Ultimate Bintan to do list for an epic trip 🌴
Stuck planning your Bintan escape? 🤔 Overwhelmed by generic guides that skip the real magic? Let’s fix that! This Ultimate Bintan To Do List dives beyond beaches into surreal landscapes, ancient temples, and heart-pounding adventures. Picture crystal-blue lakes nestled in former mines, 500 stone warriors guarding a mysterious temple, and dunes that look like they’re straight out of a desert. Plus, we’re spilling local secrets – like where to find hidden waterfalls or snag sunset views without the crowds. Whether you’re chasing serenity in mangroves or tearing through jungle trails on an ATV, we’ve got the lowdown. Ready to transform your trip into a story worth telling? 🌟
Bintan To-Do List Article Takeaways: The Essentials
Your Strategic To-Do List
🏖️ Hit Trikora Beach early
Snag a shaded spot under the coconut trees before crowds arrive. The powdery white sand and calm turquoise waters make this Bintan’s crown jewel—perfect for lazy beach days with kids or solo chill time.
🐠 Book a snorkeling tour
Lock in the Bintan Snorkeling Tour (from €43) hitting Trikora Beach and White Sands Island. The crystal-clear waters pack colorful fish and corals—bring your underwater camera for this one.
🏯 Visit 500 Lohan Temple
Carve out time for this cultural stunner with 500 life-sized stone monk statues. Go early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting on those unique expressions—it’s both impressive and a bit eerie in the best way.
🌿 Glide through the Mangrove Discovery Tour
Book the 60-minute boat adventure on Sebung River to spot silver-leaf monkeys, snakes, and kingfishers. Pro move: opt for the night version (7 PM start) to catch fireflies turning trees into natural Christmas lights.
📸 Chase the Blue Lake & Dunes photo op
Hit up Gurun Pasir Busung and Danau Biru for those killer Instagram shots. The golden sand dunes contrasting with turquoise lake waters create a surreal desert-meets-tropics vibe your camera will love.
🏙️ Explore beyond resorts: Tanjung Pinang + Senggarang
Combine Senggarang’s floating village at dawn with Tanjung Pinang’s markets for lunch, then hop a pompong boat (7,000 IDR) to Penyengat Island. Your feed and taste buds will thank you for this local culture deep-dive.
🚤 Arrange transport before you arrive
Sort out your private car with driver (from IDR 600K/4 hours) or book organized tours ahead of time. Public transport is nearly non-existent, so planning early avoids costly resort zone surprises.
Table of Content
- Chill Out On Trikora Beach
- Snorkel In Crystal-Clear Waters
- Discover Culture At 500 Lohan Temple
- Hike Mount Bintan
- How To Reach Bintan From Singapore, Indonesia & Malaysia
- Local Transport & Budget Tips
- First things first: how to get to Bintan island
- Bintan’s photogenic wonders you can’t miss
- Immerse yourself in Bintan’s incredible nature
- Get your adrenaline pumping: adventure time in Bintan!
- Go beyond the resorts: A taste of local life
- A Local’s Guide To Getting Around Bintan
Your ultimate bintan to do list for an unforgettable trip 🌴
Thinking of a quick escape from the city grind? Let’s talk about Bintan Island! 🌊 This gem near Singapore isn’t just about sandy beaches (though those are stellar too). From jungle treks to snorkeling adventures, there’s something for thrill-seekers, culture lovers, and chill-seekers alike. So, if you’re building your bintan to do list, you’ve come to the right place. We’re about to dive into all the awesome things to do in Bintan that you absolutely can’t miss. 😉
Chill Out On Trikora Beach
Trikora Beach is Bintan’s crown jewel. With powdery white sand and turquoise waters, it’s a no-brainer for lazy beach days. 🏖️ Got kids? The calm waves won’t scare them off. Travelers rate it 4.1/5, calling it “a must-visit” for its serenity. Pro tip: Go early to snag shaded spots under coconut trees!
