If you’ve ever scrolled through photos of Komodo National Park, chances are you’ve seen that epic viewpoint with three curved bays and rugged green hills. That’s Padar Island Indonesia—one of the most stunning spots in the entire archipelago.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about visiting Padar, from how to get there to the best time to hike, swim, and soak in the views.
Where is Padar Island?
Padar Island is part of Komodo National Park, located between Komodo and Rinca Islands in eastern Indonesia. It’s the third-largest island in the park and—fun fact—while it’s part of the Komodo ecosystem, there are no Komodo dragons here. That means you can hike freely without a ranger (though still bring water and wear good shoes!).
How to Get to Padar Island
Most travelers start their journey in Labuan Bajo, a port town in Flores that serves as the gateway to Komodo. From there, you have a few options:
Private boat charter (luxury or mid-range)
Open Trip Komodo – a shared sailing experience perfect for solo travelers or small groups
The boat ride to Padar takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, and most trips include stops at other top sights like Komodo Island and Pink Beach.
Hiking to the Famous Viewpoint
Let’s talk about that hike! Reaching the top of Padar’s main viewpoint takes around 30–45 minutes. It’s a short but steep trail, so come prepared. The best time to hike is early in the morning for sunrise or later in the afternoon to avoid the heat.
The reward? A panoramic view of three bays, each with different colored sand—pink, white, and black. It’s one of the most iconic landscapes in Indonesia, and yes, it’s 100% worth the effort.
The Beaches of Padar Island
Padar isn’t just about the views. After your hike, head down to the beaches to relax or swim. Each beach has a unique charm:
Pink Beach – A soft rose-colored shoreline caused by crushed red coral
Black Sand Beach – A volcanic-looking beauty
White Sand Beach – Classic and crystal clear
Most boats anchor near the beaches so you can take a dip, snorkel, or just chill with your toes in the sand.
Snorkeling & Marine Life
While Padar itself isn’t a diving hotspot, nearby areas are teeming with underwater life. Many Open Trip Komodo tours include snorkeling gear and stops at vibrant coral reefs around Manta Point or Kanawa Island.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot manta rays, turtles, or reef sharks during your trip.
Can You See Komodo Dragons on Padar?
Nope—but don’t worry. You can visit Komodo or Rinca Islands on the same trip to see the famous dragons up close (with a guide, of course). That’s the beauty of sailing through the park—every island has its own experience to offer.
Travel Tips for Visiting Padar
Here’s what you’ll want to keep in mind before visiting:
Best Time to Go:
April to October (dry season) is ideal. May, June, and September offer great weather with fewer crowds.
What to Pack:
Comfy hiking shoes or sandals with grip
Refillable water bottle
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Swimwear
Camera or drone (this is one place you’ll want epic shots)
Respect Local Customs:
Always follow park rules, don’t leave trash, and be respectful when passing through local villages or ports.
Padar Island is one of the most iconic destinations in Komodo National Park, known for its dramatic hilltop viewpoint that showcases three bays with different colored beaches—pink, white, and black. The breathtaking panoramic view is one of the most photographed scenes in Indonesia.
The hike is short but steep, taking around 20–30 minutes depending on your pace. The trail consists of stairs and dirt paths, and while it’s not technical, hiking Padar Island does require basic fitness and good footwear. Early morning or late afternoon hikes are ideal to avoid the heat.
Yes, most Open Trip Komodo itineraries, including those by Samara Liveaboard, include a sunrise or sunset hike on Padar Island. It’s one of the highlights of the journey and a must-see for any traveler to the region.
Unlike Komodo or Rinca Islands, Padar Island no longer has a population of Komodo dragons. It’s primarily visited for its stunning landscapes and hiking trails rather than wildlife encounters
The best time is just after sunrise or before sunset. The temperature is cooler, the lighting is magical, and the trails are less crowded. Your Samara crew will time the visit perfectly for the best experience.
Final Thoughts
Padar Island Indonesia is one of those rare places that truly lives up to the hype. Whether you’re joining an Open Trip Komodo with new friends or sailing privately, a stop at Padar promises jaw-dropping views, peaceful beaches, and unforgettable memories.
If Komodo National Park is on your travel list, don’t skip Padar—it’s the crown jewel of the entire region.
