This article was first published in October 2015 and has been updated several times, last time in June 2020.
Singaporeans and expats love a good weekend getaway to one of the great islands near Singapore. We all look for opportunities to escape. Despite being an island and indeed having a long coast line, Singapore is not a beach destination per se so when we want to go on a beach vacation we look for the beach resorts near Singapore in the islands of Malaysia or Indonesia.
Lucky us, you can get to a lot of island resorts near Singapore by ferry so you don’t even need to go to the airport for that quick getaway to a beach hotel to soak in the warm weather in a place that feels hours away from the urban maze.
Let’s look at the closest Malaysian and Indonesian islands as well as luxury resorts near Singapore.
Islands near Singapore
The closest islands to Singapore are the Southern islands. These islands are still part of Singapore territory so there is no passport control, you just jump on the ferry and get there within 20min. There are some basic accommodation options on those islands but there is not that much to do so they tend to be day trips rather than a fancy weekend resort getaway from Singapore. They also have some of the beaches of Singapore without leaving the country.
After the Southern Islands, the closest group of islands to Singapore are in Batam. The nearest point in Batam is Nongsapura, a mere 30min ferry ride away.
After Batam, Bintan is the next short getaway from Singapore and can be reached by a 90min ferry ride. The area around Bintan Lagoon and Lagoi has been slated as tourism development project and there are many Bintan luxury resorts to choose from and new ones opening every year.
There are also a few smaller private resort islands near Singapore which can be reached from both Batam or Bintan, like Cempedak, Nikoi or Pulau Joyo. These tend to be much smaller and reached via small boat rides from piers on Batam or Bintan.
If you have already been to Bintan or Batam many times, Malaysia has a few island options and resorts close to Singapore which are typically reached from Mersing pier, about an hour drive away from the border with Singapore. All these Malaysian islands tend to welcome visitors from Singapore more than from Kuala Lumpur due to their location and the fact that the nearest airport is still Changi and the drive from KL is quite long.
This article is a list of the best beach and island resorts in Bintan and Batam resorts for a weekend getaway or a short trip to the best island resorts near Singapore. They can all be reached by ferry except for one, which requires you to fly on a private sea plane (!!) so you don’t need to book flights ahead of time or waste your time at airports.
Bintan or Batam, which should you choose?
If you’re in need of a quick vacation to one of the island resorts near Singapore and your options are down to Bintan or Batam, you’ll need to know more about each place in order to decide.
So, Batam vs Bintan, what’s the difference and which is better for you?
Let’s get down to it with a breakdown on the differences, similarities, and pros and cons of visiting these two Indonesian luxury islands near Singapore.
Bintan vs Batam: Accommodation options
While there are several major differences between the two islands, the first and possibly the most important distinction between Batam or Bintan is the number and type of accommodation options on each.
While Bintan luxury resorts surpasses Batam, particularly for some of the best beach resorts near Singapore, Batam has more hotels in general. Booking.com, for example, states that 8 out of the 48 properties in Bintan are 5-star, whereas there are only 2 5-star hotels out of a potential 196 properties in Batam.
While a search for Batam luxury resort will come up with a few options like Montigo and Turi Beach, Bintan luxury resorts are far superior with 5 star resorts such as uber-luxe The Sanchaya.
And of course, with luxury comes higher prices. The best Batam luxury resort will set you back around S$250 pp/night, while the best resort in Bintan can range between S$350-S$800 pp/night.
There are, of course, both beach and inland resorts in both Bintan and Batam, if you really don’t mind staying away from the beach. See my full review of the Sanchaya here.
Bintan vs Batam: Spas and wellness
Another reason why travelers visit Bintan or Batam is that both islands offer great spas at affordable prices (compared to Singapore at least).
As Bintan is the larger of the two islands, it has more variety and choice, yet Batam also has some amazing selections, the top pick being Tempat Senang. The best spas in Bintan are usually located within the luxury hotels.
For example, wellness champion Banyan Tree has a fantastic spa set in a separate building up on the hill with lovely views and trained therapists.
Bintan vs Batam: Activities and things to do
When comparing Bintan vs Batam, one of the most important factors, other than accommodation, is the type and range of things to do.
The majority of people going to Bintan or Batam are looking for resorts near Singapore to rest, relax and enjoy beach time.
Bintan has a wider range of beach activities, especially around Bintan Lagoon, but it also has a few other activities. As a larger island, the range of things to do is much wider.
Batam, on the other hand, is better for shopping and its shopping malls tend to have more affordable prices than in Singapore.
Batam does have some of the most beautiful beaches in Indonesia and Bintan does have a few standard Indonesian shopping malls, but in general Bintan is not a shopping destination and due to the abundance of Bintan luxury resorts, is more catered for those who want to relax by the ocean.
Bintan offers more cultural exploration than Batam too.
It has a few sites worth visiting such as the 500 Lohan Buddhist Temple, and activities and excursions, from mangrove tours
If you take a short boat ride from Batam or Bintan, you can also visit the UNESCO-listed Sultan Riay Great Mosque on Penyengat island which has a castle and the tombs of past kings. There are guided day tours (Bintan pickup only) which you can book online for added convenience here
Golfers are spoilt for choice at both islands but when comparing golfing at Bintan vs Batam, Batam has more options and is usually preferred for being much more affordable. Tripadvisor only has 3 results for golf courses in Bintan, while a search in Batam shows at least 7. The two major courses on Bintan are Ria Bintan and Greg Norman designed Laguna Bintan. So while Bintan does have gorgeous courses, Batam has more choice.
Tip for golfers: Weekends can get packed, so a week escape is best if you don’t want to get stuck waiting to tee off.
Bintan vs Batam: Travel time and easiness to get there
If time is not on your side, then Batam is your best bet as it is only a 35min ride from Singapore (weather depending) to Nongsapura Ferry Terminal near Nongsa. And you can be at Montigo Resorts, Nongsa within 5 mins of arrival. But do keep in mind that there are 3 major ferry terminals on Batam – Nongsapura, Harbour Bay and Batam Center – and two from Singapore – Tanah Merah and Harbourfront Centre.
So while it only takes 35mins to get from Tanah Merah to Nongsapura, it could take over an hour to get to Batam Centre Ferry Terminal. It can take approximately 2 hours to get from either terminal in Singapore to Tanjung Pinang in Bintan. The shortest time from Singapore to Bintan (Tanah Merah to Bintan Lagoon) is about an hour.
But if you look on the bright side, because both Bintan and Batam are 1h behind Singapore, you actually get to some places before you departed.
Another pro of traveling to the Bintan Lagoon terminal is that it has its own immigration which is a major hassle and time saver. So when you stay at Bintan Lagoon Resorts, you don’t have to wait in long queues as the resorts take care of immigration procedures while you go straight to your check in.
You need to book your ferry tickets ahead of time because they are usually sold out on weekends and your preferred time to make the most of Friday work and Sunday on the island will be booked usually two weeks ahead.
As mentioned above, there are a few ports of entry/exit from Singapore to both Batam and Bintan. The table below shows the major ferry terminals, travel time, the ferry companies that provide services. The table also shows which major resorts are closest to each terminal.
You will need to book online to avoid disappointment. You can reserve your ticket on any one of the major ferry websites. You can also get discounts when booking through Klook, although not all ferry services are available.
You can book a round trip from Harbourfront to Batam Centre on the Majestic here
Bintan ferries can also be booked in advance online for a discounted rate from Klook. You can catch the Bintan Resorts Ferry between Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal and Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal here
| Departure/ Arrival | Nongsapura Batam terminal | Batam Centre terminal | Harbour Bay Terminal | Sri Bintan Pura Ferry Terminal | Bintan Lagoon Resort Ferry Terminal | Bandar Bentan Telani Bintan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tanah Merah | Time: 35 mins Ferry: Batam Fast | Time: 40 mins Ferry: Majestic | Time: 45 mins Ferry: Batam Fast | Time: 1.5 hours Ferry: Majestic & Sindo | Time: 1 hour Ferry: Mozaic | Time: 1 hour Ferry: Bintan Resorts Ferries |
| Harbourfront | None | Time: 1 hour Ferry: Batam Fast, Majestic & Sindo | Time: 45 mins Ferry: Batam Fast & Horizon Fast | None | None | None |
| Hotels near Terminal in Bintan/Batam | Nongsa Point Marina & Resort (8min) Turi Beach (7min) Montigo Resorts (7min) | Radisson golf & Convention (15min) Tempat Senang (30mins) Sijori Resort & Spa (27mins) | Tempat Senang (33mins) Sijori Resort & Spa (29mins) | The Residence Bintan (1hour) | Bintan Lagoon Resort (direct access) | Banyan Tree Angsana The Sanchaya (10-12mins) The Canopi Resort (3mins) Club Med Bintan (20mins) The Anmon Resort (2mins) |
Bintan vs Batam: Which is best for families
Traveling families should take a few additional things into consideration when deciding between Batam or Bintan.
Generally, Bintan is the most family friendly island due to the larger range of activities to keep the kids entertained, most notably the beach and water activities as well as the many family-oriented resorts such as Bintan Lagoon, Angsana or ClubMed which is probably one of the best all inclusive resorts near Singapore.
Treasure Bay alone is a major draw card with wakeboarding, ATV rides, SUPing, mangrove tours and even water tricycles and Water ZOVB. You can even book your ticket to the waterpark Chill Cove here
There’s also Bintan Eco Farm, aka Safari Lagoi, which is an enclosure for rescued and endangered animals like orangutans, elephants, sun bears and crocodiles. And lastly, there’s Areca Water Park.
While Bintan has a lot more choice for families, Batam does have a few options to choose from, particularly families that need to budget as the options are generally more affordable, as well as kid-friendly activities.
Funworld Nagoya City Walk Batam is a carnival of sorts with bumper cars, a carousel, and even a rollercoaster. Rides are unlimited with a wrist band. Harris Waterfront Batam is another fun area for kids with activities like cable skiing, paintball and go karting.
