Pulau Derawan, Indonesia Travel Guide

Discover Pulau Derawan: A hidden tropical paradise in Indonesia, perfect for diving, snorkeling, and experiencing local culture in serene surroundings.

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Pulau Derawan

Pulau Derawan in Indonesia is a hidden gem in the Celebes Sea, offering pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere. This small island is part of the Derawan Archipelago in East Kalimantan and is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, making it a haven for divers and snorkelers alike. The island's vibrant coral reefs are home to an array of marine life, including sea turtles, manta rays, and a variety of colorful fish. The underwater scenery is breathtaking and offers a unique opportunity to explore a lesser-known but equally stunning diving spot compared to more famous destinations in Indonesia. On land, Pulau Derawan offers a charming village atmosphere where visitors can experience local culture and traditions. Simple yet cozy accommodations are available for tourists, providing an authentic and relaxing stay. The island's natural beauty and serene environment make it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Pulau Derawan is also close to other captivating islands in the archipelago, such as Maratua, Kakaban, and Sangalaki, each offering unique attractions. From swimming in the jellyfish lake on Kakaban to spotting manta rays around Sangalaki, there is no shortage of adventures to embark on while visiting this tropical paradise.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pulau Derawan.

Best time to visit is during the dry season, between April and October, for optimal weather and diving conditions.
Bring your own snorkeling or diving gear if possible, as rental options on the island may be limited.
Cash is essential; there are no ATMs on the island, so withdraw money beforehand.
Respect local customs and traditions; dress modestly when exploring the village.
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystem.

Explore Pulau Derawan: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Pulau Derawan

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Labuan Cermin

Discover Labuan Cermin, a serene swimming lake in East Kalimantan, offering pristine waters and lush landscapes for an unforgettable getaway.

4.7

Pantai Derawan

Discover the beauty of Pantai Derawan, a national reserve in East Kalimantan known for its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and serene atmosphere.

4.6

Lamin Guntur Eco Park and Resort

Explore the breathtaking nature and thrilling off-road adventures at Lamin Guntur Eco Park and Resort in East Kalimantan.

4.6

Sangalaki Island

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Sangalaki Island, a pristine tropical paradise in East Kalimantan, perfect for relaxation, snorkeling, and nature lovers.

4.8

Best landmarks in Pulau Derawan

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Derawan Dive Resort

Experience the tranquil beauty of Derawan Dive Resort, where pristine beaches meet vibrant marine life for an unforgettable getaway in East Kalimantan.

4.5

Derawan Fisherises Cottage

Discover the paradise of Derawan Fisheries Cottage, a serene retreat on Derawan Island, East Kalimantan, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

4.7

Pantai Derawan

Experience the serene beauty of Pantai Derawan, a national reserve in East Kalimantan, where stunning beaches meet vibrant marine life and rich culture.

4.6

Sangalaki Island

Discover the stunning beauty of Sangalaki Island, a tropical paradise in East Kalimantan, known for its pristine beaches and diverse marine life.

4.8

Best restaurants in Pulau Derawan

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RM. CELEBES

Experience authentic Indonesian cuisine at RM. Celebes in Berau—home to mouthwatering grilled fish and warm hospitality.

4.3

Coto MAKASAR

Experience authentic South Sulawesi cuisine at Coto MAKASAR, specializing in flavorful Soto dishes that delight every palate.

4.4

Coto Makassar

Experience authentic South Sulawesi cuisine at Coto Makassar, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

4.7

Derawan Beach CAFE & Cottage

Experience paradise at Derawan Beach CAFE & Cottage, where exquisite cuisine meets stunning coastal views in East Kalimantan.

4.3

Best bars in Pulau Derawan

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Derawan Beach CAFE & Cottage

Experience the beauty of Derawan Beach Cafe & Cottage, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking views in a serene coastal paradise.

4.3

Milkyway Coffee and Milk

Discover the delightful flavors of Milkyway Coffee and Milk, where every cup is crafted with passion in the heart of Tanjung Redeb.

4.6

RM. Karlina

Experience the authentic flavors of Indonesia at RM. Karlina, a top-rated restaurant on Derawan Island, perfect for food lovers and adventurers alike.

4.2

April Resto

Experience the best of Pulau Derawan with fresh seafood dishes at April Resto, a local gem on this idyllic island paradise.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Pulau Derawan

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Pantai Derawan

Explore Pantai Derawan: A stunning national reserve offering pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and a serene escape into nature's embrace.

