Located just a short ferry ride from Singapore, Bintan Island in Indonesia’s Riau Archipelago has become one of Southeast Asia’s most popular tropical getaways. Known for its stunning beaches, world-class resorts, and rich cultural heritage, Bintan offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and local charm. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious retreat or an exciting island adventure, Bintan has something special for every traveler.
Here are the top attractions that make Bintan a must-visit destination.
1. Lagoi Bay
Lagoi Bay serves as the heart of Bintan’s tourism, home to pristine beaches, luxury resorts, stylish cafés, and vibrant shopping spots. Visitors can relax on soft white sand, swim in calm turquoise waters, or enjoy sunset walks along the coast. The area also hosts year-round events and cultural festivals.
2. Crystal Lagoon at Treasure Bay
One of Bintan’s most iconic attractions, Crystal Lagoon is Southeast Asia’s largest man-made seawater lagoon. Its clear blue waters create a stunning tropical atmosphere ideal for:
- Kayaking
- Paddleboarding
- Slip & Slide activities
- Wakeboarding
- Inflatable water parks
It’s a family-friendly destination perfect for both relaxation and fun.
3. Trikora Beach
Located on the eastern side of the island, Trikora Beach offers a more rustic and peaceful escape compared to the resort areas. With long stretches of white sand, traditional fishing boats, and crystal-clear waters, it’s an excellent spot for snorkeling, sunbathing, or simply enjoying a quiet tropical afternoon.
4. Penyengat Island
A short boat ride from Tanjung Pinang, Penyengat Island is steeped in Malay history. Visitors can explore:
- Masjid Raya Sultan Riau, a historic mosque built from egg-white and limestone
- Ancient royal palaces
- Fortresses and cultural heritage sites
The island offers a glimpse into the roots of Malay culture and the old Riau-Lingga Sultanate.
5. Safari Lagoi
For wildlife lovers, Safari Lagoi is home to rescued exotic animals such as elephants, birds, reptiles, and sun bears. Visitors can take part in feeding sessions, observe conservation efforts, and enjoy a fun wildlife experience suitable for all ages.
6. Bintan Mangrove Discovery Tour
Bintan’s lush mangrove forests provide a scenic and educational experience. Guided boat tours allow visitors to glide through serene river channels while learning about the ecosystem and its wildlife, such as monitor lizards, kingfishers, and fireflies (especially enchanting on night tours).
7. Gurun Pasir Busung (Bintan Desert)
Once a mining area, Gurun Pasir Busung has transformed into a photogenic desert landscape with sandy dunes and turquoise lagoons. It’s a favorite spot for photographers, content creators, and visitors looking for unique scenery beyond the beaches.
8. Vihara Avalokitesvara (Guan Yin Temple)
Located near Tanjung Pinang, this Buddhist temple features an impressive 22-meter statue of Guan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy. The serene atmosphere, ornamental gardens, and intricate architecture make it a peaceful cultural stop.
9. Riau Street Food & Seafood Feasts
No trip to Bintan is complete without sampling its culinary delights. Popular dishes include:
- Fresh seafood
- Mie Tarempa
- Gonggong (sea snail specialty)
- Otak-otak
Tanjung Pinang’s food markets and seaside restaurants offer a rich and flavorful dining experience.
A Paradise Close to the City
With its combination of stunning natural landscapes, cultural heritage, luxurious resorts, and exciting attractions, Bintan remains one of Indonesia’s most convenient and enjoyable island destinations. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend trip or a longer tropical escape, Bintan promises relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable experiences.
Overview
Travel is the movement of people between relatively distant geographical locations, and can involve travel by foot, bicycle, automobile, train, boat, bus, airplane, or other means, with or without luggage, and can be one way or round trip. Travel can also include relatively short stays between successive movements.
The origin of the word “travel” is most likely lost to history. The term “travel” may originate from the Old French word travail, which means ‘work’. According to the Merriam Webster dictionary, the first known use of the word travel was in the 14th century.
It also states that the word comes from Middle English travailen, travelen (which means to torment, labor, strive, journey) and earlier from Old French travailler (which means to work strenuously, toil). In English we still occasionally use the words “travail”, which means struggle. According to Simon Winchester in his book The Best Travelers’ Tales (2004), the words “travel” and “travail” both share an even more ancient root: a Roman instrument of torture called the tripalium (in Latin it means “three stakes”, as in to impale).
