Float in shallow turquoise water while searching for starfish in Saona Island’s famed natural pool, then dance back to port on a lively catamaran. This full-day excursion pairs beach time, a buffet lunch, and beachside drinks with convenient hotel transfers from the Punta Cana area.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Visitors emerge from a 40‑minute fast-boat ride into water the color of diluted turquoise glass, then drift up to a shallow sandbar where starfish dot the sea floor like pinned coins. Later, a catamaran returns them to shore with music and dancing, the hull rocking gently as crew pass rum cups beneath waving palms.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
9–11 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in light to average fitness—able to board boats and stand during transfers; minimal hiking.
Wildlife
History
Saona Island is part of a national park created to protect coastal ecosystems and traditional fishing communities; it was historically frequented by indigenous Taíno people and later used by European settlers.
Conservation
Tours emphasize no-touch policies for starfish and encourage reef-safe products; limiting single-use plastics and staying within marked areas helps protect reef and seagrass habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Saona Island, Natural pool Starfish, Fast boat, Catamaran +Dances today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The island is protected—use biodegradable sunscreen to reduce harm to corals and starfish.
Water shoes for the sandbar
Shallow areas have seagrass and broken shell; shoes protect feet and improve traction.
Carry small local cash
Bring pesos for tips, snacks, or optional photos purchased after the tour.
Respect wildlife rules
Never remove starfish from the water—exposure kills them and guides will enforce the rule.
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
You’ll swim and lounge on sandbars and beaches—quick-dry fabrics speed drying between activities.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and fragile marine environments from harmful chemicals.
summer
Water shoes
Protects feet on shell-strewn sandbars and improvised boat ladders.
Waterproof phone case or dry bag
Keeps valuables dry during boat transfers and when wading in shallow pools.