Things to Do in Bintan in 2025 (Adventure & Relaxation)
Things to Do in Bintan in 2025 (Adventure & Relaxation) include day trips from Singapore by a 1h–1h15 ferry (Tanah Merah → Bandar Bentan Telani), lagoon activities in Treasure Bay, mangrove & firefly tours, Gunung Bintan treks, and resort spa downtime. Complete an All-Indonesia e-Arrival card within 72 hours before travel and bring your passport (visa-free for Singapore passport holders up to 30 days).
Things to Do in Bintan in 2025 (Adventure & Relaxation)
Quick facts before you go
- Ferry time: about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes from Tanah Merah (Singapore) to Bandar Bentan Telani (Lagoi/Bintan Resorts).
- Time zone: Bintan is GMT+7 (1 hour behind Singapore).
- Entry: Singapore passport holders are typically visa-free for tourism up to 30 days; from Oct 1, 2025 the All-Indonesia e-Arrival card is mandatory at many entry points — fill it within 72 hours of arrival.
- Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Bring some cash for small purchases; cards accepted at resorts and larger shops.
Top spots & experiences (Adventure & Relaxation)
Lagoi — beaches, snorkeling and family-friendly resorts
- Lagoi Bay for calm shallow beaches and snorkeling trips. Great for families and first-time snorkelers.
- Stay close to the beach at resorts like Angsana Resort & Spa + Ferry or Grand Lagoi Hotel + Ferry for easy access to activities.
Treasure Bay Bintan — the Crystal Lagoon and watersports
- Giant man-made Crystal Lagoon for paddleboarding, wakeboarding, jetskis and floating fun.
- Perfect for groups and active travellers who want water-sports without long boat rides.
Mangrove & firefly tours — easy evening adventure
- Evening mangrove cruises to watch fireflies are a calm, memorable experience for couples and families.
- There are packaged tours that include hotel pick-up and insurance.
Gunung Bintan trek & nature trails
- Hiking Gunung Bintan is for active travellers — expect tropical forest, uneven paths and rewarding views.
- Book a guided trek for safety and local knowledge.
Local culture & island-hopping
- Visit local fishing villages, markets in Tanjung Pinang and small islands like Nirup for day trips.
- Try local seafood and street snacks; bargaining is common in markets.
Suggested sample itineraries (simple, easy to follow)
2-day weekend (fast, ideal for Singaporeans)
- Day 1: Morning ferry Tanah Merah → Bandar Bentan Telani (arrive mid-morning). Check in at resort. Afternoon: Treasure Bay lagoon water-sports or beach time. Evening: dinner at resort + optional firefly/mangrove tour.
- Day 2: Morning snorkel or short island-hopping. Afternoon ferry back to Singapore (arrive late afternoon).
3-day escape (relax + explore)
- Day 1: Travel and check-in. Sunset walk and spa.
- Day 2: Gunung Bintan trek or full-day snorkeling trip; evening local seafood dinner in Tanjung Pinang.
- Day 3: Leisurely breakfast, quick beach time, check out and ferry back.
Estimated budget (per person, SGD, Singapore-based travellers)
- Return ferry (book early / promotions): S$35–S$80.
- Resort 1–2 nights: budget S$80–S$150 / mid S$150–S$350 / luxury S$400+ (per room; many packages include ferry & transfers).
- Activities (snorkel, lagoon, mangrove tour): S$20–S$120 depending on activity & group size.
- Meals & local transport: S$20–S$70 per day.
- Tip: Check package deals that bundle ferry + hotel + transfers — often better value for 2D1N or 3D2N trips.
How to get there from Singapore — step-by-step
- Buy ferry tickets (Bintan Resort Ferries is the main operator for Tanah Merah → Bandar Bentan Telani). Book early for weekend slots.
- Arrive at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (allow 60–90 min before departure for check-in and immigration).
- Complete All-Indonesia e-Arrival card (fill within 72 hours before arrival) and bring the QR code to show at immigration.
- Board ferry (journey approx. 1h–1h15). On arrival, resort transfers often meet you at Bandar Bentan Telani terminal.
- Return: arrive at ferry terminal in Singapore early to clear immigration; arrive earlier if you have onward flights.
Top travel tips & safety
- Fill the All-Indonesia e-Arrival card within 72 hours before arrival to avoid delays at immigration.
- Passport validity: ensure at least 6 months validity from date of entry.
- Bring insect repellent and reef-safe sunscreen for outdoor activities.
- If you need visa flexibility, consider a Visa on Arrival (VoA) — check current rules before travel.
- Book transfers included in your package to avoid haggling for taxis on arrival.
Compare: Resort weekend vs island adventure
| Weekend Resort | Adventure Trip |
|---|---|
| Relaxed, spa, beach, family-friendly | Active: trekking, island-hopping, snorkeling |
| Best for couples and families | Best for groups & active travellers |
| Cost: moderate to high (resort rates) | Cost: activity fees + budget stays possible |
Recommended packages (bookable options)
Pick one of these to save time — they include ferry and hotel options:
- Bintan | Nirwana Resort Hotel + Ferry
- Bintan | Angsana Resort & Spa + Ferry
- Bintan | Natra Bintan (The Canopi) + Ferry
- Bintan | Banyan Tree Villas + Ferry
- Bintan | The ANMON Resort Bintan + Ferry
Related guides you might like
- How to Book a Bintan Weekend Package from Singapore
- Why Bintan Is the Perfect Weekend Escape from Singapore
- Bintan Packages for Families: All-Inclusive Deals
- Do You Need a Visa for Batam or Bintan? (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a visa to visit Bintan?
Many nationalities, including Singapore passport holders, can enter Indonesia visa-free for tourism up to 30 days. If you need a longer stay or flexibility, check Visa on Arrival options before travel. Also complete the All-Indonesia e-Arrival card as required.
How long is the ferry from Singapore to Bintan?
Expect around 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes on the Tanah Merah → Bandar Bentan Telani ferry. Allow extra time for immigration and transfers.
Where do ferries leave in Singapore?
Main ferries to Bintan depart from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. Check your booking confirmation for the exact departure point and arrival terminal in Bintan.
What is the best time to visit Bintan?
Year-round tropical climate: dry season months (roughly April to October) are popular for beach activities. Rain can be frequent during monsoon months — check weather before you travel.
Are there family-friendly activities in Bintan?
Yes — most resorts offer kids’ clubs, calm beaches, lagoon activities and easy snorkeling. Many family packages combine ferry + hotel + some activities.
Packing checklist (quick)
- Passport (valid ≥6 months), printed ferry tickets and e-Arrival QR code
- Swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, hat
- Insect repellent, light rain jacket (tropical showers)
- Small IDR cash for local stalls and tipping
Final tips
- Book early for weekend departures from Singapore — ferries can fill up fast on public holidays.
- Packages that include ferry + transfers save time and often money; see recommended packages above.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting villages or religious sites.
Ready to plan your Bintan escape? 👉 Check our latest Bintan packages and WhatsApp us to book now.
