Isla Saona

Posted by Caribbean Casas on April 4th, 2018

For those that want to drop off the radar, even just for a few hours, then Isla Saona is a dream come true. Located just off the coast of Bayahibe, it is easily reachable from your villa in the Dominican Republic. Imagine palm fringed white sands, the island certainly gives off a Robinson Cruseo vibe. 

The island has an abundance of wildlife. If you travel further inland you will find palm filled gardens where you will find tropical birds and butterflies as big as your hand. For this reason, it is a government protected nature reserve and is part of the East National Park. 

It is a popular destination for tourists who arrive in small boats or on larger tour ships. Yet despite its popularity, there is plenty of beach to go around. 

 Due to its picturesque nature, it has been used as a filming location on numerous occasions for those that are looking for a ‘paradise island’. Many people may recognise it from the bounty adverts which were filmed on its shores. 

People chose to get a vacation rental in the Dominican Republic  to marvel at the diverse wildlife of the area. The seas around the island at are rich with tropical marine life, and thanks to the spits of sand that stretch out to sea in various locations, this undersea world is often quite visible. It is also a popular spot for snorkelling, with many organised boat trips allowing people to take a dip just off shore and marvel at the fields of starfish that are indigenous to the region. 

The island was first discovered in May 1494 by traveller Christopher Colombus, who gave it its name. On his voyage, he was accompanied by an Italian friend from Savona in Italy, and he island was baptised in his honour. 

Although small, the island offers lots of interesting things to see and do. There are natural cave formations to explore, and the Mano Jaun fishing village is a picturesque place to spend a few hours, which also doubles up as a craft centre. 

The natural pool is an area of crystal clear water, perfect for spotting the wildlife including 112 species of bird such as the flamingo. 8 of these species of bird are endemic to the island. You may also spot some dolphins and he endangered manatee.