Resorts in Bintan
Think of getting away from Singapore for the weekend, and most Singaporeans think of going on a road trip to Malaysia or flying to Bangkok, discounting the perfectly good – and affordable – alternative that is Bintan Island. But we’re here to tell you that this underrated Indonesian island will impress even the most sceptical of us.
There are a myriad of things to do in Bintan – which would warrant a trip there pronto. The cherry on top? Being able to stay in some of the best resorts in Bintan that start from S$93.67/night.
Prices of resorts in Bintan
Prices are roughly between S$120-S$682/night, but most resorts usually offer promo rates and deals. Here’s a compilation of all the prices of these Bintan resorts listed in this table:
Resort Name | Best For | Prices |
The Anmon | Dessert-themed glamping | From S$239.60/night |
The Sanchaya | 18th-century European architecture | From S$682/night |
Cassia Bintan | Family-friendly amenities | From S$120/night |
Bintan Services Apartment | Budget traveller | From S$62/night |
Banyan Tree Bintan | Luxurious private getaway | From S$542/night |
Nirwana Gardens | Water sports & Segway tours | From S$187.28/night |
Club Med Bintan Island | All-inclusive beach resort | From S$364.93/night |
Ria Bintan Golf Club | Golf and spa | Enquire for rates |
Mayang Sari Beach Resort | Garden view chalets | From S$255.39/night |
Kamuela Villas Lagoi Bay | Private pools in villa | From S$177.10/night |
The Residence Bintan | Mangrove tours and batik painting | From S$208/night |
1. The Anmon
Dessert-themed glamping
Image credit: @selintan29 via Instagram
The Anmon Bintan really brings the “glam” to glamping with their air-conditioned safari tents (from IDR3,120,000/night, ~S$277.70) which feature a private balcony.
There are 3 types of tents to choose from – Deluxe Glamp Tent, Deluxe Lagoon View Glamp Tent, and Deluxe Private Glamp Tent – each able to accommodate 4 guests with a king bed and 2 single beds. Each tent is also equipped with a bedroom, bathroom, and sheltered patio – so you don’t have to worry about sharing a common toilet with everyone there.
Image credit: @theanmonresortbintan via Instagram
When it comes to activities, The Anmon Bintan has plenty to offer. Guests can enjoy a dip in the resort’s infinity pool or join a game of beach volleyball. Those who prefer to relax in the confines of their tent can opt for in-room dining from Tentside BBQ.
Dining options are plentiful, with 4 restaurants to choose from. Notable ones include TIPI Bar, which serves a specialty desert-inspired cocktail called Dance of Fire God Ra. For non-drinkers, there’s the mocktail Desert Milk that’s just as delicious.
Image credit: @theanmonresortbintan via Instagram
The Anmon is also conveniently located near popular attractions such as the Slip n’ Slide at Treasure Bay Bintan, the largest man-made swimming pool in Southeast Asia.
2. The Sanchaya
18th-century European architecture
One word: WOW.
You haven’t truly had a taste of the atas life until you’ve been to The Sanchaya. The breathtaking sea view from the moment you step into the resort’s lobby will leave you reeling in awe – you wouldn’t know you’re just a 50-minute ferry ride from Singapore.
Like most resorts in Bintan, The Sanchaya offers a private beach, especially for their guests. The biggest draw for us was how uninhabited and fairytale-like The Sanchaya’s beach was, compared to “regular” beaches.
And for days when you don’t feel like getting your feet covered with sand, the pool at the resort offers the same seaside view.
The library (left) looks like something straight out of MTV Cribs.
The entrance to The Sanchaya was just the tip of a glorious beachy iceberg. Every room and corner promised new surprises. With a strong colonial influence, 5 minutes spent in these rooms brought us to the 18th century in Europe and back.
This bathroom (left) wouldn’t look out of place in a castle.
The abundance of space within the suites in The Great House is not one to be trifled with. Exploring the suite felt like I was in a 3-room HDB flat! These suites boast sizes of at least 40m² + 15m² terraces with sea or garden views, so much that this tranquil estate has us smitten. The Sanchaya truly brought home to our doorsteps. I did not want to leave.
If you’re one for extra privacy, The Sanchaya also offers one-bedroom villas clustered around the property. Pick from staying in a Thai-styled villa at the Lawan Village, or in a super king-sized villa of a size up to 90m² accompanied by a fantastic sea view.
3. Cassia Bintan
Family-friendly amenities
For family-friendly retreats, head to Cassia Bintan. This resort offers apartment-style lofts, allowing both you and your kids to have your own space. Accommodations also come with a kitchenette and a living room area.
