Balikpapan Hotels
Beautiful Balikpapan
Balikpapan is known for its kindly locals, luscious nature and pretty beaches that even views of sprawling oil rigs and tankers cannot spoil. Tourists are flocking to this corner of Indonesia, drawn to the picture-perfect setting and enjoying the luxury that mining and petroleum resources can build. Balikpapan may not exactly be Southeast Asia’s Dubai – yet; but it’s heading in that direction. ... Read more »
Considering Balikpapan sees a tanker-load of warm and sunny days, any visit should start with the beaches. Hit the shores of Lamaru Beach,Melwai Beach and Kemala Beach for a cool dip and plenty of shell-strewn sands, and swap the sprawling concrete for sprawling greenery at Bakapai Garden. Got some coinage left over? Shop up a storm at Pasar Klandasan and Pasar Kebun Sayur – they don’t call it ‘black gold’ for nothing…
BALIKPAPAN’S TOP 10
10. Dapur Bunda Laze on the sands of this pretty beach while soaking up the rays. |
5. Agro Tourism Garden With over 100 hectares of green, this is the place for a concrete-free respite. |
9. Wana Wisata These gardens are an ideal break from the city buzz, with plenty of flowery photo ops. |
4. Kebun Sayur Traditional Market Grab some local handicrafts and gemmed-up bling at this iconic market. |
8. Mahakam River Take a slow, scenic cruise and breathe in that fresh Balikpapan air. |
3. BOS Orangutan Sanctuary and Eco Lodge Head north to learn about the much-needed conservation efforts. |
7. Teritip Crocodile Farm If you’re game, they also have crocodile meat satay on the menu! |
2. Bukit Bangkirai The lush forest around this hill can be accessed by one of the coolest (and scariest) canopy bridges in the world. |
6. Plaza Balikpapan Craving a commercial fix? With everything from Dunkin’ Donuts to Ralph Lauren, this is your place. |
1. Manggar Beach The best beach in the city boasts pretty sands and even prettier people. |
BALIKPAPAN EVENTS
The Borneo International Kite Festival welcomes kite flyers from 40 countries to Balikpapan in February. Is anyone else wondering how they never seem to get tangled up there?
July’s Balikpapan Fair celebrates and promotes the city’s history and spirit through folk-style concerts, food, handicraft markets and vibrant parades.
The Balikpapan Arts Festival in August is the biggest event on Balikpapan’s calendar. It often has a ‘green’ theme, so expect plenty of enviro-friendly artwork.
WHEN TO GO
- The weather is warm all year round, with an average temperature of 26°C (79°F). February/March is the hottest period, while the coolest month is July.
- Want a dry getaway? Avoid travelling in December and June.
- Humidity soars in April through to June, so expect muggy days and even muggier nights.
GETTING AROUND
- Angkutan Kotas (mini buses) are a popular transport option. While they do have designated routes, drivers are often happy to divert and drop you at your desired destination.
- Taxis are a good (and cheap) way to explore, but book in advance.
- You’ll see a lot of motorbikes trawling the city streets, and you can hire your own if you feel up to tackling the shoddy streets and nightmarish traffic.
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Grand Sudirman Balikpapan 7 Jalan Jendral Sudirman Kalimantan Timur Balikpapan 76111
Featuring cosy accommodation and convenient facilities, Aston Balikpapan Hotel & Residence is the perfect place for vi... More hotel details
