Balikpapan is a vibrant port city located on the east coast of Kalimantan, Indonesia. With a population of over 700,000 people, Balikpapan is the second largest city in East Kalimantan after Samarinda. It is a popular destination for both international and domestic visitors, due to its strategic location on the edge of the Makassar Strait, its thriving oil industry, and its numerous tourist attractions.
Balikpapan is easily accessible, with flights from Jakarta and other major cities in Indonesia, as well as from Singapore and Malaysia. It is also well connected by road, sea, and rail.
The city is divided into two parts: the old part and the new part. The old part of Balikpapan is filled with traditional wooden houses and narrow lanes, while the new part is more modern. The old part is home to some of the city’s most popular attractions, such as the Sultan Palace, the Great Mosque of Balikpapan, and the traditional markets.
The city also has a large number of shopping malls, restaurants, and bars for visitors to explore. There are also several beaches in the city, such as the popular Tanjung Batu beach, which is known for its white sand and crystal clear waters.
Balikpapan also has a number of cultural attractions, including the Balikpapan Museum, which showcases the city’s cultural heritage. There are also several art galleries, theaters, and cinemas in the city.
For those looking for an exciting adventure, Balikpapan also offers a variety of outdoor activities. These include scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, and trekking. There are also several national parks nearby, such as the Kutai National Park, that offer an incredible array of flora and fauna.
Overall, Balikpapan is a great destination for those looking for a mix of city life, culture, and nature. With its diverse attractions and activities, there is something for everyone in Balikpapan.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Balikpapan City Center: Balikpapan City Center is the main area for shopping, dining, and leisure activities. It is located close to the waterfront and many attractions, making it an ideal place to stay.
2. Manggar: Manggar is a vibrant area with lots of restaurants, bars, and shops. It is also close to the airport, making it easy to get around.
3. Bontang: Bontang is a smaller town located on the east coast of Balikpapan. This area is known for its beaches and activities such as snorkeling and fishing.
4. Tanjung Jabung: Tanjung Jabung is a coastal village located on the east coast of Balikpapan. It is known for its scenic beauty and traditional fishing villages.
5. Samarinda: Samarinda is the capital of East Kalimantan, located on the Mahakam River. It is a great place to stay for its cultural attractions, shopping, and restaurants.
1. Manggar Beach: Set along the coast of Balikpapan, this tranquil beach offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
2. Taman Wisata Alam Mangrove: This mangrove forest is home to a variety of wildlife and plants, and offers a peaceful escape from the city. Visitors can explore the forest by boat or on foot.
3. Balikpapan Superblock: This vibrant shopping and entertainment complex features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
4. Museum Balikpapan: A great way to learn more about the local culture, this museum houses a variety of artifacts from Balikpapan's past.
5. Segara Anakan: This coastal lagoon offers a serene atmosphere and is perfect for activities such as fishing, swimming, and kayaking.
1. Mie Kocok: Mie Kocok is a popular Balikpapan dish consisting of thick egg noodles cooked in a savory beef broth, served with beef, boiled eggs, and vegetables.
2. Pempek: Pempek is a type of fishcake made of fish and tapioca flour. It is usually served with a sweet and sour sauce called cuko.
3. Soto Ayam: Soto ayam is a spicy chicken soup with shredded chicken, vermicelli noodles, and a variety of herbs and spices.
4. Siomay: Siomay is a steamed fish dumpling served with a sweet and spicy peanut sauce.
5. Kue Lapis: Kue Lapis is a traditional Balikpapan layered cake made with a variety of spices and coconut milk. It is usually served with a thick pandan custard.