If you’re a lobang king or kween, Cassia Bintan also rolls out monthly offers. Currently in queue is the Stay & Play Golf Set which includes daily breakfast, 1 mookata dinner, a round of golf, and non-motorised water sports. All you have to do is pay with MasterCard and enjoy a 3 nights stay for the price of 2 – a pretty good steal.
Don’t worry about keeping the kids entertained here. The resort’s Kids Club has fun activities for children such as arts and crafts lessons, as well as outdoor games. While the little ones are occupied, you can indulge in some R&R at the resort’s swimming pool, beach club, fitness centre, or spa. For something that the whole fam can do, check out the Bintan Lagoi Safari tour.
Midnight hunger pangs ain’t a problem here with Market 23 on-site, which serves a variety of ready-to-eat meals, 24/7. Alternatively, dine at the Vista for breakfast by the pool, where options include the Club Sandwich (from IDR175,000, ~S$14.94) and Mie Goreng (IDR150,000, ~S$12.81).
4. Bintan Services Apartment
For the budget traveller
Image credit: Bintan Resorts
For backpackers who prefer no-frills accommodation, check yourselves into a room at Bintan Service Apartment. Completely different from your typical resort vacation, a stay at this place will give you a taste of local culture without burning a hole in your pocket.
Located a mere 5 minutes walk away from Pujasera, a local food centre, you’ll find plates of affordable Indonesian food here that will give you more than your rupiah’s worth. Do try the Mie Goreng and the Nasi Padang – be sure to order the bergedil and ask for green sambal.
5. Banyan Tree Bintan
Luxurious private getaway
Is this real life, or is this just fantasy?
I had to pinch myself twice when I laid eyes on this view. Infinity pools are one thing I can never get too much of. Especially if it’s one right outside your bedroom with an unobstructed view of the ocean. This was exactly what it took for us to leave a resort holiday feeling ten times more rejuvenated and refreshed than before.
With your villa located at the top of a hill, you’ll have all the privacy you want.
Indulge your tastebuds in true blue Indonesian cuisine with a meal at Treetops. While the array of authentic sambal chilli was way too spicy for me, the plates of charred, smoking satay skewers were juicy and succulent.
6. Nirwana Gardens
Water sports & Segway tours
No stranger to Singaporeans, Nirwana Gardens is one resort in Bintan equivalent to a family friend across the island. Pick from 5 different holiday experiences through Nirwana Resort Hotel, Mayang Sari Beach Resort, Nirwana Beach Club, Banyu Biru Villas and the Indra Maya Pool Villas. Regardless of your choice of stay, you’ll be able to enjoy all the facilities throughout Nirwana Gardens – which includes indulging in all your favourite water sports.
Unlike other resorts around the region with a limited number of activities available for your enjoyment, you can find your true calling amongst the beaches and water activities at Nirwana Gardens Sea Sports Centre. They’ve also got an array of other recreational activities from mahjong to Segway rental and tours so you can bet you won’t feel any bit of boredom – view the full list of Nirwana Gardens activities.
P.S. We recommend giving stand-up paddle boarding a shot.
Capture the golden hour at The Calypso Floating Bar right before you devour your next meal at The Kelong Seafood Restaurant. This view was way more than gorgeous in person.
Sleeping in on a vacation in Bintan is not an option in my books. Who can possibly pass up the time of the day we look forward to the most? Mornings are started right with a cup of piping hot coffee in one hand, and a choice of intercontinental or Indonesian dish in the other at The Coffeeshop.
Note: The mini-zoo within the resort is now closed.
7. Club Med Bintan Island
All-inclusive beach resort
Back in the day, Club Med Bintan was one of the best beach resorts near Singapore, my parents would mention staying at when visiting Bintan. 10 years later, I was pleasantly surprised to find how things haven’t changed. Even after so long, Club Med Bintan Island is still a destination highlight for Bintan.
Club Med has its own private stretch of beach with huts, hammocks, and deck chairs galore for complete and undisturbed relaxation just a few steps away from the main building.
How often do you find a trapeze in a resort?!
Club Med Spa by Asmara is renowned for its massages and provides the perfect way to unwind after all the fun in the sun. Request to open the windows in the room to let the glorious sea breeze in.
The great thing about Club Med’s deals is that the price you pay is all-inclusive. This means that you’ll be entitled to all sports and activities, food and drinks – which also includes alcoholic tipples.
8. Ria Bintan Golf Club
Also known for their spa
Image credit: Ria Bintan Golf Club
Golfers will enjoy staying at Ria Bintan Gold Club to no end. The golf courses at this Bintan resort are massive. Imagine swinging that driver right beside the vast open ocean, not knowing where the winds will take your ball at the 18-hole Ocean Course. For a change in landscape, take your pick between 9 golf holes at the Forest Course.
