With Bali, flooded with 1.03 million international tourists in 2022, Bintan in Indonesia only received 350,000 tourists making it a cheaper alternative to Bali. If you crave for beaches, adventure and adrenaline, quickly plan a trip to Bintan before the secret is out!
This guide includes:
1. A Brief Introduction đź’•
2. Getting Around đźš—
3. Top Must-Visit Places 🏙️
4. Money đź’µ
5. Weather â›…
6. Places to stay 🏡
Let me help you make the best memories! This guide contains affiliated links which I would earn a small commission if you purchase from them without any extra cost to you! If you find this information helpful, any tips are appreciated for my work :)
An Indonesian island that is accessible and more laid back than Bali, Bintan will tick all the right boxes for holiday goers looking to destress and relax.Â
As a tourist destination, the locals here are warm and hospitable. It is also important to note that due to Muslim majority romantic gestures in public such as hugging and kissing are generally frowned upon and swimwear is best worn only at the beach.Â
Known for its beautiful beaches, rich historical sites, amazing fauna, as well as abundant Chinese temples and seafood restaurants. I enjoy going to Bintan as I find it a private island getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city!Â
Getting Around
The best way to get around Bintan is by calling for a taxi or private hire. Prices in Bintan are low and not like Bali because there are less tourists. Some of the listed must-dos below include transportation from and back to the hotel!
Must-Visit PlacesÂ
Go Snorkeling and get a tour of White Sands Island!
Enjoy a day trip snorkeling in home to marine life such as clownfish - Nemo, sea urchin, sea cucumber, starfish, variety of reefs & coral at difference snorkeling spot. Immerse yourself in the beautiful blue sea alongside with a guided snorkeling trip with the local diver. After the activities, enjoy freshly caught seafood from the area!
White Sands Island is a private island located just a 15 minutes boat ride from Trikora. The island is perfect for a day trip to a private haven and fewer people.
The nearby sea for snorkeling is filled with colourful corals and tropical fish. The scenery is beautiful and the sea is blue. Perfect for a couple looking to relax!
Nature lovers will have a fulfiling day out as the boat meanders through lush canopies in a 1-hour eco adventure. Cruise down the Sebong river as night falls and experience the calm and serenity of the mangrove forest.Â
Be enchanted by the glowing fireflies that live along the river and get to see them upclose. There is a designated driver who will pick you up from the hotel and send you back!
Your trip will begin with a transfer from your accommodation. You’ll board a water taxi to Senggarang Village, one of the oldest Chinese settlements in Bintan. Enjoy an Indonesian set lunch at a restaurant and have a chance to browse through the local markets for some fresh fruit and dried seafood!
Also known as the 'Sahara of Bintan', this is a place not to miss! Feel the breeze and while you are there, have fun on the ATVs with your friends and family!
Round-trip transfers to and from your hotel included:) This is a spot that you cannot miss in Bintan! Its a simple yet an awesome experience! The beautiful sand shaped like hills, the blue lake and cheap coconut drinks! You could also ride the ATV around if you are too tired to walk. Once you are done with your instagram photos, drop by to one of the staffs and enjoy a pure coconut juice overlooking the sunset! Trust me, it is beautiful and relaxing! You will not regret this!
Chill Cove @ Treasure Bay Bintan is the region’s latest adventure playground with an exciting range of activities for fun seekers, adrenalin junkies and nature lovers alike. Go kayaking, ride an ATV, brave the slip and slide and more!Â
Feel the thrill of sliding down 7.5m before plunging into the welcoming crystal blue water in the Slip and Slide! Let your kids have fun on family-friendly rides:) Unleash your courage by driving the UTV and ATV
Very instagrammable! Featuring deluxe glamping tents, this resort offers a restaurant, a bar and BBQ facilities. Each tent has a 4-guest capacity and is fitted with air-conditioning, a safety deposit box and coffee/tea making facilities. The private bathroom comes with a shower and free toiletries. The resort also offers a tent side BBQ experience. Cool off at the outdoor swimming pool or have a fun day with the waterslides!
It first set sail in 1914 and retired as the “World’s Oldest Active Ocean Going Passenger Ship” in the Guinness World Records. With a history of 105 years, she has been lovingly transformed into a Ship Hotel with 104 cabins as well as both on-land and on-board amenities which includes a maritime museum. If you're interested in experiencing a ship that is only three years younger than the Titanic, then you are in the right place.
Escape to Nirwana Gardens and you will be pleasantly spoilt for choice. The pools are splendid overlooking the sandy beach, and the food is delicious, especially at the Kelong Restaurant. Don't miss the cocktail bar too. And they help book day tours in which we experience the real Bintan.
Facing the beachfront, TRC Bintan Resort has a garden and a restaurant. Boasting an ATM, this property also provides guests with a children's playground. The bungalows were super cute and cozy, and the personal were very kind and helpful.
A tropical lifestyle destination that offers a medley of unforgettable experiences for leisure. Sprawled over on our wide beachfront gardens, enjoy a seamless infinity pools, dine in while enjoying the views of the beach, and others leisure activity in the resort. A perfect place to escape from hectic busy city life. They provide variety type of rooms to suit couples, families and groups alike for letting them enjoying their stay. Each well-appointed room and suite features a furnished balcony, in-room amenities and modern conveniences
Luxurious Balinese-style villas with absolutely beautifully located on a hill overlooking the sea and the marvelous beach. Enjoying views of the South China Sea from a private terrace, Banyan Tree Spa offers a range of relaxing massage and body treatments. Other activities include cycling, canoeing and hiking.
A gem for all those who wish to enjoy beach holidays with perfect service and a rich, tasty breakfast but also the adventurous touch of staying in your own bungalow surrounded by pure nature.
An awesome place for a weekend getaway ! Extremely courteous and helpful staff. Very good rooms with all the basic amenities. Nice beachside seating for the restaurant. Availability of activities like cycling, ATV, Pool, Volleyball, make it a perfect place for fun with family and friends. A highly recommended place for your Bintan vacation:)
Add to
Details
Feel free to email me at paperdonutholes@gmail.com or instagram message me @paperdonutholes if you have any questions.Â
In April 2023, I brought a group of Americans to Asia on a low-budget trip where we visited different tourist attractions and soak in the Asian culture. I enjoy sharing my knowledge about different cultures and how we can be culturally sensitive when we visit another's country. A few of my favorite memories also include going to the dressing up in Hanboks to visit the Korean Palaces, Florida's Disneyworld, Night Markets in Thailand and floating on the Dead Sea in Israel!
I have stayed and visited in many different countries such as Singapore, Cambodia, Indonesia, Taiwan and the United States etc. My favourite things to do is to climb mountains, visit beaches, eat local food and visit farmer's markets. In Asia, we have a very buzzling night life that I hope you get to experience too!
I hope that you find my information helpful and any tips are appreciated for my work :)
