Dennis and I finally made it to Labuan Bajo and trust us, this is one of those “why didn’t I do this earlier” trips. Where else can you meet real-life Komodo dragons up close, swim with manta rays that glide past like giant kites, and then climb Padar Island for that epic three-bay shot that screams bucket list?
Labuan Bajo is a small harbour town on Indonesia‘s Flores Island, the gateway to Indonesia’s wild roaming Komodo dragons in Komodo National Park, a diving haven with manta ray encounters, untouched islands and hikes with spectacular views.
And after all that adrenaline, nothing feels better than retreating back to AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach with over-water jetty strolls, infinity pools that blur into the horizon, and sunset bars where you sip and stare while the sky goes wild with colour.
Our 4D 3N stay in Labuan Bajo was graciously hosted by AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach, though the stories and sentiments you’ll read are entirely ours.
How to get to Labuan Bajo
Daily direct flights connect from Bali, Jakarta and a few other Indonesian cities to Komodo Airport (LBJ). The airport is just a 10-minute drive from town. When we visited Labuan Bajo in July 2025, we flew with Jetstar Asia from Changi Airport, just before the airline ceased operations at the end of that month.
Scoot has taken over this route as the only airline to fly between Singapore and Labuan Bajo. The low-cost arm of Singapore Airlines Group will operate twice-weekly flights to Labuan Bajo from 26th October 2025.
Go from April to May or from September to November. Fewer crowds, steadier seas, way smoother island-hopping. Come in the wet season (December to March), and it’s more unpredictable. The harbour can close, but that’s when the joy of missing out kicks in. Rain outside, and it’s spa time inside. Maybe enjoy long dinners and cocktails while the storm is your background music.
If you’re staying at AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach, the resort’s full-day island-hopping tours launch right off the pier (zero logistics stress). The full day island hopping brings you to Padar Island, Pink Beach, Komodo Island and Manta Point. It will cost you IDR 4,750,000++ per adult and IDR 3,950,000++ per child. There’s a 10% discount for hotel guests. Lunch box, soft drinks, mineral water, fruits and snacks are included.
Also, the shuttle boat has its own timing rhythm. There is a no-delivery rule here. So bring your favourite snacks or just go all-in on the resort’s dining.
Meeting the Komodo Dragons at Komodo National Park
At the heart of Komodo National Park lies Loh Liang on Komodo Island, the main entry point for travellers eager to see the legendary Komodo dragons. These prehistoric giants can reach up to three metres in length and are found only in this part of Indonesia, making a visit both rare and unforgettable. The landscape around Loh Liang is rugged yet beautiful, with sun-scorched savannah, pockets of coastal forest and sweeping sea views that set the stage for an encounter with one of nature’s most formidable predators.
Admission to Komodo National Park requires a valid entry ticket, with fees varying for international (USD10 to 17) and domestic (USD0.3 to 1) visitors, and separate charges for guides, trekking routes and conservation support. All visits are conducted with park rangers, who lead small groups along designated trails to minimise disturbance and ensure safety. A few key rules apply – never wander without a ranger, keep a respectful distance from the dragons, avoid sudden movements or crouching low, and never feed or attempt to touch the wildlife. Visitors are also advised not to carry food openly, as the dragons have a powerful sense of smell.
Getting to Loh Liang typically involves a boat ride from Labuan Bajo on Flores Island. Fast boats and phinisi cruises connect Labuan Bajo to Komodo Island in a few hours, often as part of island-hopping itineraries that include Padar Island and Pink Beach. Whether arriving on a day trip or as part of a liveaboard journey, Loh Liang offers the closest and most controlled way to witness these ancient reptiles in their natural environment.
The best time to visit Loh Liang is in the morning, when the Komodo dragons are more active and the sun is less harsh for trekking. Wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, and a hat, and carry plenty of water. Insect repellent is essential, as are sunglasses and sunscreen. Bring small notes in Indonesian rupiah for guide tips and extra fees, and keep snacks sealed in your bag to avoid attracting unwanted reptilian attention.
