The 4 Best Island Day Trips in the Dominican Republic

1.Full-Day Cruise to Saona Island – Natural Pool and Lunch

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 260 reviews · from $71Our pick

Travel from Punta Cana to Saona Island with guide Manuel or another group guide, stopping at Palmilla’s shallow natural pool before lunch and beach time. A speedboat gets you there, while a lively catamaran usually brings you back. Expect a shared group, rum drinks, and a long day.

“Its was amazing had lots of fun the tour guys were 10/10 would deff recommend to anyone looking to party and have fun!”

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2.Full-Day Cruise to Saona Island – Natural pool and lunch

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 117 reviews · from $71

Travel from Punta Cana to Saona Island by speedboat, pause in Playa Palmilla’s shallow natural pool, enjoy lunch and beach time, then return by catamaran. Guides such as Manuel and Nicholas keep the day lively, but shared transfers, crowded boats, and extra charges require patience.

“The bus to the loading dock was fine. The party boat was fun! Two stops. The first is at a beach to view star fish and enjoy the chest high clear water! The second is at a different beach which the main part of the excursion. That beach was nice! The speed boat was fun! Snorkeling was fun! Make sure to bring your own snorkeling set just in case.”

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3.Saona Island Full Day Excursion from Punta Cana + Catamaran Party

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 103 reviews · from $79

Spend about nine hours traveling from Punta Cana to Saona Island by speedboat and catamaran. Stop at a natural pool, swim in turquoise water, eat a Dominican buffet lunch, and join music, dancing, and drinks aboard. Guides such as Enrique and Danny have earned praise, but transport can be slow and crowded.

“This was the best experience! I was solo. Made friends. Driver Enrique was the best. 10/10 I’d do it again!”

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4.Full-Day Cruise to Saona Island – Natural Pool and Lunch

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 75 reviews · from $71

Spend about 10.5 hours traveling from Punta Cana to Bayahibe and Saona Island. You’ll swim at Playa Palmilla’s natural pool, enjoy three hours on the island, eat a Dominican-style buffet, and return by party catamaran or speedboat. The tour is shared and can include up to 60 people.

“Saona island was amazing. Nothing like I’ve ever seen before. However when I booked this excursion I was told it would be just our group and it was NOT.”

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