Derawan

The Derawan Islands are an archipelago of 31 islands off the east coast of East Kalimantan in the Sulawesi Sea. The main inhabited islands — Derawan, Maratua, Kakaban, and Sangalaki — are surrounded by some of the most biodiverse marine habitats in Indonesia. The islands are famous for their sea turtle nesting sites, pristine coral reefs, and the unique Kakaban jellyfish lake — one of only a handful of inland lakes in the world where non-stinging jellyfish swim.

Derawan Island is the most developed and most visited, with sandy beaches, accommodation, and a small village. Maratua Island is larger with a distinctive crescent shape, featuring a protected lagoon. Kakaban is uninhabited but home to the famous jellyfish lake and stunning wall dives. Sangalaki is a sea turtle sanctuary where green and hawksbill turtles nest year-round.

The dry season (June–October) offers the best conditions for diving and snorkelling, with calm seas and good visibility. November–April brings rougher seas, though diving remains possible.

By Plane

Fly to Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Airport (BPN) in Balikpapan, then take a bus or shuttle to Tanjung Batu harbour near Berau (8–10 hours). From Tanjung Batu, speedboats reach Derawan Island in 1.5–2 hours. Alternatively, fly to Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Tanjung Redeb, Berau, with flights from Balikpapan and Tarakan — then 30 minutes by road to the harbour.

By Car / Road

From Balikpapan, it's an 8–10 hour drive to Tanjung Batu harbour near Berau. Buses and shared taxis make the journey regularly. The road passes through Samarinda, Bontang, and Sangatta.

Speedboats connect the main islands — Derawan to Kakaban (30 minutes), Derawan to Sangalaki (45 minutes), Derawan to Maratua (1 hour). Within each island, walking or bicycle are the main options. Local boats can be chartered for island-hopping day trips.

• Kakaban Jellyfish Lake: A brackish inland lake on Kakaban Island inhabited by millions of non-stinging jellyfish — swimming among them is a surreal experience. Entry fee Rp 50,000.

• Sangalaki Turtle Sanctuary: Green and hawksbill turtles nest on Sangalaki's beaches year-round. You can watch turtles laying eggs at night or see hatchlings making their way to the sea.

• Derawan Island: The main tourist island with beaches, accommodation, and a turtle nesting area on the southern beach.

• Maratua Lagoon: A stunning protected lagoon in the centre of Maratua's crescent-shaped island, accessed by a narrow channel.

• Coral Reefs: The islands are surrounded by healthy coral gardens — home to turtles, manta rays, reef sharks, and thousands of tropical fish species.

• Diving: World-class dive sites include Sangalaki's manta ray cleaning station, Kakaban's wall dives, and Maratua's channel drift dives. Visibility often exceeds 30 m.

• Snorkelling: Excellent snorkelling is accessible directly from the beaches of Derawan and from boat trips to nearby reefs.

• Turtle Watching: Night patrols on Derawan and Sangalaki beaches to observe nesting sea turtles (guide required).

• Jellyfish Lake Swim: Float among countless non-stinging jellyfish in Kakaban's lake — a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Island Hopping: Day trips to visit multiple islands, combining snorkelling, lunch on a deserted beach, and lake swimming.

Seafood dominates — fresh ikan bakar (grilled fish), udang (prawns), and kepiting (crab) are served at all homestay restaurants. Nasi goreng and mie goreng are also widely available. Meals cost Rp 25,000–50,000.

Bottled water is essential — bring plenty from Tanjung Redeb or Berau. Soft drinks and beer are available on Derawan at inflated prices. Coconut water is fresh and cheap.

• Budget: Homestays on Derawan Island (Rp 150,000–300,000/night) — basic rooms with shared bathroom and fan.
• Mid-range: Derawan Dive Lodge, Derawan Beach Cottages (Rp 400,000–700,000/night) — more comfortable with private bathroom and AC.
• Resort: Maratua Paradise Resort (Rp 1,000,000+/night, book in advance) — the most upscale option in the archipelago.
• Camping: Designated camping areas on Kakaban (permit required).

Derawan village has small souvenir stalls selling T-shirts, key rings, and shell crafts (avoid buying protected shells). Snorkelling and diving gear can be rented. Bring cash — there are no ATMs on the islands.

• Berau / Tanjung Redeb: The mainland gateway town with markets and the airport.
• Bontang: 200 km south — industrial city and alternative access point.
• Kutai National Park: 250 km southwest — orangutan sanctuary.
• Tarakan: 300 km north — accessible by boat from the islands.