Facts about Komodo Dragons
With fewer than 4,000 Komodo Dragons left in the wild and a habitat limited to a handful of Indonesian islands, the species is classified as Endangered by the IUCN. Protecting Komodo dragons means preserving the balance of the entire food chain in Komodo National Park, from deer and wild boar populations to the vegetation that sustains them. Conservation efforts also safeguard the livelihoods of local communities who depend on eco-tourism for income, making the dragons both a natural heritage and an economic lifeline. By visiting responsibly and supporting regulated tourism, travellers contribute directly to the long-term survival of these remarkable “living dinosaurs.”
| Virgin births | Female Komodo dragons can reproduce through parthenogenesis (without a male), ensuring the species’ survival even when mates are scarce. |
| Cannibal instincts | Hatchlings often hide in trees for several years, as adult dragons are known to prey on their young. |
| Super tongues | Their forked tongues can detect scents up to 5 kilometres away, helping them locate carrion or live prey. |
| Armoured scales | Beneath their skin lies natural body armour made of tiny bony plates called osteoderms, giving them a prehistoric, chainmail-like defence. |
| Long lives | In the wild, Komodo dragons can live more than 30 years, making them not just the largest lizards, but also among the longest-lived. |
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| Komodo dragons breathe fire like mythical dragons. | No flames here. They rely on stealth, speed and venom to subdue prey. |
| They hunt humans regularly. | While they are powerful predators and can be dangerous if provoked, attacks on humans are extremely rare. Encounters in the park are carefully managed by rangers. |
| Their saliva is full of deadly bacteria that kill prey. | Scientists have found that Komodo dragons actually produce venom with anticoagulant properties, which causes shock and blood loss in their prey. |
| Komodo dragons are slow and lumbering. | They can sprint at speeds up to 20 km/h for short distances, climb trees as juveniles, and swim between islands. |
Padar Island Viewpoint. The Iconic Komodo National Park Hike
Visiting Padar Island is often the highlight of a Komodo National Park trip, thanks to its dramatic ridgelines that overlook three crescent-shaped bays, each with differently coloured sand. To reach the famous viewpoint, you’ll need to climb a steep staircase and dirt trail that takes about 30 minutes at a steady pace. The trek isn’t overly long, but the incline and heat can be challenging, so a moderate level of fitness, sturdy shoes, and plenty of water are essential. Don’t forget sunscreen and insect repellent. The reward is a breathtaking panoramic view that feels almost unreal in its scale and beauty.
For those who want photos without the long queues at the summit, arrive early in the morning with the first boats from Labuan Bajo, or stay behind as most tour groups clear out by late afternoon. Another hack is to stop at the mid-way viewpoints on the trail. These spots are quieter, frame the bays beautifully, and often deliver just as striking a shot without the crowd. Use wide-angle settings for dramatic landscapes without needing the summit’s peak spot.
Snorkelling or Diving
Snorkelling in Labuan Bajo is like diving into a living coral aquarium. Look out for angelfish, clownfish, Moorish idols flitting through coral gardens. Sea turtles drift by with Zen-like grace, and the odd manta ray or reef shark steal the show. Beneath the surface, octopuses, nudibranchs, cuttlefish and eel gardens lurk in reef crevices. Just a cheeky heads-up. Some spots like Batu Bolong boast currents so strong they’re nicknamed the “washing machine”, so make sure you stick with a savvy guide and stay close to the reefs. You don’t want the sea auditioning for a whirlpool act with you as an unwilling performer.
Pink Beach. Nature’s Rare Blush by the Sea.
One of the highlights within Komodo National Park is Pantai Merah, or Pink Beach. It is one of a handful of pink-sand beaches in the world, which gets its blush-coloured shoreline tint from the microscopic red organisms that grow on coral reefs mixed with white sand.
It is a photogenic stop against the turquoise waters and rugged Komodo hills. Thriving coral gardens and schools of reef fish just metres from the shore welcome casual swimmers. Sometimes, manta rays and turtles can be spotted further out, where currents can be strong.
Admission to Pink Beach is included in the Komodo National Park entry fee (around IDR150,000 on weekdays and IDR250,000 on weekends/holidays). It is also usually included in day trips from Labuan Bajo such as this one offered by AYANA Komodo. Boat rides typically last around 30 to 40 minutes from Komodo Island’s Loh Liang ranger station, or approximately an hour from Padar Island. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and smaller crowds.
Stay at AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach
AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach opened in September 2018. The five-star resort features 205 ocean-facing guest rooms and suites with balconies, as well as seven distinct dining options. The only difference between the Ocean View and Deluxe Ocean View rooms is the floor on which they’re located.
The corner Deluxe Ocean View room on level 8 was our comfortable home away from home, offering 180-degree panoramic views of the waterfront and glorious sunsets with Kukusan Island as your backdrop. Neutral tones, textured walls and soft lighting create a calming retreat.
