Ultimate Bintan Family Guide: Top Stays And Fun Activities For Kids

HOW TO GET TO BINTAN

First things first, how do you even get to Bintan from Singapore? Well, you can reach Bintan by ferry in about an hour. There are regular daily ferries to Bintan, but it's wise to check the schedule and make bookings well ahead of your planned trip. Ferries run from various locations in Singapore and will take you directly to the beautiful island. The cost per person usually ranges around SG$70, but if you prefer to enjoy the comfort of an executive lounge while you wait, fast-track through immigration, have priority baggage handling, comfier seating, and complimentary refreshments, you can upgrade to Emerald Class with Bintan Resort Ferries.

Bintan Resort Ferry

There are currently 11 weekly ferry routes running from Singapore to Bintan Island operated by one ferry company – Bintan Resort Ferries. The Tanah Merah to Bandar Bentan Telani ferry crossing operates weekly with a scheduled sailing duration of about one hour.

Do check out the Bintan Resort Ferry schedule and book in advance to plan your trip. Private charters are available on request. For more information, visit the Bintan Resort Ferries website!

Tanah Merah Tanjung Pinang Ferry

The Majestic Fast Ferry runs 3 weekly ferry services from Harbourfront Centre. It is best to check out the Majestic Fast Ferry schedule and make advance reservations. For detailed information, visit their website or contact them directly via phone or email.

VISA ENTRY REQUIREMENT

Many nationalities will not need to apply for a visa in advance to enter Bintan, Singaporeans included. Visitors can arrive by air or at a local ferry terminal and receive a visa-free visit for up to 30-days without the need for costly and complex applications.

FACTS ABOUT BINTAN

Bintan’s Flora & Fauna

Bintan is part of Indonesia’s rich archipelago that boasts more than 130,000 islands and 50,000 kilometers of coastline, ancient mangroves, and tropical jungle. It’s all home to some of the rarest creatures on earth, including endangered sea turtles, silver leaf monkeys, pretty sunbirds, eagles, and kites. Safari Lagoi has become a safe haven for the many birds and animals rescued from illegal trading, including sun bears, Komodo dragons, orangutans, and a beautiful albino python.

The highest hill on the island is Bintan Besar, formed by old volcanic eruptions and stands proudly at 360 meters above sea level. Explore the canopied mangroves and the Sebung River with a guide who will explain the importance of the mangroves and their wildlife. The river comes alive at night with magical fireflies as they dance under the starry skies. If you are fans of the underwater world, you can channel your inner mermaid and swim through the coral reefs that brim with colorful marine life.

Bintan’s Climate 

Bintan weather is similar to Singapore:  sunny and warm all year round, with the chance of thunderstorms and rain between November and January each year. The South China Sea can be pretty choppy during the monsoon season, so scuba diving or snorkeling can be restricted during those months. For families that love the beach, box jellyfish like to make an occasional appearance. Best to heed the advice offered from your water sports team at the hotel if you should avoid the sea for any reason.

Bintan has a relaxed vibe, and is perfect for a hop, skip, and jump trip from Singapore. Take advantage of your beautiful resort and make the most of an internationally-inspired culinary journey. Many of the island's hotels and resorts have kid's clubs to keep your children occupied too, while you have much-needed R&R. Increasingly, the island is also providing regular tours that take you on adventure treks, cultural heritage visits, and animal protection centers.

Bintan For Mothers

Bintan is a popular babymoon destination. You’ll need a doctor's note to allow you to travel. Be aware that most doctors will recommend against traveling if you are over eight months pregnant due to the limited facilities on the island.

Getting Around Bintan 

Singaporeans tend to head to Bintan for minimum fuss and easy access to adventures and island living. The great thing about Bintan island is that there are many transfers that whisk travelers to their hotels and resorts directly from the ferry terminals in as little as 10 minutes. If you are not pre-booking a private charter to get around the island, your hotel can also happily arrange a private guide and driver to give you a comprehensive tour to all the famous spots – from virgin sandy beaches and hikes in the hills to kayaking through mangroves and wandering through Tanjung Pinang, the capital of the Indonesian province of Riau Islands.

