Where to Stay in Balikpapan
Indonesia
|Pop. 695K
|3 neighborhoods covered
Balikpapan at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Balikpapan
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Try 'Nasi Goreng' (fried rice) or 'Mie Goreng' (fried noodles) from a local 'warung' (small eatery) for an authentic and cheap meal.
Getting Around
Use ride-sharing apps like Grab or Gojek for reliable and relatively affordable transport. Always confirm the fare or ensure the meter is used for taxis.
Watch Out For
Overcharging by unregistered taxis.
Solo Female Travel
Balikpapan is generally safe for solo female travelers. Exercise standard precautions, especially at night, and be aware of your surroundings.
Hidden Gems in Balikpapan
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Pantai Lamaru
FREEThis is a beautiful stretch of white sand beach, often less crowded than other coastal spots. It's perfect for a relaxing day by the sea, with calm waters suitable for swimming and enjoying the sunset.
Monumen Bekantan
FREEA unique monument dedicated to the proboscis monkey, a symbol of Kalimantan. It offers a quirky photo opportunity and a glimpse into local wildlife appreciation.
Taman Ceria
FREEA vibrant green space in the city center, popular with families and locals for recreation. It's a great spot to see local life, enjoy fresh air, and escape the urban hustle.
Pasar Kebun Sayur
FREEExperience the lively atmosphere of a traditional local market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and everyday goods. It's a fantastic place to immerse yourself in the local culture and taste authentic Indonesian flavors.
Pantai Melawai
While a known spot, the food stalls that pop up along this coastline in the evening are a local favorite. Enjoy fresh seafood grilled on the spot while watching the waves.
Bukit Bangkirai
This nature reserve features a stunning canopy walkway offering a unique perspective of the rainforest. It’s a bit of a drive but rewards visitors with incredible views and a sense of adventure.
What It Costs in Balikpapan
Daily budget per person in IDR
💡One of the cheapest destinations worldwide
IDR 300000/day
IDR 700000/day
IDR 1500000/day
Where to Stay in Balikpapan
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- E-Walk Balikpapan10 min
- Plaza Balikpapan15 min
- Pantai Melawai25 min
Pros
- +Convenient for business
- +Good selection of dining and shopping
- +Easy access to transportation hubs
Cons
- -Can be noisy
- -Less local charm
Top stays in Central Business District
Novotel Balikpapan
$$$Modern hotel with good amenities and ocean views.
Hotel Neo Balikpapan
$$Comfortable and clean hotel in a central location.
Blue Sky Hotel Balikpapan
$$$Upscale hotel known for its service and facilities.
Best for
Walk to
- Pantai Melawai5 min
- Central Business District25 min
Pros
- +Great sunset views
- +Abundant fresh seafood
- +Lively atmosphere in the evenings
Cons
- -Can get crowded
- -Limited upscale accommodation
Best for
Walk to
- SAMS Sepinggan Airport15 min
Pros
- +Proximity to the airport
- +More affordable local food options
- +Less tourist-centric
Cons
- -Further from city attractions
- -Limited entertainment options
Areas to be cautious
- Remote industrial areas or undeveloped outskirts: These areas lack tourist infrastructure, can be difficult to navigate, and may present safety concerns due to isolation and limited security.
Insider tip: Try 'Nasi Goreng' (fried rice) or 'Mie Goreng' (fried noodles) from a local 'warung' (small eatery) for an authentic and cheap meal.
Safety in Balikpapan
SafeSolo Female Travel
Balikpapan is generally safe for solo female travelers. Exercise standard precautions, especially at night, and be aware of your surroundings.
At Night
Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially around Pantai Melawai and the CBD. Avoid walking alone in dark or deserted streets.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unregistered taxis.
- 2Distraction theft in crowded markets or transport hubs.
Getting Around Balikpapan
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Taxi: approx. Rp 100,000 - Rp 150,000, 30-45 minutes. Ride-sharing apps are also available.
🎫
Day Pass
Not applicable for Angkots. Taxi/Rideshare costs vary by distance.
Single: Angkot: approx. Rp 5,000 - Rp 10,000. Taxi/Rideshare: starting from Rp 15,000.
🚶
Walkability
Car NeededGrab, Gojek
📶
WiFi
Good15-30 Mbps
Public Transport
Angkot (minibuses) are the primary local transport, but routes can be confusing for tourists. Taxis and ride-sharing are more practical.
Ride-share
Grab and Gojek are widely available. Typical short rides cost Rp 15,000 - Rp 30,000.
Transport Tip
Use ride-sharing apps like Grab or Gojek for reliable and relatively affordable transport. Always confirm the fare or ensure the meter is used for taxis.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Shopping malls (E-Walk, Plaza Balikpapan), some cafes, and hotels.
Coworking
Limited dedicated coworking spaces. Some cafes offer a conducive environment for short work sessions.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jul, Sep, Oct
Hotels & Accommodation in Balikpapan
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Who Is Balikpapan Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
Business Travelers
Offers convenient access to corporate offices and modern hotel amenities.
Foodies on a Budget
Provides an abundance of affordable and delicious fresh seafood with a lively local atmosphere.
First-Time Visitors
This area offers a good introduction to the city's modern side with easy access to amenities and transport.
Transit Travelers
Its proximity to the airport makes it ideal for short stays or early/late flights.
About Balikpapan
Balikpapan is a seaport city in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Located on the east coast of the island of Borneo, the city is the financial center of Kalimantan. With a population of 688,318 according to the 2020 census, and an official estimate of 757,418 as at mid 2023 (comprising 387,112 males and 370,206 females), Balikpapan is the second most populous city in East Kalimantan, after Samarinda.
Frequently Asked Questions About Balikpapan
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Balikpapan Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel