Watotena, a White Beach with Black Magma Rocks

One of the most beautiful virgin beaches Flores Timur has is Watotena in Adonara, an island in the eastern of Flores, reachable by 2.5 hour-sailing from Larantuka. Bedalewun, the village where it lies is at the foot of Ile Boleng Mount. Watotena is well-known for its white sand beach and the magma stones adorned the shore. The dark greyish almost black rocks in various shapes give Watotena’s shorelines a unique impression that differentiates it from those found in Adonara or Flores mainland. The crystal clear water and the pearly sand beach are the reasons to visit Watotena. Bamboo huts are available to enjoy the beach landscape with the view of Lembata and Solor Island at the background. The panorama brings charm and an incredible impression of Watotena beach. According to Aloysius Kedang, the chairman of Flores Timur Tourism Management Organisation (TMO), every weekend or holiday season many visitors who are in majority locals - flock and spend time at Watotena. Guests coming with a minivan should pay Rp. 20,000 for ticket. How to get there: Take a boat from Larantuka and disembark at Terong or Waiwerang harbor in Adonara. On the way from Larantuka to Watotena, you can enjoy the magnificent panorama of numerous islands around Flores Timur such as Solor and Lembata. Watotena is 6KM from Waiwerang port. It takes about 30 minutes from Waiwerang to Watotena beach. In total, you will need around 3 hours to get to Watotena from Larantuka port. But when the beach so stunning waits at the end of your journey, it will be worth taking the time. Article by Nando Watu, Images by Aditiyani Masita and Girda Safitri