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Blue Sky Hotel Balikpapan Review – Why You Should Visit

Updated: 4 days ago

Balikpapan, a picturesque city located on the eastern coast of Borneo, is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture.


Amidst this underrated city, you will find the 4-star Blue Sky Hotel, offering a blend of modern and vintage styles, making it a great retreat for travelers seeking comfort, relaxation, and top-notch hospitality.


Hotel lobby with marble floor, modern decor, central table with flowers, and chandelier. Blue Sky Hotel Balikpapan logo displayed below.


Strategically located in the heart of Balikpapan, the Blue Sky Hotel boasts an advantageous location that provides easy access to both business and leisure attractions.


The hotel is about a 30-minute drive from the Sepinggan International Airport and just 20 minutes away from Kemala Beach by car.



The hotel has a real classic feel about it, and we spent a week here, working (we are digital nomads) in the hotel and enjoying the excellent facilities, whilst also taking time to explore the city and the local area around us.


In this post, we share our highlights, the awesome food we had at its THREE restaurants, a look at the room and hotel history, how to find Blue Sky Hotel Balikpapan, and our hotel experience ratings.


Elegant lounge with chandeliers, a piano, and decorative art pieces. Large windows reveal a lush garden. Warm ambiance with neutral tones.






Our Blue Sky Hotel Highlights


A funny thing about this hotel is that we weren't even supposed to be in Balikpapan to begin with!


We were touring the island of Bali, and from there we were headed to Jakarta.





We booked the flights from Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport, thinking that it was in Bali!


In two and a half years of travel, we have never quite made a mistake like it, but there was nothing we could do, and we had to embrace it.


Elegant hotel lobby with marble floors, a staircase, and a play area featuring colorful slides. A person sits nearby. Restaurant sign reads "IPPOLITO."
The grand lobby of the Blue Sky Hotel Balikpapan in Indonesia features elegant interiors with a sweeping staircase, a vibrant children's play area, and a stylish restaurant.

So after realizing we were going to be in Balikpapan, we were scrambling for a hotel that could offer us the best location in the city, with good comfort, and most importantly for us as digital nomads, good internet.


Cue the Blue Sky Hotel!


It looked to have everything we were looking for, and for a pretty good price too, so we made our booking.


Hotel lobby with marble floors, a desk with a computer on a patterned rug, and a person entering an elevator. Warm lighting and decor.
Lobby area of ​​the Blue Sky Hotel in Balikpapan, Indonesia, featuring a sleek modern design with marble flooring, an elegant reception desk, and decorative lighting near the elevator area.

The Blue Sky Hotel has a lot to offer, as you will see in this blog post.


We had 7 nights here and took the long-stay opportunity to try all of the restaurants on offer, alongside enjoying the daily breakfast buffet.


We did not use the pool, as we were still recovering from our scooter accident in Bali, but we actually had a perfect view of it from our hotel room, so we kind of swam vicariously, haha!


Restaurant interior with red circular lights, patterned chairs, and wooden tables. Buffet area labeled "Western Corner." Cozy atmosphere.
Dining area at the Blue Sky Hotel in Balikpapan, Indonesia, featuring vibrant red lighting and stylish decor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

We met some wonderful people here, both inside and outside of the hotel.


The staff at the restaurant, in particular at the breakfast buffet, were super nice, and we were even treated to some special pancakes on Leon's birthday, alongside some specially made sausage rolls!


Four breaded rolls on a white plate with ketchup lettering and heart shapes. Black background, warm and appetizing mood.

Alongside all that, we embarked on perhaps the best walking tour of any city ever, all in the local area surrounding the hotel.


We cannot even tell you just how many times we were waved at, how many times people said hello, or how much smiling we did.


You need to watch the video to put it into perspective; it was wonderful.


The people of Balikpapan could not have been more welcoming, and we have immense gratitude for all of the kindness and warmth they showed us!


Read on for our review of the room, food, the history behind the hotel, and more about the city of Balikpapan!






