Top Things to Do in Bintan Island: What to See and Experience

Discover the Best of Bintan Island

Just a short ferry ride from Singapore, Bintan Island is one of Indonesia’s hidden gems. With white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and lush green landscapes, it is the perfect escape for travellers looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural discovery.

Whether you want to explore historic temples, visit fishing villages, or unwind on the coast, there is no shortage of memorable things to do in Bintan Island. Club Med Bintan Island provides the perfect base for your stay, offering all-inclusive comfort, local excursions, and wellness activities that capture the essence of island life.

To help you plan your visit, check out our complete guide on everything you need to know about Bintan.

Key Highlights

  • Relax on Bintan Island’s pristine beaches and visit picturesque natural landmarks.

  • Discover local culture through temples, markets, and heritage sites.

  • Stay active with outdoor adventures, from hiking to water sports, and all-inclusive resort activities.

1 - Top Things to Do in Bintan Island

Visit the 500 Lohan Temple

The 500 Lohan Temple, also called the “Thousand Faces Temple,” is one of the most striking landmarks in Bintan. Located near Tanjung Pinang, this Buddhist complex features hundreds of intricately carved stone statues, each with distinct expressions and poses. The temple’s peaceful surroundings make it one of the top things to do in Bintan Island for those interested in local history and art.

Explore Tanjung Pinang and Trikora Beach

Tanjung Pinang, Bintan’s bustling capital, offers an authentic taste of local life. Visit the traditional markets to shop for batik, handicrafts, and fresh seafood, or take a walk along the harbour for panoramic coastal views.

A short drive away lies Trikora Beach, one of the island’s most famous stretches of sand. Its turquoise waters and gentle waves are ideal for swimming, kayaking, and beachside relaxation. Stop by a local fishing village nearby to see how kelong (stilt houses) are built and sample grilled seafood fresh from the ocean.

Step Back in Time on Penyengat Island

A short boat ride from Tanjung Pinang, Penyengat Island is a fascinating glimpse into Bintan’s royal past. Once the seat of the Malay Riau-Lingga Empire, it’s home to heritage sites such as the Sultan Riau Grand Mosque, royal tombs, and old fortresses. Exploring Penyengat is one of the most enriching things to do in Bintan, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural heritage.

Discover Kijang Blue Lake and the Busung Desert

Nature lovers shouldn’t miss Kijang Blue Lake, a striking man-made lagoon with bright turquoise water surrounded by red-and-white sand dunes. The nearby Busung Desert, a former sand quarry, offers equally surreal landscapes that are perfect for photos. Together, these spots showcase the island’s unique blend of natural and man-made beauty.

2 - Outdoor and Resort Activities

Golfing, Spa, and Wellness

Bintan Island is a favourite among golfers and wellness enthusiasts. The island’s scenic courses overlook the South China Sea, combining challenging play with stunning views. For relaxation, spa resorts and wellness retreats across Bintan offer traditional Indonesian therapies using natural ingredients.

At Club Med Bintan Island, guests can balance adventure with rejuvenation through sunrise yoga, beachside meditation, and spa treatments designed for total relaxation. It’s the ideal setting to unwind while staying active.

Water Sports and Family Fun

For those wondering what to do in Bintan Island, the coastline is filled with opportunities for adventure. Calm lagoons and gentle waves make the island perfect for snorkelling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Families can enjoy banana boat rides, sailing, and beach games together.

Thrill-seekers can also try windsurfing or jet skiing, while nature enthusiasts can join guided mangrove tours along the Sebung River to spot wildlife and learn about local ecosystems.

Day Trips and Exploration

With its proximity to Singapore, Bintan is ideal for quick getaways and weekend trips. Many travellers pair their resort stay with day excursions to cultural sites or nearby islands. Club Med’s team can arrange personalised tours to make the most of your time in Indonesia.

3 - Planning Your Bintan Island Getaway

Explore Bintan Island Activities with Club Med

Bintan Island offers the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure. You can spend the morning exploring temples or markets, the afternoon kayaking through mangroves, and the evening unwinding on a quiet beach. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends, or a partner, there are endless things to do in Bintan Island that cater to every travel style.

With Club Med’s all-inclusive resorts in Indonesia, you can experience it all with ease. From gourmet dining and yoga sessions to guided excursions, everything is taken care of so you can focus on enjoying your time in paradise.

Plan your Bintan Island escape with Club Med and discover why this Indonesian gem is one of Southeast Asia’s best-kept secrets. For a closer look at the spacious and all-inclusive resort, take a 360° tour of Club Med Bintan.

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