Need more? Nearby, Chill Cove @ Treasure Bay offers family-friendly activities like paddleboarding. Or hop on a boat to Penyengat Island (4.2/5) for snorkeling and moto-taxi rides. 🏝️
Snorkel In Crystal-Clear Waters
Ready to dive in? Bintan’s reefs are packed with colorful fish and corals. 🐠 The Bintan Snorkeling Tour (from €43) hits Trikora Beach and White Sands Island, while the €33 half-day trip adds lunch. Don’t miss Blue Lake—a freshwater spot with mirror-like waters perfect for photos. 📸
Discover Culture At 500 Lohan Temple
Craving spiritual vibes? The 500 Lohan Temple (4.3/5) is a stunner. Think: 500 larger-than-life statues of Buddhist monks in a lush jungle setting. 🧘♂️ Locals say it’s a “must-see” for its peaceful energy. Nearby, the Vihara Avalokitesvara Graha offers zen gardens and golden pagodas. Bonus: Try the Batik Making Class (from €38) to craft your own traditional fabric art!
Hike Mount Bintan
Adrenaline junkies, this one’s for you. Mount Bintan’s 340m summit rewards hikers with epic views of the archipelago. 🏔️ The 4.6/5 rated trail is “tough but worth it,” says one traveler. Prefer wheels? Tackle the Bintan Desert (4.1/5)—a dune-like area with sandboarding thrills and the iconic Blue Lake. 💙
How To Reach Bintan From Singapore, Indonesia & Malaysia
From Singapore
Over 50 ferries weekly link Singapore’s Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Bintan. 🚤 Fastest option: Majestic Fast Ferry (45 mins, from ~€15). Most routes take 1.5-2.5 hours. Book ahead via Bintan Resorts Ferries—their Emerald class upgrades include lounge access and comfy seats.
From Indonesia & Malaysia
Domestic flights to Tanjung Pinang (Bintan’s capital) are limited, so most travelers connect via Batam or Jakarta. From Malaysia, ferries run from Tanjung Belungkor to Sri Bintan. Pro tip: Check Indonesia Travel for visa rules and e-arrival card steps (mandatory since 2025!).
Local Transport & Budget Tips
Once here, BinBin Shuttle (€5/day) zips between resorts and attractions. Prefer apps? GrabCar works in Lagoi Bay. Need flexibility? Rent a private driver (from €35/day) via Global Bintan. 💰
- Blue Lake & Dunes Tour: €17 (super budget-friendly!)
- Bintan Mangrove Discovery: €24 (plus monkey sightings than expected!)
Final Thoughts
Bintan’s magic? It’s a mix of chillest beaches, wild adventures, and cultural gems—all without the luxury resort prices. 🌟 Whether you’re here for 24 hours or a week, this bintan to do list has you covered. So pack your shades, grab a ferry, and get exploring. Who knew paradise was just a short trip from Singapore? 🚀
First things first: how to get to Bintan island
Alright, before we dive into Bintan’s epic beaches and adventures, let’s solve the first puzzle: getting here! 🛥️ Whether you’re coming from Singapore, Malaysia, or deeper into Indonesia, Bintan’s accessibility might surprise you. Let’s break it down!
From Singapore
The easiest way to get to Bintan from Singapore? Hop on a ferry at the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. 🌊 These sleek catamarans zoom you straight to Bintan’s Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT) Terminal in just 45 minutes! Fancy, right?
