Lawsons Beach

Dining near the Derawan Islands includes a variety of options. The Maratua Guesthouse and Ananda Maratua Teluk Harapan are not traditional restaurants but offer delicious food, especially seafood. Green Nirvana Maratua Resort also provides great dining experiences. For specific restaurants, April Resto offers local seafood, while Azwar Restaurant provides casual dining options.

Accommodations near the Derawan Islands include a range of options from resorts to lodges. The Maratua Paradise Resort and Arasatu Villas & Sanctuary are renowned for their luxurious amenities. Derawan Dive Lodge offers a diving-focused experience, while Derawan Fisheries Cottage provides a more laid-back stay. For a more exclusive experience, Maratua Blue Resort and Noah Maratua Resort are notable options.

Amenities near the beaches of the Derawan Islands are limited but sufficient for a comfortable stay. Basic facilities like restrooms are available at some resorts and guesthouses. However, picnic areas or rental equipment may not be readily available, making it advisable to plan ahead or check with local resorts for specific offerings. The islands focus more on natural experiences rather than developed amenities.

The Derawan Islands offer a wide array of activities, especially water-based ones. Snorkeling and diving are incredibly popular due to the vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Visitors can also engage in island-hopping tours to explore unique attractions like Kakaban Island’s jellyfish lake and Maratua Island’s stunning lagoons. Additionally, witnessing whale sharks near Talisayan is a thrilling experience for many travelers.

Disability access in the Derawan Islands is limited. While some establishments may have basic amenities like wheelchair accessible seating, they are not widespread. Travelers with specific needs should contact accommodations ahead of time to confirm accessibility options, as the infrastructure in the area is generally not tailored for those with mobility issues.

Parking facilities near the beaches of the Derawan Islands are mostly informal and limited, often consisting of open areas near resorts or villages. Since public transportation is scarce, most visitors rely on private arrangements or speedboats to reach the islands, reducing the need for extensive parking infrastructure.

One of the fascinating aspects of the Derawan Islands is Kakaban Island’s unique jellyfish lake, where four species of stingless jellyfish are found. This natural wonder is a result of the lake’s isolation from the ocean, causing the jellyfish to lose their stinging ability over time. Additionally, the islands are a hotspot for whale sharks due to local fishing practices that unintentionally attract these marine giants.

The Derawan Islands are home to several attractions beyond their beautiful beaches. Kakaban Island is famous for its stunning jellyfish lake, while Sangalaki Island is known for its manta ray cleaning stations. Maratua Island features breathtaking lagoons and hidden caves, making each island a unique destination for exploration and adventure.