Dreaming of visiting the rare pink beach in Indonesia? Well, you’re closer than you think!

Tucked within the untouched beauty of Komodo National Park in East Nusa Tenggara lie not one, but two of the world’s rare pink-sand beaches - Pantai Merah on Komodo Island and Long Beach on Padar Island.

These extraordinary shores, tinged with a delicate blush from crushed red coral mixing with soft white sand, are among only seven pink beaches on the planet. Set against the backdrop of turquoise waters and dramatic island cliffs, they attract travellers seeking vibrant marine life, idyllic island-hopping, and a chance to witness the legendary Komodo dragons in their natural domain.

The best part? This otherworldly escape is just a short flight, about an hour from Bali, making it a perfect addition to your Indonesian adventure. Whether you're craving a quick day trip, a weekend sailing expedition through the archipelago, or a luxury cruise across the Flores Sea, this guide covers everything you need to know to plan a seamless and unforgettable journey to Komodo’s iconic pink shores.

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What makes the sand so strikingly pink?

I know that you must have felt like someone added filters on Instagram while sharing photos and reels of Indonesia’s Pink Beach, but let me tell you the truth! It’s not just your camera playing tricks on you; the sands of Komodo’s Pink Beach really do blush a soft, rosy hue. This rare colouration is the result of a fascinating natural phenomenon.

Tiny marine organisms known as Foraminifera inhabit the surrounding coral reefs and secrete a red pigment that gives coral fragments their vibrant colour. Over time, waves and currents break these coral pieces down and carry them ashore, where they blend with the island’s naturally white sand.

The result? A surreal stretch of shoreline that glows pink under the tropical sun, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light softens and the colours deepen.

Due to the precise environmental conditions needed for this process, pink-sand beaches are incredibly rare; only seven are known to exist in the world.

Remarkably, Komodo National Park is home to not just one, but two of these natural wonders, making it a must-visit for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Pink Beach (Pantai Merah) – Komodo Island’s Iconic Shoreline

Pantai Merah, translating to "Red Beach" in Indonesian, is situated on Komodo Island and stands as the most celebrated pink-sand beach in the region. Its distinctive hue results from the amalgamation of white sand and fragments of red coral, giving it a vibrant pink appearance, especially under the midday sun.

Highlights:

• Vivid Pink Sand: The beach boasts a brighter pink hue, attributed to the higher concentration of red coral fragments.

• Scenic Backdrop: Surrounded by lush hills and clear turquoise waters, it offers a picturesque setting ideal for photography.

• Snorkelling Paradise: The adjacent coral reefs are teeming with marine life, making it a haven for snorkelers.

Considerations:

• Popularity: Being a prime attraction, it can get crowded during peak tourist seasons.

• Amenities: Limited facilities are available, so it's advisable to bring essentials like water and sun protection.

Long Beach – Padar Island’s Serene Gem

Located on the northern coast of Padar Island, Long Beach offers a more secluded experience. Its pink sand is subtler, presenting a delicate blush contrasting beautifully with the island's rugged terrain.

Highlights:

• Tranquil Atmosphere: Less frequented by tourists, it provides a peaceful retreat.

• Dramatic Landscapes: The juxtaposition of pink sands against Padar's volcanic hills creates a stunning visual.

• Proximity to Viewpoints: A short hike leads to one of Indonesia's most iconic panoramic views.

Considerations:

• Accessibility: Reaching Long Beach requires a boat trip, often included in multi-stop tours from Labuan Bajo.

• Limited Facilities: A few local vendors (warungs) offer snacks and drinks, but it's best to come prepared.

(Padar Island is part of Komodo National Park. It's located in the Komodo archipelago, between the islands of Komodo and Rinca. Padar Island is one of the three main islands in the park, along with Komodo and Rinca.)

How do you get to the pink beaches in Komodo National Park?

Reaching the pink beaches of Komodo National Park isn’t exactly straightforward, but that’s part of what makes them so special. Their remote location keeps the crowds at bay and preserves the raw, untouched beauty that makes this corner of Indonesia feel like a true paradise.

