12 hidden private island getaway near Singapore (1h boat ride from Bintan/Batam!)

Written by Beverley Lennon

Tired of the usual regular getaway to Bintan or Batam?

Did you know that scattered in the Riau Archipelago are some 3,200 islands, a few of which are actually a short ferry ride away from Bintan or Batam?

From remote islands scattered across the best diving reefs, to untouched islands off the mainland coasts, these are Riau’s best underrated tropical sanctuaries to snorkel in, bask in spectacular views, indulge in fresh seafood and just laze on the pristine beaches.

You have to see for yourself!

Read more:

11 Private islands and resorts in Indonesia for a perfect tropical getaway!

9 Magnificent water villas in Indonesia for a hidden paradise getaway

12 Unconventional things to do in Batam that will surprise you

19 Epic things to do in Bintan that will put this hidden gem into your bucket list

Getting there

1. Idyllic sceneries for snorkelling and island hopping: Pulau Rano

This island holds many possibilities to experience the essence of tropical island lure of sun, sand and sea. Don’t forget to snorkel and explore the rich marine life!

(Many tour companies offer day trips here. It’s best combined with a trip to Pulau Abang)

2. Bask in quiet luxury and privacy – Bawah Island

With a luxury car waiting at your house door to a private seaplane ride, this private island resort does everything for you to experience #thatluxelife!

Advertisement

3. Swoon over water bungalows cooled with natural ocean breeze – Telunas Resorts Private Island

Ever wanted to escape to a luxurious water bungalow perched on a private island – just you and your lover?

Telunas Resorts Private Island is one of our best bet. Asd you can indulge in a decadent spa treatment at the resort’s spa, right in the middle of the ocean too!

4. Kayaking and snorkelling amidst the clearest of waters: Pulau Abang

With such kaleidoscopic marine life and schools of tropical fish, this is undoubtedly one of the most stunning places to snorkel in the Riau Archipelago!

5. Rustic living with basic comfort – Labun Island Resort

Labun Island is where you can find peaceful and tranquil atmosphere while you spend your day fishing your dinner, snorkelling and kayaking around the island. At night, you’ll fall asleep to the sound of the sea and wake up to the chirping of the birds…

6. Catch sunrise, snorkel and dive with an array of tropical fish: Pulau Benan

Head over here if you’ve dreamt of a blissful slice of island where you can wade into the crystal clear water. And while inland, explore the bushwalking tracks and fertile landscape to find a lovely spot for sunrise.

7. Snorkel your way through and watch TV underwater: Pulau Petong

Snorkelling is the top thing to do here and this island does not draw crowds yet; so you can peacefully enjoy the technicolour fish displays, playful turtles and curious marine life without bumping into other snorkellers!

8. Double the pleasure with island hopping –  Pulau Tunjuk and Pulau Subang Mas

8-a) Camp with an abandoned shipwreck as your backdrop – Pulau Tunjuk

With a mysterious shipwreck on its shores, this beach will appeal the most curious of you all. So it’s is time for you to explore, little pirate!

8-b) The Maldives of Riau – Pulau Subang Mas

How far is Maldives again?

You’ll give up on the idea once you set foot on Pulau Subang Mas. Enjoy your time far away from civilisation, where you can slow down your pace at this out-of-a-dream island!

9. Indulge in freshly picked durian by white sand beaches – Pulau Kundur

9-a) Serene, white sandy beaches framed by lush greenery perfection – Pantai Lubuk

This beach is so untouched and pristine that it’s the perfect spot for your pre-wedding photoshoot location. Zero onlookers!

9-b) Originating from a 100-year-old durian tree – Pulau Kundur Durian Producer

Real durian connoisseurs come all the way to pick durians and eat them right in the farmer’s garden!

10. Paradise island – White Sand Island

With a name that speaks for itself, this island is best known for its powdery-white sand and clear azure water that are perfect for frolicking by the seaside. Keep the area clean as turtles call this beautiful area home!

11. Turtles’ home in an old shipwreck – Mapur Island

Exploring the waters around Mapur Island will lead you to discover the ruins of an ancient shipwreck – and these also happen to be sea turtles’ favorite napping spot!

12. Sun, sand, turquoise sea and fresh seafood – Pulau Karimun Besar

12-a) Snorkel in dazzling turquoise waters – Pantai Palawan

Looking for an idyllic weekend escape close to home?

Experience white sand paradise with lush tropical forests, surrounded by translucent waters under clear blue skies.

12-b) Kick back, relax and soak up the sun – Pongkar Beach

This little beach resembles what we define as a secret getaway; it has retained all the tranquil charm that makes it perfect for some chill time by the sand and sea!

12-c) Enjoy fresh and hearty seafood galore – Restaurant Seafood 188

Surrounded by water, it’s no surprise that you will find the best seafood dishes on the island here.

Order small plates of various dishes to share! Prepare your tummies for a seafood feast!

Best time to travel

You can visit Bintan and Batam anytime as the local weather is generally hot and sunny (always summer!) with a chance of rain throughout the year.

But if you wish to enjoy the tropical sun at its best, March to October would be great as the region enters the dry season. We don’t recommend visiting on weekends, or on Singapore’s public holidays or school holidays (June and December), as the islands are generally crowded with many Singaporean travellers during those periods.

In these islands readily accessible from Singapore, you can find finer sand and clearer waters than in Bintan and Batam!

So what are you waiting for? Time to book that weekend getaway!

This story is made possible by Indonesia Tourism Board

PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us

• share on facebook
• twitter
• google+
• linkedin

Advertise with us