Reefs, turtle nesting habitat, Kakaban's jellyfish lake and practical access through Berau.
Routes & Adventures Indonesia
A local overview for planning with care. Seasonal patterns are general; check today's forecast before travelling.
The Derawan Islands lie off Berau Regency in East Kalimantan, in the Celebes Sea. The best-known islands are Derawan, Maratua, Sangalaki and Kakaban. Kalimarau Airport (BEJ), near Tanjung Redeb, is the main air gateway; travel onward by road and boat. Island connections and travel times depend on your departure point and sea conditions.
The islands have a warm, humid tropical climate throughout the year, commonly around 24–32°C. Rain, wind and sea state can change quickly, and crossings may be delayed. Check BMKG's forecast for both Pulau Derawan and the port or sea area you plan to cross before departure.
Coastal Sama-Bajau and Berau communities live across the islands, with local identities varying by village. Fishing, boat transport, small businesses and tourism support livelihoods. Local seafood and snacks vary by island. Kima-kima is mentioned in some travel sources, but giant clams are protected in this region and should not be ordered or promoted as food. Dried squid called kulabutan may be available. Ask about ingredients and choose only legally and responsibly sourced seafood.
Derawan is known for coral reefs, green and hawksbill turtles, and marine life across its island chain. Kakaban has a brackish lake with jellyfish; Sangalaki is known for manta rays; Maratua has reefs and nesting habitat. Wildlife encounters are never guaranteed. Keep distance from turtles and mantas, do not touch or feed marine life, avoid stepping on coral, and follow local conservation rules. Ask permission before photographing residents or entering village and sacred spaces. Check Kakaban Lake's access status before travelling; access may be restricted for habitat recovery.
BMKG updates these forecasts. Conditions can differ between islands, villages and open water.
Official information: BMKGIn the account, the two families travel in separate boats to a wedding on Long Island. Both boats are wrecked and everyone aboard drowns. The legend says they become islands: the bride, her older sibling, the groom and his parents are associated with Derawan, Kakaban, Sangalaki and Maratua. This is one folk version of the island names, not verified history; accounts may differ.
Story source: Indonesia Travel ↗ · Checked 8 Nov 2026