
Castle Rock and Crystal Rock Labuan Bajo
Dive into the vibrant underwater world of Labuan Bajo's Castle Rock and Crystal Rock, famous for sharks and marine life.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Good for diving, fewer crowds

Castle Rock and Crystal Rock Labuan Bajo
Best Time
Good for diving, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dive into the vibrant underwater world of Labuan Bajo's Castle Rock and Crystal Rock, famous for sharks and marine life.
"Amazingly overwhelming dive site with sharks and fish schools!"

🌊 Respect the Currents
Strong currents are common. Dive with experienced operators and always follow your guide's instructions .
🦈 Shark Spotting Hotspot
Castle Rock is famous for shark sightings! Keep an eye out for reef sharks and other pelagics .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shark Encounters
Castle Rock
Witness schools of fish and majestic sharks in this renowned Komodo dive site. A thrilling underwater spectacle!

Abundant Marine Life
Crystal Rock
Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse fish species. A true underwater paradise for snorkelers and divers.

Breathtaking Sunsets
Labuan Bajo Harbor
Experience the magical golden hues reflecting off the ocean as the sun dips below the horizon. Unforgettable views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Currents
Book Dive Operators in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 Respect the Currents
Strong currents are common. Dive with experienced operators and always follow your guide's instructions.
🦈 Shark Spotting Hotspot
Castle Rock is famous for shark sightings! Keep an eye out for reef sharks and other pelagics.
🐠 Crystal Clear Waters
Crystal Rock offers incredible visibility for spotting diverse marine life. Perfect for underwater photography.
🌅 Golden Hour Views
Labuan Bajo sunsets are legendary. Find a good vantage point and soak in the vibrant colors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Respect the Currents
Strong currents are common. Dive with experienced operators and always follow your guide's instructions.
🦈 Shark Spotting Hotspot
Castle Rock is famous for shark sightings! Keep an eye out for reef sharks and other pelagics.
🐠 Crystal Clear Waters
Crystal Rock offers incredible visibility for spotting diverse marine life. Perfect for underwater photography.
🌅 Golden Hour Views
Labuan Bajo sunsets are legendary. Find a good vantage point and soak in the vibrant colors.
🤿 Dive with Experts
Choose reputable dive centers like Scuba Junkie for safe and memorable dives in Komodo.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Castle Rock and Crystal Rock for their incredible marine life, especially the frequent shark sightings and large schools of fish. The strong currents add to the thrilling dive experience. However, some find the currents challenging, and booking with a reliable operator is crucial for safety and enjoyment.
"Strong current , more fish school and shark !
One of best thedive side on Komodo"
陳亞倫
"Great place to see sharks"
Christian Antony
"Best diving spot I have ever see..."
Agus Sardjono
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most travelers fly into Labuan Bajo's Komodo Airport (LBJ) from major Indonesian cities like Jakarta or Bali. From the airport, taxis or ride-sharing services can take you to your accommodation or the harbor.
These are primarily dive sites, so the best way to experience them is by booking a boat trip with a local dive operator. Many liveaboard tours and day trips from Labuan Bajo include these locations.
No, Castle Rock and Crystal Rock are offshore dive sites and are only accessible by boat. You'll need to arrange a diving or snorkeling tour.
Day trips usually last between 8-10 hours, covering multiple dive or snorkel spots. Liveaboard trips can range from 2 to several days, offering a more immersive experience.
Yes, taxis and motorbike taxis (ojek) are readily available in Labuan Bajo for getting around town. Ride-sharing apps also operate here.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, diving and visiting the Komodo National Park requires an entrance fee. This fee is usually included in your dive trip package, but it's good to confirm with your operator.
Day trip prices can vary, but expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 USD per person, depending on the operator, inclusions, and boat type. This typically covers boat, guide, lunch, and park fees.
Yes, snorkeling is possible at Crystal Rock, and some tours may offer snorkeling options at Castle Rock, though it's more renowned for diving. Check with your tour provider for specific offerings.
You can book through dive shops in Labuan Bajo, online in advance, or through your accommodation. Booking with reputable operators like Scuba Junkie is recommended.
Standard PADI/SSI certification age limits apply, typically 10 years old for junior open water. For those with ACL recovery, ensure medical clearance from a doctor.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
At Castle Rock, expect to see schools of fish, reef sharks, and potentially larger pelagics. Crystal Rock is known for its vibrant coral gardens and diverse reef fish.
Both sites can experience strong currents, especially Castle Rock. This is what attracts larger marine life, but divers need to be comfortable with drift diving.
Early morning dives often offer calmer conditions and more active marine life. However, the currents can shift throughout the day.
Bring your dive certification card, sunscreen, a hat, a towel, swimwear, and a reusable water bottle. Some operators provide lunch and snacks.
Yes, the sharks typically encountered at Castle Rock are reef sharks and are generally not aggressive towards divers. Always maintain a safe distance and follow your guide's instructions.
📸 🌅 Photography
Castle Rock offers dramatic shots of sharks and schooling fish against the blue. Crystal Rock is perfect for macro photography of colorful corals and small reef inhabitants.
While any waterproof camera can capture memories, an action camera like a GoPro or a dedicated underwater camera will yield the best results for vibrant colors and detail.
Adjust white balance for underwater conditions, use a wide-angle lens for larger scenes, and a macro lens for small creatures. Natural light is best, but strobes can enhance colors.
Absolutely! The harbor area and nearby viewpoints offer stunning opportunities to capture the vibrant colors of Labuan Bajo sunsets.
Yes, the boat rides offer great opportunities for landscape shots of the islands and the sea, especially during sunrise and sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🤿 Scuba Enthusiasts
📸 Photography Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Diving in Komodo National Park
Divers often describe the experience as 'amazingly overwhelming' due to the sheer abundance of life. The currents, while challenging, are part of what makes these sites so special, offering a thrilling drift diving experience. It's crucial to dive with experienced operators who understand the local conditions and can ensure your safety. Many visitors highlight the 'shark encounters' as a major draw, with reef sharks being a common sight.
For those less experienced with strong currents, Crystal Rock might offer a slightly more manageable experience, still boasting incredible coral formations and a plethora of smaller reef fish. Regardless of your skill level, diving in Komodo is an unforgettable adventure, offering a glimpse into a thriving underwater ecosystem. Remember to always respect the marine environment and follow responsible diving practices.
The Magic of Labuan Bajo Sunsets
Many visitors find a comfortable spot along the harbor or at one of the many waterfront cafes to witness this daily spectacle. The gentle sea breeze and the tranquil ambiance add to the unforgettable experience. It's a moment of pure natural beauty that many travelers cherish and often describe as a highlight of their trip to Labuan Bajo.
For the best sunset views, consider heading to a slightly elevated viewpoint or a west-facing beach. The colors can be particularly intense during certain times of the year, but Labuan Bajo's sunsets are consistently stunning. It's a perfect opportunity for photography, with the silhouettes of traditional boats and distant islands adding to the picturesque scene.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit