Booked a resort in Bintan for your next vacation but haven’t planned the itinerary yet? Look no further, as we’ve prepared our top suggestions on the most exciting things to do in Bintan for your upcoming trip. Whether you prefer to take things slow and relax by Bintan’s enchanting coastlines or experience jam-packed days filled with fun water activities, there’s bound to be something for everyone!
Overview of things to do in Bintan
| Activity | Address | Opening hours | Price |
| Guided tour at Blue Lake and Gurun Pasir Bintan | Busung, Seri Kuala Lobam, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29152, Indonesia | Daily, 7am – 6pm | Tours from IDR30,3396 (~SGD47.38)
Free admission for children 4 years and under |
| Go golfing at one of Bintan’s award-winning golf courses | Jalan Teluk Berembang Laguna Bintan Resort, Lagoi, Bintan Resort, Lagoi, Riau, Indonesia 29155 | Daily, 6.30am – 7pm | From IDR760,000 (~SGD60) |
| Witness turtles nesting and hatching | – |
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| Go shopping at Plaza Lagoi | Jalan Gurindam Duabelas, Teluk Sebong Lagoi, Riau Islands Province 29155, Indonesia | Daily, 10am – 8pm |
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| Head down for a romantic mangrove boat tour | Sebung River, Sungai Sebong, 29152 Lagoi, Sebong Lagoi, Teluk Sebong, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau, Indonesia | Daily with sessions in 3h intervals, 9am – 7pm | Tours from IDR31,6037 (~SGD25) |
| Visit The Kelong Seafood Restaurant for fresh seafood and great views | Nirwana Gardens Resorts, Jalan Panglima Pantar, Sebong Lagoi, Kecamatan Teluk Sebong, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29152, Indonesia | Mon – Fri: 4.30pm – 10.30pm Sat – Sun: 11.30am -10.30pm |
Food and drinks from IDR21,000 (~SGD2) |
| Get up close and personal with animals at Safari Lagoi and Eco Farm | Baru City, Teluk Sebong, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands 29152, Indonesia | Daily, 8am – 4.30pm | Tickets from IDR150,000 (~SGD12)
Children under 80cm in height are admitted free of charge |
| Have fun at Chill Cove | Treasure Bay Bintan, Jalan Raja Haji KM 01 Kawasan Pariwisata, Teluk Sebong Lagoi, Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29152, Indonesia | Daily, 9am – 6pm | Tickets from IDR320,000 (~SGD26) |
| Go for an invigorating hike on Mount Bintan | Bintan Buyu, Teluk Bintan, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands, Indonesia | Daily, 8am – 3pm | Tour packages from IDR550,000 (~SGD44) |
| See the famous arhat stone statues at 500 Lohan Temple | Batu 13, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands Province 29125, Indonesia | Tue – Sun: 9am – 5pm | Tickets from IDR30, 000 (~SGD3) |
| Snap a photo at the iconic Gonggong building for the feed | Tanjung Pinang City, Bintan Island, Riau Islands | 24 hours | Free |
| Go snorkelling with the tropical fish at Lagoi Bay | Sebong Lagoi, Kecamatan, Teluk Sebong, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau | Daily, 9am – 4pm | Tours from IDR600,000 (~SGD48) |
| Visit the historical relics and buildings on Penyengat Island | 29136 Teluk Bintan Riau Islands | Daily, 9am – 3pm | Free |
1. Take a guided tour of Blue Lake and Gurun Pasir Bintan
To kickstart your island getaway, tour famous natural landscapes such as the Blue Lake and Gurun Pasir Bintan for some awe-inspiring views. For lasting memories, the stunning desert landscape and crystal-clear Blue Lake are breathtaking backdrops for your photos. I guarantee that they’ll be Instagram-worthy!
After the tour, adrenaline junkies may be interested to try their hand at activities like ATV rides and rounds of archery. Otherwise, feel free to roam around the dunes and look forward to segments where you can take photos with majestic eagles. As a key landmark, this is one of the most popular things to do in Bintan!
