The Derawan Archipelago is an aquatic paradise nestled off the coast of East Kalimantan in Borneo. A world-class marine sanctuary, these islands offer an unparalleled underwater experience for both seasoned scuba divers and enthusiastic snorkelers. From swimming with stingless jellyfish to gliding alongside majestic manta rays, these six locations promise unforgettable encounters.
When Is The Best Time To Dive In The Derawan Islands?
The best time to dive and snorkel in the Derawan Islands is during the dry season (from March to October). During this period, sea conditions are calm, visibility is excellent (often exceeding 20 meters), and sunshine is abundant. This creates ideal conditions for underwater exploration and comfortable travel between islands. While trips are possible year-round, the wet season may bring rougher seas and lower visibility.
1 – Kakaban Island: The Stingless Jellyfish Lake
- Location: 4GP6+X6, Payung-Payung, Kabupaten Berau, Kalimantan Timur, Indonesia
- Signature: Landlocked marine lake with millions of stingless jellyfish; thrilling outer-wall drift dives.
- Price range: IDR 1,120,000 – 2,400,000 (~$70-$150) for day-tour packages, plus a small lake entrance fee.
- How to get there: 20-30 minute speedboat ride from Sangalaki or a 45-minute to an hour-long ride from Maratua or Derawan Island.
Kakaban offers a truly unique snorkeling experience. A short jungle trek leads to a surreal brackish lake where you can float among four species of harmless, pulsating jellyfish. For divers, the adventure is on the island’s outer reefs.
Prepare for exhilarating drift dives along steep walls at sites like “Barracuda Point,” with opportunities to spot grey reef sharks, leopard sharks, and massive swirling schools of barracuda in the strong currents.
2 – Sangalaki Island: The Kingdom of Manta Rays
- Location: East Kalimantan, Indonesia
- Signature: Year-round encounters with manta rays; major green sea turtle nesting site..
- Price range: IDR 1,280,000 – 2,560,000 (~$80-$160) for packaged day trips.
- How to get there: 20-30 minute speedboat journey from Kakaban or a 45-minute to an hour trip from Derawan Island.
Sangalaki is world-renowned for its large population of manta rays. At cleaning stations like “Manta Avenue,” these gentle giants glide gracefully through the water, allowing for awe-inspiring encounters for both divers and snorkelers.
The island’s vibrant, shallow coral gardens are also perfect for relaxed snorkeling, where you are almost guaranteed to see numerous green turtles feeding on seagrass. The island also hosts a turtle hatchery, highlighting local conservation efforts.
3 – Maratua Atoll: The Deep Diving Challenge
- Location: East Kalimantan, Indonesia.
- Signature: High-current channel dives attracting sharks, tuna, and massive schools of barracuda.
- Price range: IDR 1,600,000 – 3,200,000 (~$100-$200) per day of diving.
- License Required: PADI Advanced Open Water or equivalent recommended.
- How to get there: 2-3 hour speedboat ride from Tanjung Batu on the mainland, or fly into Maratua’s airport.
Maratua Atoll is a playground for advanced divers seeking an adrenaline rush. The main draw is “Big Fish Country,” a channel dive site famous for its ripping currents. On an incoming tide, divers can hook in and watch a spectacular parade of marine life, including grey reef sharks, eagle rays, and a mesmerizing vortex of thousands of barracudas.
The atoll’s outer walls also feature dramatic drop-offs and pristine coral formations for incredible wall dives.
4 – Derawan Island: The Heart of the Archipelago
- Location: The most populated and accessible island in the archipelago, serving as a hub for visitors. View on map
- Signature: Superb macro and night diving from the jetty; abundant green sea turtles.
- Price range: IDR 480,000 – 960,000 (~$30-$60) per dive or snorkeling trip.
- How to get there: 30-minute speedboat ride from Tanjung Batu port on the mainland.
Derawan Island is perfect for relaxed diving and snorkeling. It’s aptly nicknamed “Turtle Island,” as dozens of green turtles are easily spotted swimming right under the stilted water bungalows.
The house reef is a macro photographer’s dream, especially on a night dive, revealing critters like flamboyant cuttlefish, blue-ringed octopuses, and ghost pipefish. In the evenings, you might even spot juvenile guitar sharks in the shallows for a unique and memorable encounter.
5 – Pulau Gusung: The Disappearing Sandbar
- Location: Bontolebang, Bontoharu, Selayar Islands Regency, South Sulawesi, Indonesia.
- Signature: Picturesque white sandbar that only appears during low tide.
- Price range: IDR 1,120,000 to IDR 2,560,000 (~$70 – $160) per person. *Please note that these prices are often included in island-hopping tours from Derawan, typically as part of a day-trip package.
- How to get there: A quick 10-15 minute speedboat ride from Derawan Island.
Pulau Gusung (aka Gusung Sanggalau) is a magical sandbar that emerges from the turquoise sea at low tide. This creates a stunning, temporary private island perfect for swimming and taking incredible photos.
The surrounding waters are crystal clear and shallow, ideal for a relaxing dip. A late afternoon visit offers a spectacular sunset experience. Keep an eye out for colourful starfish resting on the sand as you stroll along this pristine slice of paradise.
6 – Pulau Samama: The Peaceful Macro Haven
- Location: 4GP6+X6, Payung-Payung, Kabupaten Berau, Kalimantan Timur, Indonesia
- Signature: Tranquil muck diving and snorkeling with rare macro marine life.
- Price range: IDR 1,120,000 to IDR 2,560,000 (~$70 – $160) per person. *Please note that these prices are usually part of a broader island-hopping itinerary and are included in the overall day-tour price.
- How to get there: A short 15-minute boat ride from Sangalaki Island.
Pulau Samama is a tranquil sanctuary revealing Derawan’s miniature wonders for divers to discover. A premier diving and snorkeling destination, its calm, mangrove-fringed shallows are a haven for macro life. Search this untouched paradise to be rewarded with rare sightings of pygmy seahorses, vibrant nudibranchs, and camouflaged frogfish, making it a dream for peaceful discovery.
Top Recommendations for a Derawan Adventure
To make the most of your trip to this incredible archipelago, a little expert advice goes a long way. The remoteness that makes Derawan so special also means that planning is key.
- Look for Whale Sharks: While not guaranteed, the waters near Talisayan on the mainland are a known feeding ground for whale sharks. With a bit of luck and the right guide, you might have the chance for an amazing Derawan whale shark encounter.
- Pack accordingly: Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral ecosystems. A long-sleeve rash guard is also a great idea for sun protection while snorkeling. Don’t forget an underwater camera and some cash (Indonesian Rupiah) for park fees.
- Respect the Environment: The Derawan Islands are a precious marine sanctuary. Be a responsible tourist by not touching marine life, avoiding single-use plastics, and following your guide’s instructions to minimize your impact.
- Hire a Professional Guide: Navigating the dive sites and understanding the currents is best done with an experienced local guide. They not only ensure your safety but also enrich your experience with their knowledge of the local ecosystem.
Experience Your Premium Derawan Trip with Indonesia Impression Tour
Indonesia Impression Tour offers trusted services and curated private getaways with expert local guides. Our expert guides lead bespoke private journeys tailored to all skill levels, from serene snorkeling to advanced diving. We seamlessly manage every logistics for a stress-free adventure, freeing you to immerse yourself in the islands’ hidden gems with absolute peace of mind.
Ready to dive into paradise? Explore our Derawan tour packages and contact us today to start planning your bespoke adventure.
