The things we truly missed about Bintan: Couples’ edition

Only a short one-hour ferry ride away from Singapore, Bintan is a little slice of paradise long frequented by Singaporeans; particularly so for lovebirds on the hunt for a quick romantic getaway. This gem has been sorely missed due to the pandemic, but it’s now possible to travel to Bintan again – as long as you’re vaccinated. That said, do note that the travel bubble is still restricted to Lagoi.

Even so, it’s certainly a good start after an extended time away from this precious place. In this piece, we’ve rounded up some of the best things to do in Bintan for you hopeless romantics. Whether it be unwinding on pristine beaches or engaging in a thrilling water adventure, these will certainly help to clock in some of that much-needed quality time.

For the active and adventure-seeking lovebirds

1. Get your blood pumping with scuba diving and snorkelling

It isn’t a trip to Bintan island without some fun-filled aquatic activities. Even for those with zero experience with venturing in the deep blue seas, there are several tour experiences designed specially to get beginners onboard. 

At the integrated Bintan resort, Nirwana Gardens, for instance, you can find Professional Association of Driving Instructors (PADI) who will take you through an exciting open water diver course (IDR6,210,337, ~S$577). Here’s where you can take a half day out on a dive boat to explore what the clear waters have to offer; all under the direct supervision of professionals.

Besides that, you can also opt for scuba diving at the beach (IDR1,011,736, ~ S$94). With such a wide range of courses to pick from, it’s best to start planning early. Whichever the case, you’ll get to come up close and personal with creatures like clownfishes, sea cucumbers and sea urchins.

Address:
Jalan Panglima Pantar, Lagoi, Bintan Resorts, Lagoi, Riau 29155, Indonesia

2. Satisfy your need for speed with wakeboarding and more

If those activities aren’t enough to satisfy your thirst for water adventure, there’s always wakeboarding at Chill Cove Wave Park that’s located at Treasure Bay Bintan. Treasure Bay’s essentially a 90ha one-stop recreational hub, with Chill Cove’s Crystal Lagoon clear waters being one of its standout features. No matter your skill level, you’ll be sure to have some solid fun here as wakeboarding instructors will be present to guide you through with basic tricks. Each lesson includes rental of equipment such as life vests and helmets. A 60-minute ride per person costs IDR300,000 (~S$27). 

Besides wakeboarding, there are also a plethora of activities available. Go cruising on a paddle boat (IDR50,000, ~S$5) for 30min, or go on an ATV off-road trail (IDR450,000, ~S$42). Find out more about the activities here.

Address:
Treasure Bay Bintan, Jl. Raya Haji No.Km 1, Sebong Lagoi, Teluk Sebong, Bintan Island, Riau Islands 29152, Indonesia

For the pair who enjoys wandering away from water sports

3. Spend an afternoon with flowers and endangered animals

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Safari Lagoi easily tops the must-visit list for animal-loving couples looking for unique Bintan attractions. It’s especially suited for those who love exploring hidden gems away from the beach. Pet or animal cafe this is not; rather, it’s a refuge for rescued and endangered animals — anything from elephants, to komodo dragons, sun bears to orangutans.

Set off on a 2-hour guided eco-farm tour to delve deeper into the conservation efforts in Indonesia. On top of that, you’ll also have a chance to plant or harvest farm-grown fruits at the end of the tour. Remember to have your camera ready to grab pictures of flowers such as sunflowers and lavenders that are cultivated at the farm too! Entrance fees are priced at IDR100,000 for adults (~S$9), and IDR50,000 (~S$5) for children. Make your advance tour bookings here.

Address:
Baru City, Teluk Sebong, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands 29152, Indonesia

Tour hours:
Monday to Sunday—10:00am to 4:00pm

4. Indulge in a romantic sunset dinner at the Calypso Floating Bar

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To end your day on a good note, make your way down the winding pier at Nirwana Gardens. You’ll soon arrive at Calypso Floating Bar, a laidback spot that’s all about scrumptious food with a view. 