The Room at the Blue Sky Hotel


We opted for a Deluxe Room, given its good size and balcony.


The room had a nice, cozy ambiance, and although it felt a little rough around the edges (the walls and carpet needed updating), it felt very elegant and classic.


We want to avoid saying it is'dated,'' as this is what makes this hotel what it is, and we are happy we got to experience feeling like we were stepping back into a past era.



The bed was excellent and super comfy, with plush bedding, which is one of the most pressing concerns about any room.


It was a little irksome that there were no plug sockets with the bedside tables, but that seems to be quite common in many hotels in Asia.





The bathroom was decent, perhaps could do with an upgrade, but it was good enough for what we needed, and everything functioned well (there was hot water, for example, and yes, this is not always a guarantee in Asia!).


The hotel also includes complimentary toiletries and a hair dryer, which is very helpful, along with good storage space, a safe, a mini fridge, and tea/coffee options.


There is also a free shoe shine service, which we have never seen before but thought was quite cool.


Balcony with two wooden chairs and a table holding a small bowl. Blue curtains and sky view through glass door. White building walls.
A serene balcony at Blue Sky Hotel in Balikpapan, Indonesia, featuring wooden chairs and a small table, offers a picturesque view of the cityscape through a glass door framed by blue curtains.

Overall, the room was great, and we enjoyed it.


There are a couple of other higher-end options and also a more modern wing of the hotel, which we did not get to see.


There are executive suites available, which provide even more spacious living areas and elegant furnishings, studio and one-bedroom apartments, and a prime Royal Suite with separate living and dining areas, a private kitchenette, and a Jacuzzi overlooking the city skyline.





The Food at the Hotel's THREE Restaurants


Indulge your taste buds at the hotel's fine dining establishments, where you will find a diverse array of culinary delights.


From traditional Indonesian dishes to international favorites, the restaurants at Blue Sky Hotel offer excellent options.


⪢ Sushi Ten Japanese Restaurant


Located on the top floor, this restaurant treats guests to a great panoramic view of Balikpapan while serving a pretty extensive range of Japanese cuisine.


With everything from ramen to sushi, it shouldn't be too hard to find something to enjoy here.


Cozy restaurant with wooden tables and chairs. A chef in white hat serves a group. Blue lanterns and sake barrels decorate the space.
Guests enjoy a serene dining experience at Sushi Ten, a Japanese restaurant within the Blue Sky Hotel in Balikpapan, Indonesia. The interior features traditional wooden decor complemented by subtle lighting and Japanese lanterns, creating a cozy ambiance.

This restaurant was a lot of fun, with a central cooking area where a talented chef performed some cool cooking tricks, and a live band offered out songs for us to choose and came to perform right by our table.


Great ambience, great food, and reasonable on price too. Well worth a visit!


Oh, and by the way, for those that do not know, Leon is pretty much obsessed with curry and has tried it in restaurants all over the world.


This one in particular was excellent, and he highly recommends it for all of those curry lovers out there!


Plate of curry with beef, carrots, and potatoes beside white rice and pickled ginger on a wooden table. Silver spoon on the side.
Katsu curry served with a generous portion of rice, garnished with pickled ginger, at Sushi Ten in Blue Sky Hotel, Balikpapan, Indonesia.

⪢ Golden Palace Chinese Restaurant


This restaurant is located on the ground floor and offers an extensive range of Chinese cuisine, including dim sum, rice and noodle dishes, and seafood.


We only ate here once, and it was a good experience, with a nice vibe and friendly service.


The tables are all set up with warming plates, too, which is a nice touch.



⪢ The Blue Terrace


For a more relaxed dining experience, head to The Blue Terrace, where you can enjoy a very good buffet.


This is where we had our morning buffet breakfasts, and it is the main restaurant of the hotel.





Spending 8 mornings here, we got to experience the daily changes in the options, and it is fair to say we tried a little bit of everything.


