Inside the Most Stunning Water Villa in Komodo: Our Stay at Katamaran Komodo

Mirko La Rosa
Apr 29
8 min read

Overview

Tucked away in the pristine beauty of Labuan Bajo, Katamaran Komodo is one of Indonesia's newest luxury openings – and one that immediately swept us off our feet. This brand-new property manages to combine sleek, contemporary design with breathtaking natural surroundings. Perched above the turquoise waters of the Flores Sea, the hotel is designed for those who dream of barefoot luxury with a touch of raw island charm.

We stayed in one of their iconic Water Villas with Sunset View, and I’ll say this right away: it’s the number one reasonto come here. These villas are suspended above the water and face directly west – meaning every single evening ends with a private front-row seat to one of the most magical sunsets I’ve seen in all of Indonesia. The feeling of being surrounded by water, yet comfortably ensconced in the warm, minimal design of the villa, was unforgettable.

The experience at Katamaran Komodo goes far beyond just great views. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with genuine warmth by a team that feels truly passionate about their craft. The attention to detail, the design aesthetics that blend raw natural materials with contemporary luxury, and the peaceful atmosphere all combine to make this a property that exudes understated elegance. Whether you’re here to unwind after a Komodo adventure or simply want to immerse yourself in nature without giving up comfort, this is the kind of place that delivers on both.

Between the overwater villas, the scenic second-floor pool with underwater glass views, and a spa that overlooks endless blue, Katamaran Komodo instantly became one of those places I know I’ll return to. It’s intimate, exclusive, and offers the perfect balance of minimal design and immersive nature. For couples, honeymooners, or anyone chasing a serene retreat in one of Indonesia's most beautiful settings, this place is pure gold.

SOMETHING ABOUT LABUAN BAJO & KOMODO, INDONESIA

Labuan Bajo is the gateway to the legendary Komodo National Park – a place where pink-sand beaches, prehistoric-looking dragons, and some of the world’s most biodiverse waters collide. Once a sleepy fishing village, Labuan Bajo has transformed into a hub for luxury travelers looking to explore this untouched corner of Indonesia.

The town sits on the western tip of Flores Island, surrounded by rolling hills and dotted with islands that feel like something out of Jurassic Park. What makes this destination so special is the mix of experiences it offers: you can dive with manta rays in the morning, relax in a floating villa by sunset, and toast the day with a glass of wine under the stars. Every moment here feels cinematic, yet deeply grounded in authenticity. Despite the growing tourism, Labuan Bajo has preserved a lot of its local charm – with friendly faces, small warungs, and traditional wooden boats lining the shores.

Beyond its dramatic scenery, Labuan Bajo is also a UNESCO World Heritage gateway and a dreamland for nature lovers and marine explorers. Komodo National Park is home not only to the famous Komodo dragons but also to incredible diving spots, lush islands like Padar and Rinca, and rich coral reefs teeming with marine life. Each island brings a new adventure, whether it's hiking to a viewpoint, picnicking on pink beaches, or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. And at night, the skies open up to reveal thousands of stars over the Flores Sea.

With improved infrastructure, a new airport terminal, and a growing number of stylish resorts like Katamaran Komodo, Labuan Bajo is steadily becoming one of Southeast Asia’s premier luxury escape destinations. Yet it still retains the raw, untamed spirit that made it so enchanting in the first place. This combination of luxury and authenticity is what makes visiting here so special.

What we liked most

The Water Villa with Sunset ViewFloating directly above the sea, this villa offers uninterrupted ocean views and nightly golden sunsets from your bed or private deck. Every evening felt like a private show, with nature painting the sky in shades of gold, crimson, and violet. There is something incredibly serene about ending the day with your feet dangling above the sea, wine in hand, with only the sound of gentle waves beneath you.
Scenic Second-Floor Infinity PoolA beautiful elevated pool with glass panels that reveal the interior beneath – a surprising design touch that adds elegance and fun. The view from up there is breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding coastline and islands. We spent hours just floating in the water, taking photos, and soaking in the magic of the Komodo seascape.
Spa with Panoramic ViewsOur couples treatment came with floor-to-ceiling windows opening to the sea. It’s rare to find such a tranquil spa setting. The massage itself was heavenly, but it was the soundtrack of ocean waves and the view of endless blue that made it unforgettable. The entire spa is designed to make you feel like you're drifting between sea and sky.
Romantic In-Villa DinnerWith candles, flowers, and a specially curated menu, this dinner made for one of the most romantic moments of our trip. The team created an intimate atmosphere on our deck, complete with soft music and flickering lanterns. The food was gourmet, the wine perfectly chilled, and the privacy made it feel like we had the entire island to ourselves.
Brand-New FacilitiesThe hotel is new and everything from the architecture to the linens feels fresh, clean, and polished. There’s a real sense of thoughtful curation throughout the property, from the art on the walls to the scents in the lobby. Every detail feels intentional, which adds to the luxurious vibe.
Personalized ServiceAttentive, warm, and genuine – from the in-room team to the spa therapists. Every request was met with a smile, and we never felt like we were just another guest. The staff remembered our preferences, greeted us by name, and made us feel like part of their island family.