Bintan vs Batam: Verdict
The summary table below shows which resort islands near Singapore you should choose depending on your needs.
| Bintan | Batam | |
|---|---|---|
| Golf | Some nice courses, but far fewer, standing at 4 in total. | Better choice for golfers as there are near 10 courses. |
| Family Friendly | Better option for families including family-focused resorts. The hotels and facilities are also better maintained. | Nice for families that don’t like to travel too far on a ferry as the island is closer. Resorts and facilities are more affordable. |
| Resorts | By far the more luxurious of the two options with top quality hotels that usually have spa facilities. | There are a few luxury resorts on Batam which are good enough, but they are not uber luxury. |
| Shopping | Not so good on Bintan with reported “ghost town” malls and rundown shopping centres. | The pick for Singaporeans to get their retail therapy on. There is an abundance of shopping malls with discounted goods. |
| Distance | In general Bintan is a little further away from Singapore and therefore involves longer travel time. Travel times range from 45mins to 2hrs. See our time section above for more details. | Batam is closer to Singapore and you can be at your hotel and on the beach within the hour. Although some ferry terminals for further away than others. Travel times range from 35mins to 1.5hrs. See our time section above for more details. |
| Activities | There are far more activities on Bintan from cultural explorations to water parks and beyond. The facilities are newer and cleaner. | There are a few activities to be had on Batam, but they are more budget friendly and some are in need of an upgrade. |
Best resorts in Batam
1. Montigo Resorts, Nongsa – for multi-generational family vacations
Montigo Resorts, Nongsa is a large Batam beach resort with a dual shared ownership option and a resort. The rooms are some of the most spacious you will find in Batam or Bintan and the best value for money resort near Singapore.
The resort is large and right on the beach spread along several paths on the mountain side with accommodation ranging from one bedroom Premier Villas to two-bedroom Hilltop, Hillside, Sea Front and Spa Villas, Premier three- and four-bedroom villas and the huge Premier five-bedroom villa. Each villa has its own pool and kitchenette and you can book an in-villa BBQ every night but Saturdays.
There is a well-equipped gym, two pools (one adults only), two restaurants and a pool bar with a real tiki feel with cabanas and sea view. The common areas of the resort are spacious and white-washed giving it a real sense of vacation. Check out the bamboo tunnel leading to the hilltop villas.
The spa opened in 2017 and it is located on the beach and housed on several Javanese huts. It holds a real appeal and is a good reason for a couple’s getaway, even if you don’t have kids, as the hotel’s facilities are all separate so you can still have a lovely romantic getaway near Singapore and not feel like you are in a family resort.
Why is Montigo Resorts, Nongsa the best family resort in Batam?
Having stayed at all the resorts mentioned in this list, Montigo Resorts, Nongsa is the best resort in Batam for kids as it has the most facilities to cater to children. It is also a great choice when you want to have a multi-generational holiday with all ages from babies to grandparents. Here’s why.
The villas are large and can provide space to parents used to small spaces in Singapore. The Tilo kid’s club is a great way to keep children happy and comes with a playground and play room with lots of games and even an X-Box and Play Station. Mentors are in hand to make sure the parents have a holiday too. For older children there are many water sports and activities (wake boarding, jet skiing, kayaking, snorkeling), paintball, golf and karaoke.
Want more child-friendly facilities? Montigo Resorts, Nongsa has a separate pool for children where you will be sure not to bother couples seeking relaxation and peace and the small kitchenette is helpful to prepare babies’ food.
As the villas come in all sizes and can accommodate up to 10 adults, they are well-suited for any family size where grandparents can stay close to their grandchildren and everyone can have a vacation tailored to their interests, from golf to pool to activities to the spa.
Montigo Resorts, Nongsa is also a great Batam luxury resort for a corporate retreat, especially since their mid-week rates are very affordable. There are meeting rooms ready to be booked and plenty of team building activities in the resort. I stayed at Montigo Resorts, Nongsa as part of a company offsite and we went fishing, something easy and which anyone can do.
Rates for Montigo Resorts, Nongsa in Batam start at SGD$220 per night which is quite a steal.
Click to book your trip now: Booking.com | Agoda
2. Turi Beach Resort – for a true beach escape
If what you are truly after is a beach resort near Singapore in Batam, Turi Beach is your best bet as it has the nicest beach of all the Batam resorts and the clearest waters, especially given you are just 11km from Singapore. Do not expect a wide beach though, the sand gets regularly taken away by the tide but there is still a good stretch of it and the waters tend to be very clean. If you wanted a great resort near Singapore with a fantastic beach resort at very affordable prices, this is probably the closest and most convenient option.
There are 140 rooms at Turi Beach divided into two wings, one more Balinese inspired and modern and the other more traditional Indonesian with more teak wood.
There are three restaurants serving Indonesian local food, Japanese teppanyaki and all-day dining options as well as four bars including one with a jetty extending into the sea.
It has been a staple Batam luxury resort on the beach for as long as anyone will remember. It is located in Nongsa, walking distance from the Nongsa Point Marina, and it is part of a group of three resorts managed under Nongsa Resorts which include Turi Beach, Nongsa Point Marina and Resort as well as the Infinite Studios and the Tamarin Santana Golf Club.
If you are not so keen on the beach, there are two pools, one with an overflowing infinity edge and the other one with a freeform shape and a swim up bar. The green grass surrounding both makes for a great place to relax and sunbathe.
Turi Beach may not be the flashiest most amazing Batam resort and their website could do with a complete rehaul too, but for value for money, it is hard to beat. Rates here start at $150 per night for a weekend stay and go much lower for mid-week getaways.
Rates for Turi Beach in Batam start at SGD$130 per night for a mid-week getaway.
Click to book your trip now: Booking.com | Agoda
3. Tempat Senang – for the best spa resort in Batam
Tempat Senang is undoubtedly the best Batam resort with a spa. It was opened almost a decade ago by an American lady who moved to the island and built a Balinese inspired resort with themed rooms representing the great cultures.
Each of the rooms at Tempat Senang is unique. You can stay in an Indonesian Joglo or an Abu Dhabi Harem. There is a tree house with a tree growing through the room. The focus here is the spa which is usually booked with the room rate in chunks of half or full days.
You can then pick from the vast array of one hour treatment options available in the menu from facials to pedicures and everything in between. The treatments are often enjoyed in the open to the sound of the flowing fountain and the therapists are wonderful. There are two small swimming pools in the resort, one in the sun and one in the shade.
There is not much to do nearby unless you take a car and go on a tour or like to play golf as there is a course right in front so you will most likely eat in, enjoy the local Indonesian meals the team prepares, and simply relax. This is a getaway best enjoyed with your significant other of a group of friends.
Internet is spotty so bring a book and good conversation. If you wanted a digital detox, this is your best bet.
I stayed at Tempat Senang with two girlfriends on a spa weekend getaway and it was a great way to spend time together, talk, eat and come back full relaxed after two half days at the spa. See the review here.
Rates for the different rooms start at SGD300 a night or less for the larger sharing rooms.
Click to book your trip now: Booking.com | Agoda
4. Nongsa Point Marina & Resort – for that yachting feeling
If you’ve noticed the trend, most of the best resorts in Batam are in Nongsa, which is along the Eastern coast and facing Bintan.
Nongsa Point Marina & Resort is situated on the Northern tip of Nongsa so it’s a popular weekend destination for Singaporeans registered at Changi Sailing Club.
This Batam luxury resort is nestled in a cove and has a Mediterranean vibe with an option of either hotel rooms, or 2-3 bedroom chalets. The marina is actually the first in Indonesia to achieve Global Gold Anchor status from the Marina Industries Association, similar to Blue Flag status for beaches. So you know it will be a gorgeous beach resort near Singapore.
For the hotel rooms, there are garden and beach facing options, with the larger and more spacious chalets being a better option for family getaways. The Selera Restaurant and Samudra Bar provide on-site food and beverage options.
One of the great things about this Batam luxury resort is that it offers an abundance of recreational facilities from their own on-site golf course and Nongsa Point Marina & Resort (NPMR) spa, and a range of water sports and boat charters where you can go fishing, diving, snorkelling and or just island hopping. There’s also SUPing, beach volleyball and you can even learn to sail.
Staying at the resort also offers many great additions like a round trip from Singapore including ferry and land transfers.
Rates for Nongsa Point Marina & Resort in Batam start at SGD$100 per night.
Click to book your trip now: Booking.com | Agoda
5. Radisson Golf & Convention Center Batam – for a standout business hotel
This is a great business hotel if you don’t need to be seaside and possibly your best Batam resort in the centre if you’re looking for value for money.
A stay at the Radisson includes complimentary drop-off from Batam Centre Ferry Terminal which is only is 4.2km away, or BTH airport. There is also a free shuttle to Mega Mall, 4.1kms away, on the weekend depending on availability.
While the Radisson caters for guests traveling for business, it is also child friendly with a kids’ pool and kids’ club. The on-site Zoysia Spa and Bite-Restaurant are both top notch facilities, along with the T-lounge providing sweet treats and the Pool Bar for convenience while you’re lounging around.
The Radisson is probably the best resort in Batam for golfers as it provides easy access to, and specials in collaboration with either Padang Golf Sukhajadi (100m from hotel), Palm Spring Golf Course (30min) and Tering Bay Golf Course (30min).
Golfers can create their own bespoke golfing package with the hotel and will receive benefits like free buggies, caddies, golf insurance and complimentary transportation your preferred golf course out of the three mentioned above.
Rates for Radisson Golf & Convention Center Batam start at SGD$120 per night.
Click to book your trip now: Booking.com | Agoda
6. Sijori Resort & Spa – for the wellness focused
Sijori Resort & Spa is on the Western part of Batam and close to Tempat Senang. The is one of the luxury resorts near Singapore with a health and wellness focus and is a member of Healing Hotels of the World, a group of hotels and resorts that focus on health and vitality.
The aptly named Sparadise is a wellness centre that has many different treatments available for those looking to unwind and detox.
Guests can create their own bespoke spa experience with treatments ranging from facial and bath to body scrubs and wraps to hair and even the newly added V-Spa treatment which helps to relieve menstrual cramps and boosts fertility.
The spa itself is accessed on a 45min drive from Sekupang ferry terminal or 20mins from Hang Nadim International Airport. It’s also quite close to other downtown locales like the Nagoya shopping district.
The rooms are airy, clean and tranquil, what you’d expect from a spa hotel. Choose from the deluxe, superior or presidential rooms or even the bungalow if you’re traveling with a group.
The Courtyard restaurant serves fresh fish in either Chinese or Indonesian styles and organic vegetables from their Hydroponics garden. There’s also a cafe and serving international standards and a Tea Lounge will other treats. A rooftop eatery is currently also underway.
Guests can also partake in tranquil zen-like activities from archery to fishing to taking a tip in the heated pool surrounded by lush greenery.
Rates for Sijori Resort & Spa in Batam start at SGD$70 per night.
Click to book your trip now: Booking.com | Agoda
Best luxury resorts near Singapore off Batam
Telunas Resort – for traditional overwater bungalows
Telunas has seen a massive revival in the last few years. From a traditional overwater bungalow resort catering to school trips and educational adventures to luxury overwater villa resort, Telunas Beach has definitively upped their ante.
The resort is made of two parts, Telunas Private Island and Telunas Beach Resort. While the original part is the beach resort, the new Private Island has some of the best overwater bungalows in Southeast Asia. Both resorts are on different islands facing each other so guests don’t mingle. The private island is on its own small island of the same same whereas the beach resort is on Pulau Sugi, an island off the south west coast of Batam.
Which one of the right for you? The beach resort looks like the traditional overwater fishing villages that you can find across Indonesia and Thailand. It is made of recycled wood and it is simpler in design and luxury level. It is also a more affordable option, especially for groups and families. There are the same activities as in the private island but there is no pool and no spa.
Telunas Private Island is one of the few private islands near Singapore you can book entirely or on a room basis. The rooms are two storey with the living room on the ground floor and the bedroom upstairs. Children’s rooms are in the attic. The villas are all over water and come with balconies and direct water access. The main area features a restaurant and a pool and there is a separate overwater spa. Although rooms do have children bedrooms, the private island is targeted at couples.
Once on Telunas you can enjoy the many water sports or even go on nature trails in the thick jungles of Pulau Sugi. As opposed to other islands near Singapore mentioned in this list, Telunas is surrounded by mangroves and pure nature so you don’t have to limit yourself to the water worlds.
Telunas operates like all the the other private islands near Singapore and charges full board at around SGD90 per person per day and the same amount for transportation from Sekupang ferry terminal. Bookings need to be for a minimum of two nights. A weekend stay for two adds up to SGD1,400 for the two nights which is quite a hefty price.
Rates for the different rooms start at SGD350 a night for room and breakfast mid-week but you need to add mandatory full board and transportation.
Click to book your trip now: Booking.com
Best resorts in Bintan island
1. Banyan Tree Bintan – Best luxury resort in Bintan for overwater views
Banyan Tree is probably the top Indonesia resort near Singapore in Bintan. It’s a place which I love and what I think to be the best resort near Singapore. Their overwater pool villas right by the water’s edge are a treat and one of the few Bintan luxury resorts where you could be spoiled rotten as a couple. Their beach dinner setup for couples is exquisitely decadent and it is one of the most romantic island resorts near Singapore and it is sure to make you fall in love again.
Every villa at the Banyan Tree Bintan has its own pool and the villas are spread out in a large property so you are unlikely to see many other guests except for maybe at the restaurant or at the pool if you decide to be social.
To truly be pampered, make sure to book a treatment at the well-known spa, one of Banyan Tree’s best strengths. Set aside on top of the hill with the best views over the sea and the golf course nearby, the spa is a fabulous addition to the resort.
If you want to be active, there are lots of activities on the beach or in the many activity provides companies nearby. The good thing about Banyan Tree Bintan location is that while being secluded, it is also right on the edge of Bintan’s largest beach so you are only a stone throw’s away from anything that you may want to do on Bintan, from quad bikes on the beach to light aircraft tours. You can also use the facilities at the sister property Angsana which is adjacent.
Want to stay in the middle of the ocean? The Kelong Villa is a new option at Banyan Tree Bintan for those who want to experience a life of oceanic luxury, far apart from the world. It is a tribute to the traditional offshore platforms that were used by local fisherman.
As romantic weekend getaways from Singapore goes, Banyan Tree Bintan is up there with the best options.
Rates for a 1 bedroom pool villa start at SGD$350 per night.
Click to book your trip now: Booking.com | Agoda
2. Angsana Bintan – for active family fun
Sister Property to Banyan Tree, Angsana’s easy family vacations are also available in Bintan. The resort is geared towards families rather than couples so it is the perfect family resort near Singapore. It is also right on Bintan’s largest beach and has a large pool, so the choices for splashing off after a hot day are numerous.
As the Angsana is sister properties with Banyan Tree, you can also dine at their restaurants although you cannot use their facilities. Banyan Tree guests can peruse all of Angsana’s facilities.
The resort is catered well for families including a host of free and paid for options and excursions and a long stretch of beach right in front. Because of its size, it is also one of the best Bintan luxury resorts for mid-week corporate retreats as the resort can accommodate larger groups.
This is probably one of the easiest *real* resorts near Singapore with beach and in Bintan. I say this because here you can truly enjoy the beach life. A lot of the other resorts on this list are on the beach and have sea views but not a lot of them have a real stretch of white sand beach where you can sunbathe under the sun, sand between your feet. Angsana Resort BintanIt is as chilled a resort it can get with all the amenities and service level of an internationally acclaimed brand.
Rates for 1 room for two adults including all meals start at SGD$150 per night.
Click to book your trip now: Booking.com | Agoda
3. The Sanchaya – for a refined luxury resort on Bintan
Opulent luxury rather than barefoot escape, The Sanchaya is sublime sophistication, one of the most exquisite Bintan luxury resorts you didn’t know existed and the high end weekend getaway from Singapore you always wanted.
Step into the colonial estate of this near perfect TripAdvisor rating and prepare to be treated like royalty. Regal service does not come cheap and the hotel knows how to set itself far away from the rest but for the best romantic luxury getaway in Batam, The Sanchaya promises to blow you and your budget away.
Forbes says that “There’s a particularly lucky spot upon The Sanchaya’s private beachfront reminiscent of the powder white sands at The Maldives, popular for wedding proposals” and this is why The Sanchaya remains one of the least known resorts on Bintan. It is secluded, despite being right in the middle of it all, and it is unknown, for it is not for everyone but only for the most discerning. Is it Bintan’s best kept secret?
Inside, find 29 rooms in a beachfront estate designed with strong colonial looks of black and white. You are forgiven for forgetting you are just on Bintan for you could be in glamorous South Beach or even in Copacabana. Best of all, you will be at the best resort in Bintan in less than an hour from departing from the ferry terminal.
Rates for a 1 bedroom villa start at SGD$850 per night.
Click to book your trip now: Booking.com | Agoda
4. The Residence Bintan by Cenizaro – for a sophisticated stay on Bintan
The latest luxury hotel to open on Bintan is The Residence Bintan by luxury hotel brand Cenizaro. This beach resort near Singapore is right on the sand, with pool beach and garden villas coming with privacy and style. As a newly opened resort, it has brought a much needed breath of fresh air and sophistication to a destination that can sometimes feel a bit dated.
The Residence Bintan offers a variety of dining options from in-villa dining to beach BBQ, Indonesian flavours, fine dining and a beach pool-side bar with great views and drinks.
The Residence offers a kids club, several water activities and a full fledged spa to pamper you away. As it is separate from the rest of the resorts on Bintan, you have a feeling of seclusion and the infinity pool over the beach takes you very far away.
Pick from an array of villas from the flagship Estate Villa that leads onto the beach and has a sunk pool to the garden villas that are tucked into the jungle.
Rates start at SGD280 per night for a sophisticated mid-week getaway in Bintan.
Click to book your trip now: Booking.com | Agoda
5. Natra Bintan – for an optimal glamping experience
Touted as Marriott’s first glamping experience, the Natra Bintan is a super fun option for adventurous families that enjoy both rugged nature and luxurious convenience. One of the closest resorts on this list from Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal (about 3 mins by car), Natra Bintan provides really easy access for travelers in a rush to get to their resort.
While the 100 safari-themed tents seem rustic at first, they actually contain all the comforts of a typical Marriott hotel from air-con to WiFi and beyond. While the pool view tents are perfect for families, the garden views rooms provide more solitude as they come with a private garden.
There are more than enough activities to keep everyone entertained from cable and jetskiing to riding the flying water-jet bike called the Jetovater. Nature activities abound too like private mangrove explorations on a kayak, ATV rides and various hiking options. The Crystal Lagoon is beautiful and is as good as any beach, although it is man-made, but is still salt water.
Dining at The Patio affords lagoon views with organic meals, as well as an outdoor bar. Or you can book a private tent-side BBQ in your own patio.
I stayed at Natra and have written a complete and unbiased review, which you can read here.
Rates for Natra Bintan start at SGD$364 per night.
Click to book your trip now: Booking | Agoda
6. Club Med Bintan Island – for the best all-inclusive getaway
Club Med Bintan Island is probably your best choice for all inclusive resorts near Singapore for the entire family. Like any Club Med, Bintan offers a truly huge selection of activities and entertainment – all included in the hotel price. So no one is going to get bored staying here. You can even book your flight and ferry through them if you are coming in from outside Singapore. Pretty convenient.
Take your pick of land-based activities from archery and trapeze lessons to yoga, tennis and golf classes. Tip in the water for sailing classes, snorkeling, SUPing and the new family-friendly Stand Up Paddle Giant. Yup, you can try stand up paddle boarding with the entire family on one board.
There are also excursions throughout the island, daily shows and live entertainment. In the theatre. And don’t forget that everything mentioned above comes in the package. The only activities that don’t come with your booking are the excursions and 18 holes on the golf courses. But some of the best courses in Asia are only 15mins away.
If you’re a foodie then there is ample selection for you with two restaurants and four bars. If you’re wanting a more a resort-type feel for your holiday, this is the best option by far as you get the most bang for your buck.
Rates for Club Med Bintan Island start at SGD$65 per night (3 night minimum).
Click to book your trip now: TripAdvisor
7. The ANMON Resort Bintan – for an escape from city life
The ANMON is one of the exclusive Bintan luxury resorts that is close enough to The Canopi Resort and provides a similar experience, but with more honed-in and attuned service. Similar to Canopi, The ANMON is a glamping experience in teepee style tents with luxurious amenities.
