4 must-do activities (and where to go) for an instagrammable Batam getaway

Whether you’re travelling to Singapore or currently live in Singapore, Indonesia’s Batam Island might just be the next quick getaway to snap some pretty photos.

More than just a place for affordable seafood and massages, interesting concept cafes have also been popping up around Batam. Imagine spending the weekend chilling out with a nice cuppa, and relaxing at one of many various luxurious spas. All within an hour’s ferry ride from Singapore. Read on for an exclusive promotion we have planned for you and your loved ones!

1. Dive into crystal clear waters at Ranoh Island

Ranoh Island is just a 20 minutes speed boat ride away from Batam Island, and is a great tropical getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With a pristine white beach and calm turquoise waters, it is popular spot to snorkel and interact with nature. For thrill-seekers, kayaking and water sports should definitely be on your list! 

The resort-style island also features a glamping tent for those looking for unique accommodation options during their stay. In the evening, indulge in a delectable selection of food & beverages at the nearby restaurant and minibar located just by the beach.

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*To book the packages, visit the THK Tour and Travel website.

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2. Get your caffeine boost at picture-perfect cafes

If the Singaporean café scene is getting all too familiar, perhaps it’s time to venture a little further. Start your Batam trip with a wonderful cup of coffee at one of the many café’s all round the island.

Located a short taxi ride from Batam Centre Ferry Terminal, Anchor Cafe & Roastery not only serves specialty coffee, they also buy their beans from all over world – including local Indonesian farms, and roast the beans in the café itself. Watch the roasting process as you sip on that cuppa, and smell the fragrance of these coffee beans as you feast on their delicious pastries, also baked in-house. 

Be sure to make reservations in advance if you’re going in a big group, as they fill up fast – especially over the weekends!

Anchor Café Location: Dermaga Culinary Paradise Blok RF #11, 29462 Batam, Indonesia

3. Have a massage, manicure – or both, at spa resorts

What’s a getaway without pampering yourself with spa and beauty treatments? Some of these spa resorts even come with a beautiful backdrop for you to snap some amazing shots. Tempat Senang Spa Resort for instance, is set amidst much greenery, and is a great place to retreat to for a peace of mind. Fun fact: the Javanese Joglo suite in the resort was constructed with 100-year-old massive aged teak timbers, which keeps the interior cool at all times of the day.

If you prefer somewhere nearer the city, hotels such as Eska Hotel and Spa not only comes with a full suite of spa and beauty services (think massage, manicure, and a new hair cut!), it is also conveniently located near various shopping and dining options.

Tempat Senang Location: Tempat Senang, Indah Puri Sekupang, Batam Indonesia

Eska Location: Ruka Nagoya Hill Blok R4, No. F3 & F3A, Batam

4. Sample local food at the local markets around the island

There’s nothing quite like tasting local cuisine, so be sure to sample the wide range of local food that you can find on the island.

Try out the Indonesian Ikan Bakar – seasoned grilled fish, grilled over charcoal and served with dipping sauces at various restaurants such as Ikan Bakar Cianjur. Visit Pasar Penuin Wet Market, not only to check out some of their fresh fish and meats on sale, but also to visit the coffee shop there to sample local delights such as the Murturbak, local versions of Wonton Mee (egg noodles with pieces of pork and mini dumplings) and carrot cake.

Don’t forget to drop by some of the many shops selling kerupuk (Indonesian crackers) and kueh lapis (layer cake) to munch on with your afternoon tea, or to buy for your friends and families back home!

Getting to Batam from Changi Airport

Try our direct shuttle service (pick-up from the coach stands at Terminals 1 and 4) to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. The shuttle service runs every 30 minutes between 6.30am and 7.30pm daily and costs S$3 per ride. For a fuss-free experience, you can book your seats on the shuttle service up to 7 days in advance. Find out more here.

At Tanah Merah Ferry terminal, there are multiple ferries operating to Batam daily. Check out the ferry schedules here. If you're not living in the east or travelling through Changi Airport, you may also choose to take a ferry to Batam from HarbourFront Ferry Terminal. With this handy guide, you're now ready for a weekend in Batam!