Discover Saona Island – The Jewel of the Dominican Republic

We have been dreaming of a tropical escape with powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush palm trees swaying in the breeze. If you also imagined yourself in such a piece of paradise, look no further than Saona Island. While in the Dominican Republic, go to the southeastern coast to find Saona Island, part of the Cotubanamá National Park. It is one of the most visited destinations in the country and promises it all: relaxation, adventure, and a glimpse of the local culture.
Read on to learn more.

How to Get to Saona Island

As mentioned above, Saona Island is accessible only by boat, with tours departing from Bayahibe, La Romana, or Punta Cana. Most excursions include transportation, food, drinks, and guided activities, making it a hassle-free way to enjoy the island’s beauty. We took a tour directly from the resort where we were staying.

The Local Legend of Saona Island

Saona Island holds deep cultural and historical significance. According to local legend, the island was once the refuge of Cotubanamá, a Taíno chief who resisted Spanish colonization. He sought shelter in the island’s caves, hiding from Spanish invaders. Unfortunately, he was later captured and executed, but his spirit is said to still watch over the island, protecting its beauty and wildlife. Some locals believe the gentle breezes and rustling palm trees whisper his name, reminding visitors of the island’s past.

The Mermaid’s Curse

Another popular legend tells of a beautiful Taíno woman who fell in love with a Spanish sailor. Betrayed and heartbroken when he left her behind, she was said to have thrown herself into the sea, where the gods transformed her into a mermaid. It is believed that her sorrowful song can still be heard on quiet nights, luring sailors and fishermen to the island’s shores.

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Top Things to See and Do on Saona Island

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Swim in the Natural Pool

One of the highlights of a Saona Island tour is a stop at the Piscina Natural, or Natural Pool, a waist-deep sandbar with some of the most transparent waters in the Caribbean. Here, you can spot giant starfish resting on the ocean floor while enjoying a refreshing swim. Read more about our stop at the natural pool of Saona Island.

Explore Mano Juan Village

Mano Juan is the only inhabited part of Saona Island, offering a chance to experience the laid-back Dominican lifestyle. Waddle through the small fishing village, admire its colorful wooden housings and shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs. We waddled through this Last Authentic Caribbean Paradise as well.

Relax on Saona’s Stunning Beaches

Saona Island is renowned for its idyllic beaches, soft white sand, and shallow, crystal-clear waters. The island is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the Caribbean, stretching approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) of uninterrupted coastline featuring several beaches, each with unique charm and appeal. Some of the most famous beaches include:

• • Playa Canto de la Playa: Known for its remote, untouched beauty, this beach offers the clearest waters and finest white sand, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and snorkeling.
  • Playa El Toro: Hidden and more secluded, ideal for travelers looking to escape the crowds.
  • Playa Bonita: True to its name, this “beautiful beach” provides postcard-perfect scenery with swaying palm trees and warm Caribbean waters.
  • Playa Mano Juan: Located near the fishing village, this beach offers a glimpse into local island life, with colorful boats dotting the shoreline.

What makes Saona Island’s beaches truly special is the crystal-clear, shallow waters that extend far into the ocean, allowing visitors to walk out for meters while still standing in waist-deep water. The clarity of the water showcases the vibrant marine life beneath, making it a paradise for swimmers and snorkelers alike.

Snorkeling and Marine Life Encounter

Saona’s waters are teeming with vibrant marine life, making it a fantastic destination for snorkeling. Explore coral reefs filled with tropical fish, and if you’re lucky, you might spot sea turtles and stingrays gliding through the sea.

Cotubanamá National Park

Cotubanamá National Park is a vast protected area encompassing over 791 square kilometers (305 square miles) of lush tropical forests, coastal ecosystems, and marine environments, including the famous Saona Island. The park is a paradise offering pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an extensive network of caves adorned with pre-Columbian Taino petroglyphs. You can expect to encounter diverse wildlife, including manatees, sea turtles, iguanas, and hundreds of bird species like the Hispaniolan parrot and pelicans.

Other parts of Cotubanamá National Park include:

• Catalina Island – a small island with white sand beaches, coral reefs, and great snorkeling/diving spots.
• Mainland Section – dense forests, mangroves, and caves with Taino petroglyphs.
• Cueva del Puente – large cavern with stalactites, stalagmites, and rock art.
• Cueva de Berna is an important archaeological site with indigenous carvings.
• Palmilla Beach – a secluded beach with shallow waters and natural starfish pools.
• Catuano Channel – waterway between Saona and the mainland, rich in marine biodiversity.

Visit the Mangroves and Wildlife Reserves

As part of the protected Cotubanamá National Park, Saona Island is home to rich biodiversity. Take a boat ride through the mangroves to see exotic birds, iguanas, and even the endangered West Indian manatee in their natural habitat.

Famous Movies Filmed on Saona Island

Saona Island’s pristine beaches and breathtaking scenery have made it a popular filming location for Hollywood productions. Some of the most notable movies filmed here include:

• Pirates of the Caribbean: Several scenes from this blockbuster franchise were filmed on Saona Island due to its untouched, tropical setting that perfectly suited the swashbuckling adventure.
• Blue Lagoon (1980): This iconic survival romance film featured the island’s crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes.
• The Bachelor (TV Show): Various episodes of the reality TV series have used Saona Island as a backdrop for romantic dates and breathtaking proposal scenes.

Saona Island isn’t just a place to visit—it’s an experience. Whether you want to lounge on pristine beaches, dive into the clear waters, or explore the island’s hidden gems, this tropical escape has something for everyone. It’s the kind of place where even a penguin can kick back and relax. So, if you’re looking for a little slice of paradise, Saona Island should be on your travel list!

Pack your bag and waddle on!

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