Properties in Bohe Silian

Maratua – Atoll Paradise with World-Class Diving and Stingless Jellyfish

Maratua is a crescent-shaped atoll island in the outer Derawan Archipelago, sitting in the Celebes Sea (Sulawesi Sea) approximately 60 kilometres from the Berau mainland coast. The island is one of the most biodiverse marine environments in all of Indonesia – a country that already holds the world's greatest marine biodiversity. The Maratua atoll encloses a lagoon of extraordinary turquoise clarity, and the outer reef walls drop into deep blue ocean water with visibility often exceeding 30 metres. Sea turtles nest on the beaches and forage in the shallow lagoon, giant rays patrol the reef edges, and the coral gardens support fish diversity that specialists describe among the richest they have ever surveyed. The island also features brackish inland lakes containing a unique population of stingless jellyfish (Mastigias papua) – thousands of pulsing moon jellyfish that visitors can swim among without fear of stings, creating one of the most extraordinary wildlife swimming experiences anywhere in Southeast Asia.

Tourism & Attractions

Diving on the Maratua outer reef walls is the island's signature experience – advanced divers rate the drop-offs among the best in Indonesia, with schools of bumphead parrotfish, large resident Napoleon wrasse and occasional whale shark encounters. Snorkelling in the lagoon is excellent even for non-divers, with hawksbill turtles so habituated to human presence they barely acknowledge snorkellers. The stingless jellyfish lake requires a short walk through the interior, emerging at an intimate inland body of water that is home to thousands of these otherworldly creatures. Turtle nesting can be observed (with respectful distance) on the northern beaches during the nesting season. The island's small community of Bajo sea nomads – traditional maritime people who have lived on and around the Derawan islands for centuries – maintains a cultural presence that adds human depth to the natural spectacle.

Real Estate Market

Maratua has seen significant resort development in recent years, with several internationally marketed eco-resorts and dive lodges establishing on the island. Land on an island this small and remote has unique characteristics – it is limited in supply, subject to specific coastal zone regulations, and requires significant investment in infrastructure (water, power, internet, boat connections) before any property becomes commercially viable. The premium end of the resort market has demonstrated that visitors will pay substantially for genuine island exclusivity combined with world-class diving access. Mid-range and budget accommodation has also developed to serve Indonesian domestic travellers and budget international divers. Land transactions on the island require careful navigation of adat community rights, formal title registration and coastal building regulations.

Rental & Investment Outlook

Maratua's tourism economy operates at the luxury end with strong international appeal. The island appears in dive travel publications globally, attracting European, American and Asian dive enthusiasts who plan dedicated liveaboard or resort-based diving expeditions. Occupancy at the established resorts is high during peak season (April–October), with premium pricing reflecting the exclusivity of the experience. The Indonesian domestic luxury market is growing rapidly, adding a second demand layer beyond international visitors. Investment requires substantial capital and operational capability – island resorts are expensive to run, supply chains are complex, and environmental responsibility is essential to maintaining the natural assets that the business model depends upon. Done well, this is among the most defensible hospitality investments in East Kalimantan.

Practical Tips

Maratua is reached from Tanjung Redeb by speedboat (approximately 2.5–3 hours) or by the small Maratua airstrip that receives light aircraft from Berau and occasionally Balikpapan. The speedboat journey is weather-dependent – seas in the Celebes Sea can be rough, particularly between November and February. Book accommodation in advance, especially during school holidays and the April–October peak diving season. Bring all essential medications and personal care items – the island has minimal supply. The dive resort operators provide equipment, but bringing your own mask and snorkel ensures fit and hygiene. Respect the turtle nesting zones – do not approach nesting females or disturb nest sites. The jellyfish lake experience is best in calm morning conditions when visibility is at its clearest.

Berau – East Kalimantan's Gateway to the Derawan Islands

Berau Regency lies in the northern part of East Kalimantan province, along the Celebes Sea. The region is world-famous for the Derawan archipelago, where crystal-clear waters host coral reefs, manta rays and green sea turtles. On the mainland, the Berau River estuary, dense rainforests and traditional Bulungan, Dayak and Malay communities give the region its cultural fabric. Berau balances coastal marine tourism with the ecotourism of interior Borneo.

Where is Berau?

Berau occupies the northern tip of East Kalimantan province, roughly 500 km north of Balikpapan. The regency capital is Tanjung Redeb, sitting at the mouth of the Berau River. Kalimarau Airport connects the regency with daily flights from Balikpapan and Jakarta. The Derawan Islands are reached by boat from Tanjung Batu in about 2 hours.

What to See?

1. Derawan Island

Derawan is the iconic diving and snorkelling paradise of the region. White-sand beaches, over-water bungalows and crystal-clear water define the experience – green sea turtles are frequently seen directly from the pier.