All the 45sqm tents have a bedroom, a patio and a bathroom and the 200sqm area where the property resides promises solitude and nature. As the resort is in the Treasure Bay compound, you also have access to the largest man-made seawater lagoon in Asia, Crystal Lagoon.
There is strong WiFi throughout the premises and a modern digital concierge service with 24 hour access. It’s also an Instagrammer’s dream, sort of like if the Fyre festival got things right.
Note that this is a resort for travelers who want to get away from city life and just relax by the water as there is reportedly no TV in the tents and the activities are few, although there are some watersports available. It’s a place to relax and be calm, away from the rush of daily life.
Rates for The ANMON Resort Bintan start at SGD$180 per night.
Click to book your trip now: Booking.com | Agoda
Continue reading about the best beach resorts off Bintan Island below…
Best resorts near Singapore off Bintan island
1. Nikoi – best island resort off Bintan for couples with kids
Nikoi is a barefoot luxury beach resort near Singapore powered by the sea breeze and made up of open plan duplex sea-facing villas on their own private island. Forget phones, air conditioning, engine noise and crowds, Nikoi is designed for those looking for a Robinson Crusoe experience in chic surroundings for the whole family.
This island resort near Singapore is located on its own private island, an island that can only be reached from the island of Bintan which is in turn only reachable by ferry from the island of Singapore. It does sound like a lot of island hopping to get there but it is in fact quite easy and organised directly by the resort after booking. Expect the journey door to door from Singapore Tanah Merah to Nikoi to take a bit less than 3h.
Nikoi was one of the pioneer island resorts in Bintan. As such it has evolved and grown up since opening to become the choice for families looking for a convenient beach resort near Singapore. As families took over the property, it became less appealing to couples looking for a romantic getaway near Singapore so the owners opened a sister property called Cempedak which only caters to couples.
Nikoi has a set menu for lunch and dinner with a couple of options and if you don’t like what’s on offer for the day they can adapt the recipe to your needs. There is nowhere else to eat so the SGD90 per person for breakfast, lunch and dinner is to be added on top of the room rate. Nikoi’s menus also cater to children as that is their specialty.
On the island there is a small stretch of beach, a pool and a tennis court. All sorts of water activities can be arranged as that is their forte. The island is pretty small so you will probably not what to spend a very long time there unless you are looking to fully unwind. The concept is being one with nature and back to basics. Expect bamboo structures and sand between your toes.
Rooms at Nikoi start at SGD$450 per night and you need to add the mandatory SGD90 per person per day for full board and SGD90 for transportation. Read my review of Nikoi.
2. Pulau Joyo – for the best Robinson Crusoe experience near Singapore
Pulau Joyo is the sister property of Pulau Pangkil and it was built both as a private island that you can book as a whole or as a villa you can book individually. For one of the best island resorts near Singapore, Pulau Joyo is remarkably remote and hard to reach. It is a ferry, car and boat ride away from the hassle of the city and it has one of the nicest beaches near Singapore, especially on its sandbank at high tide when the waters are just pristine.
Pulau Joyo operates on the same an all inclusive format as Nikoi, Cempedak or Pangkil, so you will be provided delicious Indonesian fare at every meal. Food is served either by the pool under the shade of frangipani trees, or in the bale/hut that is by the pool in case it rains or you just want to be under cover. All the food is prepared in-house by the local team and usually features authentic Indonesian dishes. International options are also available.
The beach at Pulau Joyo is delightful but so is the pool at the center of the island. Spend the evenings relaxing on one of the comfy sofas by the lounge area or in your villa. Pulau Joyo is quite similar to Nikoi but less well known and much smaller. As such, it can easily be rented out a a whole for a group of friends of maximum 25 people.
I visited Pulau Joyo for a small wedding gathering by a friend of mine and we were a total of 25 guests spread over the several villas. Each of the villas in Pulau Joyo is different and, although designed for a couple, they also have several day beds which can be converted into proper beds for families or groups of friends looking to share. This means you can have a real tropical island resort near Singapore for a very affordable rate.
While in Joyo, you can enjoy the water sports and activities or simply sunbathe. The resort has an honesty bar so you can mix your own drinks but you can also bring your own at no extra charge. As you are very far from civilisation, Pulau Joyo has some of the clearest nights you will find near Singapore so it is a great spot for star gazing.
You can book a Beach & Java Palaces at US$295 per adult per night, the Driftwood Palace at US$235 per adult per night, or the entire island for up to 12 adults at US$3,380 per night. There is a mandatory SGD90 per person per day for full board.
3. Bawah Reserve – for the most luxurious resort near Singapore
Bawah Island is the closest island to Singapore that is truly worthy of honeymoon dreams. You no longer need to fly to the Maldives or the remote parts of Indonesia to access a world of barefoot luxury. Bawah Reserve opened in 2017 with just 35 villas, 11 of which are over water and the rest on the beach. As opposed to the Maldives, Bawah reserve is not just an island but six, spread over a small area and surrounding three lagoons with the most beautiful clear waters.
The island can be reached on an amphibious land and sea plan which lands on the water at the end of the pier on Bawah after an 80min flight from Batam airport and it promises to be the newest most luxurious resort near Singapore and possibly in Asia (will it dethrone Nihi Sumba – The Best Hotel in the World?). It should without a doubt be your first options for best beach resorts near Singapore if you’re looking for uber luxury.
