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Diving and snorkeling in Derawan islands isn’t just about seeing marine life—it’s about starting your underwater journey in one of the most peaceful, vibrant, and beginner-friendly places in Indonesia. Whether you’re taking your first breath from a regulator or gliding over the reef with just a mask and snorkel, the Derawan Islands offer the kind of calm conditions and rich biodiversity that make every moment unforgettable.
Somewhere off the coast of Borneo, tucked inside the Coral Triangle, lies a small group of islands where the water glows blue, the turtles swim freely, and the reefs feel alive.
If you’ve ever dreamed of learning to dive or finally giving snorkeling a proper go, there may be no better place than here—the Derawan Islands. Remote, uncrowded, and full of marine life, this is one of Indonesia’s best-kept secrets.
This guide is for first-time snorkelers, Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) guests, and those looking to complete their Open Water or Advanced certification in a friendly, low-pressure environment.
The Derawan archipelago includes Derawan, Sangalaki, Kakaban, and Maratua—each with its own charm. Clear water, gentle currents, and a huge variety of marine life make diving and snorkeling in Derawan islands stress-free and inspiring. And because it’s remote, you’ll often have the water to yourself.
The dives here are shallow (often 5–18 meters), the visibility is excellent, and the reefs are full of gentle encounters with turtles, reef fish, and sometimes even manta rays. Many guests even see turtles from their water bungalow before stepping into the sea.
There are no crowds, no pressure, and no chaotic beach scenes. It’s just you, your guide, and a truly magical underwater world waiting to be explored.
Not quite ready to try diving? Snorkeling around the Derawan Islands offers a window into the same beauty—without the tank.
At Sangalaki, you might float just meters above a feeding manta ray. In Derawan’s shallow seagrass beds, you’ll likely spot green turtles gliding by. Off Maratua, healthy coral gardens attract reef fish, stingrays, and even the occasional leopard shark if you’re lucky.
And don’t worry if you’ve never snorkeled before. Our guides are used to beginners and will make sure your gear fits properly, you feel comfortable, and you know exactly how to move and breathe.
If you’ve never dived before but you’re curious, Discover Scuba Diving is your chance to try it without committing to a full course.
You’ll begin in calm, shallow water, close to shore, where you’ll learn how to breathe underwater and practice a few basic skills. Then—once you’re ready—you’ll follow your instructor into the reef, gliding among fish and corals in one of the safest environments in Indonesia.
Calm, shallow sites around are exactly why diving and snorkeling in Derawan islands is so beginner-friendly. Expect gentle currents, incredible visibility, and a surprising amount of marine life—even on your very first dive.
Many guests arrive here having snorkeled for years and finally decide to take the plunge—literally—by signing up for their PADI Open Water Course.
The course usually takes 3 days, and includes:
Already certified? The Advanced Open Water Course is a great way to explore deeper sites and build confidence. Plus, many dive spots like Meditation Wall, Gorgonzola, or Barracuda Point are perfect for gaining more experience while still enjoying a relaxed pace.
The answer? A little bit of everything – nothing guaranteed
When you’re not in the water, you’ll be relaxing at our resort on Derawan Island. Wake up to a view of the sea, enjoy breakfast with fellow divers, and finish the day with sunset beers and turtle sightings from the deck.
You can walk the whole island in 45 minutes, visit local shops and warungs, and even spot baby guitar sharks in the shallows after dark.
To make the most of diving and snorkeling in Derawan islands, here is a check list of what you can’t forget when visiting Scuba Junkie Sangalaki;
At Scuba Junkie Sangalaki, we specialize in introducing guests to the underwater world in a fun, safe, and supportive environment. Whether you’re dipping your face in the sea for the first time, or taking your first breath from a regulator—we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Already tried snorkeling but want to go deeper? Curious about your first manta ray encounter?
Leave us a comment—we’d love to help you plan your first underwater adventure 🐠