Thoughtful touches such as a fruit platter featuring local salak and a chocolate bar designed like a credit card, bottled water by the bedside, and welcome messages crafted with leaves and bougainvillaea flowers add a personal touch. The workspace blends natural elements with a live-edge wooden desk and coral-inspired accents, while modern comforts, including a flat-screen TV and a spacious seating area, keep the room practical for both leisure and work.
Floor-to-ceiling glass doors slide open when you want some fresh air. A hanging rack is available on the balcony so you can hang your swimsuits to dry. Being on a higher floor, closer to the rooftop lobby, helps you avoid the noise from kids at the pool and dining areas located on the beach level.
Bathrooms at AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach strike a balance between luxury and functionality. Spacious and light-toned, they feature a walk-in rainfall shower alongside a freestanding soaking tub. Perfect for easing tired muscles after a day of trekking or diving.
Eco-conscious details stand out, with refillable Sensatia Botanicals amenities in the shower, complemented by a full set of eco-friendly amenities from shaving kits to ear plugs neatly packed in recyclable boxes. Small touches, like a wooden bath caddy for your book or drink, and calming body lotion to end the evening, make the bathroom more than just a necessity.
The in-room tea and coffee selection at AYANA Komodo is a small but thoughtful indulgence. I loved how the Brew Me teas each had their own personality. After one too many fiery meals in town, the Lemongrass Delight was a gentle reset for my digestion. On quieter evenings, the lavender-kissed Midnight in Paris felt like the perfect way to wind down before bed. And when I wanted a punch of spice without leaving the room, the Traditional Masala Chai hit the spot.
Coffee drinkers aren’t forgotten either. AYANA stocks its own drip bag coffee from Temanggung, Java, so you can brew a proper cup without fussing with machines. It’s the kind of little detail that makes staying in feel just as rewarding as going out.
Restaurants and Bars at AYANA Komodo
Dining at AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach is as much about the setting as it is about the food. From beachfront seafood grills to rooftop sunset lounges, every restaurant here frames your meal with uninterrupted views of Waecicu’s turquoise waters and the surrounding islands. Whether you’re lingering over freshly caught fish with your toes in the sand, sipping cocktails as the sky burns orange, or enjoying refined international cuisine in elegant interiors, the resort turns every dining experience into a moment to savour.
All Day Dining at RINCA
The resort’s all-day dining spot, Rinca balances international classics with Indonesian specialities. Breakfast here is generous, with tropical fruit, pastries and local noodle dishes to start the day, while lunch and dinner menus cater to both adventurous and familiar palates.
Dinner at Rinca Restaurant blends the warmth of Indonesian flavours with the finesse of resort dining. Guests can start with a traditional appetiser like Classic Javanese Gado-Gado, a vibrant salad of vegetables, tofu and tempe served with rich peanut dressing, or opt for the aromatic La Bajo Seafood Soup simmered with lemongrass, turmeric and local herbs. For mains, choices range from Ikan Panggang, a grilled reef fish fillet topped with tangy spices, to the hearty Rendang Sapi Sumatera, slow-braised beef in coconut broth. Dessert keeps it local and comforting, with a Manggarai fruit platter or indulgent Pisang Goreng with cheese and chocolate sauce. It’s a menu that captures the essence of Flores while offering enough variety for every palate.
Grill out by the beach at KISIK Seafood & Grill
Enjoy a water’s edge open-air dining experience at KISIK Seafood and Grill. Enjoy the romantic sunset views and soak in the drama of a seafood market and grill. Lobsters, prawns, squids, fish and clams are displayed on ice for guests to handpick, then cooked to order over a roaring wood-fired grill. Chefs work in full view under the night sky while the smoky aroma of charred seafood blends with the ocean breeze.
A Seafood Market experience lets you choose from live lobster or daily catches prepared with sambal and Balinese-spiced vegetables, or indulge in curated set menus such as the Padar Seafood Platter or Bidadri Grilled set. For something different, try the bamboo-cooked specialties such as Fish Tibu or Lobster Tibu, prepared the Nusa Tenggara Timur way with local spices slow-cooked inside bamboo stalks. Round off with regional favourites like Pisang Goreng with grated cheese and chocolate sauce, or a refreshing lemon cheesecake with seasonal fruit.
