Saona Island Small Group Tour: Local Village, Turtle Nursery & Natural Pool

Summary

Saona Island tour with local guide village visit & natural pool

You’ll travel by speedboat from La Romana port to Saona Island with a local guide, stopping first among wild mangroves before visiting Mano Juan village and its turtle nursery project. Enjoy Dominican lunch right on the sand, relax at Canto de la Playa’s quiet beach, then swim in a natural pool surrounded by starfish — all with pickup included.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the water to look that clear — almost fake, like someone cranked up the color on a TV. We’d barely left Bayahibe by speedboat when our guide, José, started telling us about the Tainos who once lived here. He pointed out these twisted mangroves rising straight from the saltwater. The boat slowed and I could smell salt and something green, almost peppery. I tried to snap a photo but my phone lens fogged up — humidity here is no joke.

When we landed at Mano Juan, it felt like time had slowed down or maybe just taken a nap in the shade. Kids waved from painted porches; one woman sold little coconut candies wrapped in plastic (I bought two — they melted fast). José introduced us to a local family running the turtle nursery. They showed us trays of eggs buried in sand and explained how they protect them until hatching season. No baby turtles today, but I liked hearing how everyone pitches in. After that, we wandered past wooden houses and tiny shops where you could bargain if you wanted — I’m not great at that part.

Lunch was simple: grilled fish, rice, cold beer. Eating with my feet in the sand made it taste better somehow. Then we headed to Canto de la Playa — honestly, I thought all Caribbean beaches looked the same until this one. It’s quieter here; you hear just wind and water and maybe someone laughing way down the shore. Some people snorkeled but I just floated for a while watching clouds move over the palms.

On our way back we stopped at this shallow natural pool out in the sea. There were starfish everywhere (big ones), but José kept reminding us not to touch them — “just photos!” he said, grinning. Someone handed me rum in a plastic cup and for a minute everything felt light and slow again. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck on the subway back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Saona Island speedboat tour from La Romana

• Meet at La Romana port taxi stand
• Transfer to office in Bayahibe
• Arrive at Bayahibe office, meet guide
• Board speedboat for Saona Island
• Explore Penon with English guide
• Visit mangrove forest
• Explore Mano Juan village and turtle nursery
• Enjoy Dominican lunch
• Relax or snorkel at Canto de la Playa beach
• Visit natural pool to see starfish
• Return to Bayahibe port
• Transfer back to La Romana port

Top questions

How do I get from La Romana port to Saona Island?

Your transportation is included; you'll be picked up at the cruise port taxi stand and driven to Bayahibe for speedboat departure.

Is this Saona Island tour suitable for cruise passengers?

Yes, it's designed for Marella Discovery passengers docking at La Romana port.

What is included in the Saona Island small group tour?

The tour includes transport from La Romana port, speedboat ride, English-speaking guide, Dominican lunch, drinks (beer, rum), snorkeling gear, snacks.

Will I see baby turtles at Mano Juan?

Sightings depend on nesting season and hatching cycles; it's not guaranteed every day.

How long do we spend at Canto de la Playa beach?

You have about 1.5 hours to relax or snorkel at Canto de la Playa beach.

Can I swim with starfish during the natural pool stop?

You can swim near starfish but touching them is not allowed; photos only are permitted.

Is lunch provided on this Saona Island day trip?

Yes, a traditional Dominican lunch is served on Saona Island as part of your tour.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

The tour isn't recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from La Romana port, speedboat transfers with an English-speaking guide, use of snorkeling equipment if you want it, snacks and drinks like beer or rum along the way, plus a Dominican lunch served right on Saona Island before heading back in the afternoon.