Address: Busung, Seri Kuala Lobam, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29152, Indonesia
Opening hours: Daily, 7am – 6pm
Price:
Tours from IDR303,396 (~SGD 47.38) for 2 pax
Free admission for children 4 years and under
2. Get your golf on at one of Bintan’s award-winning golf courses
Home to a myriad of golf courses, Bintan doesn’t fall short in terms of award-winning ones. Seasoned golfers will be pleased with a game at Ria Bintan Golf Club or Laguna Golf Bintan, two golf courses that have been named as top golf courses in Asia and Indonesia for their challenging designs and unique hillside terrain. Accolades aside, Bintan’s golf courses offer sprawling terrain that isn’t seen in Singapore, making a game of golf a must-do Bintan activity on your next visit.
Don’t fret if you’re a beginner like me, as Laguna Golf Bintan offers classes so that you can also enjoy the golfing experience. If you’ve been looking to pick up a new sport, this is your sign to start golfing! Whether it’s an individual lesson or a package shared with friends, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Ria Bintan Golf Club
Address: Jalan Perigi Raja, Lagoi Bintan Resorts Bintan Utara, Kepulauan Riau 29155 Indonesia
Opening hours: Daily, 7am – 7pm
Price: From IDR1,800,000 (~SGD143)
Laguna Golf Bintan:
Address: Jalan Teluk Berembang Laguna Bintan Resort, Lagoi, Bintan Resort, Lagoi, Riau, Indonesia 29155
Opening hours: Daily, 6.30am – 7pm
Price: From IDR760,000 (~SGD60)
3. Witness the wonder of turtles nesting and hatching
Suitable for families, this is a transformative experience for young children to get up close and personal with wildlife conservation efforts. Breathtaking for all, this is one of the most unique and meaningful things to do in Bintan on your upcoming holiday!
Address: May vary based on your choice of accommodation
4. Go all-out on a shopping spree at Plaza Lagoi
As a one-stop shop for all your shopping needs, Plaza Lagoi boasts more than 60 shops across various categories such as food, shopping and spa services. If you enjoy shopping for apparel like I do, you’ll be glad, as most of the shops in Plaza Lagoi are known for selling clothing and souvenirs. Nonetheless, there is still a good handful of massage parlours if you need a relaxing massage after a jam-packed day of activities.
On the weekends, don’t miss out on the Kampong Peranakan Bazaar, a true highlight of the area! Whether it be local Indonesian cuisine or international cuisines, there’s bound to be something for your tastebuds. As if that isn’t good enough, Lagoi Bay Beach is within walking distance, allowing you to catch the breathtaking sunset after a satisfying shopping day. To conclude your getaway, this may be one of the most enjoyable things to do in Bintan Island.
Address: Jalan Gurindam Duabelas, Teluk Sebong Lagoi, Riau Islands Province 29155, Indonesia
Opening hours: Daily, 10am – 8pm
5. Marvel at nature’s beauty during a mangrove boat tour
Planning to surprise your partner? This may be one of the most romantic things to do in Bintan at night! Sign up for a boat tour down the winding Sebung River to marvel at the towering mangroves. Unlike most, these tours are open till nighttime, which I’d recommend for the best viewing experience.
While listening to the knowledgeable tour guides, keep your eyes peeled for various flora and fauna, including kingfishers and mud lobsters. Against the romantic backdrop of the starry night sky, see if you can spot some fireflies! To end your tour on a great note, add a dining experience at the Kelong Seafood Restaurant to your package for some amazingly fresh seafood.
Address: Sebung River, Sungai Sebong, 29152 Lagoi, Sebong Lagoi, Teluk Sebong, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau, Indonesia
Opening hours: Daily with sessions in 3-hour intervals, 9am – 7pm
Price: Tours from IDR316,037 (~SGD25)
6. Pay a visit to The Kelong Seafood Restaurant for fresh seafood and great views
Even if you aren’t planning to visit the mangroves anytime soon, don’t miss out on the fresh seafood at The Kelong Seafood Restaurant! As the restaurant is built on stilts atop the sea, enjoy the balmy sea breeze and panoramic views as you dig into your food. This stunning backdrop also makes for great photos, so snap away with the sunset in the background.
Fan-favourites include the Black Pepper Crab, Salted Egg Honey Lobster and Stir-fried Butter Prawns, paired with the tangy Thai sweet chilli sauce offered by the restaurant. Since the food is served tze-char style, this is one of the best Bintan activities if you’re travelling with a big group!
