10 Tourist Attractions in Balikpapan Perfect for Family Vacations and Enjoying Nature’s Beauty
Balikpapan’s tourist attractions offer delightful family vacation experiences paired with stunning natural scenery.
Balikpapan, a major city in East Kalimantan known as the “Oil City,” offers more than just its industrial and business allure.
The city is also home to a variety of fascinating tourist destinations. From breathtaking natural sites to modern recreational areas, Balikpapan is a worthy destination to visit. Here’s a list of 10 Tourist Attractions in Balikpapan for your holiday itinerary.
1. Kampung Atas Air (Water Village)
This area is one of Balikpapan’s unique highlights. Elevated houses standing over water create a picturesque scene and provide a glimpse into the local community’s lifestyle.
Visitors can observe daily activities, take small boat rides, and capture memorable moments with the village as a distinctive backdrop.
2. Danau Cermin Lamaru (Mirror Lake)
Known for its crystal-clear water resembling a mirror, this destination is surrounded by lush trees, creating a cool and tranquil atmosphere. The lake is a favorite spot for relaxing, photography, or even hiking a nearby small hill to enjoy the view from above.
3. Environmental Education Tourism Area
Animal lovers will enjoy visiting this area, which offers an opportunity to see adorable sun bears. This habitat serves as both a home for the bears and an educational center for conservation and environmental preservation. It’s a visit that is both entertaining and enlightening about Kalimantan’s ecosystems.
4. Dahor Heritage
As a city with a rich history in the oil industry, Dahor Heritage offers a fascinating glimpse into Balikpapan’s past.
These Dutch-style stilt houses from the 1920s have been preserved as cultural heritage sites, showcasing collections of photos, documents, and historical artifacts. It’s an excellent spot for history enthusiasts.
5. Balikpapan Botanical Garden
Located in a protected forest area, Balikpapan Botanical Garden is an ideal place to explore Kalimantan’s native flora.
In addition to its educational role, the garden offers jogging paths amidst fresh air and a serene natural setting, perfect for combining exercise and nature appreciation.
6. Kemala Beach
Kemala Beach is a favorite destination, especially during the holiday season. With its clean white sands and calm waves, the beach offers activities such as swimming, building sandcastles, and enjoying water rides like banana boats and paragliding. Coconut trees lining the shore enhance the tropical ambiance.
7. Aquaboom Waterpark
This modern waterpark is an exciting family-friendly destination in Balikpapan. Thrilling attractions like Thunder Bolt, Race Buster, and Hurricane Slider promise an adrenaline rush. Situated atop a building, the waterpark also offers stunning views of the city from above.
8. Lamaru Beach
Lamaru Beach provides a tranquil atmosphere with its captivating natural beauty. Surrounded by rows of shady pine trees, the beach creates a refreshing ambiance that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s an excellent spot to relax while enjoying the fresh sea breeze.
9. Melawai Beach
Although it lacks a wide beachfront, Melawai Beach remains a favorite spot for unwinding. Young people often spend time here enjoying ocean views, sampling local culinary delights at nearby stalls, or capturing the mesmerizing sunset. In the evening, the beach becomes an ideal place to relax and enjoy the gentle sea breeze.
10. Manggar Beach
Manggar Beach is a must-visit for families looking to spend quality time in Balikpapan. With well-maintained facilities, the beach offers activities such as boat rides, swimming, and tasting local dishes at nearby stalls. Its lively yet comfortable atmosphere makes it a top choice for visitors.
Balikpapan is not just an industrial city; it’s also home to numerous tourist attractions worth exploring. From stunning beaches and crystal-clear lakes to educational environmental centers, this city provides a complete vacation experience for all ages.
Don’t forget to explore the Things to do in Samarinda while planning your trip. Make sure to include these 10 destinations in your Balikpapan travel plans. Happy holidays!
