While many travelers head to Komodo National Park for the legendary dragons, they often lose their hearts to a quiet, uninhabited spot called Manjarite. Located only about an hour’s sail from Labuan Bajo, Manjarite is frequently the “opening act” of our Phinisi voyages—and what an opening act it is.
Often referred to as a “natural aquarium,” Manjarite is famous for its calm, shallow waters and a wooden pier that stretches long into a turquoise bay.
The Iconic Wooden Pier
The first thing you’ll notice as your Phinisi approaches is the incredibly long, picturesque wooden pier. It is one of the most Instagrammed spots in the region.
- The View: Walking to the end of the pier gives you a sense of being right in the middle of the ocean, with lush green hills rising on either side of the bay.
- The Photo Op: Whether you are taking a wide-angle shot of the boat from the pier or a drone shot from above, the symmetry of the wood against the blue water is breathtaking.
An “Easy” Snorkeling Paradise
Manjarite is the perfect place to get your “sea legs” ready. Because the bay is sheltered by surrounding hills, there is almost no current and the water is exceptionally clear.
- Vibrant Marine Life: Just a few meters from the pier, you’ll find a world of colorful hard and soft corals. It is home to schools of yellow-tail snappers, needlefish, and even the occasional blue-spotted ribbontail ray.
- Beginner Friendly: If it’s your first time snorkeling, Manjarite is the ideal practice ground. The water is deep enough to swim comfortably but shallow enough (3–5 meters) that you can see every detail on the seabed without diving deep.
- Crystal Visibility: On a sunny day, visibility can reach up to 15 meters, making it feel like you are swimming in a giant, salt-water swimming pool.
The Perfect Start to Your Voyage
In our Sunshine and Sailora itineraries, Manjarite is typically visited on Day 1.
After a short trek at Kelor Island to see the views, we head to Manjarite for a refreshing midday dip. It is the perfect way to cool off before we sail toward Kalong Island to watch the sunset bats.
Traveler Tips for Manjarite:
- Bring a Go-Pro: The clarity here is some of the best in the park. You’ll want to capture the “aquarium” feel under the pier.
- Mind the Corals: Because the water is shallow, be careful not to stand on or kick the coral reefs. We provide high-quality fins and life vests to help you stay buoyant.
- The Pier Walk: The pier can get hot in the midday sun—make sure to wear your sandals or water shoes until you’re ready to jump in!
Ready to jump into the crystal clear waters of Manjarite? This stunning spot is a guaranteed stop on all our overnight Phinisi trips. Start your Komodo adventure with the best snorkeling experience in the park.