Punta Cana Airport transfer to Saona Island

Why choose CanaCar for your transfer from PUJ to Saona Island

Book Now, Pay on Arrival

What you see is what you pay

Local Company

No intermediaries

Best Price Guarantee

Safe and hassle-free

No Extra Fees

Tolls and tips included

New Vehicles

Mercedes and Toyota

20+ Years of Experience

in Punta Cana

Distance and route to reach Saona Island

~50 minutes

Travel time

50 miles

From PUJ Airport

$175

Starting price

The route:

Your private transfer from Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) to Saona Island is a fast and comfortable journey.

Traveling from the east coast to Saona Island is a journey of approximately 50 miles.

Under normal traffic conditions, the journey takes approximately 1 hour.

Your driver will utilize the most modern infrastructure in the country to ensure a swift journey:

Autopista del Coral (Route 3): This is the primary highway segment connecting Punta Cana Airport to the south. It is a world-class, smooth toll road designed specifically to move tourists efficiently between the airport and the La Romana/Bayahibe region.

The Bayahibe exit: After approximately 45-50 minutes on the Autopista del Coral, your driver will take the dedicated exit toward the coast, transitioning onto the local road that leads directly to the Bayahibe docks.

At Canacar.com, we provide specialized transfers that allow you to skip the stress of navigating local traffic, ensuring a smooth transition from the plane to Saona Island

The scenery:

The Gateway to Paradise: The Scenic Drive from PUJ to Saona Island (Bayahibe)

Your journey to the world-famous Saona Island begins long before you board a catamaran. As you depart Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) in your private Canacar.com transfer, the 50-minute drive south to the port of Bayahibeoffers a vivid preview of the Caribbean’s raw beauty and local charm.

Here is what you’ll see as we head toward the most photographed island in the Antilles:

1. The Lowland Tropical Jungle

The trip begins on the modern Autovía del Coral, where the landscape is a lush, vibrant green. Unlike the mountainous north, the terrain here is beautifully flat, characterized by dense tropical shrubbery and ancient limestone rocks. You’ll be surrounded by “uvas de playa” (sea grape trees) and exotic flora that thrive in the coral-rich soil of the East Coast.

2. The Great Sugar Cane Expanse

As we approach the La Romana area, the scenery opens up into vast, shimmering sugar cane fields. Under the bright Caribbean sun, these emerald stalks sway like waves in the ocean. You’ll catch glimpses of the historic narrow-gauge railway tracks—still used today to transport the harvest—offering a “vintage” look at the industry that shaped the Dominican Republic.

3. The “Cotubanamá” Wilds

As we veer off the main highway toward the coast, you’ll skirt the edges of the Cotubanamá National Park (formerly known as the Eastern National Park). The vegetation becomes thicker and wilder. Keep an eye out for local birdlife, such as the Hispaniolan parrot or the elegant white egrets that frequently soar over the wetlands and dry forests that protect this coastal sanctuary.

4. The Authentic Charm of Bayahibe

The climax of your land journey is the entrance to the fishing village of Bayahibe. You’ll pass through colorful streets lined with pastel-painted wooden houses, bustling local craft shops, and vibrant bougainvillea. As the car slows down near the harbor, the Atlantic’s deep blue officially transforms into the piercing, neon-turquoise of the Caribbean Sea, with rows of catamarans and speedboats bobbing in the water, waiting to whisk you away to Saona.

Ready to book your transfer to Saona Island?

No payment until arrival. Free cancellation. 20+ years in Punta Cana.

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Our fleet for your transfer from Punta Cana Airport to Saona Island

All our vehicles are 2024-2025 models, fully inspected and equipped for long-distance journeys.

SUV / Private Van Most popular

Hyundai Staria – 2024-2025

Up to 6 passengers
Air conditioning
Wi-Fi on board
Extra-large trunk
Child seats available
Pre-chilled to 68ºF

Family Minivan

Toyota Hiace – 2024-2025

Up to 10 passengers
Air conditioning
Wi-Fi on board
Ideal for families
Child seats available
Ample cargo space

Private Coach Large groups

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter – 2024-2025

Up to 16 passengers
Air conditioning
Ideal for groups
Large cargo capacity
Full mechanical inspection
Spotless interior

Most popular hotels in Saona Island

We drop you off directly at your hotel’s entrance – no intermediate stops.

