Have you ever dreamed of an island that feels like the Maldives but is actually hidden in the far corners of Indonesia? That’s exactly what you’ll find on Maratua Island. A remote slice of heaven located in East Kalimantan, close to the borders of Malaysia and the Philippines. This island is part of the Derawan Islands archipelago, and honestly, it's one of Indonesia’s best-kept secrets.
Whether you’re planning your Indonesia trip or just fantasizing about white sand beaches and turquoise waters, a Maratua tour should absolutely be on your radar.
A Place Where Nature Still Breathes
Maratua is the kind of island that feels untouched. The crystal-clear blue waters, vibrant coral reefs, and stretches of empty beach are postcard-perfect. Picture wooden cottages perched above the sea, connected by long wooden walkways that stretch into the ocean. Yes, it looks like something out of the Maldives, but with its own authentic Indonesian charm.
One of the most famous resorts here is the Green Nirvana Maratua Resort, where you can literally wake up above the ocean and step straight into the water from your private balcony. Another top choice is Maratua Paradise Resort, a favorite among divers and honeymooners alike. If you're seeking something cozier, Hotel Arasatu Maratua and other hotel Maratua island options offer homier vibes with stunning ocean views.
Getting to Maratua, It’s a Journey, But So Worth It
Getting to Maratua Island isn’t as easy as hopping on a tour bus, but that’s part of what makes it special. There are three main routes to choose from:
- By Air. The fastest and most comfortable way is by flight. You can fly directly to Maratua Airport, officially operating since 2017. Airlines like Susi Air serve this route, although schedules may vary.
- By Land + Sea. Travel from Berau to Tanjung Batu by car (about 2.5 hours), then take a speedboat to Maratua (around 1.5 hours).
- By Boat Only. From the Taman Sanggam Port in Berau, you can hop on a direct boat to Maratua. This scenic trip takes about 3.5 hours across the sea.
If you’re coming from a major city like Jakarta or Surabaya, expect to spend a bit more for this leg of your Indonesia adventure, but every rupiah is worth it once you set foot on the island.
Things to Do in Maratua, More Than Just Sunbathing
Sure, relaxing is great, but Maratua is full of adventure too! The underwater world here is unbelievable. You don’t even need a diving license to enjoy it, just grab some snorkel gear and explore.
You’ll discover colorful coral reefs, countless tropical fish, sea turtles, and maybe even a passing manta ray. This is why Derawan Maratua is often called a diver’s paradise.
If you are a certified diver, dive spots around Derawan Island and Maratua Paradise Resort offer some of the richest marine biodiversity in the world. And yes, equipment rental is easily available.
When you’re not swimming or snorkeling, take time to hike around the island, visit the Gusung Sanggalau sandbank, or explore caves like Goa Kehe Kabok and Goa Sukur. These places are not just scenic, they carry myths, secrets, and old legends from the local culture.
Top Scenic Spots for the Perfect Instagram Shot
Maratua isn’t just a place to relax, it’s a photographer’s dream. Whether it’s a sunrise or sunset, the island is full of picture-perfect spots:
- Sunset Point
- Pantai Gusung Penyu (Turtle Beach)
- Batu Mahligai (Royal Rock)
- Kehe Daing Blue Lake
- Mangrove Gardens
- And don’t forget the classic jetty shot from Green Nirvana Maratua Resort
These locations are also ideal for bird watching and spotting rare animals like Ketam Kenari (giant coconut crab) and native monkeys.
Where to Stay? From Budget to Luxury
Accommodations on Maratua range from cozy homestays to luxurious overwater resorts. Prices start at around IDR 400,000 per night for simpler stays and can go up to several million rupiah for premium ocean-view cottages.
Top picks include:
- Green Nirvana Maratua Resort
- Maratua Paradise Resort
- Hotel Arasatu Maratua
- Other locally-run hotel Maratua island options
Whether you’re a backpacker or a honeymooner, there’s something for every budget here.
Travel Tips and Budget Advice
To fully enjoy Maratua, plan at least 3–5 days. One week is ideal if you want to explore everything, including the outer islands like Kakaban and Sangalaki. Don’t forget:
- Bring cash (ATMs are rare)
- Pack snorkeling gear if you have it
- Prepare basic meds (just in case)
- And most importantly, book your stay early, especially during peak season
Joining a Maratua tour package is a great idea for first-timers, especially since public transport on the island is limited.
A Touch of Legend, The Tale of Princess Derawan
According to local legend, the nearby Derawan Island got its name from a royal love story. A beautiful princess named Derawan fell in love with a humble fisherman named Sambu. Forbidden by her father, the king, to be with him, she was banished to a remote island, where her tears created small streams that flowed into the sea.
Sambu never gave up. After years of searching, he finally found her, and together they built a life on the island. Over time, the island grew into a beautiful, lush paradise, and the story of their love lives on today.
So when you visit Maratua or Derawan, you’re not just walking into nature, you’re stepping into a place where myths, history, and beauty collide.
Ready to plan your Indonesia trip? Maratua is waiting. It’s not just a destination; it’s a story, a dream, and a paradise, still untouched by time.
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