Padar Island Indonesia: Everything You Need to Know
Famous for its stunning and unique three beaches lookout, Padar Island is the third largest island in the Komodo National Park and an unmissable gem if you are visiting Flores, Indonesia.
I spent three weeks adventuring around Flores, Indonesia, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands in East Nusa Tenggara. On a day trip, I saw the epic Komodo dragons, explored Pink Beach, and even had the chance to dive with manta rays. This island tour also took me to the iconic Padar Island.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through the basics of visiting Padar Island Indonesia from where to stay and how to get there. Plus all the tips & tricks to make visiting Padar Island a breeze!
So, if visiting Padar Island is on your bucket list, you’ve come to the right place!
Flores, Indonesia Mini Guide
How to travel Flores, Indonesia in bite sized form to help you plan less and travel more!
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Where to Stay
TOP ATTRACTIONS
The Basics of Padar Island
I assume this will be your first time in Flores, Indonesia so let’s go through the basics!
Padar Island is one of the most iconic stops in Komodo National Park (and that’s saying a lot because hello.. Komodo Dragons!!) known for its dramatic landscape and three crescent-shaped beaches.
Hiking to the top is a must, but more on that later! Whether you’re visiting Padar as part of a day trip or as a stop on a liveaboard tour, don’t forget to pack sunscreen and water—the tropical heat is no joke.
Where is Padar Island?
Located within the famous Komodo National Park in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Padar is the third largest Island in the National Park and sits about 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) from Labuan Bajo, between Komodo and Rinca Islands.
While Padar Island doesn’t have Komodo dragons, it’s famous for its striking landscape of rolling hills and three beautiful beaches.
How to Reach Padar Island?
✈️ By Air: The Closest Airport to Padar Island is Komodo (LBJ) in Labuan Bajo. You can catch a flight from major cities in Indonesia, such as Bali or Jakarta. Be aware that in the rainy season, flights can be cancelled (I had two cancelled during my trip!) We like to book Airport transfers ahead of time to make travel days a breeze – book here.
🎟️ Booking a Tour: Next, you will need to book a boat tour! While you can book online (recommended for busy season!) You can also take a walk down the main street in Labuan Bajo, there are plenty of sales agents offering slow boat tours, fast boat tours, and liveaboard tours.
🛶 Slow Boat: The Slow Boat option takes you on a day trip through the Komodo Islands, stopping four times. Padar Island, Pink Beach, Komodo Island & to swim with Manta Rays. (book here)
🚤 Speed Boat Tour: Given this boat is faster you get to see an additional two stops on this boat tour option but it does come with a higher price tag! (book here)
⛵️ Liveaboard Tour: There are options for 2 or 3 nights as well as different room choices from hostel/dorm style bunk beds, to private rooms or even private boats! If you are booking in person, ask to see photos of the boat before committing. (book here)
Best Time To Visit Padar Island:
⏰ Best Time: April to June is the best time to visit Flores, Indonesia as the rainy season ending the temperatures begin warming up!
☀️ Dry Season: Between September to December, this can be a great option but be ready for the heat.
🌤️ High Season: From July to August is peak season, so be prepared for more tourists. If you want to book a tour in person when you arrive, be ready to wait a few days for availability.
🌦️ Shoulder Months: April, May, October & November – generally offer fewer crowds and (mostly) favourable weather. If a bit of rain or bad weather doesn’t bother you and you like travelling around fewer people look into these months!
⏳ Time of Day: If you are doing a liveaboard or private boat, I would consider being here for sunrise or sunset. Ask your guide which view will be best over the iconic beaches!
💡 Note: They are planning on implementing “conservation cool-offs” in 2025, meaning the National Park will be closed for certain periods during the year!
Where to Stay to Visit Padar Island:
You will need to base yourself in Labuan Bajo to visit the Komodo National Park. We stayed at multiple accommodations in Labuan Bajo – here are our top recommendations.
Luxury ($$$): TA’AKTANA Resort has overwater bungalows – need I say more?
