The Best Hotels to Book in Balikpapan, Borneo

Novotel’s sturdy wedge of a building is one of Kalimantan’s stalwart international chain hotels. Inviting public spaces, such as Colours – a Mediterranean and Asian buffet restaurant – are open plan and warmly lit. The rooms, decorated in earthy tones, are afforded pops of colour from the modern art on the walls and offer city or sea views. A large rooftop terrace pool area looks out over the Makassar Strait, and the treadmills inside the hotel’s fitness centre share a similar vista.

Balikpapan is where Indonesians flock to find the latest fashions in the large shopping malls to the south of the city. Housed in one of those shopping centres, made graceful with koi-filled ponds and gentle piano music on the inside, this relaxing hotel offers a calming contrast to the shopping activity outside. The walled rooftop pool area is particularly chic, complete with sun loungers and bar service for sipping a cool sundowner after a busy day of spending.

On the fringes of the city, where Balikpapan and the lush forested landscape of Borneo’s interior converge, this luxurious hotel offers something for everyone. Despite the distance from the main city sights, this is a popular place to stay thanks to its airy rooms with purple pops, chic Kalimaya Spa, rooftop swimming pool and free airport shuttle. Seek out the winery, piano bar, restaurants and even a bakery and you’re assured of a mountain view, whether in the year-round outdoor pool or gym.

Boldly-themed rooms feature bright red or deep purple feature walls and bed frames tempered by calmer wood and white tones, 5km (3mi) from the airport. There are plenty of welcome amenities, such as desk space and a restaurant serving fragrant Asian dishes with spiced rice and fish. There’s a small fitness centre, but the tennis courts are the bigger draw. Families will love the close proximity to Aquaboom Waterpark, next door.

If you’re looking for a great value hotel in a good location, try this easy-going spot a few minutes walk from the seafront shopping centres, such as Ocean Plaza. Unfussy without being austere, relaxing rooms feature silky fabrics in lemon yellow and modern furnishings made from lightly varnished wood. Perk yourself up each morning with a good strong coffee from the cafe, saving room for perfectly-flipped pancakes.

This modern hotel offers a heady combination of facilities and value for money. Polished floors and natural tones keep rooms restful while the spa and massage service are on hand for unwinding at the end of the day. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace with far-reaching views over the suburbs of Balikpapan. Browse the breakfast buffet for fruits and freshly-baked goods before ticking the city sights off your list.

The lofty ceilings and cascading chandeliers in the lobby match the upscale atmosphere that pervades this hotel at the top of Pasir Ridge hill. Touches of elegance grace every aspect, from the fountain-centric rooftop terrace to the large outdoor pool topped by a wooden footbridge covered in lights. There are classic cars in the corridor outside one of the five restaurants and, depending on how you’re feeling, a cigar lounge for a glass of expensive whisky or a spa are good places to cap off the day. Don’t forget to admire the views of the Makassar Strait.

Few hotels in Borneo can brag about their own rooftop water park, but atop the seventh floor of this lively hotel, colourful waterslides plunge into a sprawling, lagoon-style pool. White and wood-lined rooms have a batik style design above the bed and suites have kitchenettes and scenic views of the city. End the day sipping a Stark Craft Beer in the hotel bar of the same name. A handful of modest beaches are nearby, as are a selection of malls and an 18-hole golf course.