Derawan Islands in July
Great time to visit
July is the absolute best weather but also the most expensive and crowded. If you can handle the crowds and costs, conditions are perfect.
Weather
July brings the driest conditions of the year with almost no rainfall. Seas remain calm and trade winds provide comfortable cooling. This is when visibility underwater reaches its absolute peak at 30+ meters.
31°C high24°C low4 rain days
Crowds & Cost
peak crowds
~$160/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Indonesian Independence Day preparations
- •School holiday peak
July Tips
- •Book everything months in advance - this is the busiest month
- •Dive operators charge premium rates
- •Consider weekday visits to avoid Jakarta weekend crowds
All Months
April through September offers the calmest seas and clearest visibility for diving. Visibility regularly exceeds 30 meters during these months, and boat rides between islands are comfortable. This is peak season, so book accommodations well in advance.
Manta ray sightings peak from May to August when plankton blooms attract them to cleaning stations. Whale sharks are present year-round but seem more active during the calmer months.
Avoid October through March when northeast monsoons bring rough seas and frequent rain. Many dive operators close during January and February due to dangerous conditions. Even if you can get there, you'll spend most days stuck indoors.
The shoulder months of April and September offer the best value with good weather but fewer crowds. Water temperature stays around 28°C year-round, so a 3mm wetsuit is plenty.
Derawan Islands Scores
Solo
6/10
Couples
7/10
Families
4/10
Adventure
9/10
Budget
5/10
Luxury
3/10
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