Labuan Bajo isn’t just the gateway to Komodo dragons — it’s also one of the world’s best diving and snorkeling destinations. Located at the heart of the Coral Triangle, Komodo National Park offers vibrant reefs, manta rays, sea turtles, sharks, and an explosion of marine biodiversity.
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just looking to snorkel off a pink-sand beach, Labuan Bajo has something for everyone.
Top Dive & Snorkeling Sites
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Manta Point 🐠 (Makassar Reef)
Swim alongside majestic manta rays gliding through the currents. Best for drift dives and snorkeling. -
Batu Bolong 🐢
One of Komodo’s most famous dive spots. A pinnacle teeming with fish, coral, and reef sharks. Recommended for advanced divers due to strong currents. -
Castle Rock 🐡
An underwater seamount with swirling schools of fish, reef sharks, and pelagics. Strong currents — for advanced divers only. -
Siaba Besar 🌊
Known as “Turtle City.” A calm dive/snorkel site where you’ll almost always see sea turtles. Perfect for beginners. -
Pink Beach 🏝️
A rare pink-sand beach with shallow coral gardens — great for snorkelers and non-divers.
Best Time for Diving & Snorkeling
- Year-round: Diving is possible year-round.
- Best months: April–November (dry season, calmer seas).
- December–March: Wet season, some rough seas, but still good for diving.
💡 Tip: Manta rays are more frequently spotted between December and February.
Diving Options in Labuan Bajo
- Day Trips 🛥️: Join a speedboat for 2–3 dives or snorkeling stops.
- Liveaboards ⛵: Spend 3–7 days diving remote sites throughout Komodo National Park.
- Dive Courses 🏫: Many operators in Labuan Bajo are PADI-certified and offer Open Water or Advanced courses.
Safety & Responsible Diving
- Choose operators with experienced guides & safety briefings.
- Respect strong currents — some sites are for advanced divers only.
- Don’t touch coral or chase marine life.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see manta rays?
Manta rays can be seen year-round, but sightings are most common between December and February.
What marine life can I see?
Expect manta rays, turtles, reef sharks, colorful coral gardens, and thousands of reef fish. Lucky divers may also spot dolphins or even whale sharks.
How much does diving cost in Labuan Bajo?
Day trips usually cost US$80–150 for 2–3 dives (equipment included). Liveaboards start at US$400 for 3 days and can go much higher for luxury options.
Can I snorkel without diving?
Yes. Many tours include snorkeling stops at places like Pink Beach, Manta Point, and Kanawa Island, which are perfect for non-divers.
Do I need to be an experienced diver to dive in Labuan Bajo?
Not always. There are beginner-friendly sites like Siaba Besar, but many sites (like Batu Bolong or Castle Rock) require advanced certification due to strong currents.