Secluded away from the crowds of Labuan Bajo town lies a hidden gem..
I’ll admit it—Labuan Bajo wasn’t even on my radar until I started researching the famous Komodo Island tours. While visiting the legendary dragons, strolling on pink sand beaches, and snorkelling with manta rays are more than enough reasons to visit this town—being the departure point for all tours—I stumbled upon an extraordinary hidden gem that truly deserves its own spotlight: Le Pirate Island.
Just an hour’s boat ride from Labuan Bajo, Le Pirate Island isn’t just a place to stay—it’s an unforgettable experience. Whether you choose to visit before or after your Komodo adventure, this eco-friendly, off-grid retreat is the perfect escape from the chaos of daily life.
Don’t expect a luxury resort or extravagant comforts here. Instead, imagine glamping in paradise—where rustic beachfront huts open directly onto powdery white sands, sea breezes replace air-conditioning, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life are just steps from your door. This adults-only retreat is crafted for travellers seeking tranquillity, simplicity, and a dash of adventure.
And just so you know—this isn’t a sponsored post. I paid for my stay, and I’m sharing my experience simply because it was truly unforgettable. In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Le Pirate Island. So, let’s dive in and start planning your escape!
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Le Pirate Island, locally known as Sebolon Besar, is a private island owned by the Le Pirate Beach Club group. Conceived by architect Fredo Taffin, the island’s unique design revolves around sustainable simplicity. The original idea was to create eco-friendly “Beach Boxes”—pre-fabricated, self-contained structures that could be quickly assembled on pristine beaches, allowing travellers to enjoy breathtaking locations without compromising the environment.
While the brand also operates clubs in Nusa Ceningan, Gili Trawangan, and Gili Meno, the Flores location stands out as the most secluded. Here, the company owns the entire island, providing guests with an exclusive, immersive experience unlike anywhere else.
The island’s glamping huts sit just steps away from vibrant coral reefs, offering unparalleled access to marine life. The retreat is ‘adults only’, with no Wi-Fi (though phone reception is available) and solar-powered electricity, Le Pirate Island invites you to disconnect from the chaos and noise of daily life and reconnect with the rhythms of nature.
Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves, feeling the cool ocean breeze, and stepping out of your beach hut onto powdery white sand. Picture yourself snorkelling alongside reef sharks, sea turtles, clownfish, manta rays, and an array of colourful fish in incredibly healthy coral reef, experiencing one of the most stunning sunsets you’ll ever see right in front of your beach hut, or simply reading a book while you rest under a palm tree, Le Pirate Island promises an unforgettable escape.
How to Get to Le Pirate Island
By Plane to Labuan Bajo: Fly into Labuan Bajo’s Komodo Airport (LBJ). Regular flights operate from Bali, Jakarta, and Surabaya, with some international routes, including Kuala Lumpur. More international connections are likely to be added soon. We flew from Bali, which took just 1.5 hours.
Getting to Le Pirate Island: Once in Labuan Bajo, a complimentary shuttle service is included in your booking with Le Pirate Island. The meeting point is conveniently located at their main office near the harbour. You’ll check in at 9:30 am, receive a brief orientation, and then be escorted to the shuttle.
The free shuttle departs daily from Labuan Bajo at 10:00 am and returns from Le Pirate Island at 2:00 pm. The island is approximately an hour away by boat, and the ride itself is part of the adventure—a relaxing cruise aboard the aptly named shuttle boat, Bikini.
Alternative Transfer Options: If the shuttle schedule doesn’t fit your travel plans, the company can arrange alternative transfer options for an additional fee.
Accommodation Options
Le Pirate Island offers two distinct accommodation options for travellers seeking a tropical escape: Beach Hut and Glamping.
The two-storey Beach Hut is designed for travellers who want to embrace the island’s raw beauty, it offers a no-frills, barefoot-in-the-sand experience. This is a budget-friendly option. Upstairs, you’ll find a simple sleeping space equipped with mosquito nets and privacy curtains for a comfortable night’s sleep. Downstairs, there’s an open-air deck area with comfy lounge chairs and coat hangers, making it the perfect spot for reading, daydreaming, or watching the sunset.
