Situated among four beautiful islands in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara Province, Flores Island, Indonesia, Bidadari Island is only 10 minutes away from the well-known Komodo Island. The other beautiful islands there worth visiting are Padar and Rinca Islands.
Despite its near Komodo Island, the Island of Angels Island is not inhabited by Komodo dragons, so visitors don’t have to worry about exploring the Island. As the name implies, the locals believe that the Komodo dragons are afraid of the angels (bidadari) who guard the Island. It is very reasonable to understand why the Island was named that way if you see the beauty of its white sand, clear seawater, and marine life, including coral reefs, turtles, and fish.
Interesting Facts
Historically, Bidadari Island used to be known as Bajo Island or Bidara Island as the land is lush with bidara plants (Indian jujube). Nevertheless, the name was eventually changed to Pulau Bidadari due to several story versions linked to mystical things. The locals believe that on the Island often seen some spirits resembling stunning women—almost like angels. This opinion is also reinforced by the Island’s ambience which tends to be very quiet.
Another interesting fact emerging from a news report is that the Island covering an area of approximately 15 hectares has already been sold to an English couple, Ernest Lewandowski and Kathleen Mitchinson. The Island was sold in the early 2000s by a resident there, Haji Yusuf Mahmud, who claimed to be the land’s owner.
Thankfully, the Regional Government immediately took action to release a building rights certificate stating that the foreigners could manage the Island within only 30 years and should leave the Island by September 24, 2035. Indeed, it is unfortunate if a foreigner takes over Bidadari Island. Therefore, the government’s action on this issue is considered appropriate.
The Attractions
Bidadari Island is the best place for all divers—including the amateur ones. So, if you are a diving enthusiast, you can explore the underwater life of this Island. You will see coral reefs and marine life with colorful fish from a depth of 5 meters. Dive deeper, and you may encounter large turtles as well. However, if you can’t dive but are still curious to see the marvelous underwater scenery, you can always snorkel around the Island.
The Island’s beauty is still pristine, and thus, you will be mesmerized by it anytime you snorkel or dive around. Labuan Bajo is best known as one of the world’s best dive sites. No wonder plenty of divers from abroad visit the graceful Island to enjoy its special diving packages.
Apart from diving and snorkeling, you can still do other water sports such as swimming, surfing, and jet-skiing. Many other interesting activities can be explored there, like sunbathing and reading your favorite books in the shades of stunning palm trees. In the afternoon, you may as well catch the spectacular view of the sunset from where you are relaxing on the beach. So, if you want to spend your vacation in a tranquil paradise, Bidadari Island is the right choice of destination.
When to Visit the Island
The best time to visit this enchanting Island is generally between April and December or the dry season. In the season, the seawater tends to be calmer due to the barrier of coral reefs surrounding the Island that can protect it from huge and strong sea waves.
Amenities
For accommodation, in the 15-hectare land of the angels, ten cottages are available with five-star services—including food and beverage service. The Island’s resort provides diving facilities with international standards. Although the target of the facilities is mostly foreign tourists, domestic tourists are also welcomed to the Island. The amenities offered in the cottages are a private terrace, a minibar, hot water, medical service, laundry service, security guard, and many more.
How to Get to the Island
Bidadari Island is located in Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara Province, Flores Island, Indonesia. You can begin your trip from Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar, Bali, by flying away to Komodo Airport in Labuan Bajo for only an hour and a half.
From Labuan Bajo, you can take a boat for only about 30 minutes. Even better, taking a speedboat will only take 10 minutes. If you have booked a room from the resort, there is a free shuttle service that can take you from Labuan Bajo Airport.
Now, it is safe enough to say that Bidadari Island is indeed a sanctuary of the angels. Please keep in mind that your visit to the Island still requires the proper health protocols applied during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as wearing a mask, keeping a minimum distance of one meter, using hand sanitizer, and regularly washing your hands with soap and clean water. Then, most importantly, always make sure your body temperature remains below 37.3°C.
