Pulau Maratua, Derawan

Imagine arriving on Maratua Island and being greeted right away by the sea breeze—the water glass-clear, the sand silky, and the fishing village of Payung-Payung warmly welcoming you. Many know Maratua as a horseshoe-shaped island embracing a large lagoon, with limestone cliffs on one side and stretches of coral reef on the other. Its waters are among the richest in Indonesia, so it’s no surprise that divers worldwide put the Derawan Archipelago on their dream list. The moment your feet touch the pier, you’ll understand why this place is addictive. It’s not just a pretty beach; it’s a complete package: nature, coastal village culture, and snorkeling spots that are easy to access. (source: Indonesia Travel)

As the hub of activity in the northern part of Maratua Island, Payung-Payung Village is famed for Haji Mangku Cave, whose water is deep blue and crystal clear, hidden just a few steps from the shore. Many come to swim in the natural pool, jump from the cave rim, or simply hunt for photos. Access is far tidier than a few years ago, making it suitable for first-timers to Maratua. If you want a village vibe, take an afternoon walk through the alleys and chat with locals—it’s a calming experience before you continue island hopping to Kakaban and Sangalaki the next day.

Good news: Maratua Airport (RTU, WAQC) now serves the Maratua District, Berau Regency, East Kalimantan. The first commercial landing was in 2017, followed by an official inauguration on October 25, 2018. Its runway is around 1,600 meters, sufficient for short-haul turboprops, shortening your journey. Alternatively, you can enter via Tanjung Redeb, continue overland to Tanjung Batu Port, and take a Speedboat to Maratua. These two routes make your holiday plans flexible—just choose what fits your time and budget.

Highlights of Maratua Island in Payung-Payung

The moment you set foot on Maratua Island, you’ll feel life’s rhythm slow down—just what you need to detox from city noise. The shoreline is long, the water shifts through blue–turquoise gradients, and shady coconut groves line the village edge. In Payung-Payung, locals are friendly and still rely on the sea, so wooden boats coming and going in the bay are a daily sight. Maratua’s magic isn’t only in the sea; its karst landscape forms caves, blue holes, and lagoons that look dramatic from the air. It’s perfect if you love a mix of snorkeling, leisurely walks, and sunset photo sessions from the village pier. If you’re looking for a place that soothes the heart, this is it.

Must-Visit Spots on Maratua Island

You can tick off nearby destinations bit by bit, keeping the day relaxed while gaining plenty of new experiences.

• Haji Mangku Cave (Halo Tabung Cave): This deep-blue natural pool in Payung-Payung Village is Maratua’s main draw. From the beach, the path to the cave is now neater, with a short wooden walkway to the rim. The water is calm and clear; the deepest part gives a fun thrill for low-cliff jumps, while the shallow side is comfortable for a soak. Come at midday when light pours in from above—the effect makes the water glow like neon. Stay cautious: check waves and currents at the entrance. Wear non-slip footwear as karst rock can be sharp. A must-visit if you want to feel another side of Maratua beyond the beach.
• Turtle Traffic: Divers often talk about this spot for the busy turtle crossings around Maratua. When the current is right, you can see green turtles gliding by, sometimes with schools of reef fish and the occasional reef shark cruising in the distance. While ideal for experienced divers, snorkelers can also join tours under local guide supervision. Key tip: use reef-safe sunscreen and keep your distance—don’t touch the turtles. Let them pass peacefully so their natural behavior isn’t disturbed. This is one reason many call Maratua a paradise for marine-life lovers.
• Teluk Harapan Pier: In the late afternoon, Maratua’s life seems to gather at Teluk Harapan pier. Local kids fish, boats return from the sea, and the sky turns orange. If you love photography, sunset moments here blend with silhouettes of boats and wooden piles. Morning is also good for an easy swim since the water is relatively calm. Need a snack? A warung near the pier sells coffee and fritters—perfect to start a day of exploring. This spot is also a common meeting point for island hopping tours.

To wrap this section simply: enjoy Maratua’s rhythm without rushing. In Payung-Payung, get used to greeting locals, keep things clean, and shop at neighborhood stalls. The more you blend in, the more your holiday feels not just like a stopover but truly a homecoming to nature.

snorkeling and Diving Guide in Maratua and Surroundings

The waters around Maratua Island are a front porch to some of Indonesia’s most renowned underwater sites. Ocean currents deliver nutrients that keep coral thriving and fish congregating. For beginner snorkelers, resort jetties and village piers are enough to see live coral and schools of small fish. For experienced divers, challenging currents with drop-offs and channels await at specific points arranged by local operators. Completing the package, island hopping from Maratua reaches Kakaban Island with its non-stinging jellyfish lake, and Sangalaki Island, known for mantas and turtle conservation. This combination enriches your trip without changing bases multiple times. (source: Global Conservation)

Best Underwater Locations

Balance your dive days—mix the easy with the challenging.

• Kakaban Island (Jellyfish Lake): In the middle of Kakaban Island lies a giant brackish lake inhabited by millions of non-stinging jellyfish from four species. Slightly above sea level, the lake became a natural laboratory of evolution after thousands of years of isolation. Visitors can snorkel alongside the gentle jellyfish—an experience rare in the world. Access is via wooden stairs to the lake edge. Follow local rules, such as avoiding certain fins in shallow areas, and don’t touch the jellyfish excessively to preserve the ecosystem. From Maratua, many operators offer combined Kakaban–Sangalaki tours.
• Sangalaki Island: The waters of Sangalaki are famed for manta routes and turtle conservation. At night in certain seasons, turtles come ashore to nest, while by day you might see mantas circling cleaning stations. Local managers provide conservation education for visitors—great for families. Currents can be strong, so follow your guide’s briefing. Trips from Maratua are often combined with Kakaban, making for a full day of education and underwater adventure.
• Green Nirvana Jetty, Maratua: For a relaxed snorkeling session without a long boat ride, the area around one resort jetty on Maratua is a favorite. Shallow coral, colorful small fish, and the occasional turtle passing at mid-depth. Mornings usually offer clearer visibility. Stick to basic etiquette: don’t stand on coral and don’t feed fish. It’s a nice warm-up before you head to current-swept spots or tougher channels.

Bottom line: don’t try to chase every spot at once. Listen to local operators, check the daily weather, and prioritize safety. The more patient you are, the more surprises you’ll find beneath the surface.

Access and Transportation to Maratua Island

Getting to Maratua Island is now much simpler. The fastest option is to fly to Maratua Airport (RTU) right on the island. The airport has a runway of about 1,600 meters and serves short-haul turboprops connecting cities in Kalimantan and nearby areas on certain schedules. If you prefer a more gradual journey, a popular route is to fly to Tanjung Redeb, continue overland for about 2–3 hours to Tanjung Batu Port, then take a Speedboat to Maratua. Whichever you choose, confirm boat schedules and weather, especially during windy seasons. This flexibility makes it easy to tailor your itinerary to your leave days and budget.

Best Routes

Choose according to your time and travel style.

• Maratua Airport (RTU, WAQC): Ideal if you want to land and start your vacation right away. The roughly 1,600-meter runway suits turboprops. From the airport to Payung-Payung is only minutes by car depending on your lodging. Many accommodations offer paid pick-up. As flights aren’t daily, plan well ahead and always check baggage policies for dive gear if you’re bringing your own.
• From Tanjung Redeb to Tanjung Batu, then to Maratua: After arriving in Tanjung Redeb, continue overland to Tanjung Batu Port. The highway is smooth in many sections and there are eateries for breaks. At the port, charter a Speedboat or join a regular boat per schedule. This route is a favorite because costs can be reduced if traveling in a group, plus the coastal scenery makes for a pleasant road trip.
• Join an Island Hopping Trip: Many operators offer day packages from Maratua combining Kakaban and Sangalaki. Departures are usually in the morning from the pier, returning by late afternoon. Such packages save time as they include basic permits and a guide. Be sure to ask about equipment details, lunch, and weather policies.

In short, pick the route that relaxes you most. If time is tight, landing at RTU is a winner. If you enjoy layered journeys and want to savor the overland–coastal route, the Tanjung Redeb and Tanjung Batu combo feels more adventurous.

Accommodation Recommendations on Maratua Island and in Tanjung Redeb

Staying on Maratua Island means waking up to the sea. But if you arrive at night or need to catch an early flight, staying in Tanjung Redeb as a transit town is practical. Below are relevant options we’ve matched with current accommodation directories, aligned with addresses in East Kalimantan and Berau Regency. Tip: contact properties well in advance, especially in peak season, and ask about pier or airport transfers.