Popular operators like Bintan Resort Ferries handle most crossings. Pro tip: Book tickets early during weekends/holidays—it’s a breeze online, and last-minute stress? Not your vibe. 🎟️
From Malaysia
Traveling from Malaysia? Ferries from Johor Bahru are your best bet. 🚤 Depart from Stulang Laut Ferry Terminal and arrive at Bintan’s Tanjung Pinang after a ~3-hour ride. redBus lists departures starting at SGD 39—budget-friendly for such a scenic route. 🌅
Pro tip: Check schedules in advance. Ferries here aren’t as frequent as Singapore’s, so plan accordingly. No surprises on your vacay! 🗓️
From other parts of Indonesia
Domestic travelers, you’ve got options! 🛫
- Fly directly into Raja Haji Fisabilillah (RHF) International Airport from Jakarta with carriers like Garuda Indonesia or Lion Air. Quick? Yes. Scenic? Double yes. 🛫
- Or take a domestic ferry from Batam (via Telaga Punggur port) to Tanjung Pinang or BBT—just ~1 hour by local ferries like PELNI. 🛥️
| Origin | Departure Port | Arrival Port in Bintan | Estimated Travel Time | Main Operator(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore | Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal | Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT) | ~1 hour | Bintan Resort Ferries |
| Malaysia (Johor Bahru) | Stulang Laut Ferry Terminal | Tanjung Pinang | ~3 hours | Various operators |
| Indonesia (Batam) | Telaga Punggur | Tanjung Pinang or BBT | ~1 hour | Various local ferries |
Pro tip: Ferries from Batam are super convenient if you’re island-hopping in Riau’s archipelago. 🏝️
Bintan’s photogenic wonders you can’t miss
The surreal landscapes of Gurun Pasir Busung and Danau Biru
Ever seen a desert next to a crystal-blue lake? 🌵💙 Welcome to Bintan! Gurun Pasir Busung (Busung Sand Dunes) and Danau Biru (Blue Lake) are two of the island’s most eye-catching spots. These aren’t natural deserts – they’re quirky leftovers from old bauxite mining sites. The sand dunes’ golden-yellow hues contrast wildly with the lake’s turquoise waters, creating a « desert » vibe right in the tropics.
While it’s not the Sahara, your camera is going to love it. 📸 The dunes’ wave-like patterns and the lake’s mirror-like surface make for killer Instagram shots. Keep in mind: it’s more of a quirky day-trip than a full-day adventure. As one traveler puts it, “Sympa pour une petite ballade et quelques photos” – worth a quick stop if you’re nearby. Pro tip: Pair this with Trikora Beach for sunset views.
The impressive 500 Lohan Temple
Ready for some cultural eye-candy? 🏯 The 500 Lohan Temple (Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva) delivers big-time. Picture 500 life-sized stone statues of arhats – each with unique expressions and poses – spread across a sprawling complex. It’s both impressive and a little bit eerie, in the best way possible! TripAdvisor reviewers call it “un incontournable” – perfect for quiet reflection.
Here’s what to expect during your visit:
- 500+ unique statues – Wander among stone guardians frozen in time
- Giant Buddha statue – The centerpiece you’ll spot from afar, towering against Bintan’s skyline
- Grand entrance gate – First taste of the temple’s grandeur, with golden accents and carvings
- Peaceful vibes – Great for quiet reflection and moody shots under towering statues
Entry costs a few bucks, but TripAdvisor travelers call it “absolument incontournable.” Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for soft lighting that’ll make those stone faces pop! 🌅 Don’t miss the small shrines between statues for hidden photo details.
Immerse yourself in Bintan’s incredible nature
Glide through the Bintan Mangrove Discovery Tour
Alright, let’s talk about the Bintan Mangrove Discovery Tour – it’s like stepping into a hidden world. 🌿 This 60-minute boat adventure on the Sebung River takes you through dense mangroves where you might spot silver-leaf monkeys, mangrove snakes, monitor lizards, and kingfishers. The day tour focuses on wildlife, while the night version (starting at 7 PM) dazzles with fireflies that turn trees into natural Christmas lights! ✨ Just keep in mind: some visitors saw only 10-15 fireflies, so don’t expect a full-on light show. Tours start at Rp 380,000 (approx $25) per person, including transfers and insurance. Pro tip: pack insect repellent for this must-try tour for sustainable traveller
Chill out on the pristine Trikora Beach
Looking for a low-key beach break? Trikora Beach’s white sand and clear waters are your go-to. 🏖️ Divided into sections 1-4, it’s dotted with wooden « kelongs » (fishing platforms) and granite rocks. This spot also plays a key role in local conservation efforts – check out this study on seagrass protection. The area’s 2,600-hectare seagrass conservation project involves local communities and even uses dugongs as a mascot! Perfect for swimming, watching fishermen at work, or snapping pics of the sunset.
