Labuan Bajo, perched on the western edge of Flores Island, is a rising star in Indonesia’s tourism scene. Famed as the launching point for Komodo National Park, this once-sleepy fishing town has evolved into a vibrant destination filled with boutique resorts, diving adventures, and breathtaking island landscapes. With coral reefs, pink beaches, and dragon encounters on Komodo Island, Labuan Bajo is nature’s playground.
Though lesser known for golf, Labuan Bajo is emerging as a serene destination for travelers who want to blend adventure with leisure. New resort developments are beginning to include golf experiences that pair perfectly with the region’s natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle.
Regions or Areas
- Komodo National Park (Islands & Marine Area)
UNESCO World Heritage Site known for Komodo dragons, diving spots, and untouched nature. Popular for day trips and liveaboard excursions. - Waecicu & North Coastline
Home to luxury resorts, quiet beaches, and panoramic sunset views. Great for wellness, kayaking, and relaxed stays. - Downtown Labuan Bajo
The bustling town center filled with restaurants, dive shops, night markets, and the main harbor. - Airport & Pede Beach Area
Close to Komodo Airport, with easy access to mid-range hotels and quick transfers to the harbor. - Rangko & Caves Region
Features natural attractions like Rangko Cave and inland hiking trails. A peaceful spot for nature lovers and explorers.
Quick Highlights
- Access to Komodo National Park and Pink Beach
- Ideal for diving, snorkeling, and island hopping
- Emerging golf and wellness resorts with stunning views
- Eco-tourism focus with sustainability practices
- Direct flights from Bali, Jakarta, and Surabaya
- Rich local seafood and traditional Flores cuisine
- Dramatic sunsets and quiet beachfront stays
- Authentic cultural immersion in rural areas
Best Visiting Season
Labuan Bajo has two distinct seasons, with the dry months offering optimal conditions for both golf and adventure:
- Dry Season: April to October (best for diving, sightseeing, and outdoor activities)
- Wet Season: November to March (lush scenery but less ideal for outdoor golf)
- Peak Months: June to August and during national holidays
Advance booking is recommended during the high season due to limited accommodations and tour slots.
Recommended Duration
- 4 to 5 Days – Perfect for island hopping, golf, and relaxation
- 6 to 7 Days – Add Komodo trekking, cave visits, and wellness experiences
- Weekend Escape (3D/2N) – Great for a quick dive and leisure trip
Labuan Bajo rewards both active adventurers and slow travelers who enjoy nature and boutique hospitality.

Local Travel Tips for Labuan Bajo
Labuan Bajo offers a peaceful alternative to Indonesia’s larger tourist hubs. While it’s more remote, it’s easily reachable by air and offers all necessary amenities. Visitors should plan activities in advance, especially island tours.
- Getting There: Komodo Airport serves daily flights from Bali and major cities.
- Transport: Taxis and resort transfers are common. Rent scooters only if experienced.
- Eco-Travel: Respect protected zones and marine life—choose eco-certified operators.
- Packing Tips: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, dry bags, snorkeling gear, and lightweight clothing.
- Language: Basic Bahasa Indonesia is useful; English is spoken in resorts and dive centers.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in hotels but limited in remote areas. Mobile data is more reliable.
Top Golf Courses in Labuan Bajo
Golf is still developing in Labuan Bajo, but resort-based courses are beginning to appear, offering a new way to unwind between island adventures. While there are no full 18-hole championship courses yet, visitors can enjoy relaxed rounds with scenic views.
- AYANA Komodo Resort Golf Lawn – A compact sea-facing golf lawn perfect for practice swings, short games, or relaxing with a view. A casual golf experience suited for resort guests.
For more advanced golfing experiences, travelers can consider combining their Labuan Bajo trip with a stop in Bali or Jakarta before or after their island stay.
Why Visit Labuan Bajo?
Labuan Bajo, once a sleepy fishing village on the western tip of Flores, has emerged as a premier gateway to Komodo National Park and one of Indonesia’s top eco-tourism destinations. With a backdrop of rugged hills, turquoise bays, and breathtaking sunsets, Labuan Bajo is a dreamscape for nature lovers, divers, and island-hoppers.
The town itself is small but growing rapidly, with charming cafes, boutique hotels, and a scenic harbor that comes alive at dusk. Most visitors come to explore Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes Komodo, Rinca, and Padar islands. Here, travelers can see the world’s largest lizards in their natural habitat, hike panoramic trails, and snorkel or dive among vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Padar Island, with its famous three-colored bays, offers one of the most iconic views in Indonesia. Pink Beach lives up to its name, its rose-tinted sand contrasting vividly with clear waters. Diving and snorkeling in the park reveal manta rays, turtles, reef sharks, and coral gardens that rank among the world’s best.
Beyond the park, Labuan Bajo’s inland areas offer waterfalls, caves like Batu Cermin, and traditional villages such as Melo, where visitors can witness Caci whip dances and learn about Manggarai culture. Local cuisine features fresh seafood—grilled fish, lobster, and seaweed salad are often served with sambal and rice.
Labuan Bajo is more than a launching point—it’s a destination with soul, poised between development and tradition. It invites travelers to slow down, engage with its people, and immerse themselves in one of the most beautiful marine environments on Earth.
Latest Travel Stories from Labuan Bajo
Discover real experiences, expert tips, and local highlights from recent travelers in Labuan Bajo. From scenic escapes to food adventures, our latest stories help you explore smarter.