Derawan Islands
Indonesia · East Kalimantan · 3 m
Description
The Derawan Islands (Kepulauan Derawan) are a tropical archipelago off the east coast of Kalimantan, Indonesia, and rank among Southeast Asia's most spectacular marine destinations. The island group is renowned for its exceptional marine biodiversity, featuring vibrant coral reefs, green sea turtles, manta rays, seasonal whale sharks, and the unique Kakaban Lake, home to one of the world's few populations of stingless jellyfish. In addition to world-class diving and snorkeling, the islands offer white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, overwater bungalows, and small traditional fishing villages with a relaxed atmosphere. This remote island paradise is widely regarded as one of Indonesia's premier nature and diving destinations, celebrated for its pristine waters and remarkable underwater wildlife.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 3 to 6 days (optimal 4 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: June – August
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Kakaban Jellyfish Lake
- Swimming with Stingless Jellyfish
- Sangalaki Manta Rays
- Derawan Sea Turtles
- Maratua Atoll
- Maratua Lagoon
- Maratua Overwater Bungalows
- Maratua Diving
- Maratua Snorkeling
- Big Fish Country Dive Site
- The Channel Dive Site
- Coral Gardens
- Sangalaki Island
- Green Turtle Nesting Beaches
- Kakaban Island
- Barracuda Lake
- Derawan Island
- Derawan Village
- Whale Sharks at Talisayan (Seasonal, October - April)(Day trip)
- Boat Trips between the Islands
- Sunrise at Derawan Beach
- Sunset at Maratua
- Night Turtle Watching
Getting there
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry