Derawan Islands
An Indonesian marine paradise home to giant sea turtles and stingless jellyfish.
Welcome to Derawan Islands
Located off the coast of East Kalimantan, the Derawan Islands are an idyllic tropical archipelago of low-lying islands, white sandbanks, and shallow lagoons. The islands are famous as one of the largest nesting grounds for green sea turtles in the world, with giant turtles frequently seen swimming through the shallow waters right beneath local stilt guesthouses.
Prehistoric Jellyfish & Oceanic Giants
The surrounding islands hide incredible natural wonders. On Kakaban Island, visitors can swim in a unique saltwater lake filled with millions of stingless jellyfish that lost their defenses due to a lack of predators. Nearby Sangalaki Island is a famous feeding station for oceanic manta rays, which glide gracefully through the water to feed on rich plankton.
Derawan Eco-Festival & Sailing Regattas
The islands are celebrated annually during the Derawan Eco-Festival. This marine-focused event brings together travelers and marine biologists for turtle hatchling release ceremonies along the beaches, coral reef planting drives, and eco-marathon swims between the islands. The festival also features colorful sailing regattas hosted by the local Bajau communities, who decorate their traditional outriggers in vibrant geometric patterns.