Properties in Kasai

Pulau Derawan – Sea Turtle Island and Crown Jewel of the Derawan Archipelago

Pulau Derawan is Indonesia's most famous sea turtle island and the gateway to one of the world's great marine ecosystems – the Derawan Archipelago, a scattering of islands, atolls and reefs in the Sulawesi Sea that sits within the Coral Triangle, the global epicentre of marine biodiversity. The island itself is small – you can walk around it in under an hour – but its biological significance is enormous. Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) and critically endangered hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) nest on the white sand beaches, and the surrounding waters hold resident populations of manta rays, reef sharks, dugongs and extraordinary coral diversity. The village of Derawan has grown around the tourism economy, with guesthouses, dive shops and seafood restaurants built on stilts over the warm, incredibly clear water. The atmosphere is laid-back tropical island life at its most authentic – a genuine escape from urban Indonesia.

Tourism & Attractions

Swimming and snorkelling directly from the guesthouse jetties is the defining Derawan experience – the water clarity and marine life density mean that even the most modest snorkelling session reveals sea turtles, colourful reef fish and intricate coral formations. Manta ray cleaning stations off the northern reef attract these graceful animals in reliable numbers, making dive and snorkel encounters almost guaranteed during their season. The turtle nesting beach on the eastern shore is monitored by the local conservation programme – respectful guided visits to observe egg laying are possible. Day trips to the outer islands of the archipelago – Kakaban (with its extraordinary jellyfish lake), Sangalaki and Maratua – extend the experience considerably. The boat journey between islands reveals the extraordinary colour gradations of the shallow Sulawesi Sea.

Real Estate Market

Derawan's property market is essentially a tourism accommodation market built on a small island with constrained land supply. Guesthouses, small hotels and dive lodges dominate the commercial real estate. The island's fame and relative accessibility (compared to Maratua) drives strong year-round demand from Indonesian domestic tourists and international dive travellers. Property on the island is expensive relative to the mainland, reflecting the scarcity of land and the tourism premium. New construction requires navigating coastal building regulations, community land rights and environmental impact requirements. The most successful properties are those positioned directly over or immediately adjacent to the water, maximising the famous Derawan water clarity views.

Rental & Investment Outlook

Tourism accommodation investment on Derawan has proven commercially successful at multiple price points – from basic shared dormitories to mid-range bungalows with private bathrooms. The island's international profile generates year-round bookings from dive travellers who plan months in advance. Indonesian domestic tourism, growing rapidly, provides additional demand particularly during school holidays when the island reaches near-capacity. The key operational challenge is supply chain management – everything from building materials to fresh produce must arrive by boat from the mainland, and weather disruptions can cause supply interruptions. Operators who solve the logistics problem and maintain quality can generate strong returns. The conservation-conscious market increasingly rewards properties that demonstrate credible environmental commitments – sustainable practices are good business as well as ethical obligation here.

Practical Tips

Derawan is reached by speedboat from Tanjung Batu port (approximately 45–60 minutes) or from Tanjung Redeb (2.5–3 hours). Tanjung Batu is the preferred departure point and is reached from Berau by road. Book guesthouses well in advance during peak season (July–August, Indonesian school holidays). The island has no motorised vehicles – it is genuinely peaceful. Turtle conservation fees are collected by the local conservation programme; these go directly to community conservation efforts and are worth paying. Do not purchase sea turtle eggs or products – this is illegal and harmful to the conservation programme. The water is warm (27–29°C year-round) and ideal for extended swimming. Bring reef-safe sunscreen – regular sunscreens damage the coral that makes Derawan special. Sunset from the western beach jetties is exceptional.

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.