Casa Rosada Beach front

4★ Nice place

View transfer →

Casa Tinina

2★ Nice place

View transfer →

Saona Lodge

2★ Nice place

View transfer →

CanaCar vs. other options: private, direct and no surprises

Fixed price, your name on a tablet as soon as you exit customs, and a direct route to Saona Island. No negotiations, no waiting, no charges you didn’t see coming.

✓ Fixed price from the start 0 minutes waiting Direct route to Saona Island

Feature	CanaCar private	Airport taxi	Shared shuttle
Waiting time	0 min	15-20 min	45-60 min
Price	Fixed & prepaid	Negotiable	Per person
Child seats	On request	Rarely	Not available
Route	Direct	Direct	Multiple stops
Flight tracking	Included	No	No

How to find your driver at the airport for your transfer to Saona Island?

The moment you land, your transfer is already underway. Follow these steps depending on your arrival terminal.

Terminal A

Exit through the glass doors and look for the “Pre-booked / Tour Operators” area. Your driver will be waiting with a digital tablet displaying your name.

Terminal B

Exit customs and follow the signs towards Transport / Taxi. Our uniformed driver will be near the café area, away from the taxi queues.

💬 Communication protocol: You’ll receive a WhatsApp message before departure and, upon landing, your driver’s name and real-time location.

What travelers say about their transfer to Saona Island?

Thousands of customers have trusted CanaCar to reach their destination.

4.8

32 Reviews

Google

Trustpilot

TripAdvisor

Sarah W

We used the service for our family vacation and it worked perfectly. The van had plenty of space for our bags, the AC was great, and the driver was very kind with our kids. Great start to our trip.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Michael Thompson

Excellent airport transfer. Clear communication before arrival, fair pricing, and no surprises. The driver was professional and drove safely. A solid option if you’re landing in Punta Cana and want everything arranged in advance.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Amanda Brooks

Good service overall. Booking was simple and the driver was friendly. We had a small delay leaving the airport because of traffic outside, but that was not their fault. I would use them again.

★★★★★ (4/5) - Trustpilot

Jason Miller

Very reliable service. We booked round-trip transportation and both rides were right on time. The vehicle was clean, the driver was polite, and everything felt well organized from start to finish.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Emily Carter

Great transfer experience in Punta Cana. Our driver was waiting when we arrived, helped with the luggage, and the ride to the resort was smooth and comfortable. Much easier than trying to figure things out at the airport.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Valeria R.

El traslado estuvo muy bien organizado. Tardamos un poquito en encontrar al conductor al salir, pero nos respondieron rápido y enseguida lo solucionamos. El viaje al hotel fue cómodo y seguro.

★★★★★ (4/5) - Trustpilot

Brandon L.

Nice and easy transfer from Punta Cana Airport. The car was clean and the driver was courteous. I would have liked a little more detail in the pickup instructions, but once we connected, everything went smoothly.

★★★★★ (4/5) - Trustpilot

Carlos Méndez

Muy buena experiencia. Reservamos el traslado para la llegada y también para el regreso al aeropuerto. Fueron puntuales las dos veces y la comunicación por WhatsApp fue clara. Lo recomiendo para viajar tranquilo.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Jessica Morgan

Highly recommended. Fast confirmation, easy pickup, and a comfortable ride to our hotel. The return transfer was also punctual, which is always the most important part when going back to the airport.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Mariana López

Excelente servicio desde el aeropuerto de Punta Cana hasta nuestro hotel. El conductor nos estaba esperando con un cartel, fue muy amable y el vehículo estaba limpio y cómodo. Todo salió sin estrés después de un vuelo largo.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Juan Manuel J

Excellent Service. Andres the very respectful driver very nice and very responsible in his handling!! The car in perfect condition. Highly recommended 👌👌👌

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Jeannine

Excellent service.Willy Feliz arrived promptly to pick us up. He was friendly and professional! Definitely recommend.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Relax

The flight was delayed and they were waiting for us. The vehicle and its prime driver. Highly recommended the Pickup Service

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Mary G

Peňa was an amazing driver. Friendly, welcoming, knowledgeable and safe! He knew a lot about the island and shared some interesting information.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Thomas B

Great service, on time and friendly! Great job Marino Zano! Made it to the air port with plenty of time to get through immigration with no stress.

★★★★★ (4/5) - Tripadvisor

Guest

The drivers were great and the communication was great also

★★★★★ (5/5) - Tripadvisor

Ignacio Rivera Herrera

The driver Carlos was very kind and funny. The car was clean a very fresh specially for the sunny dayPd: the car has wifi

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Promize Simon

Carlos was my driver, we had a smooth safe ride, Vehicle was nice and clean, and he got us to our destination just in time!

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Carlos was great. He picked us up ahead of time and with a smile. I would definitely use this service again.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Tion Mattox

Carlos pick me up and transported me to the hotel. Ride was good and smooth. Car clean and he was very friendly and offered some good spots to check out. Thanks Carlos.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Elizabeth DeRobertis

Great smooth ride from the airport to our resort!! Arrived timely and very nice vehicle. Def recommend! Ask for Willy!!

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Timbuktu Azul

I decided to give this company a try and I have not regretted it, on the contrary! I was very pleasantly surprised by the friendliness and professionalism of the drivers, a pure pleasure to be picked up from the airport like that! The return journey was also easy, the car was already waiting for us. We'll be booking again on our next visit to Punta Cana! Gracias!

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Elias Burguera

Brand new vehicles and polite and timeñy drivers. Completely recommend.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Luis Torres

Great service! Our driver was Wilqui who was professional and helpful. Our reservation was roundtrip from the airport to the hotel. I would use them again in the future and highly recommend their shuttle service.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Google

Matt Briggs

Carlos M Cuevas is a great driver. He was on time helpful and got us where we needed to be and on time and in a safe manner. The other staff member that brought us in the airport showed us exactly where to go and what to do. This made are time leaving that much smoother and stress free. I would recommend and use this service again.

★★★★★ (4/5) - Google

Rubén G.

Carlos was waiting for us at the airport holding a sign with our name on it. He was very punctual and friendly. Thank you so much for the impeccable service! We’ll definitely book with you again.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Trustpilot

Jaime Rodríguez

Best transfer company in Punta Cana. We have used them several times and we have always received a professional and friendly service.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Trustpilot

Angel Ruiz

They were very punctual, very friendly, and the vehicle was in perfect condition. The ride to Miches was perfect.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Trustpilot

José Magallanes

I've just returned as I've done on previous occasions, after hiring them for the transfer from Miches to Punta Cana Airport. The service was perfect once again.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Trustpilot

Alejo

Great service. Our driver was Willy Feliz. He was very attentive and friendly.

★★★★★ (5/5) - Trustpilot

Jevaughn Wright

He arrives on time loves his estarlin

★★★★★ (5/5) - Trustpilot

Milton Masaya

He's a great communicator and drives very carefully

★★★★★ (5/5) - Trustpilot

Frequently asked questions about the transfer from PUJ to Saona Island

Everything you need to know before booking your transfer from Punta Cana Airport.

About the transfer to Saona Island

Because Saona Island is an uninhabited National Park, you cannot drive there directly. To get from Punta Cana Airport to Saona Island, you must take a two-part combined transit journey:1. By Land: Take a 45-minute private transfer from PUJ Airport to the coastal town of Bayahíbe via the Autopista del Coral highway.2. By Sea: Board a speed boat or a catamaran at the Bayahíbe public pier or private docks, which will take you straight to Saona Island. Booking a private airport transfer for the land leg is highly recommended to guarantee you meet your boat’s strict morning departure schedule without any stressful delays.The most convenient way to travel from Punta Cana Airport to Saona Island is to first book a private transfer from PUJ Airport to Bayahibe, the main departure point for boats and catamarans serving the island. Upon arrival at the marina, travelers board an excursion boat that crosses the Caribbean Sea to Saona Island.Booking airport transportation in advance ensures a seamless connection between your flight and your island excursion, eliminating the need to arrange multiple transportation services upon arrival.

Yes, our private transfer service drops you off directly at the exact pier or dock in Bayahíbe where your boat to Saona Island departs. Our professional drivers are perfectly familiar with all local tour operator meeting points and the public catamaran docks. We seamlessly coordinate your airport pickup time based on your boat's schedule so you never have to rush. Additionally, we can arrange a seamless, air-conditioned return private shuttle to pick you up at the pier once your island excursion ends and drive you safely back to your hotel or the airport.Many travelers choose private transportation because it provides direct, door-to-door service from the airport to the departure point, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free start to their Saona Island adventure. By pre-booking your transfer, you can coordinate your airport arrival with your boat departure schedule and avoid unnecessary waiting times.

Do you have more questions about your transfer to Saona Island?

Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We'll answer all your questions before you even land.

