Bintan Delights: 9 Best Things To Do for Every Traveler
Bintan, a tropical gem in Indonesia’s Riau Archipelago! If you’re someone who craves adventure, relaxation, and a whole lot of fun, you’re in for a treat.
Bintan has it all—gorgeous nature, clear waters, and exciting things to do. In this article, we will share the best experiences on the island.
From water sports and jungle to exploring local culture and finding your peaceful getaway, Bintan offers a little something for everyone.
Bintan is super easy to reach, just a 1-hour ferry ride away, which is why it’s a go-to destination for many travelers coming from Singapore.
If this is your first time planning a visit to Bintan, don’t forget to check out our guide on “How to Get to Bintan from Singapore.” It’s important to note that there are two ferry terminals, so we’ll help you choose the right one for your adventure.
So, let’s get started on our adventure to discover the most amazing things you can do on this beautiful island.
1. Treasure Bay Bintan - Where Adventure Meets Relaxation
Treasure Bay Bintan is a 6.3-hectare man-made seawater lagoon, a paradise for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re yearning for an adrenaline rush or a leisurely experience, Treasure Bay has it all.
You can take a heart-pounding ride on an ATV or slide down the slip and slide. For a more relaxed outing, rent a scooter and explore at your own pace.
Water enthusiasts can indulge in cable skiing or go kayaking around the Crystal Lagoon.
This lagoon’s specially filtered seawater guarantees the perfect conditions for year-round water activities.
If that’s not enough, you can also try your hand at archery, explore the mangroves by kayaking, paddleboat in the lagoon, or even test your skills on the rodeo bull.
Don’t forget to venture into the nearby area, where a delightful selection of dining options, spas, retail shops, and entertainment venues await.
Plus, if you’re staying at Natra Resort or Anmon, you won’t even need a taxi – it’s that conveniently close!
2. Blue Lake Bintan - A Photographer's Dream
Blue Lake Bintan, once a bauxite mining site, has transformed into a breathtaking destination, especially when the sun bathes its pristine white sands in warm light.
This picturesque site offers a stunning Blue Lake, often referred to as Blue Lake Bintan, which provides the perfect backdrop for your photos.
As you explore, you’ll discover numerous photo-worthy spots that will delight any photography enthusiast or Instagrammer.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, you can rent an ATV and explore the Bintan desert and surrounding jungle.
What’s even more exciting is that you’ll have a knowledgeable guide leading your ATV adventure through the jungle, where you’ll also come across the beautiful Blue Lake.
Another unique experience here is the opportunity to interact with eagles, which weigh in at around 1.5 kg to 3 kg. You can capture amazing moments with these magnificent birds perched on your arm.
When you need a break and some refreshments, there’s a small shop where you can purchase soft drinks or savor fresh coconut water while taking in the stunning views of the desert.
It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of this unique landscape.
3. Lagoi Bay Beach - Relaxation and Adventure in One Place
Lagoi Bay Beach is a true gem conveniently located in the Bintan Resort area. If you’re staying at The Sanchaya, Grand Lagoi Hotel, or Kamuela Villa Lagoi Bay, you can simply walk there.
This beautiful beach offers more than just relaxation; you can also partake in various activities.
Whether you’re lounging on comfy bean bags, taking in the breathtaking views of the South China Sea and clear blue skies, or engaging in activities like kayaking, snorkeling, beach volleyball, and water sports, Lagoi Bay Beach has it all.
The strategic location of Lagoi Bay Beach makes it easy to explore nearby attractions. You can visit Plaza Lagoi, which is packed with shops, a massage center, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
So, whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or delicious food, Lagoi Bay Beach has it all.
4. Trikora Beach - A Tranquil Escape
Trikora Beach, located in the north of Bintan, offers a unique experience that’s well worth the one-hour journey to reach.
On weekends and public holidays, the beach comes alive with both local and domestic tourists, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
It’s a popular place for those who want to soak up the sun and enjoy the sea. However, it’s important to note that there are no lifeguards on duty, so swimming is at your own risk, and caution is advised.
What sets Trikora Beach apart are the boardwalks with traditional fishing platforms, known as kelongs, attached on either side of the beach.
These kelongs are available for rent to tourists and are often occupied by avid anglers from Singapore and Malaysia.
They head out to sea at night or before dawn, hoping to catch some impressive fish.
So, whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach or a bit of fishing adventure, Trikora Beach has something special to offer for both locals and tourists.
5. Bintan Snorkeling - Dive into Underwater Paradise
If you’re eager to explore the beauty beneath the waves, Bintan Snorkeling is a must-try adventure.
Located near White Sand Island, Bintan Nemoo is the gateway to an underwater paradise.
You can dive into vibrant underwater ecosystems, encounter stunning anemone fields, and explore thriving coral gardens right by the snorkeling spot.
Getting to this underwater paradise is a breeze, with just a short 10-minute boat ride from the jetty.
