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When To Go · Destination Guide

Derawan Islands

Mantas, turtles, and a stingless jellyfish lake in a remote Coral Triangle corner of Borneo

Updated Dec 13, 2025 • 12 sources

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When to go

Best time to visit Derawan Islands

Derawan is equatorial and warm yearround, with water often around 28°C.

Best overall window

April - October

Drier weather, steadier seas, and more consistent visibility. Water stays around 28°C.

Outside that window

Wetter monsoon months can bring heavier rain and choppier crossings, especially when winds build to 20 km/h or more.

Choose your trip style

Start with the overall answer, then switch only when scuba, freedive, snorkel, or topside timing changes the trip in a meaningful way.

Month-by-month planner

The overall row stays visible so you can compare it against the currently selected scope.

BestGoodTradeoffsMore variable
ScopeJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Overall
Wildlife goals and seasonal highlights

These do not replace the overall planner. Use them only if a specific animal or event is driving your trip dates.

  • Manta rays around Sangalaki

    Best for Scuba, Snorkel, Freedive

    Year-round

    JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

    Mantas are a headline feature of Sangalaki.

  • Green turtle nesting and hatchlings

    Best for Snorkel, Scuba, Topside

    Apr to Sep

    JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

    Turtles are common yearround, but nesting activity often peaks in the middle of the year on key beaches.

  • Kakaban lake swim conditions

    Best for Snorkel, Topside

    May to Sep

    JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

    Drier months usually mean easier logistics and more comfortable lake swims.

  • Whale shark chances on Berau coast (bagan platforms)

    Best for Snorkel, Freedive, Scuba

    Mar to Jun

    JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

    Some itineraries add a mainland coast day for possible whale shark encounters around fishing platforms.

Always true for this destination
  • Holidays can shift prices: Indonesian school holidays and major festivals (often June August) can raise demand.
Seasonal cautions
  • Apr, Oct: Transition months with mixed weather. Good deals if you can stay flexible with boat days.
  • Nov to Mar: Wetter monsoon months can bring heavier rain and choppier crossings, especially when winds build to 20 km/h or more.

Built from climate references, access rules, and destination operators. Wildlife timing and route flexibility can shift year to year.