Bintan Island certainly ticks all the boxes for a fun filled tropical getaway. So be prepared to pull yourself away from your Bintan resort to experience the exciting activities that await you. The quiet equatorial escape, just south of metropolitan Singapore is packed with surprises for all ages.
- Bintan Island Top Attractionsdigitalpimp. / Food Photos / CC BY-ND
With this guide to Bintan’s top attractions, you’re bound to see the best of this beautiful Island.
Surf the waves
While the waves of Bintan may not reveal the best of its culture, they are a must see attraction for water sports fans. From April to October, the northern seas of Bintan Island provide the ideal climate for windsurfing, and resorts along the coastline provide classes for beginners up to advanced level. Another way to ride the waves is on the back of a jet ski. You can rent one of these nippy vehicles from just $35 to zip around the local fishing villages or show off your skills on the beach front.
Discover the mangroves
Available to explore day or night, the tropical mangrove swamps of Bintan are an educational awe for all ages. The award winning Mangrove Discovery Day Tour takes around two hours to complete. Floating along the Sebung River and into thick jungle, you will explore the colourful flowers and fruits of the mangrove ecosystem, while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the secluded forest. Along the way you may catch a glimpse of Bintan’s wild residents, including Silver Leaf monkeys, monitor lizards and birds like the Purple Heron, hunting on the riverbank.
Hit the shops
While adventuring on Bintan Island you cannot miss out on a shopping spree and spa day. Market and shopping village, Pasar Oleh-Oleh is the perfect destination for your souvenir needs, offering the best of Indonesian culture at affordable prices. After browsing the artefacts, fashion and gifts, take a break and explore the cluster of huts selling local cuisine. Must-buy snacks include Kueh lapis, a bright layered cake made with rice flour and coconut, and keropok, traditional prawn crackers. After a day’s spending, kick back and relax at a surrounding beauty spa, many of which offer massage packages for as little as $40.
Golf in style
After a busy day of discovery, a relaxing round of golf is waiting for you at Laguna Bintan Golf Club. This 18 hole lush parkland is a tranquil, yet challenging golf resort with stunning views of the South China Sea. Just ten minutes from Bandar Betan Telani Ferry Terminal, the club boasts smooth rolling hills; with jungle, wetland and seaside surroundings to please the eye. Designed by Australian golfing great, Greg Norman, this resort certainly meets the mark for serious sportsmen and landscape lovers alike.
Snorkel under the sea
Bintan Island is surrounded by over 90% sea area, making it a fantastic destination for underwater adventure. The abundance of marine life in the SE Asian seas is truly a sight to behold amidst the colourful coral and is best explored between April and October. Expect to witness more than 100,000 species in the crystal waters, including snails, squid, sea shells, and of course, the local dolphins. Available for all ages at resorts across the island, including the popular Pulau Bintan, snorkelling is a must-do, memorable activity to experience during your visit.