4.6

Derawan Beach CAFE & Cottage

Discover the serene beauty of Derawan Beach CAFE & Cottage, where delicious local cuisine meets stunning ocean views for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.3

HVTRIP Derawan dan Labuan Cermin

Explore the tropical paradise of Derawan and Labuan Cermin, where adventure meets breathtaking beauty in East Kalimantan.

4.9

MASAYA COTTAGE PULAU DERAWAN

Discover the serene beauty of Masaya Cottage Pulau Derawan, a tranquil villa retreat surrounded by nature's splendor in East Kalimantan.

3.7

Best shops in Pulau Derawan

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UD. Nuramelia

Explore shopping, dining, and local culture at UD. Nuramelia, the premier shopping mall in Pulau Derawan, East Kalimantan.

4.9

Warung Reza

Experience authentic East Kalimantan flavors at Warung Reza, a charming grocery store in the heart of Pulau Derawan.

4.0

TIDE STORE

Explore TIDE STORE on Pulau Derawan for unique local clothing and a taste of island culture.

4.8

TK Simpang 3

Discover local treasures and vibrant culture at TK Simpang 3, the perfect shopping destination on Pulau Derawan.

5.0

Explore Pulau Derawan on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Pulau Derawan, mapped for you.

Pulau Derawan Essentials

Pulau Derawan is located in the Berau Regency of East Kalimantan, Indonesia. The nearest airport is Kalimarau Airport (BEJ) in Tanjung Redeb, Berau, which connects to major Indonesian cities like Jakarta and Balikpapan. From Tanjung Redeb, you can take a taxi or a shuttle service to Tanjung Batu, which is approximately a 2-3 hour drive. From Tanjung Batu, you can take a speedboat to Pulau Derawan, a trip that usually takes around 30-45 minutes.
Pulau Derawan is a small island, and most of its attractions are within walking distance. Bicycles are available for rent and are a popular way to get around the island. For water-based transportation, local boats (called 'jukungs') can be hired for trips to nearby islands and snorkeling spots. It is advisable to arrange transportation through your accommodation or a trusted local provider.
The official currency in Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Cash is the preferred mode of payment on Pulau Derawan, as credit card facilities are limited. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash, as ATMs are not available on the island. You can withdraw cash at ATMs in Tanjung Redeb before making your way to Pulau Derawan.
Pulau Derawan is generally safe for tourists. However, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and always secure your belongings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists on the island, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. There is a small medical clinic on the island for basic health needs, but for more serious medical issues, you will need to travel to Tanjung Redeb. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, bring a basic first-aid kit and any necessary medications with you.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local villages. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous when using local boats or any shared transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a nod. Shaking hands is common but not mandatory. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t waste food, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Pulau Derawan like a local, try to learn a few basic phrases in Bahasa Indonesia, as it will be appreciated by the locals. Visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Indonesian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the island's history and culture. Don’t miss snorkeling or diving in the surrounding waters, as Pulau Derawan is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, including turtles, manta rays, and various species of fish.

When is the best time to visit Pulau Derawan?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Pulau Derawan

