The Dominican Republic isn’t just about all-inclusive resorts; it’s a land blessed with stunning islands perfect for day trips. From the pristine beaches of Saona to the vibrant coral reefs of Catalina, island hopping here is an absolute must-do. We’re going to dive deep into the how, where, and what of exploring these paradises, giving you the inside scoop to make your Dominican Republic adventure unforgettable.
Saona Island: A Picture-Perfect Escape
Saona Island, part of the Parque Nacional Cotubanamá, is probably the most popular island excursion from Punta Cana. Think blinding white sand, swaying palm trees, and turquoise water so clear you can see straight to the bottom. The main draw is its postcard-perfect beauty and the opportunity to truly unwind.
Getting to Saona Island
Most Saona Island excursions depart from Bayahibe, a charming fishing village about an hour’s drive from Punta Cana. You can either book a tour that provides transportation from your hotel, or you can drive yourself to Bayahibe and join a tour there. Driving offers more flexibility, but the convenience of hotel pickup is hard to beat, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Tour operators usually handle the park entrance fee, which is often included in the total price. You’ll typically travel aboard a catamaran or a speedboat. Catamarans are more relaxed, often with music, dancing, and drinks included, while speedboats are faster and allow you to see more in less time. Be prepared for a bit of a bumpy ride on the speedboat, especially if the sea is choppy.
What to Expect on Saona Island
Your Saona Island day trip usually includes a stop at the “Natural Pool,” a shallow sandbar in the middle of the ocean. Here, you can wade in waist-deep water, spot starfish (please don’t take them out of the water!), and enjoy a refreshing drink. It’s a quintessential Saona Island experience and a great photo opportunity. Upon arriving at Saona Island itself, you’ll have several hours to relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, and enjoy a buffet lunch provided by the tour operator. Many tours also include an open bar, serving local rum and other beverages. The beaches are generally well-maintained, but it’s still important to bring your own sunscreen, towel, and insect repellent. Mosquitoes can be present, especially in the evening.
Choosing the Right Saona Island Tour
There are countless tour operators offering Saona Island excursions, so it’s important to do your research and choose one that suits your needs. Consider factors like the size of the group, the type of boat, the inclusions (lunch, drinks, transportation), and the overall price. Reading reviews online is a great way to get an idea of what to expect. Some tours also include other activities, such as snorkeling or visiting a local fishing village. Eco-conscious travelers might want to look for tours that prioritize sustainability and responsible tourism practices. For instance, some tours work closely with the local community and support conservation efforts. Prices for Saona Island excursions typically range from $60 to $120 USD per person, depending on the inclusions and the tour operator.
Catalina Island: A Diver’s and Snorkeler’s Paradise
While Saona is famed for its beaches, Catalina Island (also known as Isla Catalina) is all about what lies beneath the surface. Its vibrant coral reefs teem with marine life, making it a prime destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Getting to Catalina Island
Similar to Saona Island, Catalina Island excursions usually depart from La Romana, a city about an hour and a half from Punta Cana. Many tour operators offer hotel pickup and drop-off services, making it a convenient option. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive to La Romana. The journey to Catalina Island typically involves a boat ride of around 30-45 minutes. Keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life along the way! The dock in La Romana can get quite busy, especially during peak season, so it’s advisable to arrive early.
Snorkeling and Diving on Catalina Island
Catalina Island is renowned for two main dive sites: “The Wall” and “The Aquarium.” The Wall is a dramatic drop-off that plunges into the depths of the Caribbean Sea, offering breathtaking views and encounters with larger marine species. The Aquarium, on the other hand, is a shallower reef teeming with colorful fish, coral, and crustaceans. Snorkeling is also excellent in this area, with clear waters and abundant marine life easily visible from the surface. Most tour operators provide snorkeling gear, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own if you have it, to ensure a comfortable fit. If you’re planning to scuba dive, you’ll need to be a certified diver and book a dive trip with a reputable dive operator. Certification courses are available in La Romana and Bayahibe if you’re not already certified. The visibility on Catalina Island is generally very good, but it can vary depending on weather conditions.
Beyond the Reefs: Relaxing on Catalina Island
After exploring the underwater world, take some time to relax on Catalina Island’s beautiful beaches. The main beach area offers plenty of space to soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear water, and enjoy a refreshing drink. Many tour operators provide lunch on the island, typically a buffet of Dominican and international cuisine. There are also several vendors selling souvenirs and local crafts. The island is relatively small and undeveloped, adding to its charm and tranquility. Keep an eye out for the island’s resident iguanas, which can often be seen basking in the sun. Remember to respect the natural environment and avoid disturbing the wildlife.