Image credit: Ria Bintan Golf Club
Ria Bintan Golf Club also offers accommodation options for the convenience of golfers. The rooms here at Ria Golf Lodge are spacious as well, and if you want a view of the golf course, we recommend the Eagle Room.
Spa treatments aren’t just for weary bodies. Golfers can pick from a selection of pre and post-massages over at Asmara Spa. Golfer friends I know will be more than happy to be pampered by spending 30 minutes enjoying the Pre Sun Prep treatment as they get their tense muscles loosened and sunblock applied before a game.
9. Mayang Sari Beach Resort
Garden view chalets in Bintan
Family Loft.
Image credit: Bintan Resorts
Nestled within the Nirwana Gardens collective, Mayang Sari Beach Resort boasts a picturesque beachfront location with stunning sea views. The resort offers different types of accommodation – mainly the Garden View, Sea View, and Family Loft chalets.
For those planning a holiday in June the resort’s current promotion, June Holiday Special, offers a great deal starting from IDR1,620,000/night (~S$142.42). You’ll also enjoy additional perks like free room upgrades and 20% off water sports.
Image credit: Klook
Aside from its comfortable lodgings, Mayang Sari Beach Resort has plenty of amenities to keep guests entertained throughout their stay. The resort boasts 13 eateries, including restaurants and bars. Spice is a popular spot for those craving Indian and local cuisines, featuring delicious dishes like Kadai Chicken (IDR210,000, ~S$17.92) and Tandoori Prawn (IDR270,000, ~S$23.03). Vegetarian options are also available.
If water sports are your thing, try participating in kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing. If you’re up for the challenge, go diving at the Nirwana Dive Centre. Other nearby attractions include the Bintan Desert and Blue Lake tour, adding more variety to your itinerary.
10. Kamuela Villas Lagoi Bay
Private pools in villa
Image credit: Bintan Resorts
If you’re on the hunt for a tropical retreat that won’t break the bank, look no further than Kamuela Villas Lagoi Bay.
There are different villa types available, ranging from 1-bedroom to 3-bedroom ones that can accommodate up to 5 guests. The standout villa though, is the one with a private pool. Whether you’re looking to cool off after a day of exploring or simply want to relax and soak up the sun, you can take a refreshing dip anytime you want.
Image credit: Bintan Resorts
Speaking of exploring, guests can also rent bikes to explore the surrounding area, pedalling through lush greenery and taking in the sea breeze.
When hunger strikes, head over to Warung Yeah!, a nearby restaurant that serves up Indonesian street food such as Chicken Satay. With prices starting from about S$3.33, this spot is a must-visit for foodies. Plus, the outdoor seating faces the sea, offering stunning views while you chow down.
For those looking for a bit more excitement, the resort offers a range of water sports such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, and snorkelling. Other nearby attractions include the Lagoi Bay Lantern Park and the Bintan Mangrove Discovery Tour (IDR380,000/pax, ~S$32.44/pax).
11. The Residence Bintan
Private infinity pool by the sea under S$500/night
Image credit: The Residence Bintan
Those dreaming of a luxurious vacation with Bali vibes not too far from Singapore should check into The Residence Bintan. The Bintan resort has 127 terraces and villas, and you can choose from 1- to 2-bedroom villas with scenic views of the beachfront, sea, or terrace garden.
Should you choose the Sanctuary Villa, you’ll be greeted upon check in to a scented floral bath. And if that wasn’t boujee enough for you, it also has a private infinity pool that looks out to the South China Sea – all for under $500/night.
Image credit: The Residence Bintan
Those who book longer stays can enjoy a 15% discount off any of their rooms along with a daily breakfast, complimentary resort activities, and a return shared land transfer between the ferry terminal and the resort.
The activities offered include a Kawal River cruise through a mangrove forest, batik painting, cooking class, island hopping, and a 2-hour yoga and spa session, so you won’t run of things to do during your stay.
[Temporarily closed] Bintan Lagoon Resort
I instantly thought I was living in a game of The Sims 4 as I stepped through the backdoor right to our private pool.
Bintan Lagoon Resort is Bintan’s largest integrated resort, with 470 guestrooms, suites and villas. The Angsoka Villas allow you to have your very own private swimming pool in your backyard. Regardless of time, between dusk to dawn, a dip in the pool was more than convenient.
The true Bintan getaway will not be complete without a stroll down the nearby beach. It’s literally within walking and viewing distance!
