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.
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.
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
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.
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
.
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
.
Round-trip by
catamaran and speedboat
Visit to
the Natural Pool
Buffet lunch and open bar
on the island
Free time on
Playa Abanico
Stops at
coral reefs near Saona
Snorkeling or diving at
Playa Catuano
Time at
Saona’s white sandy beaches
Smaller,
private boats with a personalized itinerary
Premium food and drinks
, including seafood and lobster
Access to exclusive, quieter beaches
on Saona
📍 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
☀ December – April: Dry season, calm waters, and sunny weather. 🌧 May – November: Fewer crowds, occasional rain showers, but still great for swimming and snorkeling.
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
.
✔ The shortest and most direct route to Saona Island ✔ More tour options, including catamaran, snorkeling, and private charters ✔ Includes a stop at the Natural Pool with starfish ✔ Less 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.