Manta Point: Snorkeling with Manta Rays in Komodo
We were so happy with Day 1 of our Komodo National Park adventure that when we woke up early on the "liveaboard" boat, we couldn't wait for Manta Point! After a simple breakfast and quick freshwater wash-up (no showers on budget boats!), we set sail for the iconic Padar Island.
Morning: Padar Island - Indonesia's Most Iconic View
We cruised to Pulau Padar, located between Komodo and Rinca islands within the Komodo archipelago. This stunning island was once inhabited by legendary Komodo dragons, but the beasts have abandoned it due to scarcity of prey wildlife. So we could hike safely!
Equipped with trekking shoes, we began climbing toward the island's peak. We lazily ascended the trail, enjoying the clear blue sky and vibrant green grass spreading across the volcanic landscape.
The hike had two sections:
- First section: Easy stairs through the lower slopes
- Second section: More slippery and strenuous as we climbed steeper terrain
The Most Beautiful Sight in Indonesia
The panoramic view from the top was mind-blowing - quite possibly the most beautiful sight in all of Indonesia! Multiple crescent-shaped bays with different colored beaches (white, black, and pink) surrounded by turquoise waters and dramatic volcanic peaks.
Most visitors stopped midway, out of breath, to take selfies. We pushed on to the summit where we could see both sides of the island. We didn't come this far to stop halfway!
To describe the view... it's better to let the pictures do the talking. Words simply don't capture the magnificence.
The Main Event: Manta Point
We slowly walked down to the pier where our captain was waiting for the main event of Day 2: swimming with manta rays!
As we cruised toward Manta Point, our captain suddenly shouted: "Manta! Manta!" - pointing at the bow. We rushed to see 3 huge black shadows gliding just below the surface. Our first glimpse of these giant marine animals! Hopefully not the last...
First Encounter
We arrived at Manta Point where 4 other boats were already anchored. Our captain slowly navigated, guided by the deckhand scanning the water. We could occasionally spot shadows beneath the surface. The pressure was building. Had we just missed them?
Suddenly - we spotted many manta rays in the distance! The boat gently approached, and we were invited to jump into the crystal-blue water.
We interacted with a dozen manta rays circling gracefully around us! These gentle and charismatic creatures:
- Flapped their massive wings elegantly
- Dropped down to "greet" us
- Came within touching distance
- Opened their wide cavernous mouths (slightly frightening!)
But we were safe - these placid animals only consume plankton. Despite their size and power, they're completely harmless to humans.
Second Session - Even Better!
After 15 minutes of intimate encounters with these curious underwater giants, our captain called us back. He wanted to find a better spot. And he did!
From the boat, we observed more than 20 manta rays heading in one direction. With great excitement, our captain overtook them, positioning the boat ahead. We quickly put on flippers and masks, then entered the water directly in their path.
What we experienced next left us completely awestruck:
For 15 minutes, we watched the manta rays glide past us, seemingly impervious to our presence. We became part of the pack, trying to keep up as long as possible. But eventually, they moved elegantly away, disappearing into the blue.
Third Session - One More Time!
The experience was so unbelievable that we asked the captain for a third session. He agreed and found another pack of mantas! Even our experienced captain was surprised to see so many.
Without hesitation, we jumped in one last time to admire these "birds of the sea." Back on the boat afterward, we were all smiling from ear to ear. We knew we'd just experienced something truly amazing - a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.
Afternoon: Kanawa Beach Snorkeling
We ended the extraordinary day with snorkeling around Kanawa Beach, reportedly one of the best spots in all of Southeast Asia. The coral reefs were pristine, teeming with colorful fish and healthy marine ecosystems.
An Unforgettable Experience
Sailing around Komodo National Park remained without doubt the highlight of our entire Indonesia trip. Swimming with manta rays at Manta Point was an incredible and magical experience that might even top our hot air balloon ride over Bagan, Myanmar. This memory will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Have you snorkeled at Manta Point? How many manta rays did you see? Have you had similarly moving encounters with wildlife? Share your underwater adventures and animal encounters below!
Manta Point and Padar Island Guide
- Manta Point: Located in Komodo National Park waters between Komodo and Rinca islands. Consistently one of the best places in the world to swim with manta rays year-round.
- Best time for manta rays: Year-round, but peak season is April-November. January-March (low season) can still offer excellent encounters with fewer boats!
- Manta ray facts: Wingspan up to 7 meters (23 feet), weigh up to 2 tons. Filter feeders eating only plankton - completely harmless to humans despite impressive size.
- Snorkeling conditions: Crystal-clear water with excellent visibility. Moderate current - be a confident swimmer. Life jackets available for less experienced swimmers.
- Padar Island hike: 30-45 minutes to summit. Two sections: easy stairs, then steeper slippery trail. Bring sturdy shoes, water, hat, and sunscreen. Views are worth the effort!
- Timing tip: Start Padar hike early morning (7-8 AM) before heat becomes oppressive. The lighting is also better for photography at this time.
- Underwater photography: Waterproof camera or GoPro essential! Manta rays move quickly - use burst mode. Respect distance, never touch or chase them.
- Safety: Never touch manta rays (damages protective mucus layer). Keep safe distance. Strong swimmers only without life jacket - currents can be powerful.
- Crowds: Peak season (July-August) brings many boats. Low season offers more intimate encounters with fewer snorkelers in the water.
- Tour inclusions: Padar Island and Manta Point usually included in 2-day Komodo tours. 3-day tours add more islands and snorkeling sites.
- Conservation: Manta rays are endangered. Choose responsible tour operators. Never feed them (disrupts natural behavior). Report operators who chase or harass mantas.
- Pro tip: Ask captain for multiple manta sessions if time allows! Most are happy to oblige when manta activity is high. The experience is truly unforgettable!
Swimming with manta rays at Manta Point was the crowning jewel of our Komodo adventure. Combined with the breathtaking Padar Island panorama, Day 2 delivered experiences we'll treasure forever. Komodo National Park isn't just about dragons - it's a complete paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers!