A Growing Destination In Indonesia Is One Of The Best Places To Swim With Whale Sharks

Spanning over 17,000 islands where pristine beaches meet thriving coral reefs and vibrant marine ecosystems, Indonesia is a sight for ocean-obsessed eyes. One of Southeast Asia's premier diving and snorkeling destinations, the country's true allure is all about diversity. From the bucket list-worthy beaches of Bali to the dragon-inhabited shores of Komodo and the little-known coves and beautiful views of Raja Ampat, Indonesia doesn't hold back when it comes to showcasing its natural wonders.

However, in between these world-class destinations and guidebook attractions, there's a rising contender that's beginning to have its moment in the spotlight. Located just off the coast of East Kalimantan, the Derawan Islands stand out as a must-visit location for some pretty unique (and unforgettable) marine encounters. Made up of 31 islands, the archipelago is home to the second most diverse coral system in Indonesia — covering a whopping 1.27 million hectares and housing over 870 fish species and some of the most important turtle nesting grounds in the region.

Although the Derawan Islands have long attracted dedicated divers, they've recently gained more traction as one of the most reliable spots in Indonesia to swim with whale sharks. And it's all thanks to the unique fishing traditions of local communities that naturally attract these gentle giants to the islands' crystal-clear waters.

The presence of whale sharks in the Derawan Islands is closely linked to a local fishing tradition near Talisayan, on mainland Kalimantan. There, local fishermen use floating platforms (called "bagans") to lower their nets and catch fish. At night, the fishermen use lights to attract plankton, which then draws in schools of anchovies, which creates a natural feeding ground that consistently draws whale sharks to the area.

In terms of timing, the best time to spot these creatures is just after sunrise — when nighttime fishing activities have wrapped up. In most cases, local tour boats depart early (around 5:00 a.m.) to reach the bagan platforms when whale sharks are most likely to be there. Along with that, local boat captions will also typically communicate with fishermen in order to know which platforms have whale sharks nearby to ensure sightings.

That said, although whale shark encounters and tours are readily available on the Derawan Islands, finding a respectful tour operator that doesn't encourage touching, feeding, or disturbing the animals is essential. After all, any changes in natural behavior could potentially end up causing a whole slew of problems and complications — including a shift in migration and reproduction patterns, as well as unnecessary stress, injury, and even abandonment of the area. And while the experience is still relatively uncrowded compared to other well-known whale shark destinations around Indonesia, which can mean more intimate encounters, these areas also tend to lean toward fewer regulations or oversight — so it's always best to prioritize responsible operators and maintain a safe distance.

Beyond whale sharks, the Derawan archipelago offers plenty of other unique marine adventures to enjoy. For example, over on Kakaban Island, visitors can take a dip in a lake filled with stingless jellyfish — one of the only two places in the world where these creatures have evolved without their typical defense mechanisms. Home to four different species, including the typically lethal box jellyfish, a visit to Kakaban Lake is a must-do for lovers of unique wildlife encounters.

Along with this, the islands are also a sanctuary for endangered sea turtles, with both green and hawksbill turtles frequently spotted gliding through the crystal-clear waters or nesting on the beaches. Specifically, the sleepy Sangalaki Island is home to a turtle conservation center where you can learn more about these animals. Meanwhile, Maratua Island's pristine reefs offer some of the archipelago's best snorkeling and diving experiences, where you're bound to run into schools of barracuda, manta rays, and even pods of wild dolphins.

Lastly, for a change of pace, head over to Goa Halo Tabung (pictured above), an 80-foot deep cave with refreshingly cool waters teeming with colorful fish. Alternatively, the secluded Kehe Daing Lagoon, located on Kakaban Island, is also a sight to be seen. A turquoise lagoon that connects to the ocean through a small tunnel accessible at low tide, it's a small slice of sheltered paradise that's perfect for swimming or snapping the perfect Instagram photos.