Berau in East Kalimantan is hands-down one of the best playgrounds for island-hoppers and water babies. With its crystal-clear, sparkling blue waters and soft white sand that’s begging you to kick-off your shoes and sink your toes into, this Indonesian paradise is just waiting to be explored!
A gorgeous gateway to the stunning Derawan Islands, the Berau archipelago is home to a treasure trove of marine riches, with everything from coral reefs to rare turtle sanctuaries. The diving spots in the Derawan Islands are divided into several categories, with unique natural beauty to satisfy everyone, from beginners to more experienced divers.
But it isn’t just gorgeous coastlines and turquoise waters, Berau is also home to lush mangrove forests teeming with wildlife. Keep an eye out for the Bekantan (Proboscis monkey) Kalimantan’s quirky long-nosed primates, as you explore these natural wonders. Add in a stroll through the culturally rich town centre, and you’ve got an adventure that’s the perfect mixture of breathtaking scenery and local heritage.
Buckle-up for an unforgettable 4-days and 3-nights exploring the stunning islands of Berau, where Kalimantan’s paradise islands are guaranteed to steal your heart!
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Recommended Accommodation on the Derawan Islands:
Luxury Stay: Arasatu Villas & Sanctuary
Family Stay: Green Nirvana Maratua Resort
Mid-range: Derawan Dive Lodge
Budget: Derawan Fisheries Cottage
How To Get There
The main gateway to Berau is Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) – the starting point for your tropical getaway! Flights here are regularly scheduled from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK), so if you’re jetting-in from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), you’ll need to swing-by Jakarta first before continuing on to beautiful Berau.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Berau and the Derawan Islands is during the dry season, which usually runs from April to October. During this period, the weather tends to be sunnier, the sea calmer, and underwater visibility excellent, making it prime conditions for snorkelling, diving and enjoying the most of this exotic oasis.
Day 1, Arrival at Derawan Island
Afternoon
- After landing at Kalimarau Airport, make your way to Tanjung Batu Port to prepare for the boat crossing to Derawan Island.
- Savour local fresh fish specialities at a nearby seafood restaurant, before heading on to Derawan Island.
- The crossing fee from Tanjung Batu Port to Derawan Island is around IDR 1 million to IDR 1.5 million for a speedboat which can accommodate up to six people. Whilst you’re there, reserve your transport for island-hopping the next day, with a speedboat costing around IDR 2 million to IDR 3 million for a full day.
Evening
- Arrive at Derawan Island, check into your hotel and take a moment to relax in your new surroundings.
- Soak-up a golden sunset at Derawan Island Beach. This dreamy gateway is the ideal island-hopping base with its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear blue sea and calm waves that are perfect for relaxing.
- Have dinner at a local eatery and try some authentic dishes, such as Tehe-Tehe (cooked sea urchin steamed and served with glutinous rice) or Kima-Kima (giant clams in a hot, dry chilli seasoning and warm white rice).
Tips on Derawan Island:
- Make sure you have booked a speedboat for island-hopping the day before or when crossing from Tanjung Batu Port.
- Speedboat booking information can be found when checking into your hotel or at Tanjung Batu Port.
- Ensure you have a guide for your island-hopping adventures, as they are extremely knowledgeable on all the best hotspots and places to dive and swim safely.
- Prepare packed lunches from Derawan Island, as finding places to eat along the way can be few and far between.
Day 2, Island-Hopping in the Derawan Islands
Morning
- Make sure to have breakfast at the hotel before you leave.
- Head to the paradise-like surroundings of Sangalaki Island, known for its abundance of sea turtles and also having the only Sea Turtle Conservation Centre in Kalimantan. Besides visiting the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre, you can also snorkel in the mesmerising azure blue waters and if you’re lucky, spot some sea turtles in the wild.
- Divers will love the Manta Sangalaki site! Not only is it famous for its sea turtle habitat, it’s also the best location to spot manta rays. Plus, the colourful coral reefs and diverse marine life will make this diving experience one for the memory books.
Afternoon
- Grab lunch at Kakaban Island Pier.
- After visiting the sea turtle conservation centre, continue your journey on to Kakaban Island. Unlike many of the other islands, 80% of this island’s surface area is dominated by Kakaban Lake – a seawater lake which has been cut-off from the ocean for millions of years and is filled with non-stinging jellyfish.
- Take this unique opportunity to snorkel, swim or paddleboard in the lake’s clear blue waters amongst the non-stinging jellyfish, for some epic photo opportunities.
Evening
- Relax and enjoy a vibrant sunset at Maratua Island. This island is the perfect place to spend the evening with views of the clear blue ocean and calm waves.
- Take the speedboat back to Derawan Island and indulge in a delicious dinner at a local warung (eatery).
Day 3, Exploring Berau Town
Recommended Accommodation in Berau Town:
Family Stay: Palmy Exclusive Hotel
Mid-range: Bumi Segah Hotel
Budget: Neotel Hotel Berau City Centre
Morning
- Breakfast at the hotel and then check-out before making your way back to Tanjung Batu Port.
- Upon arrival at Tanjung Batu Port, take a boat to Besing Island, which is the natural habitat of the Bekantan (Proboscis monkey), a primate endemic to Kalimantan which lives in the island’s mangrove forests.
Afternoon
- Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local eatery on Besing Island.
- Learn about the unique culture of the Berau region by visiting the Batiwakkal Museum. This museum is a cultural and historical attraction showcasing artefacts and relics from the Gunung Tabur Kingdom, one of the most prominent kingdoms in East Kalimantan.
Evening
- Spend time enjoying some local culinary delights at Segah Riverside. Segah River is one of the largest riverways in Berau, and along its banks you’ll discover a walkway path and various food stalls, giving visitors an authentic glimpse into local life.
- Return to your hotel and rest.
Day 4, Preparing to Return
Morning
- Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel.
- Check-out from the hotel and head to Kalimarau Airport for your return flight home, or on to your next exciting destination.
Final Words
4 days, 3-nights and endless memories! With its unspoiled beaches and rich underwater life, Berau is your ticket to a spectacular Indonesian marine adventure. Pack your snorkel and prepare to dive into paradise!
