2025 Balikpapan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in February)

When traveling in East Kalimantan, don't forget that one of the ecotourism-based tourist attractions that must be visited when we explore Balikpapan as one of the largest cities in East Kalimantan is a crocodile breeding site which is quite famous in Teritip Village not far from the famous Manggar beach as well. This crocodile farm is quite extensive, and there are around 3000 crocodiles, which various ages and types, including Salwater Crocodiles, False Gharial crocodiles/Senyulong and New Guinea Crocodiles which are relatively rare. We can see the life and movements of crocodiles up close also could feeding the crocodiles directly in their cages. A bit spooky too.. But please follow the rules because if you violate the rules you can be attacked by crocodiles. #createwithtrip

Kemala Beach in one of the famous family beach in Balikpapan. The sands and the water are so clean. Many elders and youngsters coming over the weekend especially in the evening hours. We have so much fun playing with the sands and water and definitely a must visit place. #christmasgiveaway #beachlife

Just by hearing the name, you will understand that this hangout is perfect for those who like to read. Carrying a comfortable hangout for reading, where visitors can find various collections of ready-to-read books that have managed to attract attention. Not just any coffee, because coffee dishes from various corners of the archipelago can be found here. To make hanging out more fun, the manager also serves delicious snacks as your best drinking companion. In addition, there is also fast WiFi which is very suitable as the best place to study together. Pegged starting at 15 thousand, it is natural that this one hits cafe is interesting to visit. Location: Jl. RE Martadinata No.2, Telaga Sari, Kec. Balikpapan City, Balikpapan City. #hipsterbookstore#café

Presenting a cozy and comfortable impression, Rooks Cafe Balikpapan is dubbed the best hangout place to unwind. The cozy impression comes from the building which carries a minimalist concept and casual dining is quite good, both in the outdoor and indoor areas. Not just an ordinary hangout, where this popular cafe is also equipped with a t-shirt shop that makes it even more interesting. Like a cafe in general, visitors can order various desired menus according to taste. Whether it's the menu for appetizers, breakfast, dessert, as well as various beverages, both cold and hot as choices. All of the menu has a delicious taste and satisfies the stomach, and is only set at a price starting from Rp. 20 thousand only. Cheap and delicious and the place feels comfortable, it feels like it can be its own plus point. #café

If you feel bored with mainstream cafes, it seems you should visit 21 Cafe. Carrying a unique garden-themed concept decorated with several chandeliers as the main attraction, it makes it feel like you are in your own home. The cozy atmosphere thanks to the greenery and the dim lights, manages to create a romantic and warm impression at the same time. The visitors are increasingly made to feel at home for a long time with the many delicious dishes. Starting from heavy food such as fried rice to fresh vegetables along with a variety of refreshing drinks can be found here. Axotic lechy and Arians Bar, are mainstay menus that can be the best recommendations to try. Evening or evening is said to be the best time to visit 21 Cafe, because in the morning the cafe is converted into a workshop. #café#naturalwonders

D'allium Coffee Cafe is one of the unique and contemporary cafes that is a pity to miss. Its own uniqueness can be seen from the semi-outdoor concept and the dominant use of wooden boards. The color of the wood manages to give a warm and comfortable feel, it's natural for visitors to feel at home. While the main dish emphasizes coffee, although there are still several other menus such as burgers and kebabs that are no less interesting to try. Compared to other cafes, D'allium Coffee Cafe has a fairly roomy size. Thanks to its large size, this place is often used as a gathering place with friends in large numbers or a favorite place to watch football matches together. So that it is no longer a foreign sight when approaching a football match, many local people flock to this one hits cafe. Location: Jl. Balikpapan Regency No.1, Sepinggan, Kec. South Balikpapan, Balikpapan City. #café

The Quiet Point Coffee is a fun cafe for a hangout place for young contemporary people. Here, visitors will be spoiled with minimalist decorations with indoor and semi-outdoor nuances on the terrace area of the building. The lighting is quite dim, so it is very suitable to accompany relaxing time. Serving a variety of coffee menus that manage to bring out a calming and fragrant aroma. Not only coffee, here are also available a variety of delicious non-coffee drinks such as tea and milk along with snacks that are ready to accompany your free time. Thanks to the decorations and various menus, it's only natural that local people make it the best cafe to unwind. All menus served are pegged at pocket-friendly prices, which means they can be the best recommendations when your wallet is running low but you still want to hang out #naturalwonders#café

Open House – Hill Cafe is one of the best hangout places in the city center. Although the location is quite strategic, it turns out that it is hidden among the highlands. Precisely because it is hidden, this popular cafe is much sought after by its fans. How not, Open House – Hill Cafe carries a rooftop concept that presents views of the city of Balikpapan. Around the cafe, you can see shady green trees that can give a cool and calming feel. The concept of the cafe itself is Balinese-style, where the menu served is quite diverse which is ready to pamper the stomach. From dessert menus to main dishes from Indonesia, Asia, and the Mediterranean, you can find them here. No need to be afraid of dry bags, because the prices offered are quite affordable. Location: Jl. Puncak Markoni Atas No.88, Damai, Kec. Balikpapan City, Balikpapan City. #café

The best hotel I’ve ever been privileged enough to stay at. Gorgeous building, and it only gets more breathtaking when you walk in. High quality rooms (there was even a tv by the shower), and high quality service. Also, they are one of few hotels that allow people under 21 to book a reservation. I have stayed at dozen of hotels in Balikpapan. This was on the top of the list of best stays/experiences ever. Staff was very hospitable and there for every need of mine. Thank you so much. They were extremely accommodating and allowed us to check in early at like 10am. We got to hotel super early and I didn’t wanna wait. So this was a big plus. The sevice was exceptional as well. Would definitely send a friend there. #hotel #hoteldeals #hotelcation #hotelexperience #hotelview #indonesia #goodplace #niceplace #amazingplace #comeandsee #review #palace

Balikpapan turns out to be quite busy with beautiful coffee shops, one of which is @uddja.ya which is located in the Wonorejo area. The simple shape of the façade with brownish nuances looks aesthetically pleasing surrounded by a comfortable and cool outdoor space. The staff is friendly, the beverages are delicious, including espresso based coffee, non coffee and manual brew. . UD. DJAYA Coffee Shop Jl. Wonorejo Puncak, Mt. Samarinda, District. North Balikpapan, Balikpapan City, East Kalimantan

Manggrove forest #trip

| An unforgettable equatorial journey. l 🌴 Hey guys, today I want to share a great hotel with you - Four Points by Sheraton Balikpapan! 🏨【Location & Environment】 📍 Located in the charming city of Balikpapan, the surrounding scenery is amazing! It's not far from the bustling city center, so if you want to visit the local market or try some street food, it's just a short drive away. The hotel is cleverly tucked away from the hustle and bustle, with its own tranquil tropical garden, tall swaying palm trees, and the faint scent of frangipani, making you feel like you've stepped into a paradise. The vacation vibe is off the charts! 🛏️【Room Experience】 The rooms are simple yet stylish, with wooden furniture and soft lighting, making you feel right at home. The bedding is soft and skin-friendly, and lying down feels like sinking into a cloud, instantly relieving your travel fatigue. I love the little sofa by the window, where you can sit and enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning sun, while taking in the city and sea views. It's so relaxing! The room is spotless, and as a detail-oriented person, I'm very satisfied! 🍽️【Dining Feast】 The hotel restaurant is a must-try! The breakfast buffet has so many options, from local specialties like satay and nasi lemak to Western-style soft bread and fresh fruit, all of which are delicious. Don't miss the seafood feast during lunch and dinner, with freshly caught and cooked seafood that's tender and flavorful, with just the right amount of spices. There's also a small bar by the pool, where you can enjoy a refreshing cocktail while lounging on a deck chair and watching the sunset. It's a heavenly experience! 🏊‍♀️【Leisure Facilities】 The outdoor pool is spacious, with crystal-clear blue water surrounded by greenery, making you feel like you're swimming in a jungle pool. The gym is well-equipped with brand-new equipment, so you can keep up with your fitness routine even on vacation. There's also a super comfortable spa center, where the skilled therapists will massage away all your muscle tension, leaving you feeling relaxed and ready to take on the world! 💁‍♀️【Thoughtful Service】 From the moment you step into the hotel, you're greeted with warmth and enthusiasm. The front desk staff speak fluent English, so communication is a breeze. They're patient in answering all your questions and even help you plan a super practical itinerary. Room service is prompt, and when I asked for an extra blanket at night, it was delivered within minutes, warming my heart. 🎉 In short, Four Points by Sheraton Balikpapan is a hidden gem for travelers, whether you're on a business trip or a leisure vacation. It offers a perfect experience! If you're coming to Balikpapan, this is the place to stay. Save this post and start planning your trip now!