WhatsApp

Contact form

+1(849) 7522-262

Discover Saona Island before you arrive: travel blog

Guides, tips and everything you need to know to make the most of your stay in Saona Island.

1. Why american travelers love Saona Island

Saona Island has become one of the Dominican Republic’s most famous tourist destinations because it delivers the classic Caribbean paradise experience many travelers dream about.

American visitors love Saona Island for:

Stunning tropical beaches
Calm turquoise water
Relaxing atmosphere
Incredible photo opportunities
Catamaran cruises
Snorkeling and swimming
Fresh seafood lunches
Natural swimming pools

The island is especially popular among:

Couples
Honeymooners
Families
Groups of friends
Cruise visitors
Nature lovers

Many travelers consider Saona Island the highlight of their Dominican Republic vacation.

The Saona Island experience: what to expect

Saona Island is not a place where you book a resort stay; it is a full-day eco-adventure. Most excursions follow a classic, highly popular itinerary that highlights the best of the Caribbean Sea:

The departure: Boats depart from the charming fishing village of Bayahíbe. You will typically head out to the island on a high-speed motorboat and return on a relaxing catamaran (or vice versa).

The Natural pool (Piscina Natural): Halfway to the island, boats stop in the middle of the ocean at a massive, waist-deep sandbar. Here, you can swim in crystal-clear water and spot giant indigenous starfish.

The Island stay: Once on Saona, you’ll enjoy a traditional Dominican buffet lunch under the palm trees, sip drinks from an open bar, and have several hours to swim, relax, or explore the pristine shoreline.

2. Best time to visit Saona Island

The Dominican Republic enjoys warm tropical weather year-round, but certain seasons offer better conditions for island excursions.

Best season: December through April

This is the most popular time for American travelers because:

Temperatures are comfortable
Rainfall is lower
Humidity is reduced
Ocean conditions are calmer

Average temperatures: 77°F to 85°F

Perfect for:

Catamaran tours
Swimming
Snorkeling
Beach relaxation
Outdoor excursions

This is also high season, so tours and transportation should be booked early.

Summer travel: May through September

Summer offers:

Warmer ocean temperatures
Fewer crowds
Lower travel prices
However, travelers should expect:
Higher humidity
Occasional tropical rain showers
Most showers are short and followed by sunshine.

3. Catamaran vs. speedboat: which is better?

Most Saona Island excursions include either:

Catamaran rides
Speedboat transfers
Or a combination of both

Catamaran tours

Perfect for travelers who want:
Relaxation
Music and entertainment
Scenic views
Smooth sailing
These tours are slower but more social and relaxing.

Speedboat tours

Ideal for travelers who prefer:

Faster transportation
More time on the island
Adventure and excitement
Speedboats can be bumpier but significantly quicker.

Many visitors choose excursions that combine both experiences.

4. What makes Saona Island so special?

Saona Island is famous for offering some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.

Visitors can expect:

Powdery white sand
Clear turquoise water
Palm tree-lined beaches
Shallow swimming areas
Tropical scenery
Unlike busier resort beaches, Saona Island feels more untouched and natural.
The island’s protected status helps preserve its incredible environment and marine life.

5. Best things to do on Saona Island

Although many visitors simply relax on the beach, there are plenty of activities to enjoy during your visit.

Swim in the Natural Pool

One of the most famous attractions near Saona Island is the shallow natural swimming pool located in the middle of the Caribbean Sea.

The water is:

Crystal clear
Waist-deep
Warm and calm

Visitors often see:

Giant starfish
Tropical marine life
Avoid touching or removing starfish from the water to protect the ecosystem.

Snorkeling adventures

Saona Island is a fantastic destination for snorkeling thanks to its clear water and tropical marine life.

Travelers can see:

Colorful fish
Coral reefs
Sea stars
Tropical underwater scenery

Snorkeling tips for american travelers

Use anti-fog spray on your mask
Wear reef-safe sunscreen
Bring a waterproof phone case
Avoid touching coral reefs
Use a rash guard for extra sun protection

Morning snorkeling conditions usually offer:

Better visibility
Calmer water
Fewer crowds
Relax on the beach

Many visitors come to Saona Island simply to enjoy one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beach environments.

The island is perfect for:

Sunbathing
Swimming
Beach photography
Relaxation
Reading under palm trees

Beach tips

Bring sunglasses and a hat
Stay hydrated throughout the day
Reapply sunscreen frequently
Wear lightweight breathable clothing

Catamaran party cruises
Catamaran excursions are one of the most popular experiences for visitors to Saona Island.