We weren't disappointed here; dare we say we might have even put on a few extra pounds!


Restaurant with decorative chairs and tables, a buffet counter in the background, and customers dining. Warm lighting creates a cozy atmosphere.
Dining area at the Blue Terrace Restaurant in the Blue Sky Hotel, Balikpapan, Indonesia, featuring an inviting ambiance with beautifully patterned chairs, ambient lighting, and a buffet setup.

It has to be said that there are not many 'western' options available, but the selection is excellent.


You can find a good range of Indonesian cuisine, salads, sushi, cakes, fruits, and a great pancake and egg counter.


Another point of note here is that the staff are super friendly and very helpful.


In particular, Onme, a young student training with the hotel, who, after learning we enjoyed pancakes, brought them over to us every morning.


He was awesome and was also the one who gave Leon a special birthday treat. A true credit to the hotel and also now a good friend to us too!


Restaurant interior with a buffet table, red ceiling lights, and patterned chairs. People dine and interact. Warm, inviting atmosphere.




Blue Sky Hotel Balikpapan Features & Facilities


In addition to the restaurant options at Blue Sky Hotel, there are several other facilities to take advantage of.


⪢ 24/7 Security


The entrance to the hotel is manned at all times, along with the road entrance.


Blue Sky Hotel takes security very seriously, and all cars are scanned for threats, and bags are checked before entering the hotel.



⪢ Sky Fitness Center


For fitness enthusiasts, the hotel features a modern and well-equipped fitness center.


Guests can maintain their workout routines with state-of-the-art exercise machines, weights, and experienced trainers to assist them.



⪢ Blue Spa


The Blue Spa is a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation.


Skilled therapists offer a range of massages and spa treatments to soothe the body and mind, providing a truly indulgent experience.


View from above of a pool surrounded by palm trees and umbrellas between blue and white buildings. Industrial area visible in the distance.
A scenic view from the Blue Sky Hotel in Balikpapan, Indonesia, showcases a lush pool area with tall palm trees and a distant cityscape under a bright blue sky.

⪢ Sky Infinity Pool


The hotel's outdoor swimming pool is surrounded by palm trees and has a vibrant yet relaxing atmosphere.


There are plenty of loungers to relax on, and the restaurant and bar are right next to it.



⪢ Meeting & Event Spaces


For business travelers or those hosting events, the Blue Sky Hotel provides modern meeting and event spaces.


These spaces are equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment and can be customized to suit various event needs.



⪢ 24/7 Room Service


The hotel offers round-the-clock room service, allowing guests to enjoy meals and refreshments in the comfort of their rooms at any time of the day.



⪢ Concierge Services


The hotel's concierge desk assists with travel arrangements, local recommendations, and any other guest inquiries.





⪢ Complimentary Wi-Fi


Guests have access to complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, ensuring they can stay connected during their stay.


The Wi-Fi was pretty strong and held its signal consistently (very important for us as remote workers).



⪢ Laundry & Dry Cleaning


The hotel offers laundry and dry-cleaning services for your convenience. It is very pricey, though, so we would recommend looking for a local service.



⪢ Parking Facilities


Guests with personal vehicles can take advantage of the hotel's parking facilities.



⪢ Community Initiatives


As a socially responsible establishment, the Blue Sky Hotel actively engages in community initiatives and sustainable practices to make a positive impact on the environment and local communities.


Elegant lobby with a large vase of yellow and pink flowers on a textured round table. Marble floor, patterned carpet, ornate clock in background.




The History Behind the Blue Sky Hotel


The history of the Blue Sky Hotel in Balikpapan is an interesting tale that spans several decades, reflecting the city's growth and development.


The hotel opened in 1973, celebrating its 50th birthday in 2023.


⪢ Early Years


Originally established as a small guesthouse to cater to the increasing number of travelers visiting Balikpapan, the hotel began its journey with a modest number of rooms and basic amenities.