Here’s how to get there, step by step:

Step 1: Fly to Labuan Bajo – Your Gateway to Komodo

Labuan Bajo is the closest town to Komodo National Park, located on the western tip of Flores Island. It’s the main starting point for all boat tours heading into the park, including visits to Pantai Merah (Pink Beach) and Long Beach (Padar Island).

To get there from Bali, book a flight from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) to Komodo Airport (LBJ) in Labuan Bajo. The flight takes just over an hour, and several airlines operate this route daily.

Here are a few current flight options:

• AirAsia Indonesia
  Departs DPS at 07:10, arrives LBJ at 08:20
  Approx. cost: USD 72
  Duration: ~1 hr 10 mins
  

• Batik Air
  Departs DPS at 15:35, arrives LBJ at 16:50
  Approx. cost: USD 76
  Duration: ~1 hr 15 mins
  

• Garuda Indonesia
  Departs DPS at 13:10, arrives LBJ at 14:25
  Approx. cost: USD 77
  Duration: ~1 hr 15 mins

Tip: Flight times and prices can fluctuate based on the season and demand. Book early, especially if you’re travelling during peak months (July–September or December holidays), as this route is becoming increasingly popular.

Step 2: Set Sail from Labuan Bajo

Once in Labuan Bajo, it’s time to hit the water. There are two main ways to explore Komodo National Park:

• Day Trip by Speedboat
  Ideal for those short on time. Most speedboat tours start early in the morning and cover several highlights, including one of the pink beaches, Komodo Island, and Padar Island.
  Total duration: ~8–10 hours

• Multi-Day Liveaboard Tour
  A liveaboard offers a deeper, more immersive experience if you have more flexibility. Spend 2–4 days sailing between islands, snorkelling vibrant reefs, stargazing from the deck, and waking up to breathtaking sunrises at sea.

Tip: Not all tours include both pink beaches. Some only stop at Pantai Merah, while others may take you to the lesser-known but equally stunning Long Beach on Padar Island. Always double-check the itinerary before booking.

Which option is right for you?

• Short on time? Opt for a speedboat day trip and hit the highlights in one full day.

• Craving adventure and comfort? Join a multi-day liveaboard, which includes a room, meals, and guided island hikes.

• Seeking luxury? Private charters and boutique cruises offer personalised routes and onboard amenities.

Whether you're chasing the soft pink sands for a day or sailing between islands for days on end, the journey to Komodo’s pink beaches is an unforgettable chapter in any Indonesian itinerary. Remote, rare, and remarkably beautiful, these shores are worth every step (and sail) it takes to reach them.

You can opt for curated tours (with guides) to explore the pink beaches through Viator or GetYourGuide.

Which pink beach in Indonesia should you visit?

Choosing between two stunning pink beaches within Komodo National Park, one on Padar Island and the other on Komodo Island, isn’t easy. Each has its own unique charm, and your preference may come down to what kind of experience you're after.

• Choose Pantai Merah (Komodo Island) if you’re after colourful coral reefs, iconic Komodo scenery, and the convenience of a popular day tour.

• If you crave dramatic landscapes, fewer crowds, and a more off-the-beaten-path feel, opt for Long Beach (Padar Island).

Things to do at the pink beaches of Komodo, Indonesia

Whether you're a thrill-seeker, nature lover, or just someone chasing serenity, here are the top things to do while soaking up the surreal beauty of these rare shores:

1. Snorkelling & Diving

Slip beneath the surface and discover a kaleidoscope of marine life—vibrant coral gardens, sea turtles, reef sharks, and even majestic manta rays. The coral reefs near both Komodo and Padar are incredibly rich and mostly shallow, making them perfect for snorkelers of all levels.

• Best time to dive: April to November (dry season), with April offering great visibility and a chance to see manta rays before the waters warm up.

• Tip: Bring your own if your tour doesn’t provide snorkel gear, as equipment quality can vary.

2. Hike for Panoramic Views

While the beaches are captivating from the shoreline, they’re even more jaw-dropping from above.

• Padar Island Hike: A must-do. Climb to the famous viewpoint for sweeping vistas of three beaches - pink, white, and black - curving around the island like a giant fidget spinner. It’s one of the most iconic views in Indonesia.