Staying on Maratua Island

• Noah Maratua Resort: Located in Teluk Harapan, Maratua Island, this waterfront stay suits those seeking tranquility with easy access to the pier and marine activities. Rooms face the water, so you can enjoy mornings with endless blue views. Many guests choose snorkeling packages or tours to Kakaban and Sangalaki directly from here, lightening daily logistics. Its Teluk Harapan location puts you close to local warungs for an afternoon coffee. Staff usually help coordinate airport or pier pick-up if needed.
• Sienna Resort Maratua: Set in Alulu Bay, Maratua Island, this resort is a comfortable option for couples and families. Its advantages include easy shallow-water snorkeling around the jetty and a peaceful atmosphere—ideal for a slow holiday. From here you can drive briefly to Haji Mangku Cave in Payung-Payung or slip over to Teluk Harapan for sunset. Ask about day-trip packages that include boat, guide, and lunch so you can head out carefree to favorite spots.

Comfortable Transit in Tanjung Redeb

• Grand Parama Hotel: In central Tanjung Redeb, this hotel is a good base before or after island crossings. Spacious rooms, easy food options nearby, and staff accustomed to guests with marine gear. Strategically located for arranging overland logistics like car hire to Tanjung Batu Port. If you’re chasing an early flight or arriving late, this practical, budget-friendly pick is a favorite.
• Berau Square Hotel: A comfortable transit alternative in Tanjung Redeb with quick access to the outbound road. Great if you want solid rest before the drive. Around the hotel are local eateries and minimarkets so you can prep supplies the night before. Ask about takeaway breakfast if you’re leaving for the port at dawn.

In short, staying in Maratua gives you an uninterrupted waterfront experience, while Tanjung Redeb is practical for a tighter travel rhythm. Choose according to your style.

Island Hopping from Maratua: Kakaban, Sangalaki, and Derawan

One advantage of staying in Maratua is how easily you can reach iconic islands in the Derawan Archipelago in a single day. The common pattern: depart in the morning, stop at Kakaban for snorkeling in the jellyfish lake, continue to Sangalaki for mantas and turtle education, then drop by Derawan Island for a relaxed lunch and souvenir shopping. This way you combine underwater experiences, conservation, and lively village vibes in one efficient loop. Bring enough cash and a Dry bag to keep belongings safe.

One-Day Itinerary

• Kakaban Island: Head to Kakaban in the morning, climb the wooden stairs to the lake edge, then snorkel peacefully among non-stinging jellyfish. Bring a clean mask and follow local rangers’ guidance to avoid damaging this fragile ecosystem. Afterward, head back to the beach for a short break. This unique experience is a highlight of trips from Maratua.
• Sangalaki Island: Toward midday, continue to Sangalaki. If you’re lucky, you’ll see mantas gliding gracefully. At night in season, turtles come ashore to nest and some education posts offer conservation briefings. Remember to keep your distance and avoid shining lights directly at turtles. It’s a place to learn respect for nature while on holiday.
• Derawan Island: In the afternoon, stop by Derawan for food, coffee, or a leisurely stroll through the lively tourist village. There are plenty of souvenir shops and warungs. If time allows, a short snorkel around the jetty will already have you grinning—fish love the camera. A sweet finale before returning to Maratua at dusk.

The key is to stay flexible with currents and weather. Let local guides decide the best order so you get maximum visibility and a safe trip.

Practical Tips for Visiting Maratua Island

To keep your holiday smooth, don’t overlook these small details with big impact. First, the weather: in eastern Borneo, wind and currents can shift, so always check the daily marine forecast and don’t push it if conditions aren’t favorable. Second, connectivity and cash: internet signal can fluctuate, especially in remote areas, and EDC machines can be unreliable. Carry enough cash and keep some aside for boats and meals. Third, boats and flights don’t always run daily, so plan a buffer day for arrival or departure.

Important Notes

• Seasons and Weather: The dry season usually offers better visibility for snorkeling and diving, but stay flexible because local winds can change plans. Prepare a backup plan—village strolls or time on the pier—when waves aren’t friendly. That way you still enjoy the day without feeling you’ve missed out.
• Conservation Etiquette: Many points in Maratua, Kakaban, and Sangalaki are sensitive habitats. Don’t step on coral, don’t touch turtles or mantas, and use reef-safe sunscreen. Pack out your trash, including cigarette butts and small plastics. With simple habits, you help keep this home for millions of marine creatures healthy for future generations.
• Cash and Signal: Some accommodations accept bank transfers, but connections can be unstable. Keep small bills for entrance fees, mask rentals, and fresh coconuts from beach stalls. Bring a power bank too, as electricity in some areas is conserved at night.

If you keep these tips in mind, the rest is to enjoy. Maratua teaches us to slow down, feel the sea air, and return home with stories full of sweet surprises.