Not sure what to do in Bintan other than staycation? Refer to our article about what activities to do and where to visit during your holidays in Bintan!
Most Updated on January
Welcome to our guide of the 11 best and unique things to do in Bintan, the captivating island paradise located in the Riau Archipelago of Indonesia. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a city dweller simply looking to unwind in serene surroundings, Bintan offers a plethora of extraordinary experiences that will leave you enchanted.
It is not easy to know what activities to do and where to visit during your holiday in Bintan. But, no worries! We have gathered all the information from our experience for you. In this 5-minute article, there is bound to be an activity or place suited for every individual’s liking.
Before we move onto the list, introducing our 2D1N & 3D2N Bintan all-inclusive packages! A customisable Bintan tour raring to plan everything for you, from travelling to Bintan, hotels, and transportation from ferry terminal to hotels.
If you are planning a trip to Bintan, let us help you! We are currently having Bintan promotions as well.
More information can be found below:
Bintan Tour All-inclusive Package / Bintan Promotion
Now, let’s move on to look through the list!Now, let’s move on to look through the list!
1. Go on a Mangrove Discovery / Firefly Tour
Bintan is famous for its mangrove river and the trees around the island. Grab the opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of Bintan’s mangrove forests.
You will take a boat ride through the mangroves with the tour guide, who will explain how the mangrove ecosystem works, how important mangrove trees are in coastal protection, and more. During the tour, you will be able to spot numerous plant species, or even various animals such as crabs, mudskippers, and birds!
If you would like to see another side of the mangrove river, you can take the mangrove night tour instead. Another sight will welcome you! Starting from the magical glow of bioluminescent planktons to stunning natural light show will create unforgettable memories for you to treasure from your Bintan trip. Immersing yourself amidst nature will be a totally unique experience that cannot be experienced in anywhere else!
Firefly tours are another tour you can try in Bintan. As you follow the calm waterways on a boat or a kayak, fireflies will welcome your journey by lighting up your surroundings with their glow. Besides overwhelming scene of fireflies glowing around you, you will also able to notice the night sky filled with stars, which is reflected on the river. Don’t forget to capture all the breathtaking images of these beautiful insects with the mangroves in the background.
We would recommend to book these tours with a reputable tour guide. Booking early ensures that you won’t miss out on Bintan’s charming nature.
Here are some of our recommendations!
Bintan Mangrove and Fireflies Tour | Taxi Services
- +62 857 6294 2850
- 9:00AM – 9PM
- https://taxi4bintan.com/
Bintan Green Mangrove Tour & Fireflies Night Tour
- +62 811 3956 663
- 9:00AM – 8:30PM / Wed & Thu: 9:00AM – 8:00PM
- http://bintanmangrovetour.com/
2. Experience Traditional Fishing
Image credit : Club Med Bintan Excursion
If you seek for an extraordinary activity that you can try in Bintan, what about traditional fishing?
Experiencing this traditional method of fishing is an attractive way to learn about the local fishing culture and learn its techniques. The traditional fishing of Bintan holds a special significance because of its deep-rooted cultural and historical importance.
Many resorts in Bintan provide traditional fishing as one of their activities to try during the staycation. Give a try to the traditional fishing and have intimate connection with nature. Observe the nature and marine life close, and experience the rhythm of the waves. Being at the place for the traditional fishing will already make you to relax and be stress-free from whatever you are worried about.
Fishing takes a lot of time, so take the time to appreciate the tranquility of nature or meditate about your day and feelings too. You can also engage and interact with the local communities and get to know more about cultural heritage of Bintan, to be more attuned to the charms of Bintan.
This traditional fishing experience will not only show you how local people caught fish in the past, but also gives you ample time to foster bonds with those around you. So, why not give traditional fishing in Bintan a try?
3. Try ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) Adventure
If you are an adventure lover, you can explore the rugged landscapes of Bintan on ATVs! You can navigate through different off-road trails, diverse terrains, and enjoy adrenaline-filled travelling!
Feel the fresh air as you drive the ATV, disconnect from the hectic routines of your life, and explore the outdoors in a new way! While driving the ATV, you will feel a sense of freedom and make thrilling and unforgettable memories. Since this is a family-friendly activity, you can try it with your family and friends to create shared memories and bond together. Create a special experience with your family and friends like no other.
