The last time you went snorkeling, did you ever feel like you were in another world, surrounded by colorful fish and beautiful corals? In Derawan, you can experience that sensation every time you dive, as the islands here not only offer stunning beaches but also snorkeling spots in Derawan teeming with marine life, from green turtles to non-stinging jellyfish.
In this article, you’ll find a complete guide to the best snorkeling spots in Derawan. Additionally, there are practical tips to ensure your snorkeling is safe and enjoyable, as well as recommendations for the best tour packages to make your holiday experience unforgettable.
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Snorkeling Spots in Derawan
The Derawan Islands consist of several islands, each with unique underwater characteristics. Every snorkeling spot offers a vibrant underwater world that is not to be missed. Here are some of the main destinations you can explore:
Kakaban Lake
One of the most unique experiences in Derawan can be found at Danau Kakaban, where thousands of non-stinging jellyfish swim freely. Unlike typical jellyfish, you can touch and swim among them without fear. The sensation of moving among these transparent creatures that dance with the current makes you feel like you’re in another world, a truly unforgettable experience.
Besides the jellyfish, the waters around Kakaban are also filled with healthy coral reefs and colorful tropical fish. However, the main attraction remains the unique jellyfish, making Kakaban a must-visit snorkeling spot if you want a rare and different experience from other destinations.
Whaleshark Talisayan
If you’re looking for a thrilling yet amazing snorkeling experience, Whaleshark Talisayan is a spot you cannot miss. Here, you have the rare chance to swim near whale sharks, one of the largest creatures in the world, gracefully moving in their natural habitat. It feels like being in the middle of a spectacular underwater show, an experience that will stay with you forever.
The waters around Talisayan are also rich with coral reefs and tropical fish, creating a captivating underwater scenery. For the best experience, it’s recommended to snorkel in the morning when the currents are calmer and water visibility is optimal. After enjoying the majesty of the whale sharks, you can continue your adventure to other islands in Derawan that offer a combination of beautiful beaches and enchanting underwater worlds.
Read more: Best Destinations to Swim with Whale Sharks in Indonesia
Maratua Island
Maratua Island offers the perfect combination of white sandy beaches and well-preserved coral reefs. Here, many tropical fish swim freely among the corals, creating an underwater scene as stunning as Kakaban or Talisayan.
If you want to explore more spots, many tour operators offer island-hopping packages from Maratua to surrounding islands. This way, you can enjoy snorkeling at several locations without worrying about transportation. After exploring Maratua, your journey can continue to Sangalaki, where you may encounter green turtles in their natural habitat.
Sangalaki Island
Sangalaki Island is famous as a turtle conservation site, so snorkeling here gives you the chance to see turtles swimming or even laying eggs. Its shallow waters make this spot suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. The island also plays a key role in a sea turtle conservation program aimed at increasing their numbers.
Aside from turtles, Sangalaki offers a vibrant underwater world, complete with tropical fish and healthy corals. The calm atmosphere around the island makes snorkeling even more enjoyable. After exploring Sangalaki, you can end your day with a relaxing dive at one of Derawan’s hidden gems, Manimbora Island.
Manimbora Island
Manimbora Island is a hidden gem in Derawan, with calm waters and pristine beaches, perfect for those who want a peaceful snorkeling experience away from crowds. The island is also often called SpongeBob Island because its shape resembles the famous cartoon.
The coral reefs in Manimbora are still natural and rarely touched by humans. You can find exotic fish, unique corals, and enjoy the serene sea atmosphere. This makes your snorkeling experience more personal and different from the main destinations, closing your Derawan adventure with calm and mesmerizing moments. Visitors should avoid bringing plastic waste to minimize impact on the environment, helping to preserve the pristine beauty of the island.
Snorkeling Tips in Derawan
After exploring various snorkeling spots in Derawan, it’s also important for you to know some tips to make your experience safer, more comfortable, and enjoyable. By keeping these simple points in mind, you can enjoy the vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and unique underwater life of Derawan without worries.
- Use a Life Jacket or Flotation Device
To make your snorkeling safer, especially if the currents are strong or you’re a beginner, always wear a life jacket or flotation device. This allows you to focus on enjoying the underwater beauty without concern. - Snorkel in the Morning
Morning snorkeling provides calmer waters and better visibility, so you can see every detail of vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish clearly. It’s also the best time for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. - Avoid Touching Corals or Marine Animals
To preserve the ecosystem, make sure you don’t touch corals or marine animals. This keeps their natural habitat intact while allowing you to enjoy the underwater beauty. - Bring a Waterproof Camera
You definitely want to capture every incredible moment while snorkeling, right? Bringing a waterproof camera lets you document your adventure without worrying about water damage. - Use Eco-Friendly Sunscreen
In addition to protecting your skin from the sun, use eco-friendly sunscreen to keep the coral reefs healthy. This way, you can snorkel longer while preserving the surrounding nature. - Join a Trusted Tour Operator
For a more practical, safe, and enjoyable experience, joining a trusted tour operator is highly recommended. They provide professional guides and complete equipment, allowing you to focus on enjoying Derawan’s waters while learning more about marine life and turtle conservation.
Read more: Complete Guide to a Exploring Derawan with IndonesiaJuara Trip
Let’s Experience Snorkeling in Derawan with IndonesiaJuara Trip!
After discovering the various snorkeling spots in Derawan and learning tips for a safer and more enjoyable experience, it’s clear that the Derawan Islands offer underwater beauty that’s hard to match. From swimming with jellyfish at Danau Kakaban to witnessing whale sharks in Talisayan, every snorkeling experience gives unforgettable moments, especially if you explore the waters the right way. Guided boat tours are available to explore the diverse snorkeling locations around the Derawan Islands, making it easier to access multiple spots.
To make your snorkeling holiday easier, more practical, and enjoyable, you can join a Derawan Tour with IndonesiaJuara Trip. We provide complete tour packages, from transportation and professional guides to accommodation, allowing you to focus on enjoying coral reefs, tropical fish, and beautiful beaches without hassle. With our professional experience, your snorkeling adventure in Derawan will be safer, more comfortable, and full of unforgettable moments ready to capture.
