With 2 Indonesian islands not far from Singapore with very similar names, have you ever wondered what’s the difference between Batam and Bintan? While both are popular holiday destinations for residents of Singapore, we share with you which island to go to based on what kind of island getaway you’re looking for.
Resorts and Beaches
Batam is home to a couple nice resorts including our favourites Turi Beach Resort and Montego Resort. These two hotels will give you an easy getaway from Singapore with nice resort facilities. Families looking for a wallet friendly getaway can consider Holiday Inn and Harris Resort. While both don’t have access to a nice beach, Harris Resort is full of fun kids activities.
Bintan surpasses Batam when it comes to luxurious resorts and beautiful beaches. Banyan Tree Bintan has been gracing the shores for a few years and has now been joined by the ultra luxurious The Sanchaya pictured above. Other resorts to consider include Club Med Bintan, Angsana and Bintan Lagoon Resort.
Distance
Batam can be reached in as little as 45 minutes from Singapore. And Turi Beach Resort is only 5 minutes from Nongsa ferry terminal.
Bintan is further away and will take closer to 90 minutes to reach.
Shopping
Batam is a magnet for visitors from Singapore who visit for shopping at one of the area’s malls. The main draw is prices much cheaper than Singapore.
Bintan does have shopping options including Plaza Lagoi Mall, but is not considered a shopping destination.
Spas
Batam is home to the Tempat Senang Spa which is frequented by visitors from Singapore seeking high quality spa treatments at prices well below Singapore’s high end spas. Bargain hunters can also enjoy incredibly cheap treatments at the spas at the local malls.
Bintan‘s best spas are located in the islands resorts.
Golf
Batam is a hot spot for golfers with too many golf courses for us to list. For those staying at Turi Beach Resort, there are 3 courses within close proximity.
Bintan has 2 main golf courses: Ria Bintan which has both an 18-hole and 9-hole golf course and Laguna Bintan which is an 18-hole golf course designed by Greg Norman.
There you have it, the difference between Batam and Bintan islands in Indonesia. Which island do you prefer?
