Explore the best tourist attractions in Balikpapan, from Balikpapan Botanical Gardens to other amazing natural and entertainment destinations, for an adventurous vacation.
Balikpapan, a city located on the east coast of Kalimantan Island, offers a variety of interesting tourist attractions that can be enjoyed by all groups.
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With a combination of stunning natural attractions, beautiful beaches, and rich culture and history, Balikpapan is a must-visit destination for those who want to explore the beauty of Kalimantan.
From lush botanical gardens to historical sites full of stories, here are 10 tourist attractions in Balikpapan that you must visit.
1. Balikpapan Botanical Gardens
Balikpapan Botanical Garden is a popular natural tourist destination in the city. Located in the Samboja area, the garden has an extraordinary collection of tropical plants, including rare plants found only in Kalimantan.
In addition to functioning as a place for plant research and conservation, Balikpapan Botanical Gardens is also an ideal place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Visitors can explore the vast botanical garden area, enjoy the fresh air, and walk around to see various species of well-maintained plants. The garden also offers trekking trails that allow visitors to get closer to nature, as well as various Instagrammable photo spots.
2. Kemala Beach
Kemala Beach is one of the best beaches in Balikpapan located close to the city center. This beach has soft white sand and clear sea water, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the sea.
In addition, Kemala Beach also has various facilities, such as parking areas, food stalls, and gazebos which make it very comfortable for families. The sunset view on this beach is also very enchanting, making it an ideal place to enjoy the sunset with your loved ones.
3. Lamaru Beach
Lamaru Beach is located in the southern area of Balikpapan and is known for its natural and peaceful views. This beach is surrounded by tropical forests, providing a natural atmosphere and away from the crowds.
At Lamaru Beach, visitors can enjoy various activities such as swimming, sunbathing, or just walking around enjoying the fresh sea breeze. This beach is also suitable for picnics or camping in the area that has been provided.
With a quieter atmosphere, Lamaru Beach is the perfect place for those who want to enjoy the tranquility of nature.
4. Bangkirai Hill
Bangkirai Hill is located in the Samboja area and is a very popular natural tourist destination in Balikpapan. This hill is famous for its challenging suspension bridge and provides extraordinary views from above the giant trees of the Kalimantan forest.
Visitors can enjoy trekking through pristine tropical forests, while observing the flora and fauna typical of Kalimantan. Bangkirai Hill is also a popular spot for nature photography, especially for adventure enthusiasts who want to explore the tropical forests of Kalimantan.
5. Melawai Beach
Melawai Beach is one of the beaches located in Balikpapan which offers beautiful views with white sand and calm waves. This beach is perfect for activities such as swimming, sunbathing, or walking along the beach.
At Melawai Beach, visitors can also enjoy various water activities, such as jet skiing or banana boating. In addition, this beach is a popular place to enjoy the stunning sunset views, which add to the charm of Balikpapan’s natural beauty.
6. Bekapai Park
Bekapai Park is a city park located in the center of Balikpapan, which offers a beautiful and comfortable atmosphere. This park is often used by local residents to relax, exercise, or just take a walk.
Bekapai Park has various facilities such as a children’s play area, jogging track, and a beautiful fish pond. The park is also surrounded by green trees that provide fresh and calming air. Bekapai Park is perfect to visit after a day of activities in the city.
7. Wildlife Lake
Margasatwa Lake is a lake located in the Balikpapan city forest area. This lake offers beautiful natural scenery and is perfect for visitors who want to enjoy a peaceful natural atmosphere.
Around the lake, there are trekking trails that allow visitors to explore the forest area and enjoy the natural beauty. In addition, Wildlife Lake is also an ideal place for photography activities or just relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty.
8. Balikpapan Museum
Balikpapan Museum is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of Balikpapan. The museum houses a variety of historical objects, such as traditional equipment, antiques, and artifacts that depict the history of the city and its people.
Balikpapan Museum also often holds cultural and art exhibitions that broaden the knowledge of visitors. If you are interested in learning more about the history of Balikpapan and Kalimantan, this museum is a must-visit.
9. Balikpapan Waterboom
Waterboom Balikpapan is a water amusement park that offers various exciting rides for families. With a large swimming pool, water slides, and fun rides, Waterboom Balikpapan is a great place for a family vacation.
In addition, this amusement park also has various supporting facilities such as restaurants, parking areas, and rest areas. For those of you who want to have fun with your family, Waterboom Balikpapan is the right choice.
10. Mangrove Forest
Balikpapan Mangrove Forest is a mangrove ecosystem area located around the city’s coast. This forest offers stunning natural beauty, with tall, strong-rooted mangrove trees.
Visitors can explore this mangrove forest by walking on the paths provided or by taking a boat to see the life of the mangrove ecosystem more closely. In addition, mangrove forests are also an ideal place for birdwatching, because many species of birds live in this area.
Balikpapan is a city full of natural charm and interesting tourist destinations to explore. This city offers many choices for tourists who want to enjoy the beauty of nature, history, and fun entertainment.
With a variety of natural attractions and amusement parks available, Balikpapan is the perfect destination for family vacations, friends, or even solo travelers who want to enjoy a different experience.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Kiram Park and feel the natural beauty and exciting adventures in this city.
