Discover various exotic tourist destinations in East Kalimantan, from Derawan Island to Maratua Island, which offer a holiday experience full of natural beauty.
East Kalimantan, a province on Borneo Island known for its natural wealth, holds various enchanting natural tourist attractions. With undeniable beauty, these destinations are ready to pamper every tourist who visits. Here is a complete guide to the 10 best tourist destinations in East Kalimantan that will make your vacation memorable.
1. Derawan Island: A World-Famous Underwater Paradise
Derawan Island is a tourist destination that is not only popular in Indonesia but also among international tourists.
Located in Berau Regency, this island offers soft white sandy beaches and clear blue sea water. Its underwater beauty is the main attraction, with beautiful coral reefs, seagrass beds , and well-maintained mangrove forests.
Here, you can enjoy various activities such as snorkeling, diving, or even just walking along the beach. If you are lucky, you will meet green turtles swimming around the island. Derawan Island is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of the underwater world without having to go far from the mainland.
2. Kakaban Lake: The Sensation of Swimming with Stingless Jellyfish
Still in the Derawan Islands area, Kakaban Lake is a destination that offers a unique experience that is rarely found. This lake is home to thousands of stingless jellyfish that you can spot while swimming. There are four types of jellyfish that inhabit this lake, including moon jellyfish and box jellyfish.
Besides swimming, you can also explore the natural beauty around the lake which is surrounded by dense forest. The uniqueness of this lake makes it a must-visit place when on holiday in East Kalimantan.
3. Sangalaki Island: Turtle Conservation Center
Sangalaki Island is known as a conservation center for green turtles and hawksbill turtles. Apart from the beauty of its white sandy beaches and clear blue sea water, this island is also an extraordinary diving spot. You can explore famous dive spots such as Manta Run, Coral Gardens, and Sherwood Forest.
In addition, you can also witness the process of releasing baby turtles into the sea, an educational and impressive experience. Sangalaki Island truly offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and environmental education.
4. Batu Dinding Nature Tourism: Magnificent Hill Panorama
Located in Kutai Kartanegara Regency, Batu Dinding Nature Tourism offers stunning hill panoramas. To reach this location, you need to walk through a path surrounded by orange groves, rubber trees, and dragon fruit.
Once you arrive at the location, you will be presented with a view of towering rock cliffs, resembling a giant natural wall. This place is also a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers to enjoy the beauty of the sunrise and sunset.
5. Labuan Cermin Lake: Water surface as clear as glass
Labuan Cermin Lake, located in Biduk-Biduk District, Berau Regency, is famous for its water that is so clear that it looks like glass. A unique phenomenon in this lake is the existence of two layers of water: fresh water on the surface and salt water at the bottom, which creates a stunning visual effect.
Visitors can enjoy swimming, diving, or just relaxing while enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings. The lake also offers many interesting spots for photography, making it a favorite destination for tourists.
6. Haji Mangku Cave: Adventure in an Amazing Water Cave
Haji Mangku Cave is located on Maratua Island and offers an amazing adventure experience. With clear turquoise water, this cave is a favorite place for swimming and enjoying the natural beauty.
Its easily accessible location, just a 10-minute walk from the entrance, makes Gua Haji Mangku a perfect destination for travelers seeking a combination of relaxation and exploration.
7. Tulung Ni’ Lenggo Blue Lake: Reflection of Natural Beauty
Tulung Ni’ Lenggo Blue Lake is a tourist destination located in Tembudan Village, Batu Putih District, Berau Regency. The clear blue water and calm surroundings make this a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
The shady trees around the lake provide a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal place for self-reflection or simply spending time with family and friends.
8. Beras Basah Island: Snorkeling Paradise in the Makassar Strait
Beras Basah Island, located in the Makassar Strait, Bontang, is a tourist destination that offers the beauty of the underwater world. The island has white sandy beaches, clear sea water, and calm waves, making it an ideal place for snorkeling and diving.
The beauty of coral reefs and marine life such as starfish make Beras Basah Island a place not to be missed when on holiday in East Kalimantan.
9. Bukit Sembinai Stone Park: A Rock Wonder Amidst the Hills
Sembinai Hill Stone Park, located in Kasungai Village, Batu Sopang District, Paser Regency, offers stunning views. Although the journey to this location is quite challenging with winding roads, the unique and beautiful rock views make it a destination worth visiting.
From the top of the rocks, you can enjoy spectacular sunrise and sunset panoramas, making this place perfect for photography and adventure lovers.
10. Maratua Island: Tropical Paradise on the Border
Maratua Island is one of the most beautiful islands in East Kalimantan. Located on the border of Indonesian and Malaysian waters, this island is known as an “underwater paradise” because of the beauty of its coral reefs.
This island is also a habitat for various marine biota such as lionfish, white rays, and turtles which often appear at dusk. With luxurious resorts offering direct views of the ocean, Maratua Island is the perfect destination to relax and enjoy tropical beauty.
East Kalimantan is a hidden paradise that offers various natural wonders and unforgettable tourism experiences. From the charm of Derawan Island to the beauty of Maratua Island, every corner of East Kalimantan has its own charm.
So, don’t hesitate to explore these destinations and experience their charm for yourself. Your vacation in East Kalimantan is guaranteed to be a memorable moment and full of beautiful memories.
