# Manjarite Beach, Komodo: Starfish Bay of Crystal Waters Manjarite Beach (Pulau Manjarite) is a snorkeler’s dream in Komodo National Park. It’s famous for a long wooden jetty, sparkling clear water, and abundant marine life. A gentle sandy bay, Manjarite feels like a private island paradise. When you step off the boat, you’ll immediately notice the thousands of colorful starfish scattered on the shallow seabed – a natural carpet of orange and purple beauties. ## Key Attractions and Unique Features - **Picturesque Jetty:** A rustic wooden pier stretches into the turquoise water. Visitors often climb it to jump into the sea for fun. The jetty’s boards also make a popular photo backdrop with emerald waters and hills in the distance. - **Starfish Heaven:** Manjarite’s shallow reef is famous for its brittle starfish. Hundreds (sometimes thousands) lie just beneath the surface sand, making it feel like you’re floating above a living mosaic. - **Vibrant Coral Gardens:** The water is crystal-clear and the coral reef is healthy. Snorkel to see clownfish, parrotfish, and other tropical species. Larger marine life like turtles and reef sharks may swim by too, though the starfish steal the show. - **Secluded Beach:** The beach is small and often quiet, as few boats linger here besides those on dedicated snorkel tours. You can often have the white sand all to yourself after snorkeling. ## Things to Do and Best Experiences - **Snorkeling:** This is the main activity. Swim slowly to admire the starfish and coral. The water is shallow and calm, ideal for beginner snorkelers. Try to arrive by mid-morning when the sun lights up the seabed. - **Starfish Viewing:** Carefully stand or float in waist-deep water. You’ll see colorful starfish beneath you. Do not touch them – they’re sensitive creatures. Instead, capture photos or enjoy their quiet dance with your eyes. - **Jetty Jump:** If conditions allow, climb up the jetty and take a leap into the water below. It’s a popular thrill, especially with the scenic bay all around. Even just walking the jetty gives a great view of the entire beach. - **Kayaking:** Paddle around the bay in a kayak (often available on tours) for different perspectives. You can circle the islet or reach nearby sandbanks for a private moment. - **Beach Relaxation:** Lay back on the warm sand after snorkeling. The calm bay and gentle breeze make for perfect relaxation. ## Short Background Manjarite is a small inhabited island (with a few fishing families) but it’s best known to tourists for its starfish. Its popularity grew recently with social media exposure – it’s often called a starfish paradise. The starfish and coral thrive because Komodo Park protects the area: fishing and anchoring are forbidden. The name “Manjarite” comes from local language, but many simply call it Starfish Island or Manjarite Beach. ## How to Get There (from Labuan Bajo) Manjarite is about 35–40 minutes by boat from Labuan Bajo. You can only reach it by water: either as part of a private tour or liveaboard itinerary (it’s not on public speedboat routes). Usually, boats anchor at the bay entrance and guests swim or tender to shore. It’s best to visit on a calm day; larger waves can make getting on/off tricky. ## Best Time to Visit The best time is the dry season (April–October), when the seas are calm and visibility is high. Mornings are ideal – the sun brightens the shallow reef and fewer boats have arrived yet. By afternoon more tour boats might come (though never as many as at Pink Beach). Avoid tours on very windy or stormy days, as the starfish tend to hide deeper then. ## Travel Tips and Visitor Etiquette - **Starfish Etiquette:** Admire the starfish without touching or moving them. Walk on the sand between them. - **Gear:** If you have personal snorkel gear, bring it. Boat-provided gear can be limited. Water shoes are recommended to protect your feet from sea urchins. - **Stay Hydrated:** Bring drinking water and snacks on your boat. There are no shops or cafes on the island. - **Sun Protection:** The beach has little shade. Wear reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, or a cover-up to avoid sunburn. - **Trash-Free:** Carry your trash out. Help keep this pristine spot clean for the next visitors and its marine life. - **Safety:** Snorkel with a buddy. Even in calm water, stay aware of your surroundings and boat positions. - **Visit Mindfully:** If a tour group is present, take turns in the water. Respect quiet observers and the island’s peace. ## Experience Manjarite’s Underwater Magic Manjarite Beach feels like an untouched lagoon where starfish and colorful reefs coexist in crystal-clear waters. It’s a highlight for anyone who loves snorkeling and marine life. Make sure your Komodo itinerary includes Manjarite – the jetty jump and starfish encounter will be memories to treasure for years to come!