This ATV adventure is fun, but remember! Safety comes first!
4. Explore Penyengat Island
Have you ever wondered what would Bintan would have been like in the past? Penyengat Island will allow you to step back in time with its accommodating rich history and cultural heritages of Penyengat Island. This island is home to many different historical and traditional architecture and cultural heritage such as Penyengat Island Palace (Istana Penyengat), Great Mosque of Sultan Riau (Masjid Raya Sultan Riau), Royal Tombs, and traditional Malay houses.
Architectural details like carved wood panels and visually-stunning domes will tell you the religious and historical significance these heritages hold for the locals. Simply visiting these cultural heritages will give you a glimpse of ancient Bintan, and not just the modern version of Bintan.
Immerse yourself in local Indonesian and Malay traditions in Penyengat Island, a lesser-known place in Bintan and experience the diverse cultural tapestry of Bintan as well! Get to know more about its history and become closer to Bintan!
5. Water Sports at Treasure Bay Bintan
Well, we all know that one of the must-do activities in Bintan is water sports! However, it is not easy to find a place to enjoy various activities other than the resorts’ swimming pools or their offered recreation activities.
For people who are eager to try many different water sports in Bintan, Treasure Bay Bintan is the place just for you! Treasure Bay Bintan offers diverse exciting water sports that make time pass in the blink of an eye.
Here is a list of water sports activities you can enjoy at Treasure Bay Bintan:
- Jet Skiing
- Kayaking
- Banana Boat Rides
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
- Snorkeling
- Wakeboarding
- Flyboarding
If you are unfamiliar with those activities, don’t worry! Everyone, even beginners, can try out all the water sports at Treasure Bay Bintan. Not only you can enjoy the water sports, but you can also take in the beautiful sceneries of the natural environment. Take a look at the crystal blue waters with picturesque coastlines that will completely captivate you. You’ll never want to leave Bintan, but stay for the rest of your life.
- +62 770 691682
6. Spend the Day Playing Golf
One of the reasons why Bintan is frequently visited is for its excellent golf courses. If you visit Bintan, it would be a great chance for beginners to learn how to play golf, and for golf lovers, you can try out challenging and unfamiliar courses! After thorough comparison, we came up with a comprehensive list of golf courses.
Located right next to the South China Sea, Ria Bintan Golf Club provides outstanding views of the sea and the surrounding nature. It is designed by Gary Player, the golf legend! Did you know that he chose Ria Bintan Golf Club as one of his favourite courses that he has designed so far? Indeed, it has two 18-hole championship courses – Ocean Course and Forest Course. Both courses are well-known to be challenging and beautiful.
- Jl. Perigi Raja, Lagoi North Bintan, Sebong Lagoi, Kec. Tlk. Sebong, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29152, Indonesia
- +62 770 692839
Laguna Bintan Golf Club
Laguna Bintan Golf Club is an award-winning golf course situated inside Laguna Bintan Resort. It is designed by Greg Norman, who is now a retired professional golf player. With his expertise of golf courses and beautiful nature combined, Laguna Bintan Golf Club allows you to enjoy special golfing experience in the middle of emerald greenery and stunning coastal vistas. This place is available to all golfers of all skill levels, providing an 18-hole, par 27 championship courses.
- +62 852 8392 5060
- https://www.lagunagolfbintan.com/
Bintan Lagoon Golf Club features two 18-hole championship courses – Jack Nicklaus Sea View Golf Course and Ian Baker-Finch Woodlands Golf Course. These courses are perfect for golfers who are looking for an exciting golf experience with facilities such as practice putting greens, a driving range, various dining options, a clubhouse with a pro shop, and locker rooms.
Located inside Bintan Lagoon Resort, you can enjoy the resort facilities after your golf time. Make your trip in Bintan more memorable!
- +62 770 691388
6. Spend the Day Playing Golf
Other than enjoying the natural views at golf courses or at resorts, how about going out for trekking? There are a few spots where you can explore the marvellous details of nature. Although only a few options are available for your hike, you can choose one place to fully immerse yourself in the natural environment.
Gunung Bintan
‘No pain, no gain’ is a perfect phrase for Gunung Bintan. It is the highest peak in Bintan, with an approximate height of 340 meters! This trekking trail will be challenging for adventure seekers as you need to walk through dense jungles, which can be steep and rugged at times. However, when you reach the summit, the breathtaking views of the trek and surrounding area will make the hike worth it.
Trikora Beach
Trikora Beach is less crowded compared to other popular beaches in Bintan. It’s suited for visitors who want a quieter and more secluded beach experience to enjoy a tranquil ambiance there! Take a look at the picturesque view of the long stretches of white sandy shorelines, crystal blue waters, and the greenery of palm trees.
Not only can you take a walk along the shoreline, you can also try other water sports such as boat rides. After your walk, take your time at nearby attractions such as Trikora War Memorial and markets at Tanjung Pinang to extend your enjoyable time in the nature.
Sand Dunes of Gurun Pasir Bintan
If rainforests or beaches don’t suit your personal tastes, how about exploring the sand dunes at Bintan? Bintan might look like it only has jungles and beaches, but surprise! There are sand dunes too!
Gurun Pasir Bintan is located in Busung. You can see crystal clear lakes and picturesque views of interspersing sand dunes and ponds. This place is relatively undiscovered by many tourists, so enjoy this place fully for yourself! The sand dunes will be worth visiting to make your time in Bintan a unique and special one.
- +6285157128881
- 7:00AM – 6:00PM
8. Engage in Batik Painting
If you are looking for some activities that you can only experience in Bintan, this Batik panting is perfect for you! Batik painting is a traditional Indonesian art that uses wax and dyes on fabric to create detailed designs. Although the process is time-consuming and high-skilled, it will result in beautiful, intricate art. Learn more about Indonesian culture and history, as well as take the opportunity to expand your creativity and artistic expression!
This activity will be a unique experience for you and your family to build special memories through your Bintan holiday!
9. Enjoy a Spa Treatment
The spas in Bintan Island are famous for people who seek relaxation and rejuvenation. Many resorts offer spas with various facilities such as a wide range of treatments and services. The spas are commonly located in tropical settings, where you can enjoy your time at the spa and the natural environment at the same time! Enjoy the massage at a cheap price.
If you are looking for special spas in Bintan, you can also try traditional Indonesian therapies which provide traditional massages, body scrubs, herbal baths, and other therapeutic treatments! Lie down and relax to relieve any stress from your busy daily life through the Bintan spas!
10. Visit 500 Lohan Temple
500 Lohan Temple (Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva) is a Buddhist temple located in Tanjung Pinang. This temple is dedicated to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, a guardian of children and travellers.
Once you arrive, you can see 500 statues of Lohan (Arhat or Disciples of Buddha), each of which has distinct facial expressions, postures, and clothing. You will not notice how fast time passes by when you are observing the characteristics of each statue!
Besides the Lohan statues, the temple also accommodates other structures such as meditation areas, prayer halls, and ornate gateways to spend your time on reflection and meditation. Take the chance to participate in Buddhist rituals and more! Experience how the Buddhist culture is celebrated in Bintan.
11. Visit Safari Lagoi & Eco farm
Safari Lagoi is a place where you can meet various endangered animals such as the orangutan, sun bear, elephant, and crocodile. They are rescued from illegal pet trade and meat markets and moved into Safari Lagoi for protection under the Indonesian government. If you are an animal lover, you can visit Safari Lagoi and interact with these animals.
If you decide to visit, explore Safari Lagoi with us. We cover entrance fee and the transportation as well. Don’t miss the chance to meet and interact with animals in Bintan!
This place also accommodates the Eco Farm, where various fruits and plants are grown organically. You can take a 1.5 to 2 hour tour to discover how nature works around eco farm.
Since this place is family-friendly, it will be great for children and families to spend time together. Children can understand nature better with educational sessions for them to learn more about wildlife preservation and the natural environment.
If you are looking for a place that is both educational and entertaining at the same time, we would recommend Safari Lagoi!
- +62 823 8663 9665
- 8:00AM – 4:30PM
- https://tamansafarilagoibintan-online.globaltix.com/
- @safarilagoibintanindonesia (Instagram)
