Top reasons to visit Balikpapan
- Stunning Beaches: Balikpapan is renowned for its picturesque beaches, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
- Cultural Richness: Experience the vibrant Balikpapan Cultural Festival and explore local mosques and traditions.
- Shopping Delights: Enjoy a shopping spree at Mall Balikpapan Baru and Balikpapan Plaza Shopping Centre.
- Nature Reserves: Discover the natural beauty of nearby reserves, ideal for eco-tourism enthusiasts.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from modern hotels to charming guesthouses tailored for all types of travellers.
Find great hotels in Balikpapan
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in Balikpapan, where a variety of accommodation options await. From modern hotels to charming guesthouses, you'll find facilities tailored for business travellers and families alike. Explore popular choices such as Ibis Balikpapan and discover the ideal retreat for your vacation, whether you seek relaxation at a spa or a vibrant family adventure.
- Novotel Balikpapan: Nestled along the beautiful coastline, Novotel Balikpapan is a 4-star hotel that offers a delightful beach getaway for families. With direct access to sandy shores, guests can indulge in sun-soaked relaxation or engage in fun-filled activities. The hotel prioritises family-friendly amenities, featuring a children’s pool, complimentary cribs, and a dedicated arcade game room, ensuring younger guests are entertained. Additionally, the property provides essential services such as a first aid kit, making it a safe haven for both children and adults alike.
- Swiss-Belhotel Balikpapan: Known for its sophisticated atmosphere, Swiss-Belhotel Balikpapan is a 4-star accommodation that caters primarily to business travellers. With a commendable guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, this hotel combines comfort with functionality, providing a conducive environment for meetings and corporate events. The hotel’s strategic location in Balikpapan allows easy access to business districts, while its modern facilities ensure that guests have everything they need for a productive stay, making it an ideal choice for those on business trips.
- Grand Jatra Hotel Balikpapan: Grand Jatra Hotel Balikpapan is a luxurious 4-star establishment that emphasises relaxation and rejuvenation. With a spa-themed focus, guests can unwind with a range of wellness services, including sports massages and access to a sauna. The hotel also features a pool that is accessible to all, providing a serene space to relax. Its blend of spa amenities and business facilities makes it particularly appealing for those seeking both leisure and productivity during their stay.
Where to stay in and around Balikpapan
Balikpapan, located in East Kalimantan, offers a delightful blend of city charm and cultural richness, making it perfect for family and business-themed vacations. Visitors can explore vibrant neighbourhoods, enjoy beautiful beaches, and partake in local festivities. The city's unique atmosphere caters to diverse budgets, ensuring an enriching experience for every traveller. Don't miss the highlights of Balikpapan, where urban exploration meets the allure of nature.
- Sepinggan: Nestled within the vibrant area of Balikpapan, Sepinggan is a charming village that caters to a diverse range of visitors. While it sees a steady influx of travellers throughout the year, peak seasons occur in May and from July to August, with fewer visitors from November to January. This locale is ideal for those seeking a blend of business, family activities, and city-themed experiences. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local centres and malls, making it a convenient stop for both leisure and commerce. The welcoming atmosphere and accessible amenities make Sepinggan a delightful spot for both short and extended stays.
- Penajam: Located approximately 39km from Balikpapan, Penajam is a coastal city that offers a refreshing beach experience. The number of tourists remains consistent throughout the year, with peak visits in May and July to August. This city is perfect for those looking to unwind by the seaside, enjoying the picturesque beaches that serve as key attractions. With its serene coastal charm, Penajam is an ideal destination for beach lovers and families seeking relaxation and recreation by the water.
- Sepaku: Also situated 39km from Balikpapan, Sepaku is a city that beautifully combines modernity with cultural depth. It attracts visitors year-round, particularly during the peak months of May and July to August. This city is known for its city-themed, cultural, and business-oriented experiences. Travellers can engage in educational pursuits, explore shopping centres, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Key landmarks include a modern college university, making Sepaku an interesting mix of academic and commercial activity, perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in local culture.
Things to do in Balikpapan
Shopping
In Balikpapan, you can explore the vibrant Plaza Balikpapan for local brands and international shops. If you're up for a drive, visit E-Walk Balikpapan, a shopping mall featuring various dining options and entertainment. For a more traditional experience, the Balikpapan Market offers local crafts and souvenirs.
Recreation
Wellness Sanctuary Balikpapan offers rejuvenating spa treatments amidst tranquil surroundings. Enjoy traditional Indonesian therapies, holistic massages, and soothing aromatherapy, designed to relax the body and mind. Nearby, Manggar Beach provides a beautiful setting for beachcombing, sunset views, and leisurely strolls along the shore.
Adventure
Explore the lush landscapes of Bukit Bangkirai, where you can trek through pristine rainforests and experience the canopy walkway. For a thrilling experience, try water sports at Melawai Beach, including jet skiing and banana boat rides, all while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery.
Nightlife
Visit the vibrant Taman Palm Park for a lively atmosphere, enjoying street food and local performances. For a more laid-back evening, head to the Sky Bar on the rooftop of a hotel, where you can sip cocktails while admiring the city skyline.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Balikpapan
For a budget-friendly trip to Balikpapan, consider visiting in January, March, or October when accommodation costs are lower, especially on Fridays. Avoid peak months from May to July and the more expensive Wednesday stays. Use Expedia's search tool to find the best deals by filtering for your budget and preferred location. Look for package deals that combine flights, accommodation, and activities for additional savings. Additionally, explore free local attractions and take advantage of affordable public transport options to further reduce your travel expenses.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Balikpapan are January, March and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Balikpapan is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Balikpapan is Wednesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To uncover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Balikpapan with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Balikpapan
Balikpapan offers an ideal vacation for families and business travellers alike, featuring a blend of beach, cultural, and urban experiences. Key attractions include the scenic beaches, local mosques, and nature reserves. Visitors can explore notable sites such as Plaza Balikpapan, Balikpapan City Hall, and the Balikpapan Plaza Shopping Centre, ensuring a fulfilling trip filled with diverse activities and sights.
- Kemala Beach: Enjoy the serene beach vibes at Kemala Beach, where golden sands meet gentle waves. This local treasure is ideal for relaxation, sunbathing, or a leisurely stroll along the shore, providing a perfect escape from the bustle of city life.
- Masjid Agung At-Taqwa: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural atmosphere at Masjid Agung At-Taqwa. This stunning mosque showcases intricate architecture and offers a tranquil space for reflection, deeply rooted in the local community's traditions.
- Bekapai Garden: Experience the vibrant urban park of Bekapai Garden, a delightful spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With lush greenery, walking paths, and play areas, it’s a wonderful place to unwind amidst the city's lively energy.
Best time to go to Balikpapan
The best time to visit Balikpapan is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. January and July are its coolest month on average. At the time of July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Balikpapan
Travelling to Balikpapan, East Kalimantan is convenient via Balikpapan's Sepinggan International Airport (BPN), situated 6km from the city. Notable accommodation options nearby include the Four Points by Sheraton Balikpapan, a 4-star hotel only 483m from the airport, offering free 24-hour airport shuttle services. The Grand Tjokro Balikpapan, also a 4-star establishment, is located 805m away and provides an on-request shuttle service. For those considering Samarinda, located 106km away, the Mercure Samarinda, about 19km from its airport, offers airport shuttles at a fee. All hotels provide easy access to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth travel experience.