BEST HOTELS AND RESORTS FOR FAMILIES IN BINTAN

Bintan has gorgeous family-friendly accommodations ranging from luxurious hotels to island-style villas. You might prefer the great outdoors and a spot of glamping on the shores of saltwater lagoons and mangroves, or perhaps your own private garden set amidst your host’s farm. Whatever it is, there are options aplenty. For something that will keep the kids busy from morning to night, choose a villa with pool options.

The variety of living options will definitely keep you coming back for more. Thankfully, Little Steps has compiled a list of various accommodation offerings for you to consider.

Cassia Bintan – www.cassia.com/indonesia/cassia-bintan

• A playground for both kids and adults, Cassia Bintan has water sports activities and tons of facilities to ensure there’s never a dull moment. Expect a beachfront pool to relax in, scrumptious mealtime spreads and sustainable efforts, ATV offerings and even a kids club for arts and craft sessions!

Read more here: Little Steps Reviews: Beachfront Bliss At Family-Friendly Cassia Bintan, Indonesia

Banyan Tree Bintan – www.banyantree.com/indonesia/bintan

• Banyan Tree is a renowned name in the hospitality scene, and their Bintan brand will bring every guest closer to nature while immersing you in your comfort zone. It boasts an all-pool villa resort, which means tons of water sports like snorkeling, kayaking and deep sea diving. The Rangers Kids Club will also ensure your little one will have a packed itinerary for a fun-filled family vacay!

Read more here: Little Steps Reviews: A Tropical Haven At Banyan Tree Bintan, Indonesia

Club Med Bintan – www.clubmed.com.sg/r/bintan-island

• Imagine a private beach in your front yard, with crystal clear waters to dive right into. That’s a reality at Club Med Bintan, the ultimate family getaway away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Dads can head to play golf, mums can unwind at the spa, while the kiddos can stay all-day at the kids club, where plenty of activities await.

The ANMON Resort Bintan – theanmon.com

• If you and the family prefer some outdoor camping vibes but still want comfort, consider The ANMON Resort Bintan. Featuring luxe tents that include king size beds and private bathrooms, you’ll be able to feel like you're in paradise while still connecting to Mother Nature. What’s more, there’s also slides, wakeboarding and kayaking to explore!

Kamuela Villas – www.kamuelavillas.com

• For a privacy holiday, Kamuela Villas will guarantee it’s just you and the kids. The resort has 28 villas that each come with a private pool to make a splash and snap photos. But if the thirst for adventure arises, there’s also outdoor activities, a spa, and Plaza Lagoi for shopping and restaurants.

The Residence Bintan – www.cenizaro.com/theresidence/bintan

• Feel one with nature at the village-themed resort at The Residence Bintan. Not only can adults soak in the zen vibes at the herb and vegetable garden, but kids can also participate in the Kakaty Kids Club, where they can learn more about sustainable living, cooking and even have fun treasure hunting!

The Sanchaya Bintan – www.thesanchaya.com

• With seaside views and breeze in your hair from your room, there’s nothing quite like a relaxing stay at The Sanchaya Bintan. Take it slow or pack your schedule – the choice is yours. Activities to expect for all ages include cooking, archery, mini soccer tournament, kite flying, and even bicycles to rent and explore around.

Want more? Check out more family-friendly resorts and hotels in Bintan here: www.littlestepsasia.com/travel/indonesia/bintan/family-friendly-hotels-in-bintan/

BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS IN BINTAN

Like most families traveling from Singapore, you might want some lazy days at the resort. Each hotel, farm-stay, glamping experience, or resort should have ample cuisine offerings for you and your family. If you are seeking a more local experience, have a chat with your hotel’s concierge or front desk for recommendations of a local warung, which translates to a small family-run café, or other commended eateries.

