Each time someone talks about visiting Bintan, many are quick enough to dismiss it as yet another idle vacation of doing absolutely nothing. However, that is not necessarily true.

Beyond the idyllic resorts in Bintan actually lies a trove of exciting outdoor activities. Holiday makers, this beautiful Indonesian island awaits!

Here are 10 things to do in Bintan Island besides lounging around.

Source: Bintan Resorts

#1 AIR ADVENTURES BINTAN

The next time someone comments on how boring Bintan is, take him/her 100,000 feet above ground and into the clouds with Air Adventures Bintan! The government licensed flight operates at Lagoi Bay Lake and flies along the picturesque north Bintan coast. Prices start from S$120 for a 20-minute flight on the two-seater open cockpit seaplane.

Source: Banyan Tree

#2 COOKING CLASS

Unleash the domestic goddess in you by signing up for a cooking class in Bintan. Learn the culinary know-how of Indonesian cuisine and whip up a scrumptious feast. Several places such as Banyan Tree Bintan, Alila Villas Bintan and Bintan Swiss Belhotel Lagoi Bay do provide cooking courses.

Source: CEI Asia

#3 ECO FARM TREK

Spanning across 17 hectares, Bintan’s Eco Farm is nestled in lush greenery. Over here, you will chance upon rows of dragon fruit, pineapple and vegetables alike. Join a 1.5-hour guided tour and anticipate encounters with birds and other animals. This countryside experience is truly educational and highly recommended!

Source: Old Look Indonesia Travel

#4 GOLF

Golf courses are aplenty in Bintan and is truly a paradise for avid golfers. Drop by award-winning Ria Bintan Golf Club and Bintan Lagoon Golf Club for a memorable fun-filled experience.

Source: Bintan Lagoon

#5 GUNUNG BINTAN

Reconnect with nature by making your way to the summit of Gunung Bintan. While the elevation is not as high as other Indonesian mountains, the 340-metre altitude still grants hikers a spectacular panoramic view from above. Slip on your hiking shoes and start the beginner-friendly expedition!

Source: Trip To Bintan

#6 MANGROVE TOUR

Traverse through Sebung River and explore the tropical mangrove on a boat. If you are lucky, you might catch glimpses of the shy wildlife rare creatures, namely the silver leaf monkey and monitor lizard. At nighttime, the mangrove offers enchanting views of glowing fireflies and twinkly stars!

Source: Justgola

#7 SENGGARANG CHINESE WATER VILLAGE

Ever wondered what life is like in a kampung? Well, here is your opportunity. Visit Bintan’s fishing settlement Senggarang Chinese Water Village and be blown away by the simple way of life. Remember to check out the 300-year-old Banyan Tree Temple!

Source: Bintan Spa Villa

#8 SNORKELLING

If you find swimming in the pools of luxurious villas too confining, then we urge you to give snorkelling a shot instead. Bintan Spa Villa offers 2-hour snorkelling sessions at S$47 per pax, which includes a boat ride, snorkelling equipment and life vest etc.

Source: Travel and Lifestyle Diaries

#9 VIHARA AVALOKITESVARA GRAHA TANJUNG PINANG

Vihara Avalokitesvara Graha Tