Saona Island from Punta Cana Day Trip with Open Bar

Planning a day away from the busy resorts of Punta Cana to experience the quiet beauty of Saona Island? This tour offers a full 9.5-hour escape, combining stunning natural scenery, beachside relaxation, and some well-deserved drinks. But as with all excursions, it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for, so you can decide if it’s right for your type of travel.

We love that the trip includes visits to Playatao Beach, a pristine stretch of white sand surrounded by palms—perfect for unwinding in the sun. The delicious beachside lunch with a reserved table makes for a relaxed dining experience, and the Natural Pool offers a refreshing swim in clear waters, complete with a floating bar. Plus, the open bar with cocktails flowing throughout the day adds a festive touch.

One of the few considerations is that the day involves a fair amount of transportation—including a boat cruise and bus rides—so travelers prone to motion sickness or looking for a more leisurely, less travel-intensive experience might want to plan accordingly. This trip seems best suited for those who want a combination of scenic beauty, some adventure, and good drinks in a relaxed setting.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a break from your resort, this tour can fit a variety of travelers. It’s especially enjoyable if you love beaches, expect delicious food, and want to meet other travelers in a lively but laid-back environment.

Key Points

• Beautiful beaches with plenty of space to relax and enjoy the scenery
• Delicious, reserved lunch on the beach with scenic views
• Natural Pool offers a unique swimming experience in clear waters
• Open bar provides cocktails and drinks throughout the day
• Professional guides enhance the experience with helpful insights
• Suitable for those wanting a full-day, active yet laid-back adventure

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Departure and Transportation

Starting your day early, the tour typically begins with a bus ride from Punta Cana, followed by a scenic cruise along the coast. This part of the trip, usually lasting a couple of hours, sets the tone for the day—expect lively chatter, music, and a chance to enjoy the views of the Caribbean coastline.

The Natural Pool: A Must-See

One of the most talked-about stops is the Natural Pool, where the waters are so clear you’ll see your feet on the sandy bottom. Here, everyone gets a chance to float and swim in the calm waters, with drinks available from a floating bar—yes, you read that right. As one review highlights, “The catamaran was very fun and lively, and the drinks were flowing,” which captures the cheerful, festive atmosphere of this part of the trip.

Playatao Beach: Quiet and Picturesque

After the cruise, you’ll arrive at Playatao Beach—a stretch of untouched sand fringed by palm trees. This is the place to truly unwind. The tour provides a reserved table for groups, making it convenient to settle in comfortably. Expect soft white sands, gentle waves, and the low hum of palm fronds swaying. As one traveler from Argentina put it, “Excelente!!” — a simple but enthusiastic endorsement of the beach’s natural beauty.

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Lunch on the Beach

A highlight for many is the lunch served right on the sand. The restaurant’s design respects the landscape, with gazebos, palapas, and sun loungers blending seamlessly into the environment. The food is described as delicious, with some noting it as a highlight of their day. You’ll be able to choose your table and enjoy a leisurely meal, often with fresh seafood and local flavors, in a setting that feels both special and relaxed.

Return Journey & Additional Activities

The return trip includes a stop at the Natural Pools for another swim or a drink, depending on your energy level. The entire day wraps up around 5:30 PM, giving you plenty of time to reflect on the day’s sights and experiences.

The Experience: What Really Sets This Tour Apart

Scenic and Relaxing

The trip offers a nice balance of activity and downtime. The stunning views of white sand beaches and tall palms are always at the forefront. The natural pools and pristine beaches are the main attractions, providing perfect spots for swimming, photos, or simply lying back and soaking in the scenery.

Food and Drinks

The beachside lunch gets high praise for its quality and ambiance. The open bar, available throughout the day, ensures you can enjoy a cocktail or soft drink at your leisure, adding a festive, carefree spirit to the experience. From the reviews, we learn that drinks like Mojitos, Caipirinha, and national beers flow freely, keeping the mood lively.

Guides and Service

Many travelers mention knowledgeable guides who enhance the trip by sharing insights and helping less mobile travelers, making the day more inclusive and enjoyable. For example, one reviewer appreciated how Junior kept chatting and assisting her around since she doesn’t walk easily.

Transportation and Timing

The trip’s 9.5-hour duration might seem long, but it’s packed with sights and activities. The transportation involves a combination of bus and boat, which might be a minor inconvenience for those sensitive to motion. The return trip is scheduled for about 5:30 PM, which leaves you ample time to relax after a full day.

Value for Money

Given the included lunch, open bar, guided tours, and transportation, many consider this excursion a good value. It offers a well-rounded experience that covers the natural highlights without the hassle of planning each detail independently.

Balancing Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Stunning scenery and natural beauty
• Relaxed, friendly atmosphere with lively guides
• Excellent food and beverages included
• Comfortable reserved tables on the beach
• Well-organized with clear itinerary

Cons:

• The overall duration involves significant time in transit
• Some might find the early start and long day tiring
• The trip involves a fair amount of boat and bus travel, which can cause discomfort if you’re sensitive
• A few reviews mention the transportation experience could be smoother

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If your idea of a perfect day includes lounging on a quiet beach, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and sipping refreshing cocktails, this trip suits you well. It’s ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, all-in-one experience that combines scenic beauty with good food and drinks, without worrying about logistics. It’s also great for those traveling in a family or with friends, as the reserved tables and lively atmosphere encourage socializing.

However, if you prefer a slower pace, less travel, or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider other options. The long day and multiple transportation legs might not suit everyone, especially those who prefer more relaxed, less structured days.

The Sum Up

This Saona Island day trip from Punta Cana offers a compelling mix of beautiful beaches, refreshing natural pools, and tasty food and drinks. Its highlights—like the reserved beach tables, lively guides, and floating bar—create a fun, memorable atmosphere ideal for those who want a full-day escape with plenty of comfort and conviviality.

The value is generally good, considering the included meals, drinks, and transportation, making it a smart choice for travelers eager to see some of the Caribbean’s most iconic scenery without planning each detail themselves. The experience shines brightest for those who love beach days, are comfortable with a busy schedule, and enjoy social settings with good food and drinks.

For travelers seeking a lively, scenic, and well-organized day out that balances relaxation with activity, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for a full day of travel and a lively group environment—perfect if that’s what you’re after.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour involves bus transportation from Punta Cana and a cruise to Saona Island, with a scheduled return around 5:30 PM.

What should I bring? It’s recommended to take sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, and sunscreen. Remember, plastic bottles are not allowed.

How long is the tour? The full experience lasts approximately 9.5 hours, including travel, activities, and downtime.

Is food included? Yes, a delicious lunch is served on the beach, and there’s an open bar available throughout the day.

Can I get a refund if I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are drinks included? Yes, the open bar features cocktails like Mojitos, Caipirinha, Cuba Libres, and national beers.

Is this trip suitable for children or elderly? The tour is generally accessible, but consider the long travel times and physical activity involved.

What are the main highlights? Playatao Beach, the Natural Pool, a scenic cruise, and a tasty beachside lunch.

Is the experience crowded? It can get lively, especially with the guided guides and group atmosphere, but the beach space and reserved tables help manage the crowd.

Would I recommend this tour? If you enjoy scenic beaches, good food, and a lively group setting, yes. It’s a fun, full-day adventure that highlights some of the best of Saona Island.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby