Komodo Guide: Padar, Pink Beach and Komodo Dragons
Komodo is one of those places that actually lives up to the expectations. Komodo dragons, the panoramic views of Padar Island, and Pink Beach await – here is your complete guide to Labuan Bajo and Komodo National Park.
Komodo isn’t Bali. It’s raw nature, deserted sandbanks, vivid coral and animals that have barely changed in millions of years. The islands around Labuan Bajo in western Flores are one of those places that actually live up to expectations, and for many visitors they’re the absolute highlight of the trip. Here’s everything you need to know.
We add Komodo to your Bali trip – flights, a private boat and accommodation arranged in advance.
See our Komodo tour: 3 days, 3 islands →
Padar Island and Komodo National Park
The first thing to do in Labuan Bajo is book a full-day trip on a private boat. Avoid the big shared boats – with a private boat for 8–10 people you get peace and quiet, a flexible route and a far better experience at every stop.
A typical day trip includes:
| Stop | What you’ll see | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Padar Island | An iconic hike to a panoramic view over three bays in different colours – one of Indonesia’s most beautiful photo spots | Start early in the morning, when the light is best and it’s cooler |
| Komodo National Park | Komodo dragons in their natural habitat – the world’s largest lizard, up to 3 metres and 70 kg | A guide is mandatory – keep your distance and follow instructions |
| Pink Beach | A rare pink sand beach made of coral fragments – fantastic snorkelling right off the beach | Bring a mask and snorkel – the coral is within easy reach |
| Taka Makassar | A lonely white sandbank in the middle of a turquoise sea – perfect for photos and swimming | Only visible at low tide |
| Manta Point | Swimming with manta rays in the open sea | Best June–October – check conditions with your skipper |
| Turtle Point | Snorkelling with sea turtles over coral gardens | Early morning gives the best visibility |
Le Pirate Island
Le Pirate is a private island off Labuan Bajo with simple beach huts, meals included and an atmosphere that’s hard to describe. Evenings bring bonfires and outdoor cinema on selected dates. The boat leaves Labuan Bajo at 10 am and 2 pm and takes about an hour. Book early; the island has limited capacity.
Rangko Cave
A half-day trip from Labuan Bajo you shouldn’t skip. Rangko is a natural cave with a turquoise pool inside – when the sun hits the opening at the right angle, the light makes the water glow blue-green. It pairs well with snorkelling in the area.
Want to combine Komodo with Bali? We put together a tailor-made route with flights between the islands.
See what’s included in our Komodo tour →
Restaurants in Labuan Bajo
| Place | Type | Note |
|---|---|---|
| New Delhi | Indian restaurant | Well spiced and a solid choice after a long day at sea |
| La Cucina | Italian | Popular with travellers – book a table in advance |
| Warung Brothers Bajo | Local Indonesian food | Authentic and affordable – recommended for breakfast and lunch |
| Paradise Bar | Beach bar | Relaxed atmosphere and a good drinks list by the water |
| Maiga! Bar | Bar and social hub | A meeting place for travellers – good for swapping tips |
Extra tip: Spend an evening at Bayview Gardens for sunset over the Flores Sea. The view is unique and the restaurant has a good standard.
Where to stay
| Hotel | Level | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Katamaran Hotel & Resort Komodo | 5-star luxury | Right on the water – the best option if your budget allows |
| Bayview Gardens Hotel | Mid-range | Panoramic views and good food – recommended for most travellers |
| La Boheme Bajo Hostel | Budget-friendly | Social and central – good for young backpackers |
Liveaboard: A multi-day boat trip is the ultimate way to experience Komodo – you sleep on board, dive and snorkel at remote spots and watch the sunset from the open sea. We recommend Scuba Republic for this.
Komodo practicalities
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Airport | Labuan Bajo (LBJ) – about a 1-hour flight from Bali (DPS) |
| Boat trips | Book a private boat for 8–10 people – not a public shared boat |
| Le Pirate boat | Departures at 10 am and 2 pm from Labuan Bajo (about 1 hour) |
| Recommended stay | At least 2–3 nights |
| Best season | April–November (dry season) |
| Avoid | December–February (rainy season, rough seas) |
| Getting around town | Gojek/Grab from the airport – a private driver is recommended for exploring |
| Bring | Sunscreen, water, seasickness tablets and snorkelling gear |
Vegard’s tips
Always book a private boat – the shared boats are crowded and spoil the experience. Visit Padar Island early in the morning for the best light and less heat. Keep your distance from the Komodo dragons and listen to the guide. Bring a soft bag – there’s little space on the boats. Do Rangko Cave as a half-day trip after the big day out. And save an evening for Bayview Gardens – the sunset there is something you’ll remember for a long time.
Want Komodo as part of your Bali trip? We arrange flights, a private boat and accommodation.
See and book our Komodo tour from $599 →
"Great service from A to Z! Really easy to communicate with and get information about when and what! Makes the trip easy so we can just enjoy Bali to the fullest."
Sandra EekGoogle review · ★★★★★