There are two permanent settlements, the town of Mano Juan and the naval base at Catuano

The coastline is fringed with vibrant coral reefs, expansive sandbanks, lush seagrass beds, coastal lagoons, and thriving mangrove forests. On the park’s western edge, dramatic cliffs and steep underwater slopes plunge into the deep ocean. To the south lies Las Calderas Bay, a saltwater lagoon surrounded by mangroves and teeming with birdlife, including herons, pelicans, and other coastal species. The Catuano Channel, rich with seagrass beds, separates Saona Island from the mainland, providing a vital marine habitat

Mano Juan, the only permanent settlement on Saona Island in the Dominican Republic, has a unique and surprising history. Before becoming the peaceful fishing village it is today, Mano Juan was once used as a penal colony—a remote site where prisoners were sent, likely due to the island’s isolation and limited accessibility. Over time, however, the area transitioned away from its past, eventually being settled by fishermen and their families in the mid-20th century. Today, Mano Juan is known for its brightly painted wooden homes, warm community, and deep connection to the sea. While fishing remains a way of life, the village has also embraced eco-tourism, especially through sea turtle conservation and sustainable tourism initiatives. Despite its quiet charm, Mano Juan holds a layered history that adds depth to its cultural heritage.