We climbed a mountain in the dark, watched the world wake up in cotton candy colors, and swam through coral gardens just steps from a pink-sand beach. This was the day Komodo truly showed off.
By the way, welcome to Day 3 of my Komodo Liveaboard adventure.
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Padar Island Sunrise Hike and Pink Beach
Stop 1: Padar Island – The Pre-Dawn Climb
We woke before the world did, groggy and bundled in hoodies, limbing off the boat in total darkness. With headlamps strapped on, we stepped off the boat and began the pitch-black climb up Padar Island’s steep stone steps.
The climb was relentless with switchbacks, uneven steps. There was just enough incline to make you question your life choices. But then, just as our legs started to protest, we reached the summit.
And there it was: three crescent-shaped beaches. Each of the three beaches were a different color. One pink, one black, and one white, separated by jagged cliffs and framed by the turquoise sea. In every direction, islands were silhouetted against the cotton candy sky. The view was so vast, it felt like we were standing on the edge of the world. Much like the Taka Makasar sandbar and the rest of Komodo.
The hike takes about 30–45 minutes depending on your pace, and while it’s steep, the trail is well-maintained with stone steps and a few rest platforms. We did well with hiking sandals here. It was just a tad longer than the short hike up Kelor Island. Sunrise is the best time to go. Not just for the view, but for the peace… and a good seat!
Stop 2: Pink Beach – Coral Gardens & Blushing Sand
Later that morning, we dropped anchor near Pink Beach, where the sand really does blush thanks to crushed red coral mixed with white grains. We arrived mid-morning on our liveaboard tour, and the beach was empty.
It’s one of only a handful of pink beaches in the world, and yes, it’s as dreamy as it sounds. The effect is absolutely surreal against the backdrop of turquoise water. The sand was warm underfoot, and the water was so clear you could see every ripple on the seafloor.
We grabbed snorkel gear and waded in, immediately greeted by a kaleidoscope of coral and fish just a few meters from shore. It’s one of the best snorkeling spots, especially for beginners or anyone who wants to float around lazily.
I flew my drone for a panoramic view of the bay. From above, the pink hue of the beach was even more striking. I got a few good shots of my husband snorkeling in the ocean. His bright pink swim trunks were a nice contrast against the aqua ocean. And of course, I had to get a shot of me lying on the pink sand beach. Such a cool shot!
What to Pack for Day 3
- Headlamp for the Padar hike
- Light jacket for the morning chill
- Snorkel gear if not provided
- Reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral
- Waterproof phone pouch for beach-to-boat transitions
Want to plan your own Komodo trip? Start with my full packing guide below and how to choose a liveaboard. 👇
Plan Your Own Komodo Trip
Download my FREE Komodo Liveaboard Travel Guide!
- International Travel Checklist
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Next up: Day 4 – Taka Makasar Sandbar & Saying Goodbye
Or head back to the full Komodo Liveaboard recap to explore the whole journey.