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Pulau Derawan. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHalo
  [ha-loh]
- GoodbyeSelamat tinggal
  [seh-lah-maht ting-gahl]
- YesYa
  [yah]
- NoTidak
  [tee-dahk]
- Please/You're welcomeSilakan
  [see-lah-kahn]
- Thank youTerima kasih
  [teh-ree-mah kah-see]
- Excuse me/SorryMaaf
  [mah-ahf]
- How are you?Apa kabar?
  [ah-pah kah-bahr]
- Fine. And you?Baik. Dan kamu?
  [bah-eek. dahn kah-moo]
- Do you speak English?Bisa berbicara Bahasa Inggris?
  [bee-sah buhr-bee-chah bah-hah-sah eeng-grees]
- I don't understandSaya tidak mengerti
  [sah-yah tee-dahk muhng-ehr-tee]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseBoleh saya lihat menu, silakan
  [boh-leh sah-yah lee-haht meh-noo, see-lah-kahn]
- I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
  [sah-yah tee-dahk mah-kahn dah-yahng]
- Cheers!Selamat minum!
  [seh-lah-maht mee-noom]
- I would like to pay, pleaseSaya ingin membayar, silakan
  [sah-yah een-geen mehm-bah-yahr, see-lah-kahn]
- Help!Tolong!
  [toh-lohng]
- Go away!Pergi!
  [pehr-gee]
- Call the Police!Panggil polisi!
  [pahng-geel poh-lee-see]
- Call a doctor!Panggil dokter!
  [pahng-geel dohk-tehr]
- I'm lostSaya tersesat
  [sah-yah tehr-seh-saht]
- I'm illSaya sakit
  [sah-yah sah-keet]
- I'd like to buy...Saya ingin membeli...
  [sah-yah een-geen mehm-beh-lee]
- I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat
  [sah-yah hahn-yah meh-lee-haht]
- How much is it?Berapa harganya?
  [buh-rah-pah hahr-gahn-yah]
- That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
  [ee-too teh-rah-lah mah-hahl]
- Can you lower the price?Bisakah Anda menurunkan harganya?
  [bee-sah-kah ahn-dah muh-noor-kahn hahr-gahn-yah]
- What time is it?Jam berapa sekarang?
  [jahm buh-rah-pah seh-kah-rahn]
- It's one o'clockSekarang pukul satu
  [seh-kah-rahn poo-kool sah-too]
- Half past (10)Setengah (sepuluh)
  [seh-tehn-gah (suh-poo-loo)]
- MorningPagi
  [pah-gee]
- AfternoonSore
  [soh-reh]
- EveningMalam
  [mah-lahm]
- YesterdayKemarin
  [keh-mah-reen]
- TodayHari ini
  [hah-ree ee-nee]
- TomorrowBesok
  [beh-sohk]
- 1Satu
  [sah-too]
- 2Dua
  [doo-ah]
- 3Tiga
  [tee-gah]
- 4Empat
  [em-paht]
- 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
- 6Enam
  [eh-nahm]
- 7Tujuh
  [too-joo]
- 8Delapan
  [deh-lah-pahn]
- 9Sembilan
  [sem-bee-lahn]
- 10Sepuluh
  [suh-poo-loo]
- Where's a/the...?Dimana ada/ada...
  [dee-mah-nah ah-dah/ah-dah]
- What's the address?Apa alamatnya?
  [ah-pah ah-lah-maht-nyah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Bisakah Anda menunjukkan (pada peta)?
  [bee-sah-kah ahn-dah muh-noon-jook-kahn (pah-dah peh-tah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Kapan bus selanjutnya?
  [kah-pahn boos seh-lahn-joot-nyah]
- A ticket (to ....)Selembar tiket (ke ....)
  [seh-lehm-bahr tee-keht (keh)]

History of Pulau Derawan

Pulau Derawan, part of the Derawan Archipelago in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The island and its surrounding waters were originally inhabited by the Bajau people, also known as sea nomads, who were known for their extraordinary seafaring skills and deep connection with the ocean.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, Pulau Derawan came under the influence of the Sultanate of Bulungan. The sultanate, which controlled much of the northeastern part of Borneo, played a crucial role in the island's development. The Bulungan Sultanate established trade routes that connected Pulau Derawan to other regions, bringing in goods, culture, and new inhabitants.
In the late 19th century, the Dutch colonial administration began exerting control over the East Kalimantan region, including Pulau Derawan. The Dutch influence brought about significant changes, including the introduction of new administrative structures and increased trade. The island's strategic location in the Celebes Sea made it an important stopover for Dutch traders and explorers.
World War II had a noticeable impact on Pulau Derawan and its surrounding areas. The island, like much of Indonesia, experienced Japanese occupation during the war. The Japanese used the island as a strategic point, which led to various military activities. The war also disrupted local life and trade, leaving lasting impressions on the island's history.
Following Indonesia’s declaration of independence in 1945 and subsequent recognition in 1949, Pulau Derawan began to develop as part of the new nation. The island saw gradual growth in its infrastructure and an increase in local and international tourism. The rich marine biodiversity and pristine beaches started attracting more visitors, contributing to the island's economic development.
In recent decades, Pulau Derawan has become a focal point for marine conservation efforts. Recognizing the island's unique ecosystems, both local and international organizations have worked together to protect its coral reefs and marine life. Conservation programs have been implemented to ensure sustainable tourism and to preserve the natural beauty of Pulau Derawan for future generations.