Offbeat Getaway: Stay at Bontang Kuala Overwater Villa

If you're looking for an offbeat destination for Eid holiday or just escaping routine, the Bontang Kuala area could be an unconventional answer. Here, you're not just vacationing, but truly "Healing" atop the sea.

Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing against the ironwood pillars beneath your room. Open the curtains to be greeted by a sea panorama with golden sunlight. The vibe? Super peaceful, far from the city bustle.

Located in Bontang City, this floating village isn't just an ordinary tourist spot. Bontang Kuala is a unique blend of nature, culture, and living history.

Rows of houses and villas over the sea are the main attraction. All built using Kalimantan's famous sturdy, seawater-resistant ironwood. No wonder staying here feels authentic yet comfortable.

"They all follow regulations, paying local taxes and fees to the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries," explained Jafar, Bontang Kuala's Traditional Leader.

Interestingly, these villas are always in high demand. If planning to visit, book well in advance—minimum 15 days prior. During Eid, reservations can fill up a month early.

Must-Try Exciting Activities

Beyond staycations, plenty of fun awaits:

• Snorkeling to enjoy underwater life
• Sunset strolls on the ironwood deck
• Boat tours on fishing vessels for just Rp10,000
• Chilling at your overwater accommodation

"From tourist surveys, new facilities like the recently completed Bontang Kuala deck have become favorite spots," said Halimah, Head of the Bontang Kuala Tourism Awareness Group.

During holidays, visitor numbers can reach 1,500 daily, proving its rising popularity among Travelers.

Preserved Historical Traces

Notably, Bontang Kuala isn't new. This village dates back to the 1780s and is the birthplace of Bontang City.

"Bontang Kuala is the origin of Bontang City. The starting point of its governance was here," revealed Jafar.

Originally inhabited by the nomadic Bajau tribe, its history remains palpable—including the still-standing Al Wahhab Mosque built in 1789.

Addictive Seafood Delights

A trip is incomplete without culinary adventures. Here, you must try the specialty dish Gammi Bawis.

"Bontang Kuala's signature cuisine is Gammi Bawis," stated Halimah.

Fresh bawis fish cooked in a robust, spicy, savory special sambal—extra delicious when enjoyed seaside with ocean breezes.

What sets Bontang Kuala apart is its community spirit. Traditions like sea festivals, makala-kela (communal feasts), and maulidan celebrations endure today.

"There's also makala-kela tradition, where all residents eat together beachside, breaking down social barriers," Jafar shared.

This atmosphere offers tourists not just physical relaxation, but emotional rejuvenation too.

Cool Sustainable Tourism

Locals are developing fish farm tourism, cultivating groupers and snappers in sea pens. Around 30 active farms now operate.

Future plans combine floating restaurants with fish farms, letting tourists pick fresh seafood before cooking.

Supported by the Marine Affairs and Fisheries Office, this program protects ecosystems while boosting community income.