BINTAN: The Ultimate trip from Singapore
Weather in Bintan
The weather from late March to late October is generally dry, with occasional light rain. Bintan's monsoon season starts in early November and lasts until late March. During this time, you can still enjoy sunny periods each day, but be prepared for stronger winds and intermittent showers.
Essential Tips
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date in Indonesia.
- The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah (Rp). Carry cash, as many local shops may not accept cards. Most resorts accept cards. There are ATMs available on the island. Indonesian Rupiah (Rp)
- Time zone: Same as Jakarta (one hour behind Singapore).
- Remember to pack sun protection (sunscreen, hats etc) and insect repellent.
How to get to Bintan
Ferries to Bintan Island depart from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore, conveniently located closer to the airport than the city center. Bintan Resort Ferries and other operators provide regular services to Bintan, with journeys starting at just 1 hour and 10 minutes.
How to move around
Once you arrive, the best way to explore Bintan is by renting a taxi or a private car with a driver to customize your day as you wish, or by booking an organized tour to experience the island’s top attractions.
Glamping in Bintan
Luxury glamping in Bintan offers an unparalleled experience. Lounge by the pool on colorful, unique floats during the day, and in the evening, unwind under the stars while enjoying an old-school cinema screen on sunbeds nestled in the sand. Conveniently located, both of the resorts are just a 5 minutes drive from the Bintan-Singapore ferry pier.
ANMON RESORT
Experience a new level of glamping at The Anmon Resort Bintan, where luxury meets desert-inspired comfort in the deluxe, characteristic triangle glamp tents.
NATRA, A TRIBUTE PORTFOLIO RESORT
Enjoy luxury tents with garden or lagoon views. Some rooms feature an outdoor hot tub, and they all come with a private bathroom & shower.
TREASURE BAY - SEAWATER LAGOON
By staying at the mentioned resorts, you can also experience Southeast Asia’s first man-made seawater lagoon. Despite its popularity, the lagoon's vast size, equivalent to 50 Olympic-size pools, ensures plenty of space for everyone. Kayak in the crystal-clear waters, paddle boat, speed down the 7.5-meter Slip and Slide, or have fun at the Water Sports Park. If you can't extend your stay but still want to visit Treasure Bay, find out how to book your tickets below!
Danau Biru & Gurun Pasir
Undeniably the most famous attraction of Bintan: Danau Biru & Gurun Pasir: The Surreal Blue Lake & Sand Dunes. Discover the mesmerizing Danau Biru, where surreal blue waters meet white sandy dunes, creating Bintan’s most distinctive attraction. Despite its natural appearance, Danau Biru is the result of mining activities, with ongoing operations in the area. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful visit with stunning views, indulging in activities like swimming, canoeing, and picnicking around the lake.
Amidst the rainforests, you’ll also find the unexpected stretch of desert known as the mysterious Gurun Pasir Busung. Once a quarry, this area has transformed into picturesque sand dunes, making it a popular yet low-key photo spot. Gurun Pasir offers visitors the chance to explore vast expanses of sand, go sandboarding, or simply admire the unique beauty of this desert-like landscape.
The Temples of Bintan
500 LOHAN TEMPLE
Indonesia’s diverse landscape includes mosques, churches, and temples coexisting harmoniously. Among Bintan’s intriguing religious sites is the 500 Lohan Temple, dedicated to Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. This Buddhist shrine features a captivating sculpture park showcasing around 500 Lohan statues, reminiscent of ancient shrines found in mainland China. Each life-size statue is unique, inviting visitors to wander through a maze of sculptures, where names are etched at their feet. Explore this distinctive temple for cultural insights and memorable photo opportunities amidst its array of stone statues.
Vihara Avalokitesvara Graha
Located near Tanjung Pinang in Bintan, Vihara Avalokitesvara Graha is a Chinese Buddhist temple notable for its vast garden areas and impressive architecture. A major highlight is the 16.8-meter high statue of Dewi Kuan Yin. The temple's expansive grounds are complemented by its luxurious construction, featuring ornate pillars, intricate wall carvings, beautiful paintings, and numerous marble statues, all of which are worth a visit.
Explore the Mangroves
Mangroves are coastal trees and shrubs that thrive in salty or brackish water. These unique ecosystems in tropical and subtropical regions provide crucial habitats for various species. The mangroves in Bintan are home to a diverse range of indigenous flora and fauna, including mangrove snakes, monkeys, kingfishers, and even otters. Additionally, night tours offer a magical experience, where fireflies illuminate the mangrove roots as you cruise beneath the starry sky.
Organize your Beach Escape
Our favorite beach in Bintan is definitely Trikora Beach. Trikora Beach epitomizes Bintan’s original beachfront paradise, comprising a chain of four beaches numbered sequentially from south to north. During the dry season, visitors are greeted with pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling. The atmosphere is laid-back (as shown in the featured article photo), dotted with a few huts offering cold drinks and local snacks. Enjoy the serene company of local beach lovers and fellow travelers, all seeking the perfect blend of relaxed seaside living.
There are also organized snorkeling tours available to explore the beaches and natural marine life in Bintan.
Food & Restaurants (map)
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