Each villa has both communal and private quarters and the abundance of space makes this the best choice for big groups and huge families. Equipped with a kitchenette, living room, personal buggy (yes you get to drive your own buggy) and more, I’d certainly consider hosting a birthday party in this 4-bedroom villa!
Wind down by the beach at Nelayan after a day out in the sun, and witness the sky shift from a sweet shade of sky blue to a mysterious shade of purple, and eventually, a sky full of stars. Dinner and drinks under the vast sky was magical.
[Closed] Angsana Bintan
Within close proximity to Banyan Tree, Angsana Bintan is one resort in Bintan you can relax in absolute tranquility. Radiating with warm hospitality and atmosphere, stepping into Angsana Bintan felt like home.
Take a break from all the adventure and capture some pictures against this extremely striking backdrop located along Angsana’s beachfront! Do approach the rocks with caution as the algae can make them rather slippery.
[Closed] The Canopi
I’m pretty sure I wasn’t the only kid who set up a pillow fort in the living room at night, attempting to live out my forest adventure dreams of camping in the outdoors. Canopi was like a dream come true; only now, it gets better with every step.
The entire resort comes alive under the glow of fairy lights at dusk.
The Canopi could very well have been the set of Taylor Swift’s Wildest Dreams music video. Under your tent lies all the modern amenities you could ever want, from a four poster bed to a colonial workstation complete with a hanging glass chandelier.
Step outside though and the outdoor shower brings you right back into nature (though not completely, don’t worry). The lush green walls form the perfect backdrop for your glamping adventure.
Feel free to take your pick from the Safari Tent Suites or the Lagoon Tent Suites. The Lagoon Tent Suites are always booked out and for good reason. Located mere steps from the water’s edge, waking up to this crystal blue lagoon was truly my beach paradise fantasy come true. There’s even an option for a hot tub in front of your tent for that added touch of glamping luxury.
One outstanding feature of The Canopi is their personalized outdoor BBQ experience! If the walk from your tent to the beach bar is too much for you, guests have the option to have a BBQ set up right outside their tent.
Choose from a wide variety of food items including lamb, vegetable skewers, nasi goreng and even mie goreng. The lamb was chargrilled to perfection and practically melts in your mouth.
Check into these Bintan resorts just a stone’s throw away
The most straightforward way to get to Bintan Resorts is to take a ferry via Bintan Resort Ferries from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. And if you’re feeling like starting your holiday right (aka in luxury) take a ride on board Bintan Resorts Ferries’ Emerald Class (from S$144/adult for a return trip) a try.
Unlike a standard ferry ride, where you find yourself hanging around amongst a crowd of fellow travellers prior, you can seek comfort in waiting for the ferry in these leather seats, hot beverages, light snacks, and ample personal space. I felt like a VIP already.
The resort life basically starts from home!
On board the ferry, we were very pleasantly surprised to discover that Emerald Class was nicely partitioned away from the masses, giving us a very peaceful and comfy 60-minute ride to Bintan.
You’ll barely even register stepping foot into Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal as you get whisked to that weekend getaway you were looking forward to the entire week.
What are you waiting for? Plan your next vacation right now. I don’t know about you, but I’ve definitely gotten my favourite resorts in mind for my next trip already.
TSL Tip: Be sure to bring all your beach essentials: sunblock, insect repellent, aloe vera gel, swimwear, a good book, and of course, good company. It’s time for tons of fun!
Win a Bintan holiday getaway for two!
We’re giving away TWO 3D2N stays at Bintan Resorts! You could win yourself a stay at Swiss-Belhotel Lagoi Bay (worth S$1140) or The Canopi (worth S$640), including activities! All you have to do is:
- Like Bintan Resorts and The Smart Local on Facebook
- Share this post and leave a comment telling us which you want to win and why.
Contest ends in one week on 2 June 2016. Winners will be chosen at random. Good luck!
Prizes:
3D2N @ Swiss-Belhotel Lagoi Bay worth S$1140 inclusive of:
- 10 min buggy ride
- 60 min fishing
- 2 mocktails at Chadis Rooftop Bar
- 2-way ferry tickets for 2 adults
*Surcharge applicable for peak/weekend travel
3D2N @ The Canopi worth S$640 inclusive of:
- Solar boat ride
- Vespa ride
- 3hr guided mangrove kayak tour
- 2-way ferry tickets for 2 adults
*Not applicable for peak/weekend/PH travel. Advance booking required for room and is subject to availability.
Note: This promotion and contest have ended and are currently unavailable.
This post was brought to you by Bintan Resorts.
Cover image adapted from: Bintan Resorts & Anmon
Originally published on 26th May 2016. Last updated by Mae-Z Fam 3rd April 2024.