Bintan is easy to peg as resort central. Just hearing the island’s name sends most people’s minds drifting to swanky resorts and pristine pools. The general mind-set seems to be that when you need a break from the hectic pace of Singapore, you head to Bintan.
And no wonder – the Indonesian island is home to stunningly luxurious hotels and epic swimming pools. It’s easy to spend an entire weekend on the island simply lounging by the pool while sipping a cold drink.
Also read: Escape to the Belitung Island: An untouched paradise 2 hours from Batam
But don’t be too quick to write Bintan off as a mere resort destination.
As it turns out, this stunningly beautiful and diverse island has more than a few tricks up its sleeve, ranging from natural wonders to man-made marvels.
So don’t just settle for luxuriating by the pool, but head out to discover the real Bintan instead with 18 secret and incredible things to do!
This post is made possible by Indonesia Tourism Board
From SingaporeFrom Johor, Malaysia (tap here to view)From Jakarta (tap here to view)
Option 1: Take one of the direct ferries running between Singapore and Bintan several times a day, with vessels departing from Singapore’s Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. Bintan has three ports, with most ferries arriving at Bintan’s Tanjung Pinang Ferry Terminal. There are several companies operating on the route, including Sindo Ferry and Majestic Fast Ferry.
It’s a good idea to reserve your return trip at your ferry company’s office directly upon arrival at the terminal as the ferries tend to fill up quickly.
Sindo Departure Times (local time at departure point)
Singapore to Bintan: 8:40, 10:20, 12:30, 14:40, 15:10, 18:20
Bintan to Singapore: 7:00, 10:00, 14:00, 17:00
Majestic Fast Ferry Departure Times (local time at departure point)
Singapore to Bintan: 9:15, 11:30, 13:50, 17:50
Bintan to Singapore: 7:30, 10:30, 13:30, 16:30/17:50 Sat-Sun
Return tickets from SGD $44 (approximately Rp.415,000) including Indonesian terminal tax, duration 1- 2 hrs
Option 2: Use the Bintan Resort Ferry, which is usually included in resort bookings but ferry tickets can also be purchased separately. Bintan Resort ferries arrive at Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal.
Departure time (local time at departure point)
Singapore to Bintan:
9:10, 11:10, 14:00, 17:00, 20:00 (Mon-Fri)
8:10, 11:10, 14:00, 17:00, 20:00 (Sat-Sun)
Bintan to Singapore:
08:35, 11:35, 14:35, 17:35, 20:15 (Mon-Fri)
08:35, 11:35, 14:35, 15:35, 17:35, 20:15 (Sat-Sun)
Return tickets from SGD $57 (approximately Rp.547,000), duration 1- 2 hrs
Take a direct ferry from Johor Bahru International Ferry Terminal to Tanjung Pinang Ferry Terminal.
Departure time (local time at departure point)
Johor Bahru to Bintan: 9:30, 13:00, 17:00
Bintan to Johor Bahru: 7:00, 12:30, 15:00
Return tickets from RM 145 (approximately USD 33), duration 3 hrs
Take a flight to Tanjung Pinang via Lion Air.
Return flights from USD $72 (approximately Rp.960,000), duration 1.5 hrs
Getting around
Bintan’s best attractions and most scenic landmarks are spread out across the island, so if you’re looking to see anything beyond the resort walls, you need to figure out a way of getting around. The island has little to no public transport and most people opt for hailing a taxi or renting some wheels of their own to get around the island.
1. Taxi
Save yourself some hassle by letting your lodgings organize a taxi for you rather than opting for the first guy offering transport at the arrivals’ terminal. Haggling is a must, so be sure to negotiate and settle the price of your ride before commencing on your journey.
2. Motorcycle Rental
Price: About USD $25 per day
For a more hands-on experience, why not rent a motorbike and see the island at your own terms? Rental motorbikes are readily available across the island and most often you will be renting straight from the owner. Most hotels and resorts can also arrange motorbike rental. For your own safety, always use a helmet and avoid driving at night as most roads lack streetlights. Again, remember to agree on the price and conditions before exchanging keys and if possible, photograph the bike with owner present upon rental to avoid being charged for the repair of pre-existing dents and bumps.
3. Car Rental
Price: Around USD $25-70 per day
If you’re traveling with a bigger party or simply wish to sit back and relax in the delicious cool of the AC – renting a car might be just the ticket. The final price will depend on how far you are planning on driving and of course, how good you are at haggling.
4. Shuttle Bus
If you’re staying in one of the resorts in Lagoi, you can hop from one resort to the next using the Bintan Resorts shuttle bus service. Besides whisking guests between the resorts, the shuttles also run to Plaza Lagoi Mall and Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal.
