For anyone living in Singapore, Bintan is practically the backyard getaway—an island escape that doesn’t need weeks of planning.
Last weekend, on a total whim, we hopped on a ferry and in less than an hour—boom—we were in Bintan. What was supposed to be a short trip was full of little surprises.
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Bintan’s Hidden Gems
Our first stop was the locals’ secret: Blue Lake. Once a mining site, it’s now a shimmering body of water that shifts in color with the sun—icy turquoise at one angle, deep sapphire at another. Add the desert-like surroundings, and the contrast is almost unreal. The kind of beauty makes you stop scrolling and stare.
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It’s also Instagram gold. Beyond the scenery, you’ll find some quirky photo ops with owls and horses cared for by locals—guaranteed to wow your feed.
Next up: Bintan’s Mangrove Paradise. Picture this—you’re gliding on a small boat, tall mangrove trees rising on both sides, monkeys leaping from branch to branch, birds darting overhead. Then the guide cuts the motor. Silence. All you hear is the paddle breaking the water and leaves rustling in the breeze. It’s the kind of peace you’ll never get in the city.
Zen in Nature
One of my favorite moments? Sunset Yoga on the beach. As the sky melted into shades of gold and pink, we followed the instructor’s calm stretches with waves crashing in the background. For a brief moment, it felt like merging with nature. By the end, I felt as light as the sea breeze—completely reset.
Two Hotels, Two Vibes
We decided to split our stay between two very different styles of accommodation—both equally memorable.
Natra Bintan, a Tribute Portfolio Resort
Think luxury camping, but with all the modern comforts. Spacious tents with air-con, plush beds, semi-open bathrooms, and some even with private courtyards and jacuzzis. During the day, we dove into Southeast Asia’s largest man-made seawater lagoon—kayaks, rafts, slides, you name it. We grilled under the stars by night and tucked into Indonesian and international bites at The Patio.
Bonus points: rent an e-scooter to zip around, or go full throttle on an ATV trail that winds straight into the forest. With the ferry terminal just five minutes away, Natra Bintan makes “glamping” equal parts nature, comfort, and adventure.
Four Points by Sheraton Bintan, Lagoi Bay
Brand-new and breezy, this resort blends modern comfort with tropical flair. Spacious rooms all come with sea-view balconies, and their crown jewel is the eight beachfront villas—complete with private pools.
Facilities tick all the boxes: three outdoor pools, a kids’ club, a 24-hour gym, spa, and multiple dining options. If you’re after something extra, the villas have special perks: in-villa spa sessions, private banquets, even BBQ buffets. Step out the back and you’re right on the pristine Lagoi Beach.
Whether you’re a couple, a family, or a team on retreat, this resort hits the sweet spot between luxury and laid-back.
Smooth Sailing
Here’s a surprise: zero traffic. Whether heading to attractions, meals, or back to the hotel, the roads were smooth all the way. Honestly, that alone felt like a luxury.
A Feast of Indonesian Flavors
And of course—the food! Satay sizzling over charcoal, fried rice fresh off the wok, fiery sambals that hit all the right notes. Sweet, spicy, smoky, savory—perfectly paired with an ice-cold beer. Pure happiness on a plate.
This quick trip completely changed how I see Bintan. It’s not just “that island closest to Singapore”—it’s a pocket of beauty and calm packed with surprises. From the surreal colors of Blue Lake to the stillness of the mangroves, from sunset yoga to indulgent resorts and unforgettable food—every moment felt worth it.
So, if you’re craving an easy escape—no flights, no stress—Bintan might just be your perfect weekend reset.
A Chinese version of the article appeared here.
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