    • Catamaran party cruises

    • Speedboat adventures

    • Snorkeling and diving tours

    • VIP and private boat charters

3. Better Snorkeling and Marine Life

  • The waters near Bayahibe and Saona Island are

    home to coral reefs and diverse marine life

    .

  • Many tours include a snorkeling stop near

    Playa Catuano

    before reaching Saona.

4. The Natural Pool Stop

  • Most Saona Island tours from Bayahibe

    include a stop at the famous Natural Pool

    , a shallow sandbank where visitors can swim with starfish in

    crystal-clear turquoise waters

    .

5. Access to Cotubanamá National Park

  • Bayahibe is located near

    Cotubanamá National Park

    , a protected area rich in

    mangroves, caves, and wildlife

    .

  • Some tours combine

    a visit to the park with the Saona Island excursion

    .

Types of Saona Island Tours from Bayahibe

1. Standard Saona Island Tour

  • Round-trip by

    catamaran and speedboat

  • Visit to

    the Natural Pool

  • Buffet lunch and open bar

    on the island

  • Free time on

    Playa Abanico

2. Snorkeling & Diving Tour

  • Stops at

    coral reefs near Saona

  • Snorkeling or diving at

    Playa Catuano

  • Time at

    Saona’s white sandy beaches

3. VIP or Private Saona Tour

  • Smaller,

    private boats with a personalized itinerary

  • Premium food and drinks

    , including seafood and lobster

  • Access to exclusive, quieter beaches

    on Saona

How to Get to Bayahibe for a Saona Island Tour

📍 Location: Bayahibe, La Altagracia Province 🚗 From Punta Cana: 1.5-hour drive (many tours include hotel pickup) 🚗 From La Romana: 30-minute drive 🚗 From Santo Domingo: 2-hour drive

Best Time to Visit Saona Island from Bayahibe

December – April: Dry season, calm waters, and sunny weather. 🌧 May – November: Fewer crowds, occasional rain showers, but still great for swimming and snorkeling.

Tips for Visiting Saona Island from Bayahibe

  • Arrive early

    – Tours leave in the morning, usually between

    8:00 and 9:30 AM

    .

  • Bring cash

    – Some areas on Saona Island do not accept credit cards.

  • Use reef-safe sunscreen

    – Protect marine life while enjoying the water.

  • Choose a smaller boat or VIP tour

    if you want a

    more private experience

    .

Why Visit Saona Island from Bayahibe?

The shortest and most direct route to Saona IslandMore tour options, including catamaran, snorkeling, and private chartersIncludes a stop at the Natural Pool with starfishLess time spent on transport, more time enjoying the island

Ready to explore Saona Island Excursion? Visit our Tour Page to book your excursions and embark on a magical journey.

You Might Also Like