Snorkel· Isla Saona· Other Caribbean
Piscina Natural & Las Palmillas (Saona)
18° 14.0′ N · 68° 46.0′ W · approximate
Shallow, gin-clear sandbars and a wide natural pool off Palmilla beach, where day-tour catamarans stop so guests can wade among starfish in waist-deep turquoise water.
Practical
Position approx: the Virgintino guide gives Las Palmillas anchorage only to the nearest minute (18°14N 68°46W). The guide says local boats anchor there in 7–10 ft, and it is the better spot in NE wind; approach by going west before turning north and east, giving the sand bar a wide berth. GoDominicanRepublic describes Palmilla as 'a white stretch with a wide natural pool'. Crowded with tour boats from late morning to mid-afternoon; come early or late. Do not lift or handle starfish.
Best for
Wading and snorkeling in the famous Saona 'natural pool'
Season
Calm days; avoid peak tour hours
Nearby
- Las Palmillas Anchorage (Saona channel)Right here
- La Bañera Mangrove Lagoon (Saona)2.3 NM away
- Isla Saona Anchorage (Punta Catuano)2.6 NM away
- Playa Bonita Anchorage (Catuano west)3.2 NM away
- Parque Nacional del Este (Cotubanamá National Park)4.6 NM away
- Saona Sea-Turtle Nesting6 NM away
- Mano Juan Village (Isla Saona)6.6 NM away
- St. George Wreck (Bayahibe)6.7 NM away