Choosing Your Catalina Island Adventure
When selecting a Catalina Island tour, consider your priorities. If you’re primarily interested in snorkeling, look for tours that spend a significant amount of time at the Aquarium. If you’re a certified diver, book a dive trip with a reputable operator that offers dives at The Wall and other dive sites. Some tours combine snorkeling and diving with beach time and other activities. Be sure to check what’s included in the price, such as transportation, equipment, lunch, and drinks. Prices for Catalina Island excursions are generally similar to those for Saona Island, ranging from $60 to $120 USD per person. Some tour operators offer discounts for booking online or for groups.
More Island Hopping Options: Beyond Saona and Catalina
While Saona and Catalina are the most popular choices, the Dominican Republic offers other amazing island experiences. These are typically smaller, less crowded, and offer a more unique perspective of the country’s natural beauty.
Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island): A Classic Caribbean Scene
Located in Samaná Bay, Cayo Levantado, often called “Bacardi Island” due to its use in a Bacardi rum commercial, is a tiny island that packs a big punch. Imagine a picture-perfect Caribbean island with white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush vegetation. This is Cayo Levantado. While it can get crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port, it’s still worth a visit for its stunning scenery and relaxed atmosphere. From January to March, you can combine a visit to Cayo Levantado with whale watching in Samaná Bay, a truly unforgettable experience.
Getting There: The easiest way to reach Cayo Levantado is by boat from Samaná. You can either book a tour that includes transportation from your hotel, or you can drive to Samaná and take a public boat or private taxi boat to the island. Public boats are more affordable, but they can be crowded. Private taxi boats offer more flexibility and privacy. The boat ride takes around 15-20 minutes.
Activities: The main activities on Cayo Levantado are swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the beach. There are also several restaurants and bars serving local food and drinks. You can rent snorkeling gear on the island, but the snorkeling is not as good as on Catalina Island. The island is small enough to explore on foot, and there are several viewpoints offering panoramic views of Samaná Bay.
Isla Beata: Untouched Beauty in the South
If you’re looking for a truly secluded island experience, consider visiting Isla Beata. Located off the southwest coast of the Dominican Republic, near Bahia de las Aguilas, Isla Beata is a remote and largely uninhabited island that boasts pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife. It’s a far cry from the bustling beaches of Punta Cana and offers a chance to disconnect and reconnect with nature.
Getting There: Reaching Isla Beata requires a bit more effort. You’ll need to travel to Bahia de las Aguilas, a stunning beach in the Jaragua National Park. From there, you can hire a boat to take you to Isla Beata. The boat ride takes around 30-45 minutes and can be quite bumpy, depending on the weather. It’s essential to arrange transportation in advance, as there are limited options available.
Things to Keep in Mind: Isla Beata offers limited services and facilities. There are no restaurants, shops, or hotels on the island, so you’ll need to bring everything you need with you, including food, water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Camping is allowed on the island, but you’ll need to obtain a permit from the Ministry of Environment. Be sure to pack out all your trash and leave no trace behind.
Cayo Arena (Paradise Island): A Sandbar Paradise
Cayo Arena, also known as Paradise Island, is a tiny sandbar located off the coast of Puerto Plata. This incredibly small island is mostly just sand, but it’s surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters teeming with colorful fish, making it a snorkeler’s dream. It’s truly a unique and unforgettable experience.
Getting There: To get to Cayo Arena, you’ll first need to travel to Punta Rucia, a small fishing village on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. From there, you can hire a boat to take you to the island. The boat ride takes about 20-30 minutes and is part of the charm – you glide through mangrove forests and shallow turquoise waters.
Snorkeling and Relaxing: The main attraction on Cayo Arena is snorkeling. The water is shallow and clear, and you can see a wide variety of tropical fish, even without going deep. Many tour operators provide snorkeling gear and fish food, which attracts even more fish. After snorkeling, you can relax on the sandbar, soak up the sun, and enjoy a refreshing drink. Most tours include drinks and snacks.
Tips for a Smooth Island Hopping Experience
Island hopping in the Dominican Republic is primarily safe, but a few precautions can ensure a smooth and enjoyable adventure. A very important tip, if you book an excursion via online platforms, double-check the reviews and ratings of the tour operator for reliability and quality before confirming your booking. Also, try to avoid peak hours when booking any excursion to ensure less number of people.