Villas

We stayed in the Water Villa with Sunset View, which is without a doubt the star of the property. Suspended above the gentle waves and facing the horizon, the villa is a modern glass-and-wood masterpiece. Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors open fully to a private terrace where we spent hours lounging, reading, and simply watching the light change over the water.

Inside, the room blends minimalist interiors with rich textures – think natural wood, high-thread-count linens, and smart lighting. The bathroom was spacious, featuring a walk-in rain shower and luxe amenities. But nothing compared to the magic of lying in bed as the sun dipped below the Komodo islands in the distance. From sunrise to sunset, the villa becomes your personal portal to paradise.

The sense of privacy was absolute. There was no noise, no interruptions – just you, the ocean, and the slow rhythm of the island. The architecture is clean and contemporary but never cold; it’s softened by textures, muted tones, and thoughtful design details like built-in lighting and curated decorative elements that reflect the natural beauty of Flores. Even the temperature was perfectly managed thanks to smart air conditioning and blackout curtains that ensured comfort during the midday heat.

Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning coffee on the terrace or soaking in the atmosphere during a candlelit dinner, the Water Villa with Sunset View becomes more than a room. It becomes a memory. A dreamscape. An experience that redefines what it means to stay by the sea.

Food and Drink

Dining at Katamaran Komodo is centered around their main restaurant, which offers both international and local dishes with a focus on fresh seafood and vibrant ingredients. We had both breakfast and dinner here, and loved the casual elegance of the setting – perched above the sea, open to the breeze.

Breakfast included tropical fruits, fresh juices, and made-to-order hot dishes, all served with a panoramic ocean view. The coffee was strong, the bread warm, and the service spot-on. Starting our day here felt like a gentle invitation to relax into island time. We lingered at breakfast longer than we usually do, simply because it felt like the right way to begin the day.

Dinners were equally memorable: from grilled prawns to flavorful Indonesian classics, everything was beautifully plated and full of flavor. The seafood was always fresh, and the portions were generous without being overwhelming. We particularly enjoyed the soto ayam and the grilled snapper, both of which came with vibrant sambals and perfectly cooked rice.

One evening we opted for a romantic dinner, and it completely exceeded our expectations. Our villa was transformed with candles and flowers, and we enjoyed a multi-course meal privately under the stars. From amuse-bouche to dessert, everything was timed perfectly, and the flavors were elegant and well-balanced. It felt like having a five-star restaurant all to ourselves.

Services and facilities

Katamaran Komodo might be small in size, but the range and quality of services are impressive:

Infinity Pool on the Second Floor with panoramic views and stylish design details, including submerged glass panels. It’s not just a pool; it’s a statement piece. Guests come up here not only to swim but to take in the view, shoot content, or sip cocktails with a front-row seat to the islands.
Spa with Ocean View offering massages, facials, and traditional treatments in a calming atmosphere. The design of the spa invites relaxation the moment you step inside. Treatments are offered by highly skilled therapists, and the signature massages blend traditional Indonesian techniques with premium oils and aromatherapy.
In-Room Dining for those who want to relax in privacy. Whether you're craving a light lunch, a post-spa snack, or a full dinner under the stars, the team brings it to your villa with impressive attention to detail.
Private Dining Experiences including the romantic in-villa setup we tried. They also offer special event setups on the beach or rooftop terrace (subject to availability).
Concierge Services to arrange boat trips, diving excursions, or island-hopping adventures to nearby Komodo and Padar. The staff are well-connected and can tailor experiences depending on your preferences – whether you're into snorkeling with manta rays, trekking to epic viewpoints, or exploring hidden coves.

Our experience

Our stay at Katamaran Komodo was one of those rare moments where everything feels aligned: the location, the design, the service, the setting sun. This is a resort made for slow, romantic escapes and immersive connection with nature.

We came here looking for a reset – and we found so much more. The villa alone is worth the trip, offering one of the most memorable accommodation experiences in all of Indonesia. Watching the sun go down over the ocean from our deck, wrapped in robes and sipping wine, was the kind of moment that stays with you long after you leave.

Service was impeccable, always warm and sincere. The team knew when to be present and when to give us space, which made everything feel natural and unforced. The food delighted us every day, the spa elevated our stay to a deeper level of relaxation, and the small details – the flower arrangements, the turndown touches, the smiles from the staff – brought it all together.

If you’re coming to Labuan Bajo to explore Komodo National Park, I couldn’t recommend a better base. And if you’re coming simply to relax, reset, and soak in one of Indonesia’s most dramatic landscapes, this is the place to do it in style. Katamaran Komodo is proof that luxury doesn’t need to be loud. Sometimes, it’s quiet, slow, and infinitely more powerful.

Would I return? Absolutely. Especially for that villa and that sunset.

Click here to see our full experience