Discover the beauty of West Manggarai through Gili Laba, Pink Beach, to Rinca Island, with natural wonders and stunning marine adventures at each destination.
West Manggarai, on the western tip of Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara, is a paradise for nature and marine tourism lovers. With exotic islands, white sandy beaches, and stunning sea views, West Manggarai offers an unforgettable travel experience.
From panoramic views of hills, clear sea water, to the presence of endemic animals such as Komodo dragons, here are 10 marine tourism destinations in West Manggarai that should be on your travel list.
1. Gili Laba
Gili Laba is a prime destination in West Manggarai that offers spectacular views from the top of the hill. Located in Labuan Bajo, this small island offers a stunning panorama of green hills and blue sea.
In the dry season, the hills on Gili Laba turn brown, creating an atmosphere similar to the African savanna. Trekking in Gili Laba gives tourists the opportunity to enjoy a 360-degree view of the expanse of the sea and the surrounding islands.
2. Pink Beach
Pink Beach, one of the most famous beaches in West Manggarai, has stunning pink sand. This unique color comes from red coral fragments mixed with white sand, creating a beautiful color gradation that contrasts with the clear blue sea water and green hills.
At Pink Beach, visitors can enjoy snorkeling and witness the beauty of coral reefs and diverse underwater life. This beach is also the perfect location to capture moments with a rare scenic backdrop.
3. Komodo Island
Komodo Island is the main tourist icon in West Manggarai which is famous for the presence of Komodo dragons, the largest lizard species in the world. The island is home to around 2,500 Komodo dragons that tourists can see up close.
In addition to witnessing the life of this rare animal, Komodo Island also offers exotic natural scenery, with green hills, white sandy beaches, and blue oceans. Trekking on Komodo Island will give you a valuable experience while exploring the natural habitat of the Komodo dragons.
4. Goat Island
For diving lovers, Kambing Island is a hidden paradise that should not be missed. Despite its relatively small size, this island holds extraordinary underwater beauty, with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish swimming around it.
Kambing Island is the perfect place to feel the tranquility while enjoying the stunning charm of the sea. This place is also suitable for snorkeling for beginners who want to enjoy the beauty of the sea without diving too deep.
5. Kanawa Island
Kanawa Island is an ideal place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful and natural atmosphere. The island is famous for its white sandy beaches and clear sea water, perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
Kanawa Island also offers stunning coral reef views and rich marine life, making it a popular choice for tourists looking for a vacation while enjoying the beauty of nature. For those seeking tranquility, the island provides comfortable accommodation with sea views.
6. Pede Beach
Pede Beach is the only beach that is a favorite of the local people in Labuan Bajo. This beach is easily accessible and is frequently visited on weekends by both local and tourists.
With a lively atmosphere and quite complete facilities, Pede Beach is a suitable place to relax while enjoying the natural atmosphere of Labuan Bajo. Visitors can sit on the beach enjoying the gentle breeze or take a walk enjoying the beautiful beach views.
7. Makassarese
Taka Makassar is a small sand island in the form of a mound that only appears when the sea water is low tide. The size of this island is only the size of a football field, but its beauty is truly stunning.
The island is surrounded by crystal clear sea water with a stunning turquoise color, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and taking pictures.
Visitors who want to enjoy Taka Makassar will be charged an affordable entrance fee, and this island is a favorite choice for short explorations in the middle of the sea.
8. Kalong Island
Kalong Island offers a unique experience in the form of a view of a colony of bats living in the mangrove forest. In the afternoon, thousands of bats will fly out of their nests to look for food, creating a spectacular view in the twilight sky.
Kalong Island is located in the Komodo National Park area and is easily accessible from Labuan Bajo. Witnessing this natural phenomenon will provide a different experience from the usual marine tourism and add to the uniqueness of your trip to West Manggarai.
9. Waecicu Beach
Waecicu Beach is a quiet beach with soft white sand and calm sea water, ideal for relaxing after a long day exploring Labuan Bajo.
Here, visitors can enjoy the beautiful sea views with ships sailing in the distance, creating a peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for ending the day. Waecicu Beach is also an ideal place to enjoy a stunning sunset, making it one of the best beaches in West Manggarai.
10. Rinca Island
Rinca Island is a neighbor of Komodo Island which offers an equally interesting tourist experience. On this island, visitors can meet Komodo dragons and other wild animals such as buffalo, birds and wild boars.
One of the favorite activities on Rinca Island is hiking on Mount Ora, which has a height of about 670 meters above sea level.
From the top of the mountain, visitors can enjoy the exotic and enchanting views of Rinca Island, as well as feel the sensation of adventure in the natural habitat of the Komodo dragon.
West Manggarai is a destination filled with natural charm and stunning marine wonders. From beautiful beaches with white sand to hills offering spectacular views, every corner of West Manggarai provides a unique and stunning experience.
If you are planning to visit this area, don’t miss exploring the exotic places above and experience the unforgettable natural beauty of West Manggarai for yourself.