• Komodo Island Trails: Some guided tours offer short hikes to hilltops with quieter, lesser-known views over Pantai Merah and its turquoise bay.

3. Meet the Komodo Dragons

No trip to Komodo National Park is complete without seeing its most famous (and fearsome) residents.

• Join a guided ranger trek on Komodo Island to observe Komodo dragons in their natural habitat safely. These prehistoric creatures are fascinating to watch, but they are wild animals, never explore without a certified guide.

4. Kayaking & Paddleboarding

If you’re after a more relaxed adventure, rent a kayak or paddleboard and glide across the glassy, turquoise waters. You’ll get a different perspective of the coastline, and maybe even spot rays or turtles swimming beneath you.

5. Sunset Chasing

There’s something magical about sunsets in Komodo National Park. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky often erupts in hues of gold, pink, and crimson. Whether you’re watching from the deck of a boat or the edge of the beach, it’s an unforgettable moment.

6. Stargazing

When night falls, Komodo’s isolation works in your favour. With minimal light pollution, the night skies light up with stars—some of the clearest you’ll ever see.

• On calm nights, you might even catch bioluminescence dancing in the waves—glowing plankton that makes it feel like the sea mirrors the stars above.

Also, get some ‘gram-worthy pictures!

Don’t forget your camera or drone because Komodo is one of the most photogenic places on Earth. The photo ops here are endless, from pastel pink sands and coral reefs to dramatic cliffs and Komodo dragons.

No matter what you choose to do at the pink beaches of Komodo, one thing’s certain: you’ll leave with stories, memories, and a bit of that blush-tinted magic etched into your soul.

Best Time to Visit

The Komodo Islands offer a year-round invitation to adventure, but the experience at the pink beaches can shift dramatically with the seasons. From crystal-clear waters in the dry season to richer sand tones in the rainy months, when you go can shape how you see these rare shorelines.

Dry Season (April to October): For Sunseekers & Snorkelers

If you're chasing sunny skies, calm seas, and vibrant underwater scenes, the dry season is your best bet. From April through October, the conditions are near perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and hiking. With clear blue skies and stable weather, visibility is at its best, ideal for capturing the delicate pink hues of the sand against a turquoise sea.

• Midday light, thanks to the way sunlight hits the crushed coral, brings out the brightest shades of blush in the sand.

• For softer, more magical tones, plan a visit at sunrise or sunset, when the warm light paints the beach in pastel perfection.

• Be prepared for more visitors, especially between June and August, when the park sees peak footfall.

Rainy Season (November to March): For Solitude & Intensity

Travelling during the wet season comes with its own charm. The rain-washed beaches often reveal a deeper, more saturated pink, thanks to the moisture-rich sand and cloud-filtered light. And while the occasional storm might delay a boat trip or two, you’ll likely find the beaches far less crowded.

• Sea conditions can be rougher, and some tours may not run daily, so flexibility is key.

• If you're lucky with the weather, this can be an incredible time for photography—fewer people and a more dramatic sky.

For a perfect holiday: Plan your trip between May and September for the perfect balance of clear skies, lush landscapes, and marine life in full swing. This window offers stable weather, great snorkelling, and spectacular scenery above and below the surface.

What can you really expect at the pink beaches of Indonesia?

Let’s set the scene straight. Yes, Indonesia’s pink beaches are breathtaking, but if you're expecting bubblegum-colored sand and empty shores, here are a few things to know before you pack your swimsuit and snorkel.

1. The Pink Shade Isn’t Always the Same

The sand has a natural pink tint, but it’s not fluorescent or overly saturated. The hue comes from crushed red coral mixed with white sand, and its visibility depends on factors like sunlight, time of day, and tide conditions. You’ll likely notice the pink more clearly under bright midday sun, when the light hits the sand just right.

2. Crowds Vary by Beach

Pink Beach on Komodo Island (Pantai Merah) is the more popular and accessible of the two, so it tends to see more visitors. If you're hoping for a quieter, more laid-back experience, consider heading to Long Beach on Padar Island.

That said, even the “busy” spots here are far less crowded than your average tropical beach.