This Caribbean-style bar serves light bites and refreshing drinks such as curry and cheese fries (IDR95,000, ~S$9), crispy fried prawns (IDR140,000, S$13) and signature rastafarian cocktail (IDR135,000, ~S$13). To catch those beautiful hues of the sky, be sure to stop by right before the sun sets! All that’s left is to sit back and enjoy those groovy reggae tunes that they’re most known for playing as background music. 

Address:
Jalan Panglima Pantar, Lagoi, 29155, Indonesia

Operating Hours:
Tuesday to Thursday: 4:30pm – 10:30pm
Friday to Sunday: 11.30am – 10.30pm

 

5. Explore Danau Biru for its bright blue waters and white sand

Once an active mining site, the basins of Danau Biru at Bintan have since turned into beautiful blue lakes. If you’re not one for the thrills of water sports, why not pack some lunch and head down here for a peaceful time by the waters instead? Besides the panoramic view of the lakes, you’ll also be surrounded by an abandoned sand dune resembling gorgeous limestone formations found in Turkey. This sure makes for a marvellous backdrop for photos, so a monopod will be handy for sure. It’s in fact, a hotspot for pre-wedding photos for lovebirds.

Address:
Gunung Kijang, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands 29151, Indonesia

6. Stay on a permanently-docked ship hotel

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Originally built in 1914, this vessel (known as MV Doulos Phos) was once used to transport produce and passengers in the past. Since then, it has been lovingly transformed into a boutique hotel. Not a fan of fancy resorts? Pay a visit to this ship for your stay instead! While it may have a history of 105 years, the hotel comes sufficiently equipped with 104 modern cabins and even on-board amenities such as a maritime museum and all-day diner. On the land adjacent to the boat sits an infinity pool that boasts views of the Singapore Strait. After all, Bintan is only an hour's ferry ride away from the little red dot. 

Address:
Kawasan Pariwisata Lagoi, Sebong Lagoi, Teluk Sebong, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands 29155, Indonesia

 

For the chill couple who need some rejuvenation

7. Rest and unwind with facilities at Banyan Tree

Beach bumming has got to be one of the simplest but most satisfying things to do when on an island visit. Sometimes all that’s needed on a vacation is a beachfront resort with stunning coastlines and clear blue waters. Banyan Tree offers just that in Bintan—a place for lovey dovey folks who enjoy basking under the sun or in each other’s company.

To further amp up the intimate mood, book and complete the day at the Banyan Tree Spa and Gallery. Opt for one of their many treatment packages and rejuvenate your body in the hands of trained massage therapists after some chill time at the beach. After which, simply indulge in the comfort of the island resort suite—order some room service and admire the brilliant sunset as you dine in.

Address:
Laguna Bintan Resort, Jalan Teluk Berembang, Sebong Lagoi, Tlk. Sebong, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29155, Indonesia

 

8. Inject some glamour into camping at Natra Bintan

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While a camping adventure may sound fun, it isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Increasingly, “glamping” aka glamorous camping has become popular—and it’s exactly what you can experience at Natra Bintan. Good thing is there’s none of that hassle and frustration from manually setting up your tent. You’ll even get to camp alongside modern comforts like LCD TVs and outdoor hot tubs. 

Rest beneath one of the many ready-made safari tent-suites, live out your chill hammock dreams at your very own private garden, or have a romantic campfire with soggy (but delicious) s’mores — all with the beautiful Crystal Lagoon right before you.

Address:
Treasure Bay Bintan, Jl. Raya Haji No.Km 1, Sebong Lagoi, Teluk Sebong, Bintan Island, Riau Islands 29152, Indonesia

Things to note when travelling to Bintan

• The Indonesian Covid-19 tracing app—PeduliLindungi and Bluepass must be used when engaging in the activities there. 

• Masks are no longer compulsory, but encouraged when crowded outdoor areas. 

• It is, however, required indoors such as on public transportation, except when dining in. 

• A travel insurance with Covid-19 coverage of S$20,000 is mandatory for all foreign nationals travelling into Indonesia.
• Bintan, Indonesia is 1hr behind Singapore.

Bintan is known to be Asia’s hidden leisure island, and it isn’t hard to see why. A trip there could very well guarantee some rest and relaxation — not just for families but couples too. Next time you’re in need of some of that heavenly bliss, pack your bags and head off to the powder-soft beaches found on this marine paradise!