During this period, Balikpapan was already gaining prominence as a significant hub for the oil and gas industry in Indonesia, attracting both business and leisure travelers.



⪢ Expansion & Renovation


As Balikpapan continued to grow in economic importance and tourism, the demand for comfortable accommodation surged.


The hotel recognized this opportunity and underwent a series of expansions and renovations to meet the increasing expectations of its guests.


Over the years, the management invested in modernizing the property, adding more rooms, and enhancing the facilities to elevate the overall guest experience.


The hotel's architecture evolved to embrace a contemporary style while blending harmoniously with Balikpapan's natural beauty.



⪢ Emergence as a Premier Destination


As the hotel continued to evolve, it gained a reputation for providing exceptional hospitality and services.


The Blue Sky Hotel soon earned its status as one of Balikpapan's premier hotels, attracting a diverse clientele ranging from business travelers to leisure tourists seeking a serene getaway.


Ornate wooden grandfather clock stands beside a small table with plants and decor. Marble floor, vertical slat background, elegant ambiance.

⪢ Community Engagement & Sustainability


Beyond its role as a hospitality establishment, the Blue Sky Hotel demonstrated a strong commitment to the local community and environment.


Engaging in various community initiatives, the hotel actively contributed to the social development of Balikpapan.


Moreover, recognizing the importance of sustainable practices, the hotel implemented eco-friendly measures to reduce its carbon footprint.


From energy conservation initiatives to waste management and responsible sourcing of materials, the Blue Sky Hotel demonstrated a dedication to preserving the natural beauty of Balikpapan for future generations.





⪢ Modern-Day Excellence


As of the present day, the Blue Sky Hotel stands as a symbol of elegance and serenity in Balikpapan.


Its rich history, coupled with a forward-thinking approach, has allowed the hotel to maintain its position as a preferred accommodation choice for both local and international guests.






Where is Balikpapan, and Why Should You Visit?


Balikpapan is located on the eastern coast of Borneo, the world's third-largest island, and it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and modern amenities.


Here are some reasons why we feel Balikpapan is a destination worth visiting:


⪢ Wonderful Beaches & Natural Attractions


Balikpapan is blessed with beautiful beaches that stretch along the coastline, such as Kemala Beach, Melawai Beach, and Lamaru Beach.


Additionally, the city boasts lush rainforests and nearby nature reserves, like Sungai Wain Protection Forest and Samboja Lestari, where you can experience the region's rich biodiversity and encounter orangutans in their natural habitat.


Two people ride an ATV on a sunny beach. Others walk along the shore. The sea is calm with ships on the horizon, under a clear blue sky.

⪢ Vibrant Local Culture


Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture of Balikpapan by exploring its bustling markets, engaging in traditional dances and music, and savoring the diverse flavors of Indonesian cuisine.


The city's cultural heritage is evident in its temples, mosques, and churches, where you can witness the harmonious coexistence of different religious communities.


A brick-paved open area leads to a staircase surrounded by lush trees and plants under a clear blue sky, evoking a serene park setting.

⪢ Ecotourism Opportunities


For nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Balikpapan offers numerous opportunities for ecotourism.


You can take a river cruise through mangrove forests, go hiking in the rainforest to discover unique flora and fauna, or participate in conservation programs to support the protection of endangered species.



⪢ Oil & Gas Industry


Balikpapan is known as the "Oil City of Indonesia" due to its significant role in the country's oil and gas industry.


The city's history is deeply intertwined with the development of this sector, and visitors can learn about the industry's impact on the region through museums and guided tours.





⪢ Warm & Friendly Locals


One of the highlights of visiting Balikpapan is encountering the warm and welcoming locals.


Indonesians are known for their hospitality, and you'll find the people of Balikpapan to be friendly, eager to share their culture, and make your stay memorable.


