Maratua

“A hidden gem located in the eastern part of Borneo, Indonesia.”

Maratua Island is a hidden gem located in the eastern part of Borneo, Indonesia.

Geographically, it is situated in the Celebes Sea, about 45 kilometers off the eastern coast of Borneo. To reach Maratua, travelers can fly into Balikpapan, the nearest major city, and then take a domestic flight to Berau. From Berau, a boat transfer can be arranged to reach Maratua Island.

The journey typically takes around two to three hours. Besides boat transfer, there is also a domestic flight to Maratua from Berau/Tarakan/Samarinda (selected day only), which takes about 30-minute flight.

Overview

Stunning vertical walls that drop into the depths of the sea, making it a paradise for wall diving enthusiasts.
Kakaban Island, which is famous for its unique "Jellyfish Lake." Visitors can snorkel or swim in the lake, surrounded by thousands of harmless jellyfish.
The Derawan Islands, including Maratua, are also home to whale sharks, thresher sharks, and leopard sharks, providing unforgettable opportunities for encounters with these majestic creatures.
The strong currents in the area attract pelagic species such as grey reef sharks, leopard sharks, and white tip reef sharks. Maratua is also known for its bustling fish action, with big fish encounters including barracudas, jackfish, and eagle rays.