Looking for more information on Bintan? Head on over to the official Bintan page – courtesy of Indonesia Tourism Board!
1. Explore the enigmatic sand dunes – Gurun Pasir Busung
The diversity of the Indonesian landscape seems to truly be endless. In the middle of all the lush rainforests and pristine tropical beaches, you can also find a stretch of desert.
Photo via daengfirman.artpix
This is exactly what you’ll discover in the mysterious dunes of Gurun Pasir Busung. What was once a quarry is today transformed into picturesque sand dunes that instantly transport you to the dreamy landscape of the Arabian nights.
Photo via roby yahya
Lately Gurun Pasir Busung has emerged as something of an Instagrammers’ favourite – but since the site hasn’t attracted any significant tourism development as of yet, the dunes remain charmingly low-key.
Photo via bangunandrian
This Indonesian take on the Sahara desert is easy to find since it’s located right by the side of Jalan Raya Busung, but keep in mind that there is no public transport to reach it.
Gurun Pasir Busung
Address: Busung, Seri Kuala Lobam, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29152, Indonesia
Coordinates here
2. Visit a ghost ship at sunset – MV Doulos Phos
With all the glitz and glamour of Bintan’s swanky resorts, it’s easy to forget that this island, has its own rich and colourful history too.
To get a first hand feel of a time gone by – not to mention some serious photo-ops! – pay a visit to the abandoned ship docked next to Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal.
Photo via eduemon
Originally built in 1914, the vessel currently known as MV Doulos Phos sailed the high seas transporting produce and passengers before being repurposed as a floating bookstore.
The ship was finally put on sale in 2009 and has since been waiting to be turned into a boutique hotel by the new owners. The project is finally approaching finish and the hotel is set to open at the end of 2016.
Photo via ultravimar
But for now, the abandoned vessel sits on the beach, waiting to be immortalised in truly unique holiday snaps. It’s an especially impressive landmark during sunset, when the skies are painted a glowing shade of pink!
Photo via 2sak_2sak
MV Doulos Phos
Getting there: The ship is located near the Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal.
3. Discover a surreal lagoon with bright blue water and white sand – Danau Biru, Kawal
Though Bintan is surrounded by clear blue ocean on all sides, those picturesque shores might just pale in comparison to the mesmerizing shades of blue you will discover at Danau Biru.
Photo via lhala dhila
The lake and its surreal blue waters surrounded by white sandy dunes are in fact so beautiful…That you might be surprised to learn that instead of a natural oasis, Danau Biru was in fact created as a result of mining activity in the region and active mining still takes place in the area.
Photo via defandisoktavan
Because the lake is not a tourist attraction as such, you can expect a peaceful visit complete with stunningly beautiful views. Just remember to pack your own lunch to go!
Photo via thiozard
Danau Biru Bintan, Kawal
Coordinate here
4. Join a nautical fiesta – Kepri Marine Festival
Indonesia is the largest archipelago country in the world and in fact, two thirds of the nation’s territory are water, so it seems only fitting that the country should celebrate its aquatic splendor.
Photo via muhrizales
That is exactly what happens at the annual Festival Bahari Kepri, or Kepri Marine Festival, held in Bintan’s Tanjung Pinang. The festival brings together participants from across the Riau Islands and attracts visitors from all over the world.
The festivities include nautical events ranging from sailing to dragon boat racing, while local heritage of the Riau Islands is celebrated through music, fashion and traditional games.
The most colorful part of the festival is the Kepri Carnival, which features 100 performers making their way down the waterfront, dressed up in full-on carnival gear, inspired by the area’s nautical roots.
Fancy costumes, lively music and the ocean seems like a combination that’s worth celebrating!
Kepri Marine Festival
Address: Tanjung Pinang, Bintan
Getting there: Different events of the festival take place in and around Tanjung Pinang. You can catch the Kepri Carnival at the State Building (Gedung Daerah).
Contact: (0771) 318562
Website
5. Splash around in pristine waters and indulge in your favourite water sports – Treasure Bay Bintan
Just as the name would suggest, Treasure Bay Bintan is a shining jewel of a resort. In fact, it’s more than a resort – it’s a full-blown resort city. This cornucopia of luxury travel offers so many unforgettable experiences that it’s hard to know where to start!
So dive into Treasure Bay head first and choose your favourite!
5-1. Inject some glamour into camping – The Canopi
Camping meets glamour at The Canopi, where guests get to experience sleeping out in the great outdoors without sacrificing one inch of luxury and lavish comfort.
Photo via nadiamaya
The Canopi consists of 41 tents set amidst a lush tropical setting complete with a mangrove river and the ocean glimmering in the distance.
Photo via hendracong
If camping brings into mind mosquito bites and soggy s’mores, it’s time to think again.
Photo via cautiie, adorawhitney
Each tent at The Canopi is fully air-conditioned and houses a plush four-poster bed, and with alfresco hot tubs and stellar WiFi – this is a camping ground that will win over even the most discerning traveller.
Photo via pangpuayy, j.ardhani
The Canopi
Address: Jln. Raya Haji KM 01 Kawasan
Pariwisata, Teluk Sebong Lagoi,
Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29152
Contact: +62 770 69 2252
Price: From Rp. 1,900,000 (Approximately USD $145)
Website
5-2. Discover a unique paradise bay – Crystal Lagoon
Imagine the most beautiful, pristine white sandy beach you have ever seen. Got it? Now multiply it by ten and you’ll have some idea of what to expect from a visit to Crystal Lagoon.
Photo via ultravimar
Boasting a status as Southeast Asia’s very first man-made seawater lagoon, Crystal Lagoon is all about stunning turquoise water and epic fun in the sun.
Photo via linyuxinllll
Although this manmade wonder draws quite a crowd, there’s plenty of room to splash around for everyone as the lagoon’s size equals a whopping 50 Olympic-size pools!
Photo via adorawhitney, dedirui, aldoyonaldo
Crystal Lagoon
Price: From Rp. 110,000 (Approximately USD $8)
Website
5-3. Get your adrenaline fix and prepare to get wet! – Bintan Wake Park
Calling all water babies! Whether you prefer to explore the underwater world or to catch your thrills above the surface, Treasure Bay has got you covered.
Photo via aris sahdy yasri
First, there is the new Bintan Wake Park, which is Bintan’s first bespoke wakeboarding facility. Wakeboarding entails holding onto a rope attached to a cable, which whisks you around a circuit in a thrilling yet safe manner, making this the perfect sport for all aspiring surfers!
Photo via haii iiah, thecanopi, hidayatardiansyah
If wakeboarding is not enough to satisfy your aquatic cravings, fear not! Treasure Bay offers a whole world of water sports. Maybe you’d like to try your hand at flying with the Jetovator or scale the aquatic world with an underwater scooter?
And if all else fails, why not simply walk on water? Yes, even this is possible at the Treasure Bay thanks to the lighter-than-air ZOVB Balls.
Photo via thang lina
Bintan Wake Park
Opening hours: Mon-Fri, 9am to 5pm; Sat-Sun, 8am to 6pm
Price: From USD $24
Website
Treasure Bay Bintan
Address: Kawasan Pariwisata, Jl. Raja Haji KM 01, Teluk Sebong, Lagoi, Tlk. Sebong, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29152
Contact: (+62) 770 69 1681
Website
6. Explore mysterious brick igloos – Rumah Arang
Igloos in Indonesia? Might sound strange but in Bintan they really do exist! Or at least, something very akin to those icy abodes.
Once used as furnaces by the nomadic Sea Gypsies, the domed huts fell out of use after the traditional way of burning mangrove to produce charcoal was banned.
Photo via thiozard
Today the brick buildings, which are strangely reminiscent of a beehive, are enjoying a second coming as a quirky tourist attraction.
Wander through the village and snap photos besides the mysterious looking huts – and leave your friends back home guessing into what ancient kingdom you have stumbled upon!
Rumah Arang
Location: Desa Kuala Sempang, Busung, Bintan
7. Escape to a private beach paradise – White Sands Island
Get ready to experience the desert island paradise of your wildest dreams.
Photo via ellotrie
White Sands Island is a not your basic resort, but an actual private island where guests get to indulge in a customized holiday experience in a stunning tropical setting.
Photo via hannaqueentana
You can spend your time snorkelling in the crystal clear waters, kayaking around the lush island or settle in for a night of camping under the stars.
Photo via kintanfadllika, therealotto lee
Photo via erva.ayu.ruliantini
It’s all about what makes you happy! After roaming about in this paradise, grab a drink at the bar or set a picnic by the sea and prepare to be swept away by a stunning sunset.
Photo via diyakhairana, nadyard, siaotienlee
White Sands Island
Getting there: From Tanjung Pinang, make the 45-minute drive to the harbour at Trikora km.38. White Sands Island is located a 15-minute boat ride from the harbour.
Contact: +62822 7772 9988
Price: From Rp.117,000 (Approximately USD $9)
Website
8. Hitch a ride and view Bintan from the clouds – Air Adventures Flying Club
Hop on board the open-cockpit seaplane and get ready to experience Bintan in all its tropical glory as you’ve never seen it before.
Photo via pamella haryanto
“Amazing!”
“Highlight of the trip!”
“A must-do activity!”
These are just some of the superlatives that previous daredevils have used to describe a flight with Air Adventures Flying Club Bintan.
Photo via maddysd
The flights are operated by a seasoned pilot with more than 20 years of flying experience, so the only thing left for you to do is to take in the stunning views and relish the butterflies fluttering about in your belly.
Photo via mcm3329
For an additional Rp.350,000 you can also get a full video of your time spent up in the clouds – talk about a one-of-a-kind souvenir!
Air Adventures Flying Club Bintan
Address: Sebong Lagoi, Teluk Sebong, Tlk. Sebong, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau
Contact: (62) 822 8831 3005
Opening hours: Wed-Mon 9am to 5pm
Price: From Rp.1,200,000 for an introductory flight (Approximately USD $92 / SGD $126)
Website
9. Take your vacation into new heights – Gunung Bintan Adventure Trek
Take your Bintan experience into stunning new heights by conquering Gunung Bintan!
Photo via lilynivert
Hike up to the 340-metre summit and be rewarded by jaw-dropping 360-degree overlooking the island. The height is just enough to offer stunning vistas and terrific photo-ops, but still manageable in 2-4 hours.
Photo via augustianira, kalinamasqueen
In addition to the gorgeous views, you’ll encounter exotic flora and fauna, and a waterfall too! Catch photos of mischievous monkeys and tune into the singsong of exotic birds.
Photo via fisharedrowning
Reach out your hand a grab a juicy mangosteen or a ripe banana straight from the vine. Heading down the hillside, pause by a hidden waterfall, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip beneath the cool cascading waters.
BRC Tours
Contact: +62 770 692029
Price: Rp. 450,000 (Approximately USD $34)
Opening hours: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm (2-4-hour trek)
Website
10. Seize unmissable photo-ops at a grand 500 statue garden – 500 Lohan Temple (Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Vihara)
Diversity is the backbone of the Indonesian landscape, and sure enough, you can find mosques, churches and temples happily coexisting in Bintan, too.
One of the island’s most fascinating holy sites is 500 Lohan Temple, a Buddhist shrine which houses a mesmerising sculpture park.
As you might have guessed, the park is home to some 500 Lohan statutes that will make you feel like you’ve stumbled into an ancient shrine in Mainland China.
Photo via retnokomar, sholeh wahzudy
Make sure to take your time as you make your way through the sculpture maze, as each one of the life-size statues is unique. You can check the name of each stony inhabitant from the carvings etched to their feet.
500 Lohan Temple
Address: Address: Kijiang, Riau Islands Province, Indonesia
Contact: 6281364537222
Opening hours: 9am to 5pm
11. Enjoy fresh seafood and chill at a floating bar! – Kelong Seafood Restaurant, Calypso Floating Bar
Looking for the best dine and wine option? Look no further than Kelong Seafood Restaurant, and Calypso Floating Bar that’s both located right at the same place!
11-1. Fresh seafood with a side of epic sunset views
At Kelong Seafood Restaurant, it’s all about food with a view!
Photo via thetempehmonster
Built on high stilts just off the shoreline, the restaurant offers a prime spot for taking in a tropical sunset over the ocean – as you tuck into a plateful of incredibly fresh seafood.
Photo via bevandbry
The cuisine on offer is a delicious mix of Indonesian and Chinese fare and when it comes to seafood– it doesn’t get much fresher than this, as much of the fish is caught mere coconut’s throw from the restaurant.
Photo via aldenoika, jenteo27, kristanto87, qoomiin
After filling your belly with fresh seafood, finish the night off with cocktails at the neighbouring Calypso Floating Restaurant and let the reggae tunes sway you into sheer tropical bliss.
Kelong Seafood Restaurant
Address: Nirwana Gardens, Jalan Panglima Pantar, Lagoi 29155, Bintan Resorts | Nirwana Gardens, Riau, Indonesia
Contact: +65 6323 6636
Opening hours: Mon-Sun, 11am to 10.30pm
Website
11-2 Catch Bintan’s best sunset view floating over the South China Sea – Calypso Floating Bar
What better way to end an epic day on Bintan than by walking into the sunset – literally!
Photo via sarahmaxmackenzie
You can do just this at the aptly named Calypso Floating Bar at Nirwana Gardens Resort. Trust us: this is the absolute best place for taking in a seaside sunset on Bintan.
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