Your Guide for the Perfect Flores + Komodo Islands Escape
How to get there from Bali
The most immersive way to reach Komodo is by taking an unforgettable 3-day boat tour departing from Lombok or Bali. These wooden phinisi boats cruise through the Komodo Islands, stopping at pristine beaches, hidden snorkel spots, and viewpoints that feel straight out of a movie. You sleep on the boat, dine with your fellow explorers, and wake up to some of the clearest waters you’ve ever seen.
For a quicker option, you can fly directly from Bali to Labuan Bajo, the main gateway to Komodo. The flight takes just about an hour, and from there, day trips and tours to the national park are easily arranged. Labuan Bajo itself has grown into a small hub with cafés, dive shops, and charming seaside restaurants.
Komodo National Park Tour
Komodo National Park lies between Sumbawa and Flores, and was first established in 1980 to protect the legendary Komodo dragon, the largest lizard on Earth. These prehistoric creatures roam freely on a few islands within the park, and guided tours allow you to observe them in their natural habitat—an unforgettable (and slightly spine-tingling) experience.
Today, the park’s mission has expanded to protecting the region’s incredible biodiversity, both on land and under the sea. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve in 1986, Komodo is not just about dragons—it’s a sanctuary for rare corals, manta rays, sea turtles, and more than a thousand species of fish.
Padar Island: The iconic viewpoint
A trip to Komodo wouldn’t be complete without climbing Padar Island, famous for its surreal panoramic views. After about 30 minutes of hiking uphill—under the tropical sun and alongside other travelers—you’ll reach a viewpoint that overlooks three crescent-shaped beaches, each with a different sand color: white, black, and pink.
Despite the heat and popularity of the trail, the climb is relatively easy and well worth the effort. From the top, the surrounding landscape looks like something from another planet—sharp ridgelines, turquoise bays, and that famous trio of colorful beaches below.
Pink Beach & Taka Makassar
Pink Beach is one of Komodo’s most iconic spots, where crushed red coral blends with white sand to create a soft pink hue along the shoreline. Some beaches are public and popular, while others feel like secret coves, but all are incredibly photogenic and ideal for swimming or simply soaking in the magic of the setting.
Just as stunning is Taka Makassar, a crescent-shaped sandbank that seems to float in the middle of the ocean. Surrounded by unbelievably clear water, this spot is perfect for a quick swim or a drone shot, and if you’re lucky, you might even snorkel alongside baby sharks. It’s the kind of place that feels too perfect to be real.
Snorkeling and diving adventures
Komodo is just as mesmerizing below the surface. Manta Point is a world-renowned diving and snorkeling site where you can often swim with majestic manta rays gliding gracefully through the current. For coral lovers, Pengah Reef and Batu Bolong offer colorful marine life and intricate reef systems.
Don’t miss Siaba Besar, also known as “Turtle City,” where you’ll spot numerous sea turtles drifting gently between coral gardens. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a first-time snorkeler, the underwater world here is unforgettable—vibrant, diverse, and full of life.
Where to stay: Menjaga Bay
Located just on the edge of Komodo National Park, Menjaga Bay is a boutique resort designed for those seeking calm and comfort after a day of exploring. With an age limit of 13+, the atmosphere is serene and grown-up, making it perfect for couples or solo travelers looking for peace and space.
Stay in a Sea or Mountain View Suite, each offering its own unique perspective of the surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re unwinding with a sunset view or starting your morning with the sound of the sea, Menjaga Bay is the kind of place that makes you feel completely disconnected—in the best possible way.
From island-hopping on a traditional boat to hiking moonlit ridges and diving alongside manta rays, Flores and Komodo Islands offer an escape that blends adventure, nature, and serenity. It’s a journey that goes beyond the typical beach holiday—one that leaves you with vivid memories, a full camera roll, and a deep appreciation for Indonesia’s raw beauty. Ready to plan your escape?
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