• 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.

• 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.

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.

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.

• 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.

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.