Saona Island and Catalina Island are the two most visited islands from Punta Cana, and both are day trips with pick-up at your hotel. The question we hear most is which one to choose. Here is how they differ, so you can pick the one that suits you.
Saona Island: beach, catamaran and natural pool
Saona Island lies inside the Parque Nacional del Este, on the country's southeast coast, and is famous for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water. The highlight is the stop at the Natural Pool, a sandbar in the middle of the sea where the water is waist-deep and you can see starfish. The return trip is by catamaran with entertainment on board.
- Includes a typical Dominican lunch, rum, soft drinks and water.
- Departure at 8:30 am, with pick-up at your hotel.
Catalina Island: snorkeling at La Pared and a quiet beach
Catalina Island is a small, protected island with no hotels, off La Romana. Its big draw is La Pared, one of the best reefs in the country for snorkeling, with tropical fish and colorful corals. You snorkel for about 40 minutes with a guide and gear included, then enjoy about 3 hours on a quieter, less crowded beach.
- Includes a Dominican buffet lunch by the sea, juices, soft drinks and water.
- Departs Monday to Saturday at 8:30 am.
So, which one should I choose?
- Choose Saona Island if you want beach, a party atmosphere on the catamaran and the famous natural pool.
- Choose Catalina Island if you love snorkeling and prefer a quiet beach with fewer people.
- Have a few days? Do both: they are very different experiences.
We pick up all our guests in the Bávaro / Punta Cana hotel zone.
