Balikpapan offers a paradise of natural beauty, with breathtaking views of the ocean and mountains, making it the perfect destination for a refreshing holiday.
Balikpapan, known as the “Oil City,” is more than just rich in natural resources. Located in East Kalimantan, it offers a unique combination of natural beauty, history, and culture.
With its exotic beaches, protected forests, and fascinating natural attractions, Balikpapan provides a wide range of destinations ideal for visiting with family or friends. Here are 10 must-visit natural attractions in Balikpapan that you should not miss during your trip to the city.
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1. Lamaru Beach: A Tranquil Getaway with Beautiful Natural Views
Lamaru Beach, located in Balikpapan Timur, near the city center, offers a peaceful atmosphere with clean white sand and gentle waves. This beach is perfect for those seeking to relax and enjoy nature while listening to the soothing sound of the ocean.
Visitors can also enjoy stunning sunsets while walking along the beach, surrounded by coconut and pine trees. Entrance is very affordable, costing only around IDR 15,000 per person.
2. Bangkirai Hill: Jungle Adventure and Canopy Bridge
One of Balikpapan’s most popular natural destinations, Bangkirai Hill is located about 1.5 hours from the city center. It offers a remarkable jungle trekking experience.
One of its main attractions is the canopy bridge, which hangs between tall trees, offering breathtaking views from above.
Visitors can also enjoy trekking through the pristine forest, breathing in fresh air while observing rich flora and fauna. For an adrenaline-pumping experience, try walking across the challenging canopy bridge.
3. Melawai Beach: Enjoying Ocean Views in the Heart of the City
Melawai Beach, one of the newer and increasingly popular beaches in Balikpapan, offers soft sand and a relaxing atmosphere.
Unlike other beaches, Melawai is surrounded by hotels and restaurants, allowing visitors to enjoy local cuisine while taking in the ocean views. This beach is also an ideal spot for watching the sunset with fishermen’s boats sailing in the background.
4. Bekapai Park: A Green Space in the Heart of the City
Bekapai Park is a popular relaxation spot for the residents of Balikpapan. Equipped with various facilities such as gazebos, jogging tracks, free Wi-Fi, and food stalls, it is perfect for a light picnic, exercising, or simply enjoying the fresh air.
If you visit in the morning or late afternoon, you’ll experience a more comfortable atmosphere with locals enjoying the park.
5. Balikpapan Botanical Garden: A Diversity of Kalimantan’s Flora
Balikpapan Botanical Garden, located in the Wain River Protected Forest, is the perfect place for those interested in Kalimantan’s flora.
Opened in 2014, this botanical garden serves as a conservation and educational site for rare plants from across Indonesia. You can enjoy jogging paths while learning about the various plant species in the garden.
6. Lamaru Mirror Lake: A Peaceful Escape with Scenic Views
Lamaru Mirror Lake offers a serene natural destination with crystal-clear waters, allowing you to see the reflection of surrounding trees in the water.
The untouched environment makes this an ideal spot for visitors seeking tranquility. Many also come here for photo opportunities or to hike the surrounding hills for panoramic views.
7. Sepingan Beach: The Best Spot for Sunset Views
Sepingan Beach is an alternative destination for those wanting to enjoy stunning sunset views in Balikpapan. The beach offers calm waters and a beautiful orange sky at dusk.
There’s also a long wooden pier extending over the sea, making it a perfect place for a stroll or to take photos. If you want to witness a breathtaking sunset, Sepingan Beach is the place to go.
8. Kemala Beach: A Bali-Inspired Coastal Experience
Kemala Beach offers a coastal atmosphere reminiscent of Bali’s famous beaches. Located on Jalan Jenderal Sudirman, this beach is surrounded by seafood restaurants.
You can also enjoy the various facilities around the beach, such as pavilions to relax in while enjoying the sea breeze. Kemala Beach has been renovated to provide a better experience for visitors, featuring a Bali-themed design.
9. Manggar Reservoir: A Scenic Water Source with Stunning Views
Manggar Reservoir, primarily used as a clean water source, also offers stunning natural views. You can walk along the wooden deck surrounding the reservoir, enjoying the fresh air. This spot is also ideal for fishing or just relaxing in the peaceful atmosphere.
10. Sungai Wain Protected Forest: A Tropical Biodiversity Paradise
Sungai Wain Protected Forest (HLSW) is one of Balikpapan’s most famous natural attractions. Spanning over 10,000 hectares, this forest is home to various endemic species, including endangered animals like orangutans and proboscis monkeys.
Visitors can explore the area to witness the incredible biodiversity or use QR codes to learn about the different plants. Sungai Wain Protected Forest is the perfect place for an adventure and to learn about the rich tropical ecosystem.
Balikpapan is not only known as the “Oil City” but also as an incredible nature destination. From exotic beaches to protected forests full of unique flora and fauna, Balikpapan offers a wide range of unforgettable natural experiences.
Whether you’re seeking peace, adventure, or simply want to enjoy nature’s beauty, Balikpapan is the perfect destination for your next holiday. Make sure to visit the best natural attractions in Balikpapan on your next trip!