Mid-Range ($$): Meruorah Komodo is centrally located with the best views in town.
Budget ($): The Seasta Hotel is swoon-worthy, a little outside of town but with EPIC views!
What to Pack for Padar Island:
The hike, though short, can be trying, with limited shaded spots and uneven ground you will want to be well-prepared for your trip to Padar Island Indonesia.
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Don’t forget to reapply!
- Water: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in the tropical heat!
- A Hat & Sunglasses: A must to keep you shaded during the hike
- Comfortable Shoes: We completed the hike in comfortable sandals
- Camera or Smartphone: To capture the epic views from the top
- Towel & Cooling Cloth: To help you stay comfortable during, or after, the climb.
- Snacks: If you have time, the viewpoint would make a sensational picnic spot!
- Bag: A small daypack or bumbag will help you carry all your essentials while keeping your hands free during the hike.
Hiking Padar Island, Indonesia
Home to three beautiful beaches where you can spend your day relaxing, snorkelling, scuba diving, or reading a book. However, the thing most people look forward to on Padar Island is the short hike to the top for an epic viewpoint!
How Long Does It Take to Climb Padar Island?
The hike to the top of Padar Island Indonesia is around 800 steps, with cobblestone paths and uneven footing, so make sure to wear comfortable footwear and watch your step!
While the hike itself isn’t long—it’s an out-and-back trail that typically takes 1 to 2 hours to complete, depending on how many times you stop to soak in the incredible views along the way.
Although it’s not a difficult trek, be prepared for steep steps and an elevation gain of approximately 170 meters. Combine that with the tropical heat, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll be sweating the whole time! But trust me, the jaw-dropping panoramic views at the summit are totally worth it.
There aren’t many shaded rest stops on the way up/down but when you make it to the summit there is a tree to retreat under, gather your breath and take in the views before heading back down!
Find out other epic things in Flores Indonesia here!
Best Time To Hike:
In an attempt to beat the heat – for most tours, this will be your first stop of the day. The earlier the better!
Ideally, you’ll want to start your hike around sunrise or shortly after to avoid the intense midday sun, which can make the hike more strenuous. Plus, early morning light offers the best conditions for photography, with softer hues and fewer harsh shadows.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does it Cost to Visit?
Additionally, to your tour costs, there is an entrance fee to the Komodo National Park. At the time of writing, it was IDR 500,000 per person (approx $31 USD)
Are there Komodo Dragons on Padar Island?
The Komodo Archeipegalo is famous for the giant (up to 3m!!) lizards however you will not find any roaming around Padar Island. Keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife though – we saw a deer on the beaches and stunning birds flying around.
Can you Camp on Padar Island?
Tourists are not allowed to camp on Padar Island however, if you have opted for a private tour or a liveaboard tour – you may be able to anchor at one of the nearby beaches. This would make the perfect jumping-off point for an early morning or sunset hike!
What is the Closest Airport to Padar Island?
Komodo Airport (LBJ) on the island of Flores, Indonesia. Once you arrive in Labuan Bajo, you’ll need to book a boat tour to reach Padar Island, which is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours away by boat.
How do I get from Padar Island to Bali?
Once you finish your boat tour of Padar Island at the Labuan Bajo Peir. At this point, you can get a taxi or bemo to the airport where flights to Bali are frequent and take around an hour.
Alternatively, you can take some epic tours that go directly from Bali to Komodo National Park! Check it out here.
How Hard is the Padar Island Hike?
The hike is moderately difficult, taking only an hour or two depending on how long you stop to soak in the views. The track is uneven and the tropical heat can be an added challenge!
How High is Padar Island?
During the hike, you will gain approximately 170m in elevation.
Travel Safer & Easier
Final Thoughts
If you are heading to Flores, Indonesia a trip to Padar Island is a must-visit destination.
The famous viewpoint, jagged cliff faces and iconic beaches are sure to capture your heart.
Want to know what else to do in Flores – check out our Ultimate Guide here!
Make sure to save this for travel planning!
Have you been to Padar Island? What was your favourite part of the trip?
