Introduction
The Derawan Islands, located in Berau Regency, East Kalimantan, are a hidden gem often dubbed the "Maldives of Indonesia." This destination offers extraordinary underwater natural beauty, soft white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear sea waters that radiate gradients of turquoise to deep blue. As part of the Coral Triangle, Derawan is not just an ordinary tourist spot; it is home to the richest marine biodiversity on the planet. Visitors here will be treated to exotic sights where giant green turtles are often seen swimming freely beneath the piers of floating accommodations.
The main attraction of the Derawan Islands lies in its four main islands: Derawan Island, Maratua Island, Kakaban Island, and Sangalaki Island. Each island has unique characteristics not found elsewhere in the world, from ancient jellyfish lakes to dive sites teeming with Manta rays. For adventure lovers, landscape photographers, or those simply seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, Derawan offers absolute tranquility. This article will thoroughly cover everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to this tropical paradise in East Kalimantan.
History & Background
The Derawan Islands are administratively under the jurisdiction of Berau Regency, East Kalimantan Province. Historically, this region was part of the Berau Sultanate, which has a long history as a maritime trading center on the east coast of Kalimantan. The name "Derawan" itself is said to originate from a local legend about a family that experienced misfortune while preparing for a wedding. The names of the surrounding islands are also derived from family lineage in the local language: Derawan (virgin), Maratua (mother-in-law), Sangalaki (man/husband), and Kakaban (older sibling).
Geographically, the archipelago consists of about 31 small islands, but only a few are inhabited. The indigenous communities inhabiting these islands are predominantly from the Bajau (Sea Gypsies) and Bugis tribes. The Bajau people are known for their very strong connection to the sea; they are expert divers who historically lived on boats. Their presence adds a distinctive cultural color, where local wisdom in preserving the marine ecosystem is still strongly felt.
In 2005, the Indonesian Government began nominating the Derawan Islands to UNESCO as a World Heritage Site due to its rich biodiversity. This area is a habitat for rare and endangered species, such as green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata). Furthermore, the extensive mangrove forests and seagrass beds around the islands serve as natural barriers that maintain water clarity and the survival of marine life. Derawan's transformation from a traditional fishing village into a world-class tourist destination occurred gradually, while still striving to maintain a balance between conservation and tourism.
Main Attractions
The Derawan Islands offer a vast spectrum of beauty. Here are the details of the main attractions you must visit:
1. The Wonder of Kakaban Lake
Kakaban Island is one of the few places in the world with a brackish water lake in its center. Within this lake, there are four types of jellyfish (golden jellyfish, moon jellyfish, box jellyfish, and upside-down jellyfish) that have evolved over thousands of years, losing their stinging ability. Swimming with thousands of gentle jellyfish without fear of stings is a surreal experience that can only be found here. Please note, visitors are prohibited from using sunscreen or fins when swimming in this lake to protect the sensitive ecosystem.
2. The Kingdom of Manta Rays at Sangalaki Island
Sangalaki Island is known as the best location to see Manta Rays (Manta birostris). These graceful giant fish often gather at specific points to feed. Besides Mantas, Sangalaki is also a turtle conservation center. Tourists can witness turtles laying eggs at night or participate in releasing hatchlings into the open sea under the supervision of BKSDA officers.
3. The Exoticism of Maratua Island
Maratua is often called the "Maldives of Indonesia" due to the presence of luxury resorts built over the water (water villas). This island has a long coastline with very clear waters. One of the iconic spots in Maratua is Goa Halo Tabung (Goa Haji Mangku), a cave with refreshing deep blue water inside. For professional divers, Maratua offers the Channel Entrance where strong currents bring thousands of barracudas (barracuda tornado).
4. The Underwater Beauty of Derawan Island
Derawan Island itself is a paradise for macro diving enthusiasts. Beneath the wooden piers, you can find pygmy seahorses, mandarin fish, and various colorful nudibranchs. If you are lucky, at night you might see large turtles coming ashore to lay eggs right in front of your accommodation.
5. Labuan Cermin (Additional Option on Mainland Berau)
Although technically located on the mainland of Kalimantan (Biduk-biduk District), many Derawan tour packages include a visit to Labuan Cermin. This is a lake of two tastes; the surface water is fresh, while the water at the bottom is salty. The clarity of the water is so extraordinary that boats floating on it appear to be hovering in the air.
Travel Tips & Logistics
Reaching the Derawan Islands requires careful planning due to its rather remote location. Here is a logistical guide:
- How to Get There:
There are two main entry points. First, via Kalimarau Airport in Tanjung Redeb (Berau). From here, you need to travel by land for 2-3 hours to Tanjung Batu Port, then continue by *speedboat* for 30-45 minutes to Derawan Island. The second option is via Maratua Airport if you wish to go directly to Maratua Island using a pioneer aircraft from Balikpapan or Samarinda.
- Best Time to Visit:
The best time is during the dry season, between May and October. During this period, the sea is generally calm, and underwater visibility is very clear, reaching 20-30 meters. Avoid December to February as the rainy season usually brings high waves and strong winds.
- Physical Preparation & Gear:
Make sure you bring enough cash as ATMs are only available in Tanjung Redeb or limited in Maratua. Use reef-safe sunscreen, bring enough change of clothes, personal snorkeling gear (optional for hygiene), and seasickness medication if you are not used to boat travel.
- Accommodation:
Accommodation options are diverse, ranging from affordable local homestays on Derawan Island (Rp 200,000 - Rp 500,000 per night) to luxury resorts on Maratua Island or Nabucco Island costing millions of rupiah per night.
Local Cuisine & Experiences
Visiting Derawan is incomplete without tasting the culinary delights of East Kalimantan's coastal cuisine. The main ingredient is, of course, very fresh seafood.
- Tehe-tehe: This is a unique Bajau culinary specialty made from sea urchin shells filled with sticky rice and coconut milk, then steamed. It has a savory taste and a distinctive sea aroma.
- Kima-kima: Dried giant clams cooked with balado seasoning or stir-fried. Its texture is chewy and very delicious served with warm rice.
- Elai: If you visit during fruit season, try the Elai fruit. This fruit resembles a durian, but its flesh is bright orange and its aroma is not as strong as regular durian.
- Cultural Interaction: Take time to stroll through the fishing villages of Derawan Island in the afternoon. You can interact with local children who are skilled swimmers or watch artisans making souvenirs from coconut shells. The warmth of the local people is part of the experience that makes the trip more personal. Don't forget to always ask for permission before taking photos of local residents as a form of respect.
Conclusion
The Derawan Islands are a destination that offers a complete package: rare natural wonders, rich maritime culture, and tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere. From swimming with stingless jellyfish in Kakaban to witnessing the grandeur of Manta Rays in Sangalaki, every corner of this archipelago holds captivating stories. Although the journey there requires extra effort, all fatigue will be amply rewarded once you see the gradients of the sea and the friendliness of its people. Derawan is not just a tourist destination, but a reminder of how extraordinary Indonesia's natural wealth is, which we must continue to protect and preserve for future generations. Happy exploring this paradise in East Kalimantan!