Colorful cemetery with variously decorated graves, surrounded by lush green plants and trees under a clear blue sky. Quiet and serene mood.
A colorful hillside cemetery decorated with vibrant tombstones and lush greenery, close to the hotel

⪢ Convenient Base for Exploring East Kalimantan


Beyond Balikpapan itself, the city serves as a convenient base for exploring other fascinating destinations in East Kalimantan.


Day trips can take you to places like the Derawan Islands, a paradise for marine enthusiasts, or the traditional Dayak villages, offering an authentic glimpse into the indigenous cultures of Borneo.


Balikpapan is also a great base for checking out the up-and-coming new capital of Indonesia, Archipelago.





How to Get to Blue Sky Hotel Balikpapan


There are a few different transportation options that will get you to the Blue Sky Hotel.


The hotel is well-known in the area, and taxis and other transit vendors should recognize it.


We took a Grab from the airport, which cost USD 10.


By Taxi


By Public Transport


By Shuttle




⪢ Consider Taking a Tour


A good way to experience the best of Balikpapan is by a guided tour, provided by experienced locals who will help you explore the best of what the city has to offer.


If you are interested, we recommend booking through GetYourGuide, who offer cancellations up to 24 hours in advance with no penalty.


You can also keep your travel plans flexible with their reserve now, pay later scheme.




⪢ Book Your Stay at Blue Sky:




⪢ Contact Information for Blue Sky Hotel


● Address: Jl. Letjen Suprapto No. 1, Marga Sari, West Balikpapan District, Balikpapan City, East Kalimantan 76123, Indonesia

● Phone: +62 542 735845


Entrance of a modern building with a tiled roof, large columns, and landscaped greenery. Overcast sky. Sign reads "SUSHITEN."




Watch Our Day in Balikpapan on YouTube


Join us on YouTube as we show you an example of what you can do in a day in Balikpapan.


We wander through the vibrant Pasar Klandasan Market, where locals shop for fresh produce, including a fascinating visit to the raw meat and seafood area.


We also had the opportunity to engage with some very friendly locals despite some language barriers.


Street market scene with parked motorcycles lining both sides. People shop under umbrellas and signs, including "TOKO MEGA JAYA." Bright day.

After strolling around, we ended up at Biru Laut Restaurant.


A restaurant that we intended to look for, but just happened upon!


It is located right on the beach of Monpera.


This gem of a restaurant offers a perfect blend of incredible ocean views and delicious Indonesian flavors.


Plate of noodles with fried egg on a table by the beach. Ocean waves, sandy shore, and clear blue sky in the background, sunny day.

We ventured to three different picturesque beaches, including the popular Kemala Beach in Balikpapan, on foot.


We enjoyed the sandy shores and the waters locally.


We also checked out the helipad location, where residents gathered to witness the epic sunsets, but we were so tired from walking that we missed the sunset.


We finished up our afternoon at Merdeka Park, walking and watching all of the vendors and amusement park rides for children and families setting up for the evening fun at the park.



Balikpapan, Indonesia: Couple walking on beach


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Our Experience Ratings:


Blue Sky Hotel


Bronze bust of a man with a closed-eyed expression, one hand raised, set on a wooden base with iron railing background. Warm lighting.


Despite our initial frustration at booking our time here by mistake in the first place, we feel totally glad we did, thanks to Blue Sky's lovely hospitality.


We would come here again and would highly recommend you consider it too! Check out our breakdown below:


Cleanliness


Cost & Value


Food & Drink


Location


Service





FAQ: Blue Sky Hotel, Balikpapan


Where is the Blue Sky Hotel located?

Blue Sky Hotel is located in Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, on the island of Borneo, Indonesia.


It sits just a short drive from the city center and Kemala Beach, offering easy access to local amenities.

What type of rooms does the hotel offer?


What facilities does the hotel have?


Is breakfast included in the room rate?


How far is the hotel from the airport?


Is it suitable for business travelers?


Does the hotel offer airport transfers?


Is it family-friendly?


Are there restaurants or shops nearby?


Does the hotel offer Wi-Fi and parking?






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