Komodo is one of the over 17,000 islands that make up the Republic of Indonesia. When you think of Komodo, you probably think of the dragon. Not the flying fire-breathing type of dragon, but the largest lizard on earth, the famed Komodo dragon. There is something else Komodo is known for amazing diving.
Komodo Island is 150 Square miles (390 square kilometers) with a population of just over two thousand.
Komodo National Park has world-class dive sites that are best accessed aboard a liveaboard. Let’s take a look at some of the best dive locations that the island has to offer:
Taka Makassar
If you want to see Manta rays, Taka Makassar is the place you want to dive. We would venture to say you’re your chances of spotting a Manta here are about 99% (Is anything really 100%?).
You can also spot Eagle rays here, but let’s be honest, you really want to dive with the majestic Manta.
If you have a dive site bucket list, Taka Makassar should definitely be on it.
Castle Rock
If one had to pick the most popular dive site on Komodo, Castle Rock would most likely be the selection.
And for good reason.
It’s a major hang out for white and blacktip sharks. Crocodile fish is no stranger to this locale either.
The coral and reef fish combine to paint an amazing colorful landscape that has made many underwater photographers ecstatic.
You won’t be disappointed here.
Batu Bolong
Dramatic rock formations pierce the landscape from the ocean’s floor. It feels like cave diving without the overhead cover.
There is a giant rock that descends down to 230 feet (70 meters). It is this rock that gives the site its name. Batu Bolong translates to “Hollow Rock”. Its massive body is teeming with coral and a plethora of marine life.
This rock has a unique topography as well as occasional exposure to strong currents. For these two reasons, fishermen have not targeted the area. Which means the reef and is in superb condition.
It’s a year-round site, that has a community of turtles that pass through. If you winter dive Komodo during the late fall to early months, this site is a must.
Add all these attributes up and you can see why it made our list.
Manta Alley
So maybe you didn’t get your fix of Mantas at Taka Makassar. No problem. They call this site Manta Alley for nothing.
They could also call it “Calm Alley” since the current here is very relaxed and allows you to slowly drift the area and casually take in the Manta rays.
Located inshore on the southern shore of Komodo, the area is a favorite among mating Manta. Mating season is September to January and is the best time to see numerous Manta rays.
Temperatures here range from 71F (22C) to 75F (24C).
Gili Lawa
Gili Lawa is known for its night diving. If you dive here after dark, you’ll understand why.
No dive trip to Komodo is complete until you’ve experienced a night dive here. And not many night dives on the island live up to Gili Lawa.
The area is naturally lit due to the abundant bioluminescence. If you haven’t dived with bioluminescent creatures, do yourself a favor, make it a priority to do so.
It’s a protected bay making it a very calm dive. It is also a popular location for liveaboard boats to moor overnight.
When the sun sets, check out Gili Lawa for a dive you won’t soon forget.