Travel Insurance
While the Dominican Republic is generally safe, it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and loss of belongings. Before you go, double-check what your insurance covers and what to do if you need to make a claim. For example, specific policies tailored to action sports lovers are available from World Nomads – World Nomads.
Sun Protection
The Caribbean sun is strong, so it’s essential to protect your skin. Wear a high-SPF sunscreen, reapply frequently, and wear a hat and sunglasses. Consider wearing a rash guard or UV-protective clothing, especially if you’re planning on spending a lot of time in the water. Protect your skin and eyes from UV radiation even under cloudy environments.
Hydration
It’s easy to get dehydrated in the tropical heat, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid sugary drinks, which can actually dehydrate you. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it whenever possible. Dehydration is a common cause of illness while traveling, so take it seriously.
Respect the Environment
The islands of the Dominican Republic are beautiful and fragile ecosystems, and it’s important to respect the environment. Avoid touching or disturbing coral reefs, and don’t litter. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine life. Choose tour operators that practice sustainable tourism and support local communities.
Stay Aware of Your Belongings
Theft can occur, so keep an eye on your belongings at all times. Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach, and be aware of your surroundings. Use a money belt or hidden pouch to store your cash and valuables. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you.
Cost Considerations for Dominican Republic Island Excursions
Budgeting appropriately is crucial for traveling in the Dominican Republic in general. The costs may fluctuate, but you can consider the estimates for a safer side. Prices can vary depending on the tour operator, the inclusions, and the time of year. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect to spend.
Excursion Prices
As mentioned earlier, Saona Island and Catalina Island excursions typically range from $60 to $120 USD per person. Excursions to Cayo Levantado and Cayo Arena may be slightly more expensive, depending on the location of your hotel and the transportation involved. Private boat charters can cost significantly more, but they offer a more personalized experience. For example, for a customized daytrip, a yacht is around $700 – Viator. This would be a great pick for larger groups or families.
Additional Expenses
In addition to the excursion price, you may need to factor in other expenses, such as transportation to the departure point, tips for the crew, and souvenirs. Some tour operators may also charge extra for optional activities, such as snorkeling gear or diving equipment. Set aside some extra cash for these incidental expenses.
Saving Money
There are several ways to save money on island excursions in the Dominican Republic. Booking online in advance can often get you a better deal. Traveling during the off-season (May-June or September-October) can also save you money on tours and accommodations. Consider booking a group tour to take advantage of discounted rates. Be sure to compare prices from different tour operators before making a decision.
FAQ Section
What should I wear on an island excursion?
Lightweight and comfortable clothing is best. Bring a swimsuit, a cover-up, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Water shoes or sandals are also a good idea, especially for walking on rocky beaches or coral reefs.
What should I bring on an island excursion?
Sunscreen, insect repellent, a towel, a hat, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, and a camera are essential. If you have your own snorkeling gear, bring it along. A waterproof bag is also a good idea for protecting your electronics.
Are island excursions suitable for children?
Many island excursions are suitable for children, but it’s important to choose a tour that’s appropriate for their age and abilities. Check with the tour operator about age restrictions and safety precautions. Infants and toddlers may not be suitable for boat trips or snorkeling. Consider the length of the excursion and the amount of time spent on the boat.
Is it safe to drink the water on the islands?
It’s not recommended to drink tap water in the Dominican Republic, including on the islands. Bottled water is readily available, and it’s always a good idea to stick to bottled water to avoid any stomach upset.
What is the best time of year to visit the Dominican Republic for island hopping?
The best time to visit the Dominican Republic is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. The weather is sunny and dry, and the humidity is lower. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. The shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October) can also be a good time to visit, as the weather is still pleasant and the prices are lower.
How to avoid sea sickness?
Take motion sickness medication at least an hour before the boat trip. Choose a seat in the middle of the boat, where the motion is less noticeable. Avoid reading or looking at your phone during the boat trip. Focus on the horizon and take deep breaths.
What is the local currency and should I bring cash?
The local currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP), but US dollars are widely accepted. It’s a good idea to bring some cash with you, especially for tipping and small purchases. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s always a good idea to check before making a purchase.
References
- World Nomads
- Viator
Ready to trade in the ordinary for extraordinary? Ditch the resort for a day (or two!) and embark on an island hopping adventure in the Dominican Republic. The memories you make swimming in turquoise waters, snorkeling amongst vibrant coral reefs, and relaxing on pristine beaches will last a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream island hopping escape today! Book your flights, browse some tours, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable Caribbean experience. The islands are calling!
