Where Exactly Are the Derawan Islands Located in Southeast Asia? – When travelers search for hidden gems in Southeast Asia, the Derawan Islands often appear as one of the most untouched destinations in the region. The name sparks curiosity, especially among divers and adventure seekers, who wonder: Where exactly are the Derawan Islands located? The answer is that these islands are part of Indonesia, specifically in East Kalimantan, Borneo.
The Derawan Islands Indonesia are a paradise that still feels authentic and natural. Unlike more popular destinations such as Bali, Phuket, or the Maldives, these islands have not yet been overwhelmed by mass tourism. With turquoise waters, stunning coral reefs, and unique wildlife, the Derawan Islands provide an escape for those who want to explore Southeast Asia’s hidden beauty. However, because of their remoteness, many first-time visitors ask questions like how to get to Derawan Islands, how to reach Derawan Islands, and Derawan Islands how to get there. This article will cover everything you need to know about the Derawan Island location, why these islands are worth visiting, and exactly how to plan your trip.
Derawan Island Location in Southeast Asia
The Derawan Islands location is in the Celebes Sea, just off the coast of East Kalimantan, Indonesia. They are situated on the island of Borneo, which is shared by three countries—Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. This makes the Derawan Islands an important part of Southeast Asia’s natural heritage.
The archipelago itself consists of around 31 islands and islets, each with its own unique charm. The most famous ones are Derawan, Maratua, Kakaban, and Sangalaki. Among these, Derawan Island acts as the central hub, offering homestays, local villages, and boat connections to other islands.
Being located within the Coral Triangle, a region recognized worldwide for having the highest marine biodiversity, the Derawan Islands Indonesia are home to over 460 species of coral and nearly 900 species of fish. This unique ecosystem makes the islands one of the most spectacular diving and snorkeling destinations in Southeast Asia.
The Charm of the Derawan Islands
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The Derawan Islands are not just about their location; they are also about the rare beauty and experiences they offer. Travelers who make the journey are rewarded with landscapes and seascapes that are almost untouched by modernization.
Unique Marine Biodiversity
One of the main attractions of the Derawan Islands Indonesia is the incredible variety of marine life. The surrounding waters are home to manta rays, whale sharks, turtles, dolphins, and countless colorful fish. Coral gardens thrive just beneath the surface, creating dreamlike underwater scenery. This is why divers often place the Derawan Islands location among the top in the world for scuba diving.
Rare Wildlife Encounters
Beyond its marine biodiversity, the Derawan Islands also boast unique wildlife experiences. For example, Kakaban Island is famous for its jellyfish lake, where visitors can swim with stingless jellyfish in a surreal, otherworldly setting. Meanwhile, Sangalaki Island is a major nesting site for endangered green turtles. Witnessing baby turtles hatch and make their way to the sea is one of the most memorable experiences travelers can have.
Peaceful Island Life
On Derawan Island itself, life is simple and peaceful. Traditional wooden stilt houses extend over turquoise lagoons, while local fishermen go about their daily routines. This authentic lifestyle adds a cultural dimension to your visit, showing the human connection to this natural paradise. The calm atmosphere makes it clear why the Derawan Islands Indonesia are a perfect escape from crowded tourist destinations.
How to Reach Derawan Islands
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Because of its remote location, many travelers wonder exactly how to get to Derawan Islands. The journey involves a combination of flights, land travel, and a boat transfer, but each step brings you closer to this hidden gem.
Derawan Islands How to Get There – Step by Step Guide
- Fly to Berau (Kalimarau Airport)
The easiest way to start your journey is by flying into Berau, a small city in East Kalimantan. From major Indonesian cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, Balikpapan, or Samarinda, you can find direct or connecting flights to Berau. - Drive from Berau to Tanjung Batu
Once you land in Berau, the next step is a 2–3 hour car ride to the port town of Tanjung Batu. Along the way, you will pass small villages, forests, and rivers, offering a glimpse into the landscapes of East Kalimantan. - Boat Ride to Derawan Island
From Tanjung Batu, a speedboat ride of about 30–45 minutes will take you directly to Derawan Island. If you wish to continue to other islands such as Maratua, Kakaban, or Sangalaki, you can hire private boats or join group transfers from here.
This route may sound complicated compared to other destinations in Southeast Asia, but it is part of what keeps the Derawan Islands location so special. Because access is not as easy, the islands remain pristine and far less crowded than popular tourist hubs.
Tips for Traveling to the Derawan Islands Indonesia
To fully enjoy your trip to the Derawan Islands, it is important to prepare well, as the islands are less developed than other destinations in Indonesia.
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time is during the dry season from March to October, when the seas are calmer and visibility is perfect for diving.
- What to Pack: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, snorkeling or diving gear, insect repellent, and cash, since ATMs are very limited on the islands.
- Accommodation: Options range from budget-friendly homestays on Derawan Island to luxury eco-resorts on Maratua Island.
- Respect Local Culture: The islands are home to traditional fishing communities, so it is important to respect their customs and support eco-friendly tourism.
Knowing these tips not only helps you plan better but also ensures that your journey to the Derawan Islands Indonesia is smooth and rewarding.
Why the Derawan Islands Are Worth Visiting
Travelers often ask: Is it worth making the long journey to the Derawan Islands location? The answer is absolutely yes.
- Pristine Reefs and Wildlife – With minimal human impact, the reefs are among the healthiest in Southeast Asia.
- Adventure and Exploration – The journey itself adds excitement, making you feel like a true explorer.
- Unique Attractions – From swimming in a jellyfish lake to diving with manta rays, the experiences are unmatched.
- Seclusion and Peace – Unlike Bali or Phuket, you can still find empty beaches and untouched nature here.
For those who crave authentic experiences, the Derawan Islands Indonesia offer an opportunity to see Southeast Asia in its most natural and unspoiled state.
Conclusion
So, where exactly are the Derawan Islands located in Southeast Asia? They lie in East Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Celebes Sea. The Derawan Island location may be remote, but this isolation has preserved its natural beauty, making it one of Southeast Asia’s best-kept secrets.
Now that you know exactly how to get to Derawan Islands, including every detail on how to reach Derawan Islands and the step-by-step guide for Derawan Islands how to get there, you can start planning your journey. With their rare wildlife, incredible marine life, and authentic island culture, the Derawan Islands Indonesia are more than just a destination—they are an unforgettable experience – Where Exactly Are the Derawan Islands Located in Southeast Asia?
