Explore the fishing village of Mano Juan, where history, legends, and natural beauty blend

As you go around Saona Island on the boat, you will notice that on one of the pristine shores lies a small yet captivating fishing village – Mano Juan. The village offers a glimpse into a simpler, more authentic side of the Dominican Republic. Unlike the bustling resorts of Punta Cana or La Romana, this peaceful community provides a taste of untouched Caribbean charm, where colorful wooden houses line sandy pathways and locals live in harmony with nature. Read on to learn everything you need to know before your visit.

How to Get to Mano Juan

Since Saona Island is part of Cotubanamá National Park and is protected, no roads or bridges connect it to the mainland. The only way to reach Mano Juan is by boat.

• • Excursion Tours – Many visitors arrive via day tours from Bayahibe, Punta Cana, or La Romana, often including stops at the famous Natural Pool, where you can spot starfish in shallow waters.
  • Private Boat Hire – For a more personal experience, chartering a private boat allows you to explore the village and its surroundings at your own pace.

History of Mano Juan

Mano Juan was established in the early 20th century as a fishing community, largely as a settlement for fishermen and their families. By the mid-1900s, it became the only inhabited village on Saona Island, as the rest of the island became part of the Cotubanamá National Park in 1975. The island has a deeper history dating back to 1494 when Christopher Columbus discovered and named it “Saona” in honor of an Italian friend from Savona. Before European colonization, the island was home to the indigenous Taíno people, who used its natural resources for fishing and small-scale agriculture. With Spanish colonization, the island’s original inhabitants were either displaced or perished, leaving it largely uninhabited for centuries. Over the years, it has remained the only inhabited area on Saona Island, preserving its rustic and laid-back atmosphere. The village is home to around 500~600 residents, most of whom rely on fishing, tourism, and artisan crafts for their livelihood. Despite its small size, Mano Juan is rich in culture and history, serving as a living museum of traditional island life.

The Local Legend of Mano Juan

A fascinating local legend tells of a Spanish sailor named Juan who was shipwrecked near Saona Island centuries ago. According to the tale, he survived by seeking refuge on the island, where he befriended the indigenous Taíno people and lived out his days. Over time, his story became intertwined with the village’s identity, leading to the name Mano Juan (“Hand of Juan”). While historians debate the tale’s authenticity, it remains integral to the village’s folklore.

What to Expect When Waddling Around Mano Juan

Visiting Mano Juan is like stepping into a postcard-perfect Caribbean retreat. The colorful houses, friendly locals, and tasty food will win you over immediately.

Unlike the crowded tourist hotspots, Mano Juan’s beaches are serene and unspoiled, with powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. With the palm trees casting shades, it’s a perfect sport for a relaxed day away.

Sea Turtle Conservation Project 

The village is home to a sea turtle sanctuary, where conservationists work to protect the island’s nesting turtles. The situation of sea turtles in the Dominican Republic is very delicate.

There are three protected species: the leatherback sea turtle, the green sea turtle, and the hawksbill sea turtle.

The hawksbill turtle is the most representative, with more than 25 nesting females annually. Their extinction is mainly due to theft by fishermen and poachers in the area, who plan on illegally selling the shells of the adult turtles. Another reason hawksbill turtle hatchlings are stolen is the false belief in the country that the eggs and meat of hawksbill turtles can be used to remedy some conditions, such as erectile dysfunction.
So here, you can learn about efforts to safeguard these endangered creatures.

Make a donation through the “Grupo Jaragua”, Negro is one of their many conservation programs – so when you contact them please make sure to specify that your donation is for the Saona nesting project with Negro. 

Waddling through the village, you’ll see children playing in the sand, fishermen mending their nets, and colorful homes that reflect the community’s vibrant spirit. You can find a police station here, some shops, and a kindergarten, but that’s about it. The village is small, and our tour guide told us you can buy a house here for about 5 000 $/€. Not a bad deal.

You can also find small market stalls here that offer handmade jewelry, wooden carvings, and woven goods crafted by local artisans. However, we were disappointed about the vast number of souvenirs manufactured and “made in China” style. This is a shame as we wanted to support the locals, but not like this.

Enjoy also freshly caught seafood, plantains, and local specialties at a quaint beachside eatery.

Mano Juan is a must-visit destination if you are seeking an authentic Caribbean experience. It’s where time slows down, the ocean breeze carries whispers of the past, and nature thrives in its purest form. Whether you’re looking to explore untouched beaches, support local artisans, or simply enjoy the peaceful rhythm of island life, Mano Juan is an unforgettable stop on your Dominican Republic adventure.

Pack your bag and waddle on!

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