Hike up Mount Bintan for epic views
Ready for a sweat session? Mount Bintan (336m) delivers views worth the climb. 🏔️ The 2-4 hour loop isn’t super technical, but wear grippy shoes – the trail gets slippery when wet! You’ll pass tropical flora, dodge snakes, and might even spot ants the size of your thumb. At the top, a wobbly observation tower offers ocean vistas (though trees block some angles). Guides cost extra but help avoid wrong turns – trust us, getting lost in Bintan’s jungle isn’t ideal. Entrance is cheap (around $1), so bring snacks and water to power through this 2/10 difficulty trek.
Get your adrenaline pumping: adventure time in Bintan!
Tear up the trails on an ATV
Ready to get your hands dirty? 🛵 Bintan’s jungle trails are a playground for ATV lovers! Whether you’re a newbie or a thrill-seeker, there’s a ride for you. For a quick taste of off-roading, try the 15-minute intro tour (from €35-€40) on a 400cc quad—perfect for beginners. 🌿
Craving more? The 60-minute “Adventure with Scenic Beach Views” (IDR 1.4 million) throws in rugged terrain, mountain vistas, and sunset views. D’Bamboo Kamp’s 40-60 minute “Long Track” (IDR 1.4 million) cranks up the challenge with bumpy trails. Safety first: helmets and gear are provided, and guides are on hand to help. 👨✈️
Pro tip: Kids 16+ can ride solo, while younger adventurers hop on with parents! No mud-caked memories? Not here. 🌟
Explore the underwater world and coastal fun
Dive into Bintan’s aquatic playground! 🌊 While White Sands Island gets mixed reviews (some say it’s “a bit abandoned”), the snorkeling and kayaking nearby? Total wins. Check out these must-try water thrills:
- Snorkeling tours: From €42, spot vibrant fish and corals at Kelong Neemo. Guides even toss bread to attract Nemo’s cousins! 🐠
- Kayaking: Glide through mangroves (€24+). Bonus: chase fireflies at night for that magical glow! ✨
- Fun fishing trips: Cast a line on the 8-hour White Sands Island tour (€42). Chill on the kelong, reel in local catches, and snag free underwater pics! 🎣
Heads up: water clarity varies—seasonal currents can stir up sand. But hey, even “meh” visibility days still serve up fishy action! 🌊
Pro tip: Pack your swimsuit and towel—hotel transfers and gear are sorted, but your own kit makes things smoother. 🌞
Go beyond the resorts: A taste of local life
Visit the floating village of Senggarang
🌊 Tucked away from Bintan’s resort zones, Senggarang is a centuries-old fishing village where time seems frozen. Think wooden stilt houses perched above water, canals instead of streets, and a blend of Chinese, Malay, and Orang Laut cultures. Don’t miss the Banyan Tree Temple (Tian Shang Miao), where ancient roots swallow crumbling walls 🌳. Built in 1811, this spot mixes history and photography gold—locals even say the tree “protects” the village. 🛒 Chat with residents selling coconut water or dried seafood, and soak in a lifestyle unchanged for generations. Pro tip: Slap on mosquito repellent, and visit early to catch golden-hour vibes. Some call it “a small cute spot,” others “overrated”—but hey, isn’t that the charm of hidden gems?
Explore the bustling town of Tanjung Pinang
🏙️ Bintan’s capital isn’t just about paperwork—it’s where locals live, eat, and shop. Dive into the chaos of Tanjung Pinang Traditional Market (Jalan Pasar Ikan) for Keropok Gonggong (snail crackers) or dried seafood. Bargain for souvenirs, then hop on a pompong boat 🛥️ to Penyengat Island (10 mins, ~7,000 IDR/seat). 🏰 On Penyengat, history buffs drool over the yellow Sultan Riau Mosque (yes, you can peek inside if modestly dressed) and royal tombs draped in royal yellow. Don’t skip Fort Bukit Kursi’s sea views—it’s got cannonball tales written all over it. Locals swear by the gong-gong (sea snails) here; wash them down with local laksa. 💡 Quick hack: Combine both spots. Start with Senggarang at dawn, then hit Tanjung Pinang’s markets for lunch, before island-hopping to Penyengat. Trust us, your feed and taste buds will thank you. Sources: [Banyan Tree Temple history](https://madmansjourney.com/travel-blogs/things-to-do-in-bintan/), [Penyengat Island guide](https://indonesia.travel/fr/fr/travel-ideas/5-ideas-where-to-find-incredible-landscapes-in-bintan/)
A Local’s Guide To Getting Around Bintan
Alright, let’s talk Bintan transport – it’s a delicate balancing act! Public transport? Nearly non-existent. Taxis? Costly from resort zones. Think of it as solving a budget puzzle before your bintan to do list. Locals know the trick: plan early to avoid surprises!
- Private car with driver: Most flexible option. Snag one for 4-8 hours or full day. Rates start at IDR 600K (SGD$ 60) for 4 hours in a 7-seater. Drivers often double as local guides – they’ll steer you to hidden gems like the 500 Lohan Temple or Trikora Beach. It adds up, but worth it for groups sharing costs.
- Book a day tour: Hassle-free choice. Includes transport, guide, and sometimes lunch – ideal for solo travelers or couples. Think snorkeling trips at Trikora Beach or temple tours with storytelling locals.
- Rent a scooter: For thrill-seekers! Available only at Treasure Bay Bintan. Minimum age 16 with valid license. Perfect for short hops between attractions like the Lagoi Bay Lantern Park and Safari Lagoi.
Pro tip: Confirm prices first. Book trusted operators like Bintan Resort Tour or Traveling Bintan. Their 4.8/5 reviews mention drivers who share food hacks and culture tips. Don’t miss the BinBin Shuttle Bus for unlimited resort area rides – eco-friendly and perfect for sunset cruises between stops.
Plan wisely – more island vibes, less transport stress. Your options knowledge wins half the battle! 💡
So, what’s on your Bintan to do list?
Alright, mate! Bintan mixes surreal landscapes, ancient temples, and mangrove adventures. Snorkel in clear waters, chase dunes and blue lakes (seriously otherworldly), or soak up 500 Lohan Temple’s 500 statues – pure magic. Don’t miss mangroves’ fireflies at night – nature’s free light show! 🌟
Getting here? Catch a ferry from Singapore’s Tanah Merah (€70-80 round trip) or fly to Tanjung Pinang from Jakarta. Rent a motorbike or hire a local driver (roads can be tricky!). Pro tip: Book ferry tickets via Klook/Easybook to skip queues!
Ready to explore? Sip coconut water, hike Mount Bintan for sunrise, or chase the Blue Lake. Bintan’s ready – let’s go! 🏄♂️✈️
Alright, mate! Your Bintan to do list mixes nature, culture, and adventure—think surreal deserts, ancient temples, and glowing mangroves. Don’t miss epic sunsets at Trikora Beach, the 500 Lohan Temple’s statues, or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Bintan’s got something for every vibe. Ready to explore? Let the island surprise you! 🌊✨
Q / A About Bintan To-Do List
How many days are enough for Bintan?
Alright, how long should you plan for Bintan? Well, if you’re short on time, you could squeeze the highlights into a long weekend. But to really soak in the island vibes without feeling rushed, 3-4 full days is ideal. That gives you time to chill at the beach, visit temples, take a mangrove tour, and maybe even do a day trip to nearby islands. Think of it as a delicate balancing act – you don’t want to cram too much, but you’ll definitely want enough time to enjoy this Indonesian gem!
When to avoid Bintan?
So when’s the worst time to visit? Alright, let’s talk about the rainy season – November to March is when Bintan gets most of its rain. Some days might be drizzly and grey, others could have sudden tropical downpours. June to September brings another thing to avoid – haze from forest fires in nearby Sumatra. This can make the air quality a bit iffy and the views a bit hazy. April to May is your sweet spot – generally dry, not too hot, and the island’s looking its best!
Can I wear shorts in Bintan?
Absolutely, mate! Bintan’s pretty relaxed about dress code, especially in resort areas and tourist spots. You’ll see plenty of folks in shorts and t-shirts, no worries there. Just keep in mind – when visiting temples or local villages, longer shorts that cover your knees are a nice touch out of respect. Oh, and if you’re heading to a fancy resort for dinner, they might have dress codes for their restaurants. But for day-to-day exploring? Shorts are totally fine!
What to buy back from Bintan?
Time for some souvenir shopping! Bintan’s got some great local finds. If you love seafood, check out dried fish or shrimp paste – just make sure it’s well-packaged! For textiles, local batik is a cool cultural keepsake. Rattan items like bags or home decor add a tropical touch to your space. Don’t miss out on local snacks like pineapple tarts or krupuk (those crunchy shrimp chips). Oh, and if you’re at the resorts, their custom-blend coffees make for awesome gifts. Just remember – prices can add up quickly, so shop smart!
Why is Bintan so expensive?
Okay, let’s talk money! Bintan can feel a bit pricier than some Indonesian islands, and there’s a few reasons why. First, it’s got this fancy resort reputation – those 5-star places definitely set the tone for higher prices overall. Transport costs are a factor, especially since everything’s imported from Singapore or Malaysia. And since it’s a day-trip destination for many Singaporeans, prices are often set with that market in mind. But here’s the secret – if you know where to look, you can find more budget-friendly options too!
Is Bintan or Batam better?
Bintan vs Batam? Let’s break this down. Bintan’s your go-to for beach vibes, luxury resorts, and that chilled island feel. It’s where you’ll find the postcard-ready scenery and more organized tours for nature spots. Batam, on the other hand, is closer to Singapore and more development zones. It’s better for shopping and business travelers, with more malls and modern amenities. So if you’re after relaxation and nature – Bintan’s your jam. For shopping sprees and quick business trips – Batam might edge out. But for that classic island getaway? Bintan wins!
Can you swim in Bintan?
You betcha! While Bintan isn’t the #1 snorkeling destination (you’ll need to head to nearby islands for that), there’s no shortage of places to take a dip. The beach at your resort? Perfect for a quick swim. Trikora Beach has clear waters and soft sand to lounge on. Some private islands like White Sands offer decent swimming, though the island itself feels a bit abandoned. Just keep in mind – water clarity varies by location, and always check for any local advisories before jumping in.
Are there many mosquitos in Bintan?
Mosquitoes? Oh yeah, they’re around, but it’s not a full-on invasion. They’re most active at dawn and dusk, like most tropical insects. The mangrove tours might give them a reason to buzz by, but it’s manageable. The secret weapon? Pack some bug repellent in your travel kit. Just a heads up – they’re more of a nuisance in rural areas than at the big resorts where things are more controlled. So yeah, they’re there… but definitely not a trip-ruiner!
How to get around Bintan without a car?
Alright, transportation hacks! The #1 option is hiring a private car with driver – it’s super convenient, especially if you’re in a group. You can book half-day or full-day trips through your resort concierge or local tour operators. Second best? Book an organized tour that includes all the transport for you – super easy for first-timers. If you’re feeling adventurous, renting a scooter is an option, but only if you’re experienced with local road conditions. Public transport? Let’s just say it’s… minimal. So plan ahead and arrange your moves before you need them!