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Tanjung Redeb – Capital City of Berau and Gateway to the Derawan Archipelago

Tanjung Redeb is the urban heart of Berau Regency – the commercial, administrative and services capital of this vast northeastern Kalimantan territory that spans from the remote Kelay and Segah river interiors to the world-famous coral reefs of the Derawan Archipelago. The city sits at the confluence of the Segah and Kelay rivers where they join to form the main Berau River, creating a strategic location that has been commercially important since the sultanate era. Today, the city serves as the staging point for everything that happens in Berau: coal extraction from the mining concessions of the interior, palm oil processing from the plantation belt, and the tourism industry that flows through here on its way to Derawan, Maratua and Biduk-Biduk. The city has grown rapidly on the back of the coal boom, with improved infrastructure, a growing commercial district and increasing middle-class residential development that reflects the prosperity generated by Berau's significant natural resource wealth.

Tourism & Attractions

Tanjung Redeb's main role in tourism is as a gateway and logistics base. The Berau airport receives flights from Balikpapan, enabling travellers to reach the Derawan Islands without the 8-hour drive from Samarinda. The city's waterfront along the Berau River is pleasant for evening walks, with views across to the Gunung Tabur and Sambaliung hillsides and the constant movement of river traffic. Both the Gunung Tabur and Sambaliung sultanate palaces are within easy day-trip distance, providing historical depth to a visit. The city's market is excellent for fresh regional produce including Berau's famous honey, forest products and fresh seafood. The Berau Museum houses artefacts from the sultanate period and the colonial era. Good restaurants serving local Kutai and coastal cuisine have developed alongside the city's growth.

Real Estate Market

Tanjung Redeb has Berau's most active and liquid property market. Commercial shophouses in the city centre generate strong returns from retail and services catering to the mining and plantation economy. Residential property ranges from modest kampung housing to newer perumahan (housing estate) developments targeting the growing middle class. The coal boom brought significant income to the regency and created demand for quality housing from mining company employees and government officials. Apartment development remains limited – most demand is for landed housing. Land prices have risen significantly from their pre-coal boom levels but remain substantially lower than equivalent cities in Java or southern Kalimantan, representing good value for the level of economic activity.

Rental & Investment Outlook

Commercial rental in Tanjung Redeb is supported by the coal economy's support services – equipment suppliers, legal and financial services, logistics companies and government contractors. Tourism-related hospitality has grown significantly as Derawan's fame has spread internationally, with hotels and guesthouses benefiting from the staging function of the city. Residential rental serves mining employees on rotation, government staff and the growing local professional class. The regency government's investment in infrastructure – roads, port facilities, the airport – creates a positive environment for commercial property. The main risk is commodity price dependency: Berau's economy would feel the effects of a sustained coal price decline, but the tourism diversification provides a meaningful counter-balance.

Practical Tips

Tanjung Redeb is served by daily flights from Balikpapan (approximately 50 minutes). The airport is small but functional. Accommodation ranges from basic guesthouses to mid-range hotels; book in advance during peak Derawan season (April–October) when rooms can fill quickly. The boat dock for Derawan Islands speedboats is at Tanjung Batu, approximately 40–50 km from the city by road. Arrange island accommodation before arrival and confirm boat schedules from Tanjung Batu – services can be disrupted by weather, especially during the November–March wet season. The city has banks, ATMs and some international money transfer services. For property transactions, engage a local notaris (notary) with experience in Berau land law, as title complications are common in rapidly developing resource regions.

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.