Derawan Island
Island Tropical island in Derawan Archipelago, coral reefs
Part of the Derawan Archipelago in East Kalimantan, Derawan attracts divers for coral reefs, manta and turtle sightings, plus simple beaches and fresh seafood served in island stalls.
Derawan Island is a small inhabited island in the Derawan archipelago off the coast of East Kalimantan, Indonesia, known for its marine biodiversity and dive tourism. It functions as one of the main local bases for visiting nearby dive sites and protected marine areas.
Visitors come for coral reefs, beaches and snorkelling with sea turtles and reef fish; day trips and liveaboard trips operate to nearby sites such as Sangalaki and Kakaban. Simple guesthouses and dive operators provide accommodation and excursions focused on diving, snorkelling and wildlife viewing.
The island is a traditional fishing community that has developed tourism infrastructure over recent decades to serve divers and eco-tourists. Tourism activities coexist with local livelihoods based on fishing and small-scale services.
Derawan sits in the Sulawesi Sea off the coast of East Kalimantan (Berau Regency). The nearest regional town on the Kalimantan mainland is Tanjung Redeb, which serves as the usual transport hub for boats to the archipelago.
- Access and location: Part of Berau Regency in East Kalimantan and commonly used as a gateway to the wider Derawan archipelago dive sites.
- Marine life: Noted locally for marine biodiversity including sea turtles, reef fish and nearby manta and jellyfish sites.
What to See #
- Derawan Island: A small island within the Derawan archipelago that serves as a base for local dive operators and has beaches used by nesting sea turtles.
- Kakaban: A nearby island famous for jellyfish-filled brackish lake where snorkelling among non-stinging jellyfish is possible; located within the same archipelago.
- Sangalaki: A neighbouring island and dive site known for regular sightings of manta rays and mola mola in season, popular with liveaboard and day-trip divers.
How to Get to Derawan Island #
Derawan is reached by boat from the coastal town of Tanjung Batu (Berau Regency). Visitors typically fly into Berau (Tanjung Redeb) or Tarakan and then take a road transfer to Tanjung Batu followed by a 1.5-3 hour speedboat to Derawan, depending on sea conditions.
Tips for Visiting Derawan Island #
- Book sea transport and island accommodation in advance - schedules are dependent on weather and tourist season.
- Bring snorkel gear; dive shops on the larger islands will also arrange trips to the nearby marine protected areas where turtles and manta rays are common.
- Respect local village rules about photography and conservation zones - many communities on the archipelago maintain strict guidelines.
Best Time to Visit Derawan Island #
Best between April and October for diving and reliable boat services.
