Indoneisna is a country made out of islands. The long coastlines provides ample opportunities to enjoy ocean-based activities. Two are more popular than most, surfing and diving.
Bali: Surfer’s Paradise
Surfing can be done in many parts of Bali. Though being non an island with the works of the oncean currents, the waves are generally quite big even in the summer. If you are trying surfing for the first time, there are some beaches that have waves that are much more friendly than other. Surfing newbies can catch gentle rollers at Batu Bolong Beach conviniently located in Canggu where I stayed, while intermediate and advanced surfers can tame the challenging breaks at Echo Beach. There are many reputable surf instructors of each surfing areas, I will throw a shoutout to smo.photo(Instagram handle) for excellent surfing dron shots; he made this newbie look too good.
There is nothing wrong with sitting on the beach if surfing is not your thing. There’s nothing quite like sinking your toes into the soft sand. Afterall, the beach is the reason why many are here. Canggu offers a smorgasbord of beach options. Berawa Beach is perfect for a leisurely stroll and a refreshing dip. If you’re feeling peckish, grab a bite at one of the many beach cafes and soak in the stunning sunsets. There are many restarurants and bars that offer launging places, though they do get full quite easily. Be sure to come well before sunset to snatch some good seats.
Flores Island
Badjo located on was an excellent quick stop before hopping onto one of the Komodo Island cruises. There are many food stalls that sells execellent seafood. Prices are much cheaper compared to Bali, but be sure to bring cash. Lodging wise, I highly recommend Seasta Komodo hotel and hostel. There is also an execellent bar and restaurant on top of the roof which sees frequent DJ actions and boasts prime views for the sunset.
Diving into Paradise
Of course, the main reason people come to Badjo is for diving and cruises around the Komodo National Park. Famed for the komodo dragons, manta rays, and breathtaking natural surrounding, Komodo National Park is a year-round destination. You can choose to spend a few days to liveaboard or do a quick day cruise. For the ultimate diving experience, consider a liveaboard trip. These vessels allow you to explore remote dive sites and maximize your time underwater. Day trips are a good option for those shorter on time.
Safety note on diving in the Komodo NP
I chose the liveaboard with Wunderpus Liveaboard. They did not sponsor me at all, but I can whole heartedly recommend this company, and you can probably see it on all of their ratings too. They have argueably the best captain, diving guides, planning, and boat. The guides not only made sure we were able to see all the amazing sea creatures, but they also done it in a safe manner. The diving guides were certified instructors who gave me amazing advice and coaching while we were on the trip.
The same could not be said true for many of the other companies. Komodo NP is famous for tricky diving conditions. Due to Pacific and Indian ocean converging around the national park, most sites are current sensative. If you do not have a lot of diving experience, I would recommend joining trips organized by reputable companies and getting some experience before enbarking on this trip.
Komodo Dragons!
But let’s not forget about the Komodo Dragons! In the Komodo dragons, the world’s largest lizards, roaming freely in their natural habitat. These amazing animals do hunt and kill. Thus, all trips need to accompanied by two rangers equiped with sticks to fend off the dragons should they charge. There has been many incidents before so I highly recommend following rangers’ instructions at all times. Sometimes you are allowed to take pictures with the dragons, other times you may not be allowed to do so. Again, listen to your park ranger.
Important Note: Safety first! Always follow your guide’s instructions and maintain a safe distance from these magnificent creatures.
Hiking on other islands
One of the advantages that comes with livaboard cruises is that you get to enjoy the sunrise and sunset hikes. There are many famous hikes, our captain and guides took us to a more secluded spot to enjoy the sunset. I will leave you to guess where it is.
Travel Tips:
Best Time to Visit:Â The dry season (April to October) offers the best weather conditions for both surfing and diving.
Essential Gear:Â Pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, reef-safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. For diving, don’t forget your dive gear and relevant certifications. Though many dive companies also rent diving gear.
Accommodation:Â Find something on Labuan Bajo. I chose Seaesta but there are many other choices.
Money and tip: Bring some local currencies to tip your boat crew and guides. The recommendation is to tip around 10%.
Flight: flights arriving in Lauban Badjo often experience delays. I would highly recommend you arriving the day before your dive trip as the boat don’t just wait around!
Every successful boat trip ends with a good plunge!