Derawan Islands, East Borneo

Out of all the Indonesia dive sites, and there are many, Derawan Islands are a favorite amongst divers around the world, so it is also believed to be one of the best dive sites in Indonesia. Derawan is a small series of islands off the coast of East Kalimantan (East Borneo) that is home to one of the three known jellyfish lakes, the other two being in Palau and Raja Ampat's Misool Island.

Located in a biodiversity hotspot, the Derawan Islands feature 872 species of reef fishes, 507 species of coral, and invertebrates including protected species such as giant clam, two different sea turtle and coconut crab. Some of the islands harbor the largest green turtle nesting sites in Indonesia. Maratua, Sangalaki, and Kakaban in Derawans would be the best dive locations for tour suggestions. The major draw at Sangalaki is the gigantic manta rays. The shallow, high-current sites known as Manta Point, which involves reef-hook dive, are the most popular spots here; for the best manta sightings, consider diving it with friends or family may be a pleasant activity.