Address: Nirwana Gardens Resorts, Jalan Panglima Pantar, Sebong Lagoi, Kecamatan Teluk Sebong, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29152, Indonesia
Opening hours:
Mon – Fri: 4.30pm – 10.30pm
Sat – Sun: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Price: Food and drinks from IDR21,000 (~SGD2)
7. Get up close and personal with animals at Safari Lagoi and Eco Farm
This is one of the most family-friendly things to do in Bintan to interest the kiddos by learning more about Indonesia’s rich natural heritage! Within this sanctuary, meet endangered animals such as Estuarine crocodiles and vultures, both once part of the illegal pet trade and exotic meat market.
After marvelling at the animals, take a relaxing stroll in the Eco Farm to observe the crop plantations (which we rarely see in Singapore)! From tropical fruits like bananas, to gorgeous lavender and sunflower patches, this is a great place for an #OOTD picture to spice up your Instagram feed. To conclude your tour, enjoy a comforting glass of ginger tea and get a bite of Rujak, a refreshing salad consisting of the freshest ingredients and a thick, savoury sauce.
Address: Baru City, Teluk Sebong, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands 29152, Indonesia
Opening hours: Daily, 8am – 4.30pm
Price:
Tickets from IDR150,000 (~SGD12)
Children under 80cm in height are admitted free of charge
8. Have a fun day at Chill Cove
Within Treasure Bay Bintan is Chill Cove, a one-stop attraction park with recreational and sporting activities for all to enjoy. As large as 50 Olympic-sized swimming pools, Chill Cove is South East Asia’s first and largest recreational man-made seawater lagoon.
Once you’re there, thrill-seekers can enjoy an exhilarating ATV ride or a wakeboarding session. If that doesn’t interest you, spend a slow day lazing in the pool or cruising around the lagoon’s crystal-clear waters in a water tricycle. End your day of fun by visiting the various eateries and retail options in the area. With so much to do, it’s no wonder that visiting Chill Cove is one of the most popular things to do in Bintan for families!
Address: Treasure Bay Bintan, Jalan Raja Haji KM 01 Kawasan Pariwisata, Teluk Sebong Lagoi, Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29152, Indonesia
Opening hours: Daily, 9am – 6pm
Price: Tickets from IDR320,000 (~SGD26)
9. Go for an invigorating hike on Mount Bintan
Nature lovers will be sure to enjoy an invigorating, early morning hike on Mount Bintan. Standing at 350m, Mount Bintan is the tallest summit of Bintan, making it great for those who crave a challenge even while on holiday! If you’re a beginner to hiking like me, don’t feel daunted, as the uncomplicated terrain makes it a manageable hike that can be completed within two to four hours based on your hiking speed.
While hiking, look out for native fauna like silver leaf monkeys and sunbirds, as well as seasonal fruits like durian and mangosteen growing on the trees. Apart from the stunning 360-degree view from the peak, reward yourself with a dip at Kolam Puteri after the hike. Also known as the Princess’s Pool, folklore claims the water will shower you with good luck and blessings! Pro tip – remember to wear comfortable covered shoes, as the slopes are known to be slippery after it rains.
Address: Bintan Buyu, Teluk Bintan, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands, Indonesia
Opening hours: Daily, 8am – 3pm
Price: Tour packages from IDR550,000 (~SGD44)
10. Visit the 500 Lohan Temple to see the famous arhat statues
One of the must-visit Bintan attractions is the 500 Lohan Temple. Just a twenty-minute drive from the Tanjung Pinang Ferry Terminal, this temple is best known for its detailed, life-sized stone arhat statues. Each of the five hundred statues has unique and detailed carvings of their facial expressions and physiques. Fascinating!
Those with a keen eye may spot famous characters like Tripataka from Journey To The West, and Guan Gong from Romance of the Three Kingdoms. This Buddhist place of worship is also known for its calming atmosphere as it’s surrounded by vast rice fields. If you’d like to further immerse yourself in the tranquillity, drinks and snacks are also available for purchase to refresh yourself before you wander around the rest of the temple.
