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Blue Sky Hotel Balikpapan Review: why you should visit
Updated: Jun 16
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.
Situated strategically 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 spend 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 local area around us.
Read on for our highlights, the awesome food we had at THREE restaurants, a look at the room and hotel history, how to find Blue Sky Hotel Balikpapan and our hotel experience rating.
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Our Blue Sky Hotel highlights
A funny thing about this hotel is that we were not 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.
So after realising 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.
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 kind of swam vicariously haha!
We met some wonderful people here, both inside and outside of the hotel. The staff at the restaurants, 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!
Alongside all of 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, how much smiling we did. You need to really watch the video to put it into perspective; it was absolutely 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!
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Read on for our review of the room, food the history behind the hotel, and more about the city of Balikpapan!
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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 are in need of 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 Asian hotels.
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.
Overall, the room was great and we really 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. Find out more about the other options here.
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 should not be too hard to find something to enjoy here.
This restaurant was a lot of fun, with a central cooking area where a talented chef performs some cool tricks whilst cooking, and a live band which offered out songs for us to pick 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!
⪢ 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 savor a very good buffet. This is where we had our morning buffet breakfasts, and 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 were not disappointed here, dare we say we may have even put on a few extra pounds!
It has to be said that there are not many 'western' options available, but nonetheless 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, bought them over to us especially every morning. He was awesome and was also the one who made Leon a special birthday treat. A true credit to the hotel and also now a good friend to us too!
Blue Sky Hotel Balikpapan features & facilities
In addition to the restaurant options at Blue Sky Hotel, there are a number of 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.
⪢ 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 is right next to it.
⪢ Meeting and 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 provides assistance 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 and 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.
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.
⪢ 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 showed 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.
The Blue Sky Hotel's history is a testament to its resilience and adaptability over the years. From its humble beginnings as a guesthouse to its transformation into a luxurious and eco-conscious retreat, the hotel has played an integral role in Balikpapan's journey as a thriving city. Today, as it embraces the future with a dedication to exceptional service and sustainability, the Blue Sky Hotel remains an icon of hospitality and a cherished destination for travelers exploring the wonders of Borneo.
How to get to Blue Sky Hotel Balikpapan
The most convenient and direct option to get to the Blue Sky Hotel is to take a taxi or a ride-hailing service like Grab from if you are coming from Sepinggan International Airport. Taxis are also readily available at the airport, and there is a Grab pick up point just outside the main exit on the ground floor.
If you are already in Balikpapan city center, Balikpapan has various public transportation options like Angkot (minibuses) and Ojek (motorcycle taxis). While they are more budget-friendly, they may not be the most convenient option if you have a lot of luggage.
From what we understand the hotel does not currently offer a shuttle service, but this may change in the future. We took a grab from the airport and it cost $10 GBP.
Address: Jl. Letjen Suprapto No.1, Marga Sari, Kec. Balikpapan Bar., Kota Balikpapan, Kalimantan Timur 76123, Indonesia
Phone: +62 542 735845
Website: blue-sky.co.id
Where is Balikpapan, and why should you visit?
Balikpapan is a captivating city 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.
⪢ 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.
⪢ 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.
⪢ 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.
⪢ Modern Infrastructure & Amenities
Balikpapan strikes a balance between natural beauty and modern infrastructure. The city offers a range of comfortable accommodations, international restaurants, shopping malls, and entertainment centers, ensuring that you have access to all the amenities you could need for a pleasant stay.
Things to do in Balikpapan
Join us on YouTube as 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 chance to engage with some very friendly locals despite some language barriers.
After strolling around we ended up at Biru Laut Restaurant. A restaurant that we actually 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. We enjoyed the aromatic garlic broccoli and Leon relished the flavors of mie goreng (bakmi goreng) as we refreshed ourselves with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.
We ventured to three different picturesque beaches, including the popular Kemala Beach in Balikpapan by foot. We enjoyed the sandy shores and the waters in a local way. We also checked out the helipad location—where residents gather 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 vendor and amusement park rides for children and families setting up for the evening fun at the park.
This is just a one day example of what you can enjoy in this city!
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Our Blue Sky Hotel experience ratings
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
With its strong foundation built on decades of hospitality, the Blue Sky Hotel continues to welcome visitors with warmth and grace, promising an unforgettable stay that combines the best of Balikpapan's past and present. 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 definitely come here again and recommend you do too!
✓ Cleanliness: 4/5
The hotel is very clean overall with all communal areas maintained to a very high standard. The room was in great condition too and was very clean, although the walls were dirty, owing perhaps to the fact that it was wallpaper which is in need of replacing. The carpet was also very well worn, although again this is more a case of replacing it rather than it not being clean.
✓ Cost & Value for money: 5/5
✓ Food & Drink: 4/5
✓ Location: 5/5
✓ Service: 5/5
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