Bawah has a lot to offer from diving and snorkelling to hiking the trails of the main island, kayaking to natural mangroves, exploring all the islands in the group by boat, taking a cooking lesson to learn to make the incredibly delicious and creative dishes the Indonesian-Honduran chef prepares or simply relaxing on your private overwater villa. I spent 4 days and could have easily spent a week without getting bored.
There are two restaurants and three bars on Bawah Reserve and perhaps the best resort cuisine I have ever enjoyed. I did not see a menu until the last lunch as the chef came at every meal to talk about what we felt like and prepared something unique to our exact taste. Every single dish was exceptional and exclusively prepared to us. Ardian managed to blend Indonesian flavours with an international touch making them lighter and less greasy and bringing in techniques from Latin America, Europe and other parts of Asia like Japan.
There is also a water sports center to organise anything you have in mind, and a spa ready to offer meditation, yoga or any treatment.
See my full review here.
Room rate packages start from USD$1750 for the Garden Suite and remember that it is one of the all inclusive resorts near Singapore, that is, you will not pay for anything else on top other than the alcoholic drinks. All excursions and unlimited spa treatments are part of the package price. Although I thought the price was high a priori, at the end of the trip I felt it was well deserved given the remote and exclusive location, the beauty of the place and the fabulous food and service.
Book now Booking.com
4. Cempedak Island – for adults-only luxury pool villas off Bintan
Sister property to Nikoi, Cempedak Isand is the adults-version only of the same owner. While Nikoi is beautiful, its main drawback to me was its appeal to families and its very kids-friendly approach which meant that, given the small size of the islands, it was not suitable for couples looking for romance. There were no romantic dinner options, no cozy areas to unwind and no peace by the pool
This has changed with Cempedak, a private island resort near Singapore and just off Bintan that provides eco-friendly and sustainable pool villas with sea views.
Some of the same philosophy elements from Nikoi are also followed followed here and the resort also operates without air conditioning and on a mandatory full board basis but, as kids are not allowed, it all has a much more grown-up air.
There is a main pool area with sea views and each villa has its own private plunge pool. The beach is not very wide and it can be practically wiped out at high tide so you are less likely to put your towel down or use the sun beds on the sand but that never bothered me too much.
Food is refined though portions can be small, yet they will bring you more if you are still hungry. The menu is shared at every meal for the next so you can talk to the staff if you do not like what’s on.
I found this gorgeous beach resorts near Singapore to be beautiful but lacking in a few details like the bamboo villas being eaten by the termites or the lack of AC requiring you to keep the terrace doors open and being woken up at 3am when the fishermen start their boat engines.
Check out my video below or see my full review of Cempedak.
Room rate packages start from USD$550 for a mid-week trip for their beach pool villas. There is a mandatory full board charge of SGD90 per person per day. See more on their website
Here is a table with all the luxury hotels in Bintan and Batam and beyond, with prices for 2.
| Hotel | Review | Location | Time from Singapore | Luxury level | Room price/night* | Photos and availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tempat Senang | Here | Batam | 45 min | 3.5 | S$400 | Booking.com | Agoda |
| Turi Beach | Batam | 45 min | 3.5 | S$110 | Booking.com | Agoda | |
| Montigo Bay | Batam | 45 min | 3.5 | S$220 | Booking.com | Agoda | |
| The Sanchaya | Here | Batam | 45 min | 5 | S$860 | Booking.com | Agoda |
| Telunas | Batam | 1 hour | 5 | S$300 - Private island S$70 - Resort | Booking.com | |
| Nongsa Point Marina & Resort | Batam | 45 min | 4 | S$100 | Booking.com | Agoda | |
| Radisson Golf & Convention Center | Batam | 1 hour | 4 | S$120 | Booking.com | Agoda | |
| Sijori Resort & Spa | Batam | 1,5 hours | 4 | S$70 | Booking.com | Agoda | |
| Pulau Joyo | Bintan | 2,5 hours | 4 | S$390 | Website | |
| Nikoi | Here | Bintan | 2 hours | 4 | S$530 | Website |
| Banyan Tree | Here | Bintan | 1 hour | 5 | S$350 | Booking.com | Agoda |
| Cempedak | Here | Bintan | 2 hours | 5 | S$550 | Website |
| Angsana | Bintan | 1 hour | 4 | S$150 | Booking.com | Agoda | |
| The Residence Bintan | Bintan | 2 hours | 5 | S$280 | Booking.com | Agoda | |
| The Canopi Resort | Bintan | 1 hour | 4 | S$364 | Booking.com | Agoda | |
| Club Med Bintan Island | Bintan | 1,5 hours | 4 | S$65 per night (3 night minimum) | TripAdvisor | |
| The ANMON Resort Bintan | Bintan | 1 hour | 3,5 | S$180 | Booking.com | Agoda | |
| Bawah | Here | Anambas | 2 hours | 5 | S$1960 | Booking.com |
Bonus: Nihi Sumba
Although it’s not a ferry ride away and requires a flight via Bali, you can get a feel of the best hotel in the world by checking out this video. Don’t forget to click the button to see my in-depth and unbiased review of Nihi Sumba!
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