Address: Batu 13, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands Province 29125, Indonesia
Opening hours:
Tue – Sun: 9am – 5pm
Price: Tickets from IDR30,000 (~SGD3)
11. Snap a photo at the iconic Gonggong building for your feed
Looking for photo spots for your next Instagram post? This is one of the best things to do in Bintan, and you can’t leave without taking a photo with the icon of Tanjung Pinang – the sea snail building! A sea snail that’s typically boiled or steamed and enjoyed with various savoury sauces, the gonggong is a local delicacy in Bintan that you can’t leave without trying. I’d recommend visiting during sunrise or sunset hours to catch the best views at the nearby Laman Boenda.
Once you’re satisfied with your photos, explore other attractions in Tanjung Pinang, such as the nearby wet market or the night markets in Rimba Jaya! Still undecided? Head into the Gonggong building to learn more about the various attractions and great deals available in Bintan, as it doubles as a tourism information centre!
Address: Tanjung Pinang City, Bintan Island, Riau Islands
Opening hours: 24 hours
Price: Free
12. See the tropical fish on a snorkelling tour at Lagoi Bay
If you love the water like I do, head to Lagoi Bay for an unforgettable snorkelling experience! Known for its magnificent marine life, a snorkelling tour may be one of the best and most unforgettable things to do in Bintan to experience the island’s diverse ecosystem and admire the Bintan coastline from a whole new perspective!
I previously thought that snorkelling was dangerous, but I realised that I’ve been mistaken! If you’re feeling similarly apprehensive, fret not, as experienced guides will be present to keep you safe. Once you’re treading comfortably in the water, gather a school of small fish to take a photo with. I guarantee that this will be one of your most memorable activities in Bintan!
Address: Sebong Lagoi, Kecamatan, Teluk Sebong, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau
Opening hours: Daily, 9am – 4pm
Price: Tours from IDR600,000 (~SGD48)
13. Take a cultural trip to Penyengat Island
Immerse yourself in Bintan’s cultural heritage by taking a trip to Penyengat Island, a small island located just a stone’s throw away from Tanjung Pinang. There, you’ll find an abundance of historical relics and colourful buildings to snap some photographs with. These include Sultan Riau Great Mosque, the Royal Cemetery and Bukit Kursi. It’s also rumoured that a large portion of the mosque was made with egg whites – I’d like to check that out myself!
Apart from the tour, get hands-on with cultural activities such as making Tanjak, the traditional Malay headgear for men. Other than that, you’ll also get the opportunity to try on traditional Malay attire. With so many cultural experiences to explore at your own pace, a day trip to Penyengat Island may be one of the best things to do in Bintan.
Address: 29136 Teluk Bintan Riau Islands
Opening hours: Daily, 9am – 3pm
Price: Free
How to get to Bintan Island from Singapore?
To reach Bintan Island, take a ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore to either Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT) Ferry Terminal or Tanjung Pinang Ferry Terminal. The prices for both travelling methods are comparable at around $90 per pax for a round trip. The main difference between the two is the travelling duration – the former takes around an hour, whereas the latter takes close to double.
To secure your tickets to the BBT Ferry Terminal, make sure to book early as tickets get snapped up fast. Most Bintan resorts provide complimentary shuttle services to and from the BBT Ferry terminal, so I’d recommend that option. To reach the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, take SBS Bus 35 or board a $5 shuttle straight from Changi Airport.
How to get around Bintan Island?
Ride-hailing services are relatively inaccessible in most parts of Bintan Island. For a fuss-free travelling experience between attractions, hire a private taxi or rent a car with a driver in advance.
Most of the drivers are highly experienced and may even provide you with local recommendations on things to do in Bintan for the best experience. Check with the staff at your accommodation, as most Bintan resorts can assist with booking a private car.
How many days to spend in Bintan?
The typical duration for a Bintan getaway is 3D2N to enjoy a range of local dining options and exciting activities while still having some downtime. If you’re planning to spend just a day in Bintan, there are also options available for a day trip that lasts around 8 hours and covers 3 different areas in Bintan Island.
Maximise your weekend getaway with these exciting things to do in Bintan!
Whether it’s going on a beach adventure with friends and family or visiting the mall for a restful spa day, there’s something for everyone on Bintan Island. Haven’t decided where to stay? Check out the best resorts in Bintan for your upcoming vacation! Or, reminiscing over your last Bintan trip and considering other options for the next long weekend? Here are our top picks for some short getaways from Singapore! While you’re planning, be sure to also check out some of the best things to do in Singapore this weekend!