Most tours include:
Music
Dancing
Open bar
Snacks
Scenic coastal views
These cruises are especially popular among:
Couples
Friend groups
Bachelor and bachelorette parties
Celebration trips

6. Best water activities near Saona Island

The waters surrounding Saona Island are ideal for outdoor aquatic adventures.

Paddleboarding and kayaking

Calm Caribbean conditions make paddleboarding and kayaking excellent activities around the island.

Best Time to Go

Early morning typically provides:
Calmer water
Cooler temperatures
Better photo opportunities
Swimming in crystal-clear water

Saona Island’s shallow waters are ideal for:

Families
Beginner swimmers
Relaxing ocean experiences
Unlike beaches with strong Atlantic waves, the Caribbean side of Saona Island is typically calm and comfortable.

Scuba diving nearby
While Saona Island itself is more famous for snorkeling, nearby areas in Bayahibe offer excellent scuba diving opportunities.

Divers can explore:
Coral reefs
Shipwrecks
Tropical marine ecosystems

Certified dive centers offer:

Beginner lessons
Guided dives
Equipment rentals
Sun safety tips for Caribbean travelers
The tropical Caribbean sun is much stronger than many American visitors expect.

Essential sun protection tips

Apply reef-safe sunscreen every two hours
Wear polarized sunglasses
Use hats and UV-protective clothing
Avoid excessive sun exposure during midday
Cloudy weather does not eliminate UV exposure.

Because Saona Island is a flat, sandy landmass surrounded by shallow coral reefs, the sun reflection here is blindingly intense. Furthermore, because there are no concrete buildings or large shade structures, you are highly exposed to the elements.

Apply before you board: Do not wait until you get to the island to put on sunscreen. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ at your hotel before you even get into your transfer vehicle. Reapply immediately after your swim in the Natural Pool.

The sunglasses glare: The white sand and shallow turquoise water create an intense glare that can cause eye strain or headaches. A good pair of polarized sunglasses is absolutely mandatory.

Hydrate constantly: The open-bar catamarans are famous for serving plenty of Dominican rum and Cuba Libres. However, combined with the intense heat, alcohol will dehydrate you incredibly fast. For every tropical drink you enjoy, match it with a full bottle of water.

7. Food and drinks on Saona Island

Most organized excursions include a buffet-style Dominican lunch.

Popular foods often include:

Grilled chicken
Rice
Pasta salads
Fresh seafood
Tropical fruits

Visitors can also enjoy:

Fresh coconut water
Dominican rum drinks
Local beer
Fruit juices

8. What to pack for Saona Island

Packing correctly will make your island experience much more comfortable.

Recommended packing list
Swimsuit
Lightweight clothing
Flip-flops or sandals
Waterproof sunscreen
Sunglasses
Waterproof phone pouch
Beach towel
Portable charger
Insect repellent
Cash for tips and souvenirs

9. Safety tips for visiting Saona Island

Saona Island excursions are generally safe, especially when booked through reputable operators.

However, travelers should still follow basic safety recommendations.

Important safety advice

Stay hydrated throughout the excursion

Follow boat crew instructions

Avoid excessive alcohol in the sun

Keep valuables protected from water

Confirm transportation details before departure

Travel insurance is also highly recommended for international travel.

10. Final tips to make the most of your Saona Island experience

To fully enjoy your Caribbean island adventure:

Book excursions early during high season
Choose reputable transportation providers
Start your day early
Stay hydrated in the tropical climate
Protect your skin from sun exposure
Bring waterproof protection for electronics
Respect the natural environment

Most importantly, take time to relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery that makes Saona Island one of the Dominican Republic’s most iconic destinations.
Because you will be away from your resort for roughly 8 to 10 hours on an island with no convenience stores, packing correctly is the key to a great day:

Bring cash (small bills): While lunch and drinks are included in most tours, local beach vendors on Saona sell artisan crafts, handmade jewelry, fresh pina coladas served inside coconuts, and massages. Bring small-denomination US Dollars or Dominican Pesos (DOP), as credit cards are not accepted on the island.

Waterproof dry bag: Between the sea spray on the speedboats and walking through the surf to get on and off the catamarans, your belongings will get wet. A cheap waterproof dry bag is the best way to protect your phone, camera, and dry clothes.

Protect your tech: Bring a waterproof phone pouch if you plan to take photos while swimming in the Natural Pool or holding a starfish underwater.