Sangalaki Island Nature Reserve: A Hidden Gem of Borneo’s Marine Paradise

Sanglaki, one of the islands in Borneo, is not only beautiful but also rich in wildlife, especially its sea turtle conservation area. Photo credit: Eremespe.

🌍 BALIKPAPAN | BORNEOTRAVEL:  Borneo holds a wealth of natural treasures, making it a fascinating travel destination worldwide. However, it remains relatively undiscovered due to limited promotion or a lack of international tour campaigns. One of Borneo’s "paradise nature destinations" is Sanglaki.

Nestled within the pristine waters of the Derawan Archipelago in Berau, East Kalimantan, Sangalaki Island Nature Reserve stands as an ecological sanctuary of extraordinary significance. 

Spanning an area nearly 15 times the size of a football field, this remote island serves as a critical nesting ground for two endangered sea turtle species: the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) and the Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas). 

As one of the most vital conservation sites for Green Turtles in Southeast Asia, Sangalaki’s ecological value is unparalleled.

A Conservation Jewel in Borneo’s Emerald Waters

Among the many enchanting islands that dot the waters of Berau, Sangalaki is the only officially designated conservation area. This distinction grants it an exceptional role in preserving marine biodiversity. 

Sanglaki remains stunning up close. Usually, a view looks beautiful from a distance but loses its charm up close—not this one. Photo credit: Eremespe.

Approximately 95% of its 264-hectare expanse consists of protected marine ecosystems, featuring pristine coastal forests, expansive seagrass beds, and vibrant coral reefs. These ecosystems form an underwater paradise teeming with marine life, making Sangalaki a premier destination for eco-tourism and diving enthusiasts alike.

Visitors are greeted by crystalline blue waters brimming with a dazzling array of marine species. The island’s thriving coral reefs host an abundance of colorful reef fish, including clownfish, Napoleon wrasse, reef sharks, and a diverse range of mollusks. 

The unspoiled condition of the reefs underscores Sangalaki’s significance as a marine conservation stronghold.

The Manta Ray Phenomenon

For seasoned divers, Sangalaki offers an unparalleled opportunity to encounter one of the ocean’s most majestic creatures—the manta ray. 

The island is a primary aggregation site for Manta birostris, thanks to the nutrient-rich waters laden with zooplankton, their primary food source. 

Nowhere else in the Berau Marine Protected Area do manta rays congregate in such high numbers. The best time to witness this awe-inspiring spectacle is between May and June when these gentle giants glide effortlessly through the water in mesmerizing formations.

A Haven for Turtle Conservation

Beyond its appeal to divers, Sangalaki is renowned for its role in sea turtle conservation. As the only turtle conservation island in Berau, it plays host to four species: the Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Olive Ridley Turtle, and the Leatherback Turtle. 

Sea turtles are one of the main attractions of Sanglaki Island: visitors can observe their life cycle, from eggs to hatchlings ready to venture into the wild. Photo credit: Eremespe.

Among these, Green Turtles are the most commonly observed, often growing up to 1.5 meters in length. Each nesting event sees a single female lay up to 100 eggs, a process that unfolds under the cover of darkness and can last for hours.

Despite the abundance of nests, the survival rate of hatchlings remains stark. According to conservation officers on the island, only one in a thousand eggs successfully matures into an adult turtle —a sobering reminder of the fragility of marine life.

Breathtaking Landscapes and Idyllic Beaches

Sangalaki’s allure extends beyond its marine wonders. The island is fringed by powdery white-sand beaches that gently slope toward the turquoise sea. 

Measuring between 12 and 15 meters in width, these pristine shores are composed of coarse coral fragments, lending them a unique texture. Visitors can lounge under the equatorial sun, explore the scenic coastline, or capture breathtaking vistas framed by the island’s lush greenery.

The island’s beaches provide an unmatched vantage point for witnessing dramatic sunrises and sunsets. As twilight descends, the sky transforms into a breathtaking palette of orange and violet hues, while the night unveils an uninterrupted view of the stars. This serene backdrop creates a tranquil retreat for those seeking to reconnect with nature.

Accessibility and Accommodations

Sangalaki is well-equipped to accommodate visitors seeking both adventure and relaxation. A range of lodgings, including Derawan Dive Resort, Fisheries Eco Villa, Sari Cottage Derawan, and Derawan Dive Lodge, offers comfortable stays tailored to varying budgets. Guests can also indulge in the region’s culinary delights, from freshly grilled seafood to traditional Bornean delicacies like Soto Banjar and Nasi Kuning.

Reaching Sangalaki requires a multi-leg journey. Travelers typically fly from Jakarta, Surabaya, or Balikpapan to Berau’s Kalimarau Airport. From there, a land transfer to Tanjung Batu Harbor is followed by a scenic 90-minute speedboat ride to the island. While the trip may be lengthy, the reward—a glimpse into one of the planet’s most spectacular marine ecosystems—makes it unequivocally worthwhile.

Diving into an Underwater Wonderland

The true magic of Sangalaki lies beneath its surface. The island’s shallow lagoons, interspersed with lush seagrass beds and vibrant coral formations, host an astonishing variety of marine life. Divers can explore a world teeming with exotic species, including clownfish, seahorses, flying fish, and the elusive Napoleon wrasse.

Among Sangalaki’s most celebrated attractions is the annual gathering of manta rays, with some individuals spanning up to 7 meters in width. During peak season, groups of up to 20 mantas can be seen effortlessly gliding through the water, their wing-like fins slicing through the currents with elegant precision.

The island is home to numerous world-class dive sites, each offering a distinct marine experience. Favorites include Channel Entrance, Coral Gardens, Turtle Town, Sandy Ridge, Manta Run, Sherwood Forest, Manta Parade, Manta Avenue, Eel Ridge, Lighthouse, and The Rockies. Due to the strong currents present in some of these locations, diving is recommended for experienced professionals, though beginners can enjoy guided underwater excursions with certified instructors.

A Conservation Legacy

Sangalaki Island Nature Reserve stands as a testament to the delicate balance between conservation and tourism. Its pristine waters, diverse marine life, and unwavering commitment to ecological preservation make it a beacon of sustainable travel in Indonesia.

 Whether exploring the depths of its marine sanctuaries, witnessing the miracle of sea turtle nesting, or simply basking in its natural beauty, Sangalaki offers an experience that is as enriching as it is unforgettable.

-- Masri Sareb Putra