Kanawa Island Resort

Nestled within the breathtaking landscape of Komodo National Park, Kanawa Island Resort is a hidden gem that blends natural beauty with tranquility. Famous for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, Kanawa is the perfect spot to relax after days of trekking and snorkeling around Komodo.

For many travelers on a Komodo Island tour, Kanawa is often the last stop before returning to Labuan Bajo. Whether you’re joining a Komodo day trip, enjoying a shared open trip phinisi, or sailing on a private cruise, Kanawa Island offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and tropical charm.

What Makes Kanawa Island Special

Unlike some of the wilder and untouched islands in the park, Kanawa offers a touch of comfort while still keeping its natural appeal. The island is home to a small resort, making it one of the few places in the park where visitors can actually stay overnight.

Here’s what makes Kanawa unique:

• Easy Access: Located only about 10 km from Labuan Bajo, it’s one of the closest islands in the park.
• Beautiful Beaches: Powdery white sand and calm turquoise waters create postcard-perfect views.
• Snorkeling Paradise: The reefs just off the beach are full of marine life, making it an ideal spot even for beginners.
• Peaceful Ambience: Fewer crowds compared to popular sites like Pink Beach or Padar, giving it a serene atmosphere.

Snorkeling at Kanawa Island

Kanawa is one of the best snorkeling destinations in Komodo National Park, particularly for those who prefer shallow and calm waters. Just steps from the beach, you’ll find coral gardens alive with clownfish, parrotfish, starfish, and even small reef sharks.

The island’s famous jetty is also a highlight—snorkeling beneath it reveals schools of colorful fish and vibrant corals. The visibility here is excellent, often reaching 20 meters, making it perfect for underwater photography.

For many travelers, snorkeling at Kanawa provides a more relaxed contrast to challenging sites like Taka Makassar or Manta Point.

Staying at Kanawa Island Resort

Unlike most islands in the park, Kanawa offers accommodation. The Kanawa Island Resort features simple bungalows that allow guests to wake up just meters away from the beach. Staying overnight here means you can enjoy both sunrise and sunset in a serene setting, away from the bustle of Labuan Bajo.

The resort is not luxury-focused but rather rustic, appealing to those who want a true island escape. With electricity powered by generators, basic facilities, and no distractions from the modern world, Kanawa offers an authentic “back-to-nature” experience.

Activities on Kanawa Island

Besides snorkeling and swimming, Kanawa offers several activities for travelers:

• Beach Relaxation: Simply enjoy sunbathing or reading by the beach.
• Kayaking: Paddle around the calm waters and explore nearby reefs.
• Short Trekking: Hike to the small hill on the island for panoramic views of Komodo National Park.
• Photography: The island is one of the most Instagrammable spots in the park, especially during sunrise and sunset.
• Stargazing: With little light pollution, the night sky above Kanawa is breathtaking.

Best Time to Visit Kanawa Island

Kanawa can be visited year-round, but the best time is during the dry season (April to October) when the seas are calmer and visibility for snorkeling is at its best. The rainy season (November to March) can bring rougher seas, but the island remains beautiful and less crowded.

For day visitors, morning to early afternoon is ideal, while those staying overnight will enjoy the full range of activities, from sunrise to stargazing.

How to Visit Kanawa Island

• Komodo Day Trip: Many speedboat tours include Kanawa as the final stop, giving travelers a chance to relax and snorkel before heading back to Labuan Bajo.
• Komodo Open Trip: On a 3D2N phinisi sailing tour, Kanawa is usually the last destination on Day 3, after adventures in Padar, Pink Beach, Komodo Island, and Manta Point.
• Komodo Private Cruise: A private charter allows you to spend more time at Kanawa, with the option of having the island almost to yourself for a few hours.

Tips for Visiting Kanawa Island

1. Bring Snorkeling Gear – Although many tours provide equipment, having your own is more comfortable.
2. Pack Reef-Safe Sunscreen – Protect both your skin and the corals.
3. Stay Hydrated – The island can get very hot, so bring a reusable water bottle.
4. Bring Cash – If staying at the resort, facilities are limited and card payments may not be accepted.
5. Respect Nature – Avoid stepping on corals and leave no trash behind.

Why Kanawa Island Completes the Komodo Experience

Every destination in Komodo offers something unique—Padar for its iconic viewpoint, Komodo Island for the dragons, Pink Beach for its rare sand, and Manta Point for thrilling snorkeling. Kanawa balances all of that by offering a place to relax, swim, and simply enjoy the tropical paradise at your own pace.

It is the perfect final stop before returning to Labuan Bajo, giving travelers a chance to reflect on their adventure while basking in the beauty of the sea.

Why Choose Komodo Cruise for Kanawa Island

At Komodo Cruise, we ensure your Kanawa experience is as seamless and memorable as possible. Our itineraries are carefully designed to allow enough time for snorkeling, relaxing, and capturing photos at the island. Whether you join a day trip, a shared open trip, or a private Komodo sailing, Kanawa Island Resort will always be part of your journey.

Our guides provide snorkeling assistance, our boats offer comfortable facilities, and our team ensures you get the best experience—whether it’s your first time snorkeling or your hundredth.

Conclusion

Kanawa Island Resort is a destination that brings together the best of Komodo—clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a peaceful tropical atmosphere. Whether you’re staying overnight at the resort or just visiting for a few hours, Kanawa offers an unforgettable escape that balances adventure and relaxation.

So, when planning your Labuan Bajo trip, make sure Kanawa Island is on your itinerary. It’s more than just a stop—it’s the moment where your Komodo adventure slows down, giving you space to soak in the paradise around you.