Iconic dive sites of Komodo: explore one of the world's finest underwater paradises

Komodo National Park is globally renowned for its spectacular scenery, exceptional marine biodiversity, and iconic dive sites. Famous for its abundant marine life and dynamic currents, Komodo provides divers with unparalleled experiences. Here's a comprehensive guide to the best dive sites to explore in this legendary park.

1. Batu Bolong: Komodo’s jewel

Batu Bolong is arguably Komodo's most famous dive site. This striking rock formation rises from deep waters, creating a vibrant marine ecosystem where currents converge. The site is renowned for its astonishing marine life, with multicolored corals covering walls descending over 70 meters. Divers can observe schools of tropical fish, giant napoleon wrasses, sea turtles, and occasionally reef sharks.

2. Castle Rock: guaranteed adrenaline

Castle Rock offers intense and exciting dives, known for its strong currents. It’s a must-visit for observing large pelagic species such as white-tip sharks, dogtooth tuna, giant trevally, and impressive schools of barracudas. Ideal for experienced divers seeking thrills and unique marine encounters.

3. Crystal Rock: underwater beauty

Near Castle Rock, Crystal Rock is another remarkable dive site in Komodo. Famous for its exceptional visibility and abundant fish life, it’s like diving into a natural aquarium. Regular encounters include grey sharks, schools of fusiliers, vibrant anthias, and trevally patrolling the reef.v

4. Manta Point: majestic ballet

Manta Point is a must-visit site for anyone dreaming of seeing majestic manta rays. This location serves as a cleaning station where mantas gather to be cleaned by small fish. Diving at Manta Point is magical, allowing divers to closely observe these graceful creatures.

5. Tatawa Besar: relaxing drift dive

Tatawa Besar is perfect for divers of all levels, offering gentle drift dives along a sloping reef covered in colorful corals. Here, divers can enjoy beautiful underwater landscapes, encountering turtles, eagle rays, and numerous reef fish.

6. Siaba Besar: turtle paradise

Siaba Besar, known as "Turtle City," is famed for its impressive population of green and hawksbill turtles. It’s ideal for beginner divers, offering calm, shallow waters with excellent visibility. Gentle currents and rich reefs make it popular among underwater photographers.

7. The Cauldron (Shotgun): thrilling dive

This site is nicknamed "Shotgun" due to the intense sensation of being propelled through a narrow channel by powerful currents. It provides an exhilarating experience, featuring encounters with lionfish, sharks, and manta rays swiftly passing through the passage.

8. Pink Beach: underwater and terrestrial wonder

Pink Beach is famous not only for its unique pink sand but also for its vibrant coral reefs. Ideal for diving and snorkeling, it features stunning gardens of hard and soft corals and abundant marine life including nudibranchs, moray eels, and clownfish.

9. Golden Passage: deep exploration

Golden Passage offers exciting dives through dramatic rock formations and diverse marine fauna, including sharks and eagle rays. Moderate currents make it suitable for intermediate and advanced divers, with excellent chances of encountering rarer species like nurse sharks and leopard sharks.

10. Sebayur Kecil: leisurely dive

Sebayur Kecil offers easy and enjoyable dives, perfect for beginners or those seeking relaxation. The reef features rich marine biodiversity with a variety of corals and numerous colorful small fish swimming in clear waters.

Preparing for diving in Komodo

Diving in Komodo requires consideration of unique conditions such as currents and biodiversity. It’s recommended to dive with experienced guides to fully and safely enjoy the underwater wonders of the park.

Conclusion

Komodo National Park is a must-visit for every passionate diver. Each dive provides encounters with a marine ecosystem unlike anywhere else in the world. Whether you're an adrenaline seeker or looking for peaceful underwater exploration, Komodo offers memorable experiences with every dive.

Published on August 9, 2025