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Here's something worth knowing before you arrive: Labuan Bajo isn't really a beach town. The famous sand — pink beaches, white sandbars, snorkelling coves — is out on the islands of Komodo National Park, and you get there by boat.
That said, there are some lovely spots along the mainland coast that you can reach easily on a scooter, especially for a late-afternoon swim or sunset.
Pantai Pede
From town: about 10 minutes south Vibe: local, relaxed, family-friendly
Pede is where Labuan Bajo goes to the beach. It's a long, public stretch of sand south of the town centre, with calm water and views across the bay. In the late afternoon you'll find families swimming, kids playing football, and vendors selling grilled corn, coconuts and snacks.
It's not a polished resort beach, but it's real and friendly — and the sunset over the water is lovely.
Waecicu
From town: about 15–20 minutes north Vibe: quieter, close to hotels
North of town, the coast road leads to Waecicu, an area of small coves and hotels. The water is often calm and clear, and it's handy if you're heading to Sylvia Hill for sunset afterwards. Some parts of the shoreline are in front of hotels — be respectful of private areas and use public access points.
Batu Gosok
From town: about 25–30 minutes north Vibe: resort coastline, peaceful
Further along the northern coast, Batu Gosok is home to several larger resorts. The ride out is pleasant and quiet, and if you fancy a sunset drink at a beach club or resort bar, it's a good excuse to explore.
Want a scooter for this ride?
Scoopy, NMAX, PCX, ADV and more from IDR 90,000/day — two clean helmets, a raincoat and free delivery to Komodo Airport or your hotel.
The coast around Rangko
If you're riding to Rangko Cave, the fishing village of Rangko has a quiet stretch of coastline and calm water. It's not developed for tourism, so bring what you need and keep it low-key.
Beaches you can't reach by scooter
These are the famous ones — all on islands, all by boat:
- Pink Beach (Pantai Merah) — the rose-tinted sand
- Padar Island — the iconic viewpoint, with beaches below
- Kanawa Island — great snorkelling right off the beach
- Taka Makassar — a white sandbar in the middle of the sea
For these, take a day trip on a boat. Our parent company, Transbajo, runs private boats and Komodo tours.
Beach tips for scooter riders
- Parking: most beaches have an attendant who charges a small fee. It's normal.
- Valuables: use the under-seat storage and take the key. Don't leave phones in the open.
- Sand: don't ride onto soft sand — scooters dig in fast. Park on firm ground.
- Modesty: Flores is conservative. Swimwear is fine on the beach, but cover up when you ride through villages.
- Salt and sun: rinse off if you can, and put sunscreen on before the ride home.
Beach questions
What is the closest beach to Labuan Bajo?
Pantai Pede, about 10 minutes south of the town centre by scooter.
Can I ride to Pink Beach by scooter?
No. Pink Beach is on an island in Komodo National Park and can only be reached by boat.
Is Pantai Pede good for swimming?
Yes, the water is usually calm. It's a public beach popular with local families, especially in the late afternoon.
Are there beaches near Sylvia Hill?
Yes, the Waecicu area below the hill has small coves, which makes it easy to combine a swim with sunset on the hill.
Want a scooter for this ride?
Scoopy, NMAX, PCX, ADV and more from IDR 90,000/day — two clean helmets, a raincoat and free delivery to Komodo Airport or your hotel.