3. It’s a Bit of a Journey

Getting to the pink beaches isn’t as simple as hopping in a cab. You’ll need to fly into Labuan Bajo, the gateway town on Flores Island, and then join a boat tour to reach the beaches within Komodo National Park. Whether you choose a speedboat day trip or a multi-day liveaboard cruise, the effort is part of the adventure, and the payoff is worth every step.

4. Komodo Dragons Are Around

Remember, this is their natural habitat. While it’s rare to spot Komodo dragons roaming the beaches themselves, sightings do happen, especially on Komodo Island. Always follow your guide’s instructions and remain alert - it’s part of what makes the experience so unique.

5. The Sand May Surprise You

Not every inch of sand is a perfect pastel pink. Some areas have more coral, others lean more beige or white, depending on the conditions. The photos you’ve seen online are often edited to enhance the colour, so don't be discouraged if it looks subtler in person. That just means you’re seeing it as nature intended.

If you go with an open mind and an appreciation for nature’s quiet wonders, the pink beaches will absolutely live up to the hype, trust me!

Where to stay near Komodo’s Pink Beach?

While you can’t typically stay on the Pink Beach itself—like the iconic Pantai Merah in Komodo National Park, which is only accessible by boat, there are plenty of excellent places to stay nearby, Labuan Bajo, the gateway town to Komodo, offers a range of accommodations to suit every kind of traveler. From luxurious retreats to budget-friendly hostels, here are some great options:

• Plataran Komodo Resort & Spa

If you're looking for luxury close to nature, Plataran Komodo is an elegant beachfront resort within Komodo National Park. With private villas, a serene infinity pool, a dive centre, and a relaxing spa, it’s a perfect base for upscale travellers looking to explore the islands in style. The on-site restaurant serves both Indonesian and international cuisine, all with spectacular ocean views.
Location: Labuan Bajo, Komodo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara 86757, Indonesia
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• Le Pirate Island Lodge

For something more rustic and laid-back, Le Pirate Island Lodge offers charming, eco-friendly beach huts set on a private island. Think hammocks, sunset swings, and sandy paths. This off-the-grid retreat is ideal for budget-conscious travellers who still want a unique and photogenic stay close to nature.
Location: Labuan Bajo, Komodo District, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara 86554, Indonesia
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• Bajo Nature Backpackers

Solo adventurers and backpackers will appreciate Bajo Nature Backpackers, a social and affordable hostel in the heart of Labuan Bajo. With dorm rooms, communal spaces, and regular tours departing to Komodo and nearby islands, it’s a great place to meet fellow travellers and explore the region without breaking the bank.
Location: Jl. Soekarno Hatta, Labuan Bajo, Komodo District, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
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Tips for visiting the pink beaches in Indonesia

To make the most of your visit and help protect this rare natural wonder for generations to come, keep these essential tips in mind:

• Leave No Trace
  Pack out everything you bring in. These beaches are part of a delicate ecosystem, and preserving their pristine condition is a shared responsibility.

• Respect the Wildlife
  Komodo dragons may seem slow and docile, but they’re powerful and unpredictable. Always explore with a licensed ranger, especially if you’re near areas they inhabit.

• Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen
  Protect your skin without harming the reef. Traditional sunscreens contain chemicals that damage coral, so opt for reef-safe alternatives whenever you're in the water.

• Bring Water Shoes
  While the pink sand looks dreamy, some parts are mixed with coral fragments that can be sharp underfoot. Water shoes offer both protection and comfort.

Komodo’s pink beaches are more than just a beautiful stop on your itinerary. But they’re a global rarity, a quiet masterpiece shaped by nature over time. So rare, in fact, they were even featured in David Attenborough’s celebrated documentary series, Our Planet, highlighting them as one of the planet’s most extraordinary coastal landscapes.

Whether you’re snorkelling over vibrant coral reefs, hiking up windswept hills for panoramic views, or simply standing at the shoreline letting the pink blush of sand fill your view, this corner of Indonesia will stir something in you. It’s the kind of place that reminds us why we travel - to see the world in ways that leave us humbled and inspired.

So when you’re ready for a destination that’s as magical as it is meaningful, Indonesia’s pink beaches are ready to welcome you, with soft sand, wild waters, and stories you’ll carry long after you return home.