This Indonesian island near Singapore has white sand beaches and clear waters. Visitors can explore mangrove forests, play golf, or relax at luxury resorts.
Bintan Island, part of Indonesia's Riau Archipelago, is located just 45 minutes by ferry from Singapore. You can relax on Trikora Beach's white sand, hike through the jungle to Mount Bintan's summit, or explore the stilt houses of Senggarang fishing village. The island's clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, while its restaurants serve fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen.
Location and Geography
Bintan Island is the largest island in Indonesia's Riau Archipelago, covering an area of 1,173 square kilometers. It sits close to the equator, resulting in a tropical climate year-round with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The island's landscape includes sandy beaches, mangrove forests, and hilly inland areas, with Mount Bintan as its highest point at 340 meters above sea level.
Getting to Bintan Island
You can reach Bintan by ferry from Singapore's Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. The journey takes about 45-50 minutes. Three companies operate this route: Sindo, Indo Falcon, and Berlian/Wavemaster. If you're coming from within Indonesia, Raja Haji Fisabilillah Airport serves domestic flights. Ferries also connect Bintan to other nearby Indonesian islands and Johor Bahru in Malaysia.
Beaches and Resorts
Bintan's northern coast, known as Bintan Resorts, has many high-end hotels and beach resorts. Trikora Beach on the eastern coast has a more relaxed atmosphere with its string of four beaches, thatched huts, and clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Many resorts have golf courses, spas, and water sports facilities.
Cultural Experiences
To experience local culture, visit Panglong Village, home to the Orang Laut or "sea gypsies". Here, you can observe traditional fishing methods and see houses built on stilts over the water. In Senggarang, a floating fishing hamlet, you'll find Chinese temples and shrines among the wooden stilt houses. The capital city, Tanjung Pinang, has markets where you can buy local crafts and try local delicacies.
Nature and Wildlife
Bintan's interior contains a variety of plants and animals. You can take a mangrove safari tour to spot monitor lizards, mangrove snakes, and various monkey species. For a more active experience, hike Mount Bintan, where you'll encounter wild orchids and waterfalls on your way to the summit, which offers wide-reaching views of the island and surrounding sea.
Local Cuisine
You'll find many restaurants serving fresh seafood in Lagoi Bay. Try local specialties like gong-gong (sea snails) or black pepper crab. For a unique dining experience, visit Kelong Seafood Restaurant, built on stilts at the end of a long jetty, where you can enjoy your meal while watching the sunset over the water.
Transportation on the Island
Public transportation on Bintan is limited, so renting a car or using resort shuttle services are often the most practical options for getting around. Some resorts offer complimentary shuttle services to key areas like the ferry terminal and shopping centers. Taxis are available in larger towns, but it's advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey.