For those who prefer a touch of luxury, the Glamping bungalows provide an elevated stay while keeping you close to nature. Although more expensive than the Beach Hut, these spacious retreats are ideal for travellers seeking comfort and privacy. The room is larger than the Beach Hut and features thoughtful island-inspired touches, as well as a private bathroom for added convenience.
Why Choose Le Pirate Island Over Labuan Bajo Town?
Labuan Bajo city is a convenient base for Komodo Island tours, but let’s be honest—it’s not a destination for relaxation. While the town has its charm, including a handful of cute cafes, a few scenic lookouts and a fish market, it lacks clean beaches and can feel a bit chaotic.
In stark contrast, Le Pirate Island is the perfect escape. Located just farenough from town to leave the crowds and noise behind, yet close enough for easy access, this little slice of paradise offers everything Labuan Bajo doesn’t. Picture pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and some of the most vibrant coral reefs you’ve ever had the pleasure of exploring.
The marine life here is nothing short of magical. Unlike some Komodo tour stops, where pollution has left corals bleached, the reefs surrounding Le Pirate Island are thriving. Snorkelling here feels like stepping into a giant, living aquarium, teeming with colourful fish and other fascinating creatures—all just a few metres from your hut.
Activities in Le Pirate Island
Apart from snorkelling and unwinding under a palm tree, there is plenty to do despite the island’s size:
- Canoeing: Rent a kayak and paddle along the island’s pristine coastline.
- Excursion Cruises: Book a half-day cruise to explore nearby Bird Island. Morning and afternoon trips are available, depending on availability.
- Sunrise/Sunset Hikes: Hike to the island’s lookout point for panoramic views and awe-inspiring sunrises or sunsets.
- Daily Events: Join free nightly activities organised by the staff, including movie nights under the stars (while lounging on beach poufs) and bonfires—a great way to socialise with fellow travellers.
- Scuba Diving: Dive into the vibrant marine world with guided scuba experiences.
- Fitness and Games: Stay active at the island’s charming outdoor gym, play a game of beach volleyball or table tennis, or unwind with board games, puzzles, or books to disconnect from screens.
Food & Drinks
Since the tiny island is privately owned by Le Pirate Beach Club, there are no shops, restaurants, or bars beyond those within the resort itself. Your stay includes a complimentary buffet breakfast, and you have the option to purchase an “Island Club Package” at an additional cost. This package covers a buffet lunch, a three-course dinner, and unlimited access to snorkelling gear and canoeing. We opted for the package and had no regrets—the food was excellent.
Alternatively, you can choose to order individual meals if you prefer not to commit to the package. For drinks, there’s a charming beach bar on-site, complete with a happy hour from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, perfect for enjoying a sunset cocktail.
When to Go to Le Pirate Island
The best time to visit Le Pirate Island is during the dry season, from March to December. The weather is ideal, and the seas are calm, making it perfect for snorkelling and exploring. We went in December, the start of the rainy season and we didn’t even have one day of rain, the weather was simply amazing.
How Long to Stay
To fully experience the island’s beauty and activities, I recommend staying for three days. This allows enough time to snorkel, relax, enjoy the sunsets, and make the most of the daily events.
What to Pack
Packing smart will ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay:
- Sunscreen and Rashie: Protect yourself from the sun while snorkelling.
- Snorkelling Gear: While you can rent gear, bringing your own ensures a perfect fit.
- Book or Journal: Ideal for unwinding during quiet moments.
- Jumper: Nights can get breezy, so pack a light sweater.
- Swimwear: You’ll practically live in it here.
- Comfortable Sandals: For walking around the island and to protect your feet from the hot sand.
Final Thoughts
Le Pirate Island is, without a doubt, one of the most magical glamping experiences I’ve ever had. The blend of eco-conscious design, breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant marine biodiversity, friendly staff, and the opportunity to disconnect from the outside world makes it an absolute must-visit when travelling to Flores. If you’re planning a Komodo Island tour, I highly recommend adding a stay at Le Pirate Island to your itinerary, either before or after your adventure. Trust me—you won’t regret it!
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