Ultimate Family Holiday Close to Singapore: Your Guide to Bintan Island
Ultimate Family Holiday Guide to Bintan Island: Top Accommodations and Fun Activities
Ultimate Family Holiday close to Singpore - Your Guide to Bintan Island
Get ready for an exciting family escape to Bintan Island! Just a quick ferry ride from Singapore, this Indonesian paradise is the ultimate destination for a blend of relaxation and adventure. With its stunning beaches, lush natural landscapes, and a plethora of family-friendly activities, Bintan promises endless fun and discovery for everyone. Whether you're dreaming of unwinding by the sea or exploring vibrant cultural sites, Bintan offers it all. Dive into this guide to uncover the best places to stay and the top activities to enjoy during your ultimate family holiday close to Singapore.
How to get there
Traveling to Bintan from Singapore begins with a scenic ferry ride!
Head over to the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, located next to Changi Airport, and get ready to board a ferry that will whisk you across the beautiful waters of the South China Sea. The trip typically lasts around 50 minutes, and is fairly comfortable with the option to purchase drinks and snacks along the way. Definitely go for Emerald class, it's a small extra cost for a lot of additional comfort, such as lounge access and priority luggage. It's a good idea to purchase your tickets in advance as the ferry does get busy.
Once you get to Bintan, you'll need to go through passport control and immigration. The officers will take your passport and bags away and you'll have to patiently wait for them to be returned once processed.
Once you have your passport and luggage back - your hotel should have a representative waiting to whisk you away in either a private car or a bus depending on where you're staying.
Best Family Accommodations on Bintan Island
Choosing the right place to stay can make or break your holiday experience. Bintan offers a range of accommodations that cater to families, from luxury resorts to cozy villas. My top pick is Mövenpick Resort & Spa Bintan, a brand new resort that offers a luxurious getaway experience on the beautiful island of Bintan. This resort is designed to provide guests with a blend of comfort, elegance, and exceptional service.
We loved our stay here - the service was incredible and the suite we stayed in was gorgeous. They were still in the soft open phase when we stayed, with work in progress to add a spa and a beach club.
- Dining Options: The resort has several options, including a great Japanese restaurant, a deli and an Indonesian restaurant. They also have a winning concept for chocolate lovers like me - a whole hour of free chocolate treats!
- Recreational Activities: The resort offers various activities, including a fantastic gym, yoga, bicycles for rent and water aerobics. They have two pools, one with an ocean view and one kids pool. My kids loved the kids pool - there are lots of floaties, football nets and basketball hoops.
Location
Mövenpick Resort & Spa Bintan is about 20 minutes away from the ferry terminal. Let the hotel know your arrival detail and they'll pick you up.
Top Family Activities on Bintan Island
You could just park yourself at one of the resorts and have a brilliant long weekend but Bintan Island is also packed with activities that suit all ages and interests. Here are some highlights to include in your itinerary:
Explore the Beaches
Bintan’s beaches are calm and clean, perfect for building sandcastles, swimming, or simply relaxing. Trikora Beach and Lagoi Beach are popular choices with gentle waves and nearby facilities.
- Bring snorkeling gear to explore shallow reefs
- Rent kayaks or paddleboards for family fun on the water
Enjoy beachside picnics with fresh local snacks
Visit the Mangrove Forest
Take a guided boat tour through Bintan’s mangrove forests. This is a great way for kids to learn about local wildlife and ecosystems. The calm waters and shaded paths make it an easy and educational adventure.
- Look out for monkeys, birds, and crabs along the way
- Tours usually last 1-2 hours, suitable for children
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring insect repellent
Discover Local Culture
Bintan has several cultural sites that offer insight into Indonesian traditions. The Senggarang village is known for its Chinese temples and colorful festivals. Families can also visit local markets to try traditional snacks and crafts.
- Visit the 300-year-old Chinese temple in Senggarang
- Join a batik painting workshop for kids
Sample local dishes like nasi lemak or satay at food stalls
Adventure at Treasure Bay
Treasure Bay Bintan is a water park and eco-tourism spot that appeals to all ages. It features a large lagoon for swimming, water slides, and a floating trampoline. The park also offers eco-friendly activities like paddleboarding and nature walks.
- Lagoon swimming with life jackets for kids
- Water slides and splash zones for younger children
- Eco tours and educational programs about marine life
Golf Courses on Bintan Island
Bintan Island is renowned for its stunning golf courses. Nestled amidst lush landscapes and picturesque coastlines, these courses offer a unique blend of challenging play and breathtaking views. Notable among them is the Ria Bintan Golf Club, which features an 18-hole championship course designed by the legendary Gary Player. The Laguna Bintan Golf Club is another highlight, with its beautiful seaside holes that provide an exhilarating experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Tips for a Smooth Family Holiday on Bintan Island
Planning ahead can help your family enjoy the trip without stress. Here are some practical tips:
- Book accommodations early, especially during school holidays
- Pack sunscreen, hats, and swimwear for beach days
- Bring local currency (Indonesian Rupiah) for the Visa on Arrival - 25,000 IDR per person + 3,000 admin fee when we went in April 2026
- Arrange airport or ferry transfers through your hotel for convenience
Check the weather forecast and plan outdoor activities accordingly
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