2. Kakaban Island and its Jellyfish Lake

Kakaban Island hides a lake inhabited by four unique species of non-stinging jellyfish. Only a handful of such lakes exist worldwide; visitors can swim freely among the jellyfish.

3. Sangalaki Island – Manta Rays

Sangalaki is one of Southeast Asia's most important manta ray dive sites. For much of the year dozens of mantas can be seen on a single dive in the plankton-rich waters surrounding the island.

4. Maratua Atoll

Maratua is the most remote island in the group, with a growing number of luxury resorts and dive lodges. Its cave system and mangrove lagoon offer rare experiences.

5. Labuan Cermin Lake

Located in the Biduk-Biduk district, Labuan Cermin is a rare two-layer lake – freshwater on top, saltwater below, with a mirror-clear surface. It's an excellent spot for day trips and swimming.

Culture and Food

Berau's cultural roots trace back to the Bulungan Sultanate, with traditional Dayak carving and a mix of Bulungan and Banjar Malay communities. Local cuisine is dominated by seafood – sambal gami spicy fish, nasi kuning berasan and fresh crab dishes are regional favourites. Markets also showcase palm oil, forest produce and handicrafts.

Real Estate Market and Investment

Berau's property market splits into two segments: mainland urban property in Tanjung Redeb and island tourism investment in the Derawan group. Tanjung Redeb family homes and apartments see stable local demand from mining and oil industry employees. Tourism properties on Derawan and Maratua – bungalows, small guesthouses, dive lodges – are increasingly attractive to foreign investors, although island development is constrained by strict environmental regulations. Rental yields in the tourism segment range from 6–10%.

Practical Tips

The best time to visit the Derawan Islands is June to October, when seas are calmest and underwater visibility peaks. Book fast-boat crossings from Tanjung Batu in advance during high season. Power on the islands is generator-based, and reliable internet is limited to the larger resorts. Currency exchange and ATMs are concentrated in Tanjung Redeb, so bring cash when heading to the islands.

East Kalimantan is Borneo's largest province, where the Derawan Islands' marine paradise, the Mahakam River's culture, and the new capital Nusantara converge. The region is world-famous for diving, sea turtles, and the stingless jellyfish lake.

Where is East Kalimantan?

The province is located on Borneo's eastern coast, along the Celebes Sea. Balikpapan and Samarinda are the main cities, both with international airports. Indonesia's planned new capital, Nusantara, is currently under construction in the province's northern part.

What to See?

1. Derawan Islands – Marine Paradise

The Derawan Islands are an archipelago with crystal-clear waters where sea turtles, manta rays, and sponges await. Kakaban Island's stingless jellyfish lake is unique: the jellyfish don't sting, and you can swim among them. Sangalaki Island is a nesting site for manta rays and sea turtles.

2. Kutai National Park

Kutai National Park is one of Borneo's oldest protected areas. Orangutans, Bornean elephants, and rare bird species live here. The park spans rainforests around Sangatta.

3. Mahakam River

Indonesia's third-longest river is the stage for Dayak and Banjar culture. River cruises offer sightings of dolphins, traditional villages, and floating markets. Tenggarong and Kutai Kartanegara are historically significant towns along the river.

4. Nusantara – The New Capital

Nusantara, Indonesia's planned new capital, is currently under construction in northern East Kalimantan. The implementation is in progress, and the region is becoming an increasingly important tourism and economic hub.

5. Balikpapan and Samarinda

Balikpapan is the oil industry center, but Kumala Beach and local gastronomy are also attractive. Samarinda is the gateway to the Mahakam River, from where river excursions depart.

When to Visit?

March–October is the dry season, ideal for diving at the Derawan Islands and river tours. The jellyfish lake is visitable year-round.

How Long to Stay?

5–7 days recommended:

• 2–3 days: Derawan Islands, diving, jellyfish lake
• 1–2 days: Mahakam River cruise
• 1 day: Kutai National Park
• 1 day: Balikpapan or Samarinda

Renting or Investing in East Kalimantan?

If you're considering renting or investing in property in East Kalimantan, these resources on our site can help you make informed decisions:

• Indonesian Property FAQ – answers to the most common questions about renting and buying
• Land Zoning Guide – understanding Indonesian land use regulations
• Indonesian Real Estate Terminology – key terms explained
• Property Guide – comprehensive guide to Indonesian real estate
• Living in Indonesia – essential guide for expats
• Balikpapan Guide – local insights and practical tips

Official Resources

For further information about East Kalimantan, these official sources may be helpful:

• Indonesia Travel – official tourism portal
• East Kalimantan Provincial Government – regional government information
• Bank Indonesia – currency and exchange rate data
• BMKG – weather and climate information
• Directorate General of Immigration – visa regulations for foreign visitors

Summary

East Kalimantan is where marine experiences meet river culture. The Derawan Islands offer world-class diving, while the Mahakam River provides an authentic Borneo experience.