Derawan Islands
Turtles, jungly piers, and barefoot romance on remote islands
Highlights
Snorkel and swim alongside green turtles in crystal-clear, shallow waters just off Derawan’s beaches.
Float in a surreal inland lake on Kakaban Island surrounded by harmless jellyfish and dense jungle.
Wake up above turquoise lagoons in stilted bungalows framed by mangroves and lush greenery.
Stroll hand-in-hand along weathered wooden piers as the sun sets over jungle silhouettes and calm seas.
Experience relaxed kampung vibes with colorful boats, friendly locals, and simple halal seafood warungs.
Where to Stay
1 pick
Derawan Dive Resort
Overwater and beachside bungalows with wooden walkways over the sea, surrounded by palms and clear water, offering easy access to the main pier and turtle snorkeling.
Where to Eat
2 picks
Warung Ikan Bakar Derawan
Simple sea-view warung grilling fresh local fish. Fully halal: choose ikan bakar (grilled fish), grilled prawns, kangkung (water spinach), tempeh, rice, and bottled drinks.
Derawan Dive Resort Restaurant
Resort restaurant in a lush, overwater setting that serves Indonesian-style halal breakfast: nasi goreng, mie goreng, eggs, toast, fruit, coffee and tea.
What to Do
2 picks
Snorkeling with Turtles off Derawan Beach
Rent masks and fins from your guesthouse and swim out from the beach or smaller piers to spot green turtles grazing on seagrass in shallow water.
Snorkeling at Kakaban Wall & Sangalaki Manta Spots
From the same boat trip, snorkel Kakaban’s outer reef wall and continue to Sangalaki to look for manta rays and more turtles in clear blue water.
Good to Know
5 picks
Plan Your Transfers Carefully
Reaching Derawan and Maratua usually involves flights to Balikpapan then Berau, a 2–3 hour car ride to Tanjung Batu, and a boat to the islands; coordinate flight times with your hotel or a local boat operator in advance so you’re not stranded late in the day.
Protect Yourself from Sandflies
Some beaches in the Derawan islands have sandflies, especially around driftwood and in the early morning or late afternoon; wear light long pants, avoid sitting directly on the sand, and use insect repellent on ankles and legs.
Respect Local Muslim Culture
The islands are predominantly Muslim and largely halal; dress modestly in villages (cover shoulders and knees), save swimwear for beach and boat areas, and avoid public displays of affection.
Book Key Boat Trips Through Your Lodge
Rather than hunting different operators, ask your guesthouse or resort to arrange standard trips (Kakaban, Sangalaki, potential whale shark runs) and confirm that they provide halal meals or that you can bring your own food.
Bring Your Own Snorkel Mask if Sensitive
Local gear can be basic and heavily used; if you’re picky about fit or hygiene, bring a personal mask and snorkel and just rent fins on-site.
Map
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