Derawan Islands

Borneo’s secret gem, with manta rays, jellyfish lakes, and turtle-filled reefs

Dive into the Untouched Magic of the Derawan Archipelago

The Derawan archipelago off East Borneo is a remote wonderland of marine life, best reached by a Derawan liveaboard. From whale sharks to stingless jellyfish and reef mantas, it’s a haven for both macro enthusiasts and pelagic lovers. With sites for both macro enthusiasts and pelagic lovers, it’s quickly becoming a must-dive destination in Indonesia.

Kakaban

Tucked within the Derawan Archipelago, Kakaban is unlike anywhere else—its landlocked lake is teeming with stingless jellyfish, offering a surreal snorkeling experience. Just offshore, dramatic drop-offs like Barracuda Point reveal a vibrant underwater world of predatory fish, swirling currents, and kaleidoscopic reefs.

Sanglaki

This low-lying island is a magnet for manta rays, often seen sweeping through its plankton-rich waters. Sangalaki also serves as a crucial turtle hatchery, where visitors may witness hatchlings beginning their journey to the sea. Calm waters and rich coral gardens make it ideal for relaxed exploration.

Maratua

At the outer edge of East Kalimantan’s marine frontier, Maratua offers adrenaline-charged channels where reef sharks, eagle rays, and barracudas cruise with the current. Beyond the action, serene lagoons, hidden caverns, and a glimpse into Bajau sea gypsy culture complete the experience.

Main Access Point

• Berau

• Balikpapan

BEST SEASON TO VISIT

March to October

GETTING THERE

Balikpapan (BPN) - Berau (BEJ) - Road Trip - Ferry

MARINE BIODIVERSITY

Manta rays, whale sharks, jellyfish lake, coral reefs

Why Visit

Derawan Islands

The Derawan Archipelago is a hidden gem off the coast of East Kalimantan, home to a dynamic range of underwater experiences. From diving with manta rays at Sangalaki, to swimming with non-stinging jellyfish in Kakaban’s lake, and encountering turtles and macro critters in Derawan itself — this destination delivers variety in spades.

At Maratua, you’ll find strong currents and thrilling drift dives with barracuda, eagle rays, and big schools of jacks. Whale sharks are even spotted near fishing boats off the mainland. Add in the untouched charm of these quiet islands and you’ve got the perfect destination for divers who want excitement without the crowds.

view liveaboards

Diving in

Derawan Islands

Barracuda Point (Kakaban)

Steep coral walls patrolled by barracuda, reef sharks, and turtles.

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Jellyfish Lake (Kakaban)

A rare lake filled with non-stinging jellyfish, perfect for snorkelers.

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Manta Parade (Sangalaki)

Cleaning stations with frequent manta sightings in crystal-clear water.

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Turtle Bay (Sangalaki)

Sandy slope with coral outcrops and dozens of resting green turtles.

Big Fish Country (Maratua)

Drift dive with chevron barracuda, eagle rays, and sharks.

Manta Rays

Graceful plankton-feeders with wingspans up to 5 meters, often seen gliding near Sangalaki, known for their acrobatic spins and gentle nature.

Whale Sharks

The ocean’s largest fish (up to 12 meters), these docile giants drift near the surface feeding on plankton—rare, unforgettable sightings.

Green & Hawksbill Turtles

Common around Sangalaki, with green turtles frequently nesting on its beaches and both species spotted grazing on reefs.

Pygmy Seahorses

Tiny, well-camouflaged creatures hiding in sea fans around Kakaban and Maratua, beloved by macro photographers.

Barracuda Schools

Dramatic swirling formations often seen at Maratua Channel, adding intensity to current-swept dives.

The water temperature in the Derawan Islands ranges from 27°C to 29°C year-round, with cooler upwellings occasionally reaching 23°C in channels.

Coral walls, sandy slopes, channels, lagoon reefs, and unique sites like jellyfish lakes, with depths from 5 m to over 40 m.

Conditions vary by location. Many inner reef sites are calm and easy to explore, while channels around Maratua Atoll can produce powerful tidal currents ideal for thrilling drift dives with big marine life. Guides will match sites to your comfort level and skill.

Balikpapan (BPN) - Berau (BEJ)

How to get to

Derawan Islands

Tucked away off East Kalimantan’s coast, Derawan is accessed through a combination of domestic flights, overland transfers, and scenic speedboat rides.