Just across the Singapore Strait from buzzy Singapore itself, beautiful Bintan Island is a restful idyll of white sands framed by swaying palms. The largest of the Riau Islands, this Indonesian gem is hugely popular with visitors from both Singapore and Malaysia. This is reflected in a wide array of accommodation options, with the best places to stay in Bintan including everything from exquisite honeymoon hideaways to family-friendly glamping resorts.

Famed for its exceptional beaches, Bintan is first and foremost a destination for an epic beach break. Spend your days strolling along the sand and soaking up the sunshine on private beaches galore. The watersports scene is superb, with sailing, kayaking, wind surfing, fishing and paddle boarding easily accessible for guests of all ages. Inland, you can cycle or hike through tropical forests filled with wildlife, or play a round or two at the island’s world-class golf courses. Nature lovers will delight in spotting fireflies, monkeys and iridescent kingfishers from aboard traditional boats in the verdant Sungei Sebung Mangrove Forests.

For a sense of the island’s rich cultural heritage, admire Dutch and Javanese architectural landmarks, or see stilt houses and Chinese temples in the fishing village of Senggarang. The Buddhist Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva is a particular standout, as is the Grotto of the Virgin Mary. Nearby Penyengat Island, with its magnificent mosque and palace ruins, is another must-see. Round things off with delicious regional dishes and fresh seafood on lively Potong Lembu Street, Sebung Village or at the best places to stay in Bintan.

The Best Places to Stay in Bintan

For Romantic Luxury

• The Sanchaya is an elegant beachfront resort with white-on-white rooms and villas nestled in lush, landscaped gardens. A gorgeous honeymoon retreat, the hotel fuses design elemetns from both East and West, and the attention to detail is impeccable. Amble along pristine sands, paddle in the infinity pool and feast on organic cuisine after rejuvenating spa treatments. A romantic gem.
• Banyan Tree Bintan offers an enchanting collection of stilted Balinese-style villas, some with private pools. Perched on a hillside overlooking the ocean, the villas have classic interiors with high pitched ceilings crisp white linens, dark wooden furnishings and gold touches. Opportunities for watersports abound, and there are three excellent dining options. A honeymoon idyll.

For Families

• The Residence is a fantastic resort for families, with impressive ocean views from one- and two-bedroom villas, many of which have private pools, free-standing tubs and sunny terraces. The kids club organises treasure hunts and beach games, whilst grown-ups can enjoy cooking classes, yoga and spa treatments. The art classes are ideal for all ages. For active types.
• Natra Bintan boasts unusual tented rooms with big beds, open-air bathrooms and sofa beds for additional guests. Set around south-east Asia's largest swimming pool, the resort offers kayaking, paddle boarding, surfing, yoga, nearby golf and more. Tent-side BBQs are a highlight for family trips!

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Singapore's Changi Airport, and hop aboard the 2-hour ferry to Tanjung Pinang or the 1-hour catamaran to Bentan Telani on Bintan Island. If flying from within Indonesia, take a domestic flight to Bintan's Raja Haji Fisabillillah Airport. Speak to your hotel about arranging an airport pick-up from there.
• You may want to drive if you're exploring the island. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Temperatures hover around 25-32°C throughout the year. Visit during the dry season, which runs from June to September, for the best weather. More frequent rain is expected between March - April and November - December. Travel outside the Singaporean school holidays to avoid the crowds!

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Java.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Indonesia.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.