Honzen Japanese Restaurant
AYANA’s take on modern Japanese dining, HonZEN serves up sashimi, sushi rolls, tempura and teppanyaki with a light-handed elegance. Perfect for when you want a break from Indonesian spice but still crave something refined and comforting.
On our final day, we decided to switch things up with a different cuisine. That’s when HonZEN came to the rescue. We enjoyed a refreshing cold soba, a comforting Katsu Don, and some perfectly crisp tempura prawns. All these just before we checked out and headed to the airport to head home.
Sunset Cocktails at UNIQUE
Sunsets are beautiful here. That’s if it is not covered by clouds or pouring, with the weather extremely unpredictable these days. UNIQUE is the place to unwind with cocktails and light bites, taking in the breeze and enjoying elevated views of the Flores Sea.
The menu mixes creative cocktails inspired by Flores, like the Rueng with its crisp botanical notes or the tropical Uma Paloma, alongside mocktails, iced teas and international beers. For something more dramatic, there are giant margaritas served frozen, sweet or spicy, and even a shisha menu for lingering under the stars.
Fill up at the Pool Bar
The midday heat doesn’t quite get to you at the Pool Bar. The food here is a mix of Western fare and local delights. And of course, a beer is a must if you need a quick quencher. A refreshing Bintang Beer to go with a greasy burger, mie goreng, a refreshing prawn cous cous salad
AYANA Marine Discover Centre and Coral Gardening
At the Marine and Discovery Centre at AYANA Komodo, you can explore interactive exhibits on ocean conservation and join snorkelling trips or coral planting sessions guided by resident marine biologist Lee Miles.
As part of its commitment to nurturing future ocean advocates, AYANA also runs Marine Life Workshops for local schoolchildren, with around 80 participants so far gaining hands-on conservation experience. In addition, the resort has equipped more than 100 naturalist guides and rangers in Komodo National Park with essential gear and field supplies to support their work.
As part of its commitment to nurturing future ocean advocates, AYANA invites local schoolchildren to take part in Marine Life Workshops and coral planting activities. To date, around 80 local young people have participated in these programs, gaining hands-on experience in marine conservation and a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting their natural environment.
The resort has also supported Komodo National Park by providing over 100 naturalist guides and rangers with essential gear and field supplies.
Other Recreational Activities
AYANA Komodo makes it easy to balance adventure with relaxation. Begin your day with a sunrise hike up a nearby hill, just a short walk from the resort, where sweeping views of the bay reward the early start. Back on the property, join a sunrise yoga session as the morning light spills across the water, or head out for canoeing and paddle boarding to greet the day from the sea.
When it is time to unwind, slip into the infinity pool for a leisurely swim, or let the kids burn off energy at the jetty pool while you keep an eye on them from the comfort of a shaded lounger, cold drink in hand.
One of the best ways to start your day at AYANA Komodo is with a sunrise hike up the hill just a short walk from the resort. It’s an easy climb in the cool morning air, and you’re rewarded with sweeping views over Waecicu Bay as the first light spills across the horizon. The sky shifts from soft purples to fiery orange, painting the ocean and islands in golden hues. It’s a serene moment, shared quietly with a handful of other early risers, where the only soundtrack is the rustle of grass and the occasional bird call. By the time you make your way back down, you’ll feel like you’ve already ticked something off your bucket list before breakfast.
With options ranging from invigorating hikes to indulgent poolside lounging, AYANA Komodo invites you to design each day exactly as you please.
Sail and Stay at AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach and AYANA Cruises
AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach and AYANA Cruises have launched Sail & Stay: A Luxury Retreat, combining a five-star resort escape with a phinisi voyage aboard AYANA Lako Di’a. The package begins with a night of oceanfront luxury at the resort before setting sail through Komodo National Park, with highlights such as Padar Island, Pink Beach, and encounters with Komodo dragons.
The experience includes Luxury Suite accommodation on board, full-board gourmet dining, water sports, yoga, and curated leisure activities, alongside resort perks like complimentary room upgrades, daily breakfast, and spa discounts. Airport transfers to and from Komodo International Airport, the entrance fee to Komodo National Park, and digital photo documentation to capture every memorable moment are also provided.
For the resort stay, guests will receive a complimentary upgrade to a Deluxe Ocean View Room from an Ocean View Room, daily gourmet breakfast buffet for two guests, a 10% discount on revitalising spa treatments and a selection of food and beverages, and a 15% discount on selected water activities and boat trips.
Upcoming departures run until mid-October 2025.
