Eco Saona Island Excursion from Punta Cana — Remote Beaches, Starfish & Snorkeling
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required—able to board a boat and manage short shallow swims; suitable for families and most travelers.
Overview
Skip the catamaran crowds and head to the quieter corners of Saona Island on a full-day eco excursion from Punta Cana. Visit a fishing village, snorkel shallow coral reefs, see starfish in the famous natural pool and enjoy a Dominican BBQ on an uncrowded white-sand beach.
Eco Saona Island Excursion from Punta Cana — Remote Beaches, Starfish & Snorkeling
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The morning boat slips away from Bayahibe with the soft insistence of a tidecard: a low-key insistence that the day will be claimed by salt and heat. Guides pass around bottled water and binoculars while the shore shrinks into a ribbon of palms; soon the motor hum is the only human sound and the island asserts itself—white sand, a fringe of coral, water that changes from pale turquoise to a deep, unapologetic blue.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Morning light is best for snorkeling
Clearer water and calmer seas tend to occur in the morning—plan for early pickup and get to the Piscina Natural before mid-day boat traffic increases.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Sunscreen free of oxybenzone helps protect coral and marine life—apply before boarding and reapply sparingly after snorkeling.
Wear water shoes
Shallow reefs and the beach entry have shells and coral rubble—light water shoes protect feet and make short swims more comfortable.
Respect wildlife rules
Do not remove or handle starfish or disturb turtle nests; follow guides’ directions at conservation stops.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Hawksbill and green sea turtles
- Native starfish in the Piscina Natural
History
Saona sits within Cotubanamá National Park and was historically frequented by the Taíno people; El Peñón rock marks an ancient landing point.
Conservation
This stretch of coast is protected and boat operators work with local turtle projects; avoid touching marine life and use reef-safe products to reduce impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Punta Cana
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Water shoes
Protects feet when entering coral-slab beaches and walking on rubble.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Prevents sunburn while protecting marine ecosystems.
Light dry bag
Keeps phone, wallet and camera dry during boat transfers.
Wide-brim hat & polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare and improves visibility on the water for photography.