Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
20 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
500 m
Frequently asked questions
Kanawa Island Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal, average temperature +27.0°C, warms up to +29.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Kanawa Island Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.3 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Kanawa Island Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 20 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Kanawa Island Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 500 metres.
Kanawa Island Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in April, May. It ends in October, November. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Kanawa Island Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Kanawa Island Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: sea urchins. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Kanawa Island Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Kanawa Island Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming. A first aid station is available.
Kanawa Island Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Kanawa Restaurant. Cuisines available: Local. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Kanawa Island Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Headwear, Towel, Swimsuit, Cash, First aid kit, Snorkel mask.
Kanawa Island Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to visit is during the dry season from April to November. The water is especially clear in the morning, and the reefs are most visible.
Kanawa Island Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Damaging coral and taking marine life is prohibited. Respect Komodo National Park.
Kanawa Island Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Kanawa Island Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for snorkelling enthusiasts and travellers seeking a secluded tropical holiday on a small island. Not suitable for lovers of noisy entertainment and comfort.
Kanawa Island Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Kanawa is one of the few Komodo islands where coral reefs begin right at the water-s edge, making snorkelling accessible without swimming far from shore. The island is surrounded by reefs with colourful fish and is often included in day-trip itineraries from Labuan Bajo.
Kanawa Island Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Crescent-shaped white-sand beach, Crystal-clear turquoise water, Snorkelling right from the shore, Coral reefs with colourful fish, Hilltop viewpoint, Few tourists. Cons: Difficult to reach without a boat, Limited accommodation, No lifeguards, Sea urchins near reefs.
Kanawa Island Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Komodo National Park, Kanawa Viewpoint, Coral Gardens. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Kanawa Island Beach: how do I get to the city of Labuan Bajo?
The beach is located near the city of Labuan Bajo. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Labuan Bajo.