While you are on the island, try Bintan’s version of otak-otak, a freshly grilled fish cake wrapped in banana leaves, made from ground freshly caught fish mixed with tapioca and local spices. After the sun sets, explore the various night markets that line the streets of Tanjung Pinang. The Pujasera Township has a variety of delicious traditional dishes like ayam penyet, nasi goreng, soto ayam, indomie goreng, and goreng pisang all at affordable local prices. Check out these food recommendations for your next visit.

The Kelong Seafood Restaurant – www.nirwanagardens.com/restaurants-and-bars/the-kelong-seafood-restaurant/

• Have traditional seafood the old school way at a kelong! Kelongs are known as floating platforms, and The Kelong Seafood Restaurant is as direct as its name. Serving up fresh seafood dishes ranging from crabs to prawns and mussels, you and the fam will have a feast while taking in the sea breeze right next to you.

Nelayan Restaurant – www.hautegrandeur.com/restaurants/restaurant/nelayan-restaurant

• Situated within Bintan Lagoon resort, Nelayan Restaurant is a scenic spot if you want your meal to be complemented with the sunset. Expect a mix of local and international cuisine, such as pasta and nasi goreng. Al fresco seating is available if you like the outdoors, and after sundown, adults can order up a round of cocktails to toast to the night together.

Restoran Sederhana Masakan Padang – www.restoransederhana.id

• When you think of fast food, burgers and fries come to mind. But not in Bintan. Restoran Sederhana is a “fast food” nasi padang joint with plenty of outlets, which means you can’t leave without trying it at least once. Their signature is their rice with a buffet of dishes, so you can pick and choose your meal to your liking.

Bar7 Rooftop Bar & Grill – www.grandlagoihotel.com/dining

• Head up to the rooftop of Grand Lagoi Hotel for a sky high dining experience. The hotel restaurant is famed for their grilled meat and seafood, which will surely satisfy peckish diners. It’s also a bar, which means the adults can have some cocktails to accompany the views you’ll be enjoying.

Pizza Casa Italia – www.bintan-resorts.com/place/pizza-casa-italia .

• Pizza on a beach? Yes please. Pizza Casa Italia lets you dig into slices of cheesy and crunchy pizzas on Trikora Beach in Bintan. Authentically baked by an Italian family, you’ll be getting a slice of Italy in every bite. Choose from sweet, savory and spicy options to suit what you and the kids are craving!

Want more? Check out more places to eat in Bintan:

Lamak Basamo – www.bintan-resorts.com/experiences/lamak-basamo-nasi-padang/
Pujasera Food Centre – www.bintan-resorts.com/experiences/pujasera/
The Sanchay –  www.thesanchaya.com/drinkingdining
Saffron – www.banyantree.com/en/indonesia/bintan/dining/saffron
Nirwana Resort Hotel – www.nirwanagardens.com/hotel-villas/nirwana-resort-hotel/
Angsana – www.angsana.com/en/indonesia/bintan/dining/destination-dining
Nirwana Beach Club– www.nirwanagardens.com/hotel-villas/nirwana-beach-club
Teluk Bakau Bay View Seafood Restaurant – www.bintan-resorts.com/experiences/teluk-bakau-bay-view-seafood-restaurant
Spice Restaurant, Mayang Sari Beach Resort – www.nirwanagardens.com/restaurants-and-bars/spice-restaurant
Rice, Bintan Lagoon Resorts, – www.bintan-resorts.com/id/resorts/bintan-lagoon-resort

THINGS TO DO IN BINTAN WITH KIDS

Singaporeans flock to Bintan for many reasons. Not only does the island offer an escape from reality, but there’s also plenty of landmarks and sights to see with the whole family. For starters, there are various wellness centers across Bintan island. Many of the island's resorts have exceptionally internationally acclaimed, award-winning spas, including those at the Banyan Tree, Angsana, and Sanchaya resorts.

Additionally, there are two golf courses for those who want to tee off. The Greg Norman-designed Laguna Golf Bintan has a par-72, 18-hole course with views of the South China Sea, while Ria Bintan Golf Club features 27 holes and ranks highly as one of the finest courses in Indonesia.

Culture buffs should stop by the Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, with 500 life-size statues known as lohan. Animal lovers would love Safari Lagoi and Eco Farm – home to many rescued and critically endangered animals. There are also comprehensive tours of their fruit and vegetable gardens, which is an excellent way for kids to better understand ecosystems and try their hand at planting or harvesting in the gardens.

Read ahead for a list on things to do with kids in Bintan:

Turtle Hatching Season At Nirwana Gardens – www.nirwanagardens.com/adventure-thrills/turtle-hatchery-program

• From mid-May to the end of June and the start of August to the end of September every year, you can watch green and hawksbill turtles hatch from their eggs and race to the sea. Nirwana Gardens has an extraordinary conservation project to protect green and hawksbill turtles from predators and poachers, whereby the team collects and buries the turtle's eggs in a safe and protected hatchery before the babies are released. Make sure to book a slot early before it’s full!

Safari Lagoi and Eco Farm – www.bintan-resorts.com/place/safari-lagoi-eco-farm

• Kids and adults who love nature, plants and animals will be fully entertained at Safari Lagoi and Eco Farm. The sanctuary will feature many endangered species,  including orang utans, Komodo dragons, sun bears, and Asian elephants. After exploring the fascinating creatures, you can also explore crops and enjoy snacks made with fresh ingredients from the farm.

Rumah Imaji –  ​​www.bintan-resorts.com/place/rumah-imaji

• Whip out your cameras and phones at Rumah Imaji, a 3D trick eye museum. The tourist attraction has over 50 photo spots to go trigger happy at, including interactive ones that will incite smiles and laughter from the kiddos. Of course, you can take home your favorite photo from your visit home at the gift shop.

Mangrove Discovery Tour – ​​bintan-resorts.com/experiences/mangrove-discovery-tour-day-night

• Venturing into a mangrove forest might not be the most immediate idea of fun, but it’s a great way to spend a day together with wildlife and nature. The Mangrove Discovery Tour is suitable for families, and has both day and night options. The latter will give you exclusive access to fireflies!

Crystal Lagoon – www.bintan-resorts.com/place/crystal-lagoon

• For a sunny day out while still making a splash, bring the kids to Crystal Lagoon. Located in Treasure Bay Bintan, the resort is a playground filled with floating castles and water tricycles, so you can cool off under the sun while still getting in some exercise. After your out-at-sea adventure, head back to shore for a beach date or build sandcastles.

Want more? Check out an in-depth guide at top things to do with kids in Bintan – www.littlestepsasia.com/travel/indonesia/bintan/things-to-do-in-bintan

SHOPPING IN BINTAN: BEST MARKETS AND WALKING STREETS

Don’t expect spacious malls and luxurious boutiques in Bintan. Instead, shopping is mainly at one main shopping mall, and you’ll find other knick knacks and trinkets along street markets. If you can’t go home empty-handed, shortlist these spots so you can check out what the island has to offer, even if it’s just window shopping!

Plaza Lagoi – www.bintan-resorts.com/place/plaza-lagoi

• Plaza Lagoi is arguably the main shopping mall in all of Bintan, with over 60 shops that span fashion, dining and gadgets. Here’s the perfect spot if you’re looking for something traditional as a souvenir or a gift. Food options are also abundant, so you won’t go hungry. Take note of the shuttle service timings for more convenient commuting to and fro!

Tanjung Pinang Traditional Market

• Head down to Tanjung Pinang to explore a ton of shophouses and street stalls, which will be a throwback to yesteryears. While venturing down the market, keep your eyes peeled for everything from fresh food to handmade tableware. Who knows, you just might find a hidden gem from shopping here!

Pasar Oleh-Oleh

• Open daily from 10am to 11pm, Pasar Oleh-Oleh is a popular souvenir market manned by locals. There will be plenty of traditional and cultural items to browse, from batik clothing to household items. The best part? Prices are all affordable! There are also seating areas around the area if you want to take a breather during your spree.