The place has two reference and I suggest you to take outdoor since the view is much better and the photo spot is instagramable. The food is surprisingly delicious and yummy. The price is affordable #balikpapan #indonesiatrip

🧡Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Kuta! This is definitely the best choice 🔍 / 🎞REASONS： 1️⃣Close to the airport, convenient for transfer, no need to rush for the journey, have more time to rest～ 2️⃣Big brand hotel, safety and service are guaranteed, going out is to be safe and comfortable! 3️⃣The hotel decoration is local style, very memorable, even if the time is very tight, you can also feel the folk customs! 4️⃣Super rich breakfast buffet, bread🍞soft, fruit fresh, drinks are also great～ / 🧮It's also a good choice to have a holiday here, The landscape outside the hotel🏨is beautiful, And there are swimming pools, gyms, bars and other facilities, Eat, drink and play all have🥰 UU can rest assured to live～

#indonesiatrip Experience modern comfort and convenience at Four Points by Sheraton Balikpapan. Situated in the heart of the city, this hotel offers stylish accommodations equipped with all essential amenities for a relaxing stay. Whether you're here for business or leisure, you'll appreciate the warm hospitality and thoughtful service. Enjoy delicious local and international cuisine at the on-site restaurant or unwind with a drink at the bar. With easy access to nearby attractions and business districts, Four Points by Sheraton Balikpapan is your perfect base for exploring and enjoying everything this vibrant city has to offer.

I enjoyed morning coffee at hitam manis.kedaikopi branch in Bonto Bulaeng during my trip to Balikpapan recently. I really liked the cool and shady morning atmosphere. The seating area is also spacious, mainly semi-outdoor with a beautiful city view. They offer a variety of delicious beverages served by friendly baristas. Hitam Manis Jl. Bonto Bulaeng, Sumber Rejo, Kec. Balikpapan Tengah, Kota Balikpapan, East Kalimantan #songkran2024 #mytravelhacks #cherryblossom2024 #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip #goodfoods #trip #instatravel #foodphotography

Drop by the coffee shop originally from Yogyakarta that has expanded to Balikpapan, called The atmosphere is great for morning coffee or hanging out in the evening, the place is clean and comfortable with spacious seating areas. The coffee is delicious, and they have a variety of meals and snacks. It's recommended if you're visiting Balikpapan. 28 Coffee Jl. Kapten Piere Tendean No.58, Gunungsari Ilir, Kec. Balikpapan Tengah, Kota Balikpapan, East Kalimantan 76112 #songkran2024 #mytravelhacks #cherryblossom2024 #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip #trip #goodfoods #foodphotography #instatravel

Room is quite big, but not comfortable as I expected for 4 star hotel, inside quite old and tower dirty. #bring your international plug if you are foreigners else hotel don’t have any plug to borrow me, walk to nearby shop also can’t buy an international plug, luckily we have power bank. #bring your water bottle

Let's see one of the most favorite room types at hotelbluesky, the area is 42sqm, this room is actually more like an apartment unit! starting from the kitchen set, mini pantry, microwave, coffee machine, living room, dining table etc It's perfect for a small family or gathering with friends here. In addition, there is a spacious balcony with a swimming pool view! It's fun!!! Blue sky Hotel Balikpapan #hoteldeals#summertrip#exhibition2021

Hi this hotel is in the center of balikpapan city, near the first mall in balikpapan, near hospital, it's easy to find street food arround this hotel, the rate also not too pricey, overall it's a good place for staycation 😊 #beautifulhotel

Hutan Mangrove,, sampai 2 kali aku ke sana karna saat pertama airnya dangkal dan terkesan kering, padahal pemandangan di sana bagus banget sehingga untuk melihat kondisi saat air menggenang aku kembali ke hutan mangrove dan itu worthed banget.. Sekitar 2tahun di Balikpapan, Hutan mangrove memberikan kenangan tersendiri (Translated by Google) Mangrove Forest ,, I went there 2 times because the first time the water was shallow and seemed dry, even though the scenery there was really good so to see the conditions when the water stagnated I returned to the mangrove forest and it was really worth it .. About 2 years in Balikpapan, mangrove forest provides its own memories

Laowomaru Beach is both beautiful and exotic. It features clear seawater, white sand, and lush coconut trees. Due to the presence of those shady trees, the atmosphere feels refreshing and soothing! The next interesting view is the local kids who often come to the beach, running around on the coast and look for small animals on the site. What is more? Several local food stands (warung) are available where tourists can buy some foods and drinks, especially seafood. The view of the Indian Ocean is seen clearly from the site, including the mesmerizing waves. The sea scenery looks exotic and it might impress the visitors, for sure. Aside from sightseeing, such beauty of the beach becomes a worthy object for photography as well. Therefore, do not forget to carry a camera or simply use the smartphone’s camera feature to capture such stunning landscape. As for the tip, make sure to come during either the sunrise or sunset. #beachvacation #urbanexplorer #uniquelodging