Can You See Sea Turtles Around Saona Island?
A Caribbean paradise where marine life thrives
Just off the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, Saona Island is part of the Cotubanamá National Park—a true sanctuary of biodiversity. Its turquoise waters, coral reefs, and mangrove forests make it one of the Caribbean’s most stunning natural reserves.
Among the many species that inhabit this protected marine environment, sea turtles are without doubt the most captivating.
Visitors often ask: “Can you really see sea turtles around Saona?” The answer is yes — although sightings are never guaranteed, they’re quite common during morning snorkeling sessions near Cotubanamá and occasionally at the Las Palmillas natural pool in the afternoon.
Let’s dive in to learn more about these gentle creatures and discover where and how you can encounter them during your day trip to Saona.
The sea turtles of the Dominican Republic: a protected treasure
The warm, clear waters of the Dominican Republic are home to three main species of sea turtles:
The green turtle (Chelonia mydas) — easily recognized by its smooth, rounded shell.
The hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) — smaller and agile, often seen around coral reefs.
The loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) — known for its large head and reddish shell.
All three species can be found in the Cotubanamá National Park, where they feed, rest, and occasionally nest on secluded beaches.
Their presence is a sign of the park’s healthy marine ecosystem and the success of local conservation efforts.
These majestic reptiles play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, especially by grazing on seagrass beds that support countless marine species.
Snorkeling near Cotubanamá: the best chance to spot turtles
The first highlight of most Saona Island tours is snorkeling in the Cotubanamá Marine Reserve, between Bayahibe and the island. This is where you’ll have the highest chance of seeing sea turtles. In the calm, crystal-clear waters, turtles can often be spotted gliding gracefully among tropical fish, grazing on sea grass, or surfacing for air.
Popular snorkeling sites like Catuano Reef and Cotubanamá coral gardens offer vibrant underwater scenery — colorful fish, starfish, stingrays, and sometimes a curious sea turtle passing by.
Morning excursions offer the best visibility, and smaller group tours increase your chances, allowing guides to explore quieter areas away from the crowds.
Whether it’s your first snorkeling experience or not, watching a turtle in its natural habitat is always an unforgettable moment.
Las Palmillas Natural Pool: another magical spot
After snorkeling, most tours continue to the famous Las Palmillas Natural Pool, a shallow sandbank surrounded by turquoise water. This area is best known for its starfish and crystal-clear shallows, but sea turtles occasionally swim through here as well, especially during feeding hours when seagrass drifts closer to shore.
Watching a turtle glide peacefully through the warm Caribbean water, framed by white sand and palm trees, feels like witnessing nature at its purest.
This stop between Bayahibe and Saona is often described as an open-air aquarium, teeming with marine life.
Even if you don’t spot a turtle every time, the natural pool is one of the most photogenic and relaxing moments of the day — a perfect mix of snorkeling, swimming, and tropical scenery.
Respecting marine life: a shared responsibility
Encountering a sea turtle in the wild is a privilege, but it also comes with responsibility.
These species are protected under Dominican law, and it is strictly forbidden to touch, chase, or feed them. Keeping a respectful distance helps turtles remain undisturbed in their natural environment and ensures their continued presence in the area.
Local guides often remind travelers about eco-friendly snorkeling practices — avoiding sunscreen with harmful chemicals, not standing on coral reefs, and maintaining quiet behavior underwater. By choosing responsible operators and adopting respectful habits, every visitor contributes to preserving the fragile marine ecosystem of Saona Island for generations to come.
When to visit: the best season for sightings
Sea turtles can be seen year-round around Saona Island, but sightings are more frequent between April and October, when the sea is warmer and calmer.
During this period, some beaches in the Cotubanamá reserve become nesting sites for green and hawksbill turtles, although these areas are closed to the public to protect the eggs.
The best opportunities to encounter turtles remain during morning snorkeling near Cotubanamá and in the afternoon at Las Palmillas, when the light and sea conditions are ideal.
Even if you don’t spot a turtle, every Saona excursion offers plenty to enjoy — vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, starfish, and even dolphins or stingrays often make an appearance.
A rare and magical encounter
Yes, you can absolutely see sea turtles around Saona Island — and if you’re lucky, you might swim alongside one during your snorkeling adventure. Whether it’s at Cotubanamá Reef or the Las Palmillas Natural Pool, these moments remind us of the ocean’s incredible diversity and beauty.
Each turtle sighting is a gentle invitation to appreciate and protect the fragile marine world that makes the Dominican Republic so special.
Between turquoise waters, coral reefs, and tropical sun, a day at Saona is more than an excursion — it’s an experience where nature, respect, and wonder meet perfectly.
Who are we?
Based in Bayahibe, Quetzal Excursions is a local agency specialized in small-group sea trips to Saona, Catalina, and the most beautiful hidden gems of the Dominican Republic. We focus on comfort, safety, and authenticity, aboard high-end boats with a professional crew.
📱 CONTACT US ON WHATSAPP : +1 (809) 979-7359
Our Regular Excursions
Saona by Catamaran – All Comfort
Our Excursion to Catalina Island
Snorkeling Tour to Catalina
Our Private Excursions
Private rental of the Quetzal catamaran
📌 Need help planning your excursion?
Contact Quetzal Excursions to plan your activities from your place of stay, with included transport, small group, professional guide, and high-end services.