Bali to Derawan 2026: Your Full Travel Guide

Nestled in the Berau Regency of East Kalimantan, the Derawan Islands are a cluster of pristine atolls that include Derawan, Maratua, Sangalaki, and Kakaban. This archipelago remains off most mainstream itineraries, preserving its coral reefs, nesting sea turtles, and rare wildlife. Divers often draw comparisons between Derawan’s underwater clarity and that of Raja Ampat—only with fewer crowds and more intimate encounters.

On Kakaban, you can swim in a mystical inland lake home to four species of non-stinging jellyfish. Sangalaki hosts one of Indonesia’s most dedicated turtle conservation sites, where green turtles and hawksbills return year after year to nest. Maratua offers dramatic drop-offs and the chance to spot manta rays. For travelers who’ve seen Bali’s temples and beaches, Derawan opens a new chapter in island exploration.

There are no direct flights from Bali to Derawan—reaching the islands requires a combination of air and sea travel. You’ll fly from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) to one of two regional airports: Juwata Tarakan (TRK) or Kalimarau Berau (BEJ). From there, a speedboat completes the journey to the islands.

Each route has trade-offs in duration, cost, and convenience. While both involve layovers, they connect through major Indonesian hubs like Surabaya, Balikpapan, or Juanda—offering flexibility depending on your schedule and budget.

Flying to Tarakan is a reliable way to approach Derawan, especially if your schedule aligns with Super Air Jet or Lion Air services. Flights from Bali to Juwata Tarakan Airport (TRK) typically include a stopover at Juanda Airport (SUB) in Surabaya. Super Air Jet offers a faster option, departing at 07:00 and arriving by 14:50, with total travel time around 7h 50m starting from USD 170. Lion Air’s route takes about 9h 15m, departing at 10:35, with prices from USD 140.

Upon landing, Tengkayu Harbor is just 5 km away. From there, a pre-arranged speedboat takes 2–3 hours to reach Derawan Island. Given limited public transport, booking your transfer in advance ensures a smooth arrival.

The Berau route brings you closer to the islands via Kalimarau Airport (BEJ). While there are no direct flights, connecting options via Surabaya or Balikpapan make this a viable path. A flight via Surabaya with Lion Air and Batik Air takes about 4h 25m, departing at 10:35 and arriving at 15:00, starting at USD 145. The Balikpapan route with AirAsia Indonesia and Super Air Jet is longer—around 8h 15m—but begins at a lower rate of USD 105.

From Kalimarau Airport, it’s a 100 km (2.5-hour) drive to Tanjung Batu Harbor. Private car transfers are the most practical way to cover this stretch. Once at the harbor, a speedboat whisks you to Derawan in under two hours. As road and boat services are limited, early booking is essential.

Planning each leg of your trip independently can be time-consuming and stressful—especially when timing connections across airports, roads, and harbors. That’s where a coordinated tour operator like Boat Komodo Trip makes a difference. With a tailored itinerary, you’re met at the airport, transported seamlessly to the harbor, and escorted to the best snorkeling and diving sites across Derawan, Kakaban, and Sangalaki.

Imagine arriving tired after a long flight, only to be greeted by a crew who handles every detail. No haggling for boats, no missed transfers—just direct access to swimming with whale sharks in Talisayan or floating among jellyfish in Kakaban Lake. An organized trip turns logistical complexity into effortless adventure.