But Bintan Snorkeling offers more than just snorkeling. You can also enjoy other exciting activities such as swimming, kayaking, and even some Fun Fishing, adding variety to your aquatic adventures.
So, put on your snorkel gear and get ready to explore the incredible marine life in Bintan, making your trip to this Indonesian paradise even more memorable.
6. 500 Lohan Temple - A Cultural Gem
The 500 Lohan Temple, also known as Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, is a popular destination for tourists from both near and far.
This temple is a must-visit while you’re in Bintan Island. It offers a stunning view featuring a multitude of statues, most notably the 500 life-sized Lohan or arhat stone statues.
Each statue is meticulously crafted with intricate details, showcasing unique body shapes and facial expressions, creating a truly captivating sight.
It’s important to know that the explanations and stories provided at the temple are primarily in Mandarin.
So, if you can’t read Mandarin, you might miss out on some of the details, but the visual and tranquil experience is still worth the visit.
The temple grounds provide a serene atmosphere, offering visitors a place for prayer and making offerings.
The area isn’t too large, so you can explore the temple grounds in about an hour, making it a manageable and enriching experience during your Bintan visit.
Don’t miss out on this magnificent cultural gem that provides a unique cultural perspective during your island exploration.
7. Bintan Seafood - A Delight for Foodies
While exploring the beauty of Bintan, don’t forget to savor the island’s famous Bintan Seafood. Bintan is renowned for its fresh seafood, which is directly sourced from local fishermen.
You can expect a mouthwatering selection of crabs, lobsters, and fish, all stored in live tanks to ensure incredible freshness.
Bintan Seafood is a culinary adventure that combines Asian and local flavors to create unforgettable dishes.
Don’t miss signature dishes like Gong-Gong (sea snails), Black Pepper Crab, and Stir Fried Butter Prawns. The various seafood restaurants in Bintan offer unique dining experiences.
For fresh seafood with sea views, consider dining at Kelong Seafood Restaurant at Nirwana Resort. If you’re on a budget, visit Family Kelong Restaurant.
For Chinese seafood dishes, you can explore Ciu Yong Seafood Restaurant, and Bintan Brother Seafood offers seafood in a food court setting.
For a unique dining experience, you can even reach Kelong Mangrove Restaurant by boat, where you can treat your taste buds to Bintan’s finest seafood while surrounded by the mangrove beauty.
8. Manabu Restaurant - A Magical Sunset Dinner
For a memorable dining experience with a spectacular view, look no further than Manabu Bintan Restaurant.
This hidden gem is perched high on a hill, providing an incredible view of the sea and Penyengat Island.
As you step into Manabu, you’ll be welcomed by a warm and cozy atmosphere, setting the stage for a truly unforgettable evening.
What sets this place apart is the jaw-dropping sunset view that unfolds right before your eyes, with the endless ocean as your backdrop.
The best time to visit is between 5:00 PM and 5:30 PM to secure the best seat in the house to witness the sun slowly sinking below the horizon, painting the sky and water in vibrant colors.
It’s a breathtaking sight that you definitely won’t want to miss during your visit to Bintan.
Manabu Restaurant’s menu is a delightful blend of Indonesian and Western cuisine, offering a wide range of flavors to suit every taste.
Whether you’re in the mood for local delicacies or familiar Western favorites, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.
Manabu Restaurant not only offers delicious food but also an unforgettable dining experience, made even more special by the beauty of the natural surroundings.
So, whether you’re a sunset enthusiast, a foodie, or someone just looking for a relaxing evening, Manabu has everything you need.
Don’t forget your camera to capture the incredible moments as you create lasting memories.
9. Mangrove Tour - Explore Bintan's Natural Wonders
When you’re exploring Bintan Island in Indonesia, don’t forget to add a Mangrove Tour to your itinerary for an unforgettable nature adventure.
The Mangrove Tour is a delightful daytime excursion that takes around one hour, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Sebung River.
As you navigate the meandering river, you’ll be surrounded by captivating wildlife and plant species.
The Sebung River is a bustling hub of life, serving as a haven for countless creatures. Get ready to witness agile silver leaf monkeys and mischievous macaques leaping through the trees, as well as the vivid colors of kingfisher birds.
Keep an eye on the branches above the water; that’s where you might spot coiled mangrove snakes. If you’re lucky, you could catch a glimpse of monitor lizards and elusive mud lobsters busy building their intricate homes among the mounds.
The Mangrove Tour isn’t just about observing wildlife; it’s also a chance to understand the vital role played by the Sebung River in supporting the local communities.
Learn how the mangrove forest acts as a protective shield for Bintan’s coastline, preventing erosion and safeguarding the land from the forces of nature.
With these detailed explanations, you now have a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Bintan, catering to a wide range of interests and ensuring that your visit to this beautiful Indonesian island will be an unforgettable experience.