Derawan Archipelago

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Derawan Archipelago

18 Oktober 2025 07:12:57 / / Hits : 5595 / Posted by Administrator

Derawan Archipelago – The Hidden Gem of East Kalimantan
Overview
The Derawan Archipelago is the ultimate tropical escape — a paradise of turquoise waters, soft white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life. Located off the coast of Berau Regency, East Kalimantan, these islands offer an unspoiled natural wonderland where you can swim with sea turtles, dive among manta rays, and discover a magical jellyfish lake unlike anywhere else on earth.
The archipelago consists of 31 islands, with the most famous being Derawan, Maratua, Sangalaki, and Kakaban. Together, they form one of the world’s richest marine biodiversity regions and are recognized as one of the top three diving destinations in the world.
Covering over 1.27 million hectares, Derawan is home to:
• 460 coral species, second only to Raja Ampat
• Over 870 species of fish, from tiny pygmy seahorses to giant manta rays
• Stingless jellyfish, dolphins, whales, and even dugongs
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Highlights & Things to Do
• World-Class Diving & Snorkeling
Explore 28 incredible dive sites across Derawan, Sangalaki, Maratua, and Kakaban. Meet green turtles, manta rays, reef sharks, and schools of colorful tropical fish.
• Turtle Watching in Derawan
Witness giant green and hawksbill turtles nesting on the beaches or swimming gracefully through the shallow waters near the shore — a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers.
• Kakaban Jellyfish Lake
Swim among millions of stingless jellyfish in the world’s largest and most diverse jellyfish lake — one of only two such lakes on the planet.
• Maratua Island
A diver’s paradise with steep underwater walls, hidden lagoons, and luxury eco-resorts overlooking the crystal-clear sea.
• Sangalaki Island
Famous as a manta ray sanctuary, where you can dive or snorkel alongside dozens of these gentle giants gliding gracefully through the current.
• Island Hopping & Beach Relaxation
Cruise between islands, sunbathe on pristine beaches, or enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding in peaceful lagoons surrounded by coral reefs.
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Facilities & Accommodation
Visitors can enjoy a range of accommodations to suit every traveler:
• Derawan Dive Resort & Water Cottages – Traditional Kalimantan-style cottages built over the sea, complete with private balconies and ocean views.
• Maratua Paradise Resort – Luxury beachfront villas and dive center facilities.
• Local Guesthouses & Homestays – Budget-friendly stays managed by friendly island locals.
• Dining & Cafés – Fresh seafood restaurants, beachside cafés, and local warungs serving Indonesian and Asian cuisine.
• Diving & Water Sports Centers – Equipment rental, PADI-certified dive guides, and snorkeling tours are available on most major islands.
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How to Get There
Getting to the Derawan Islands is an adventure in itself, but well worth the journey:
1. By Air
o From Jakarta, Surabaya, or Denpasar (Bali) – Fly to Balikpapan (Sepinggan Airport) or Tarakan via Garuda Indonesia, Citilink, or Batik Air.
o Continue with a connecting flight to Tanjung Redeb Airport (Berau) using Wings Air, Deraya Air, or KALStar Aviation.
2. By Sea
o From Tanjung Redeb, take a speedboat (about 2–3 hours) to the main islands: Derawan, Maratua, Sangalaki, or Kakaban.
o Charter boats are available for private transfers or customized island-hopping trips.
3. Alternative Route
o Some liveaboard diving boats operate from Bali or Sulawesi, offering multi-day cruise adventures to Derawan and its neighboring islands.
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Best Time to Visit
The best season to explore the Derawan Archipelago is from March to October, during the dry season when the sea is calm, and underwater visibility is excellent — often exceeding 20–30 meters.
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Travel Tips
• Bring underwater cameras to capture the stunning marine life.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral ecosystems.
• Cash is preferred, as ATMs are limited on smaller islands.
• Respect wildlife — avoid touching corals and marine creatures.
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Discover the Magic of Derawan
Whether you’re an avid diver, an underwater photographer, or simply seeking a tropical paradise far from the crowds, the Derawan Archipelago promises a world of beauty, tranquility, and unforgettable adventures beneath the waves.