Kenawa Island: A Hidden Paradise in Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park is renowned for its diverse marine life, stunning landscapes, and ancient reptiles. Located in the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia, the park comprises three major islands (Komodo, Rinca, and Padar) and numerous smaller islands and islets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and scuba divers from around the world.

One of the lesser-known islands in Komodo National Park is Kanawa Island. Located about 15 kilometers from Labuan Bajo, the island is a hidden gem that offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. It is a perfect destination for those who seek a quiet and peaceful retreat away from the crowds and noise of the city.

Kanawa Island is a small island, about 1.5 kilometers in length and 500 meters in width. It is surrounded by turquoise waters and a vibrant coral reef that supports a diverse range of marine life, such as colorful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. The island is also home to a variety of bird species, including kingfishers, eagles, and hornbills.

The island has two main beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The northern beach, also known as Sunset Beach, offers a stunning view of the sunset and is a popular spot for taking photos. The southern beach, known as Sunrise Beach, is an excellent place to start your day with a refreshing swim or a snorkeling trip. Both beaches have facilities for visitors, such as sun loungers, umbrellas, and beach bars.

Kanawa Island is also a popular destination for scuba diving. The island’s coral reef is teeming with marine life, and there are several dive sites around the island that cater to divers of all levels. The most popular dive site is the Kanawa Wall, a vertical drop-off that starts from the shallow reef and goes down to a depth of about 30 meters. The wall is covered with soft and hard corals, sponges, and sea fans, and is home to a variety of fish species, such as angelfish, butterflyfish, and parrotfish. Other dive sites around the island include the Coral Garden, the Wreck Point, and the Pinnacle.

For those who want to stay on the island, Kanawa Island Resort offers affordable accommodation with 20 bungalows that are built in traditional Indonesian style and equipped with modern amenities, such as air conditioning, hot water, and a private balcony. The resort also has a restaurant that serves Indonesian and international cuisine.

Getting to Kanawa Island is easy. The island is located about 15 kilometers from Labuan Bajo, the gateway to Komodo National Park. Visitors can take a speedboat or a traditional wooden boat from Labuan Bajo to Kanawa Island, which takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Visitors can also join a day trip trip that includes a visit to Kanawa Island.

Kanawa Island is a hidden gem in Komodo National Park that offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. It is a perfect destination for those who seek a quiet and peaceful retreat away from the crowds and noise of the city. With its stunning natural beauty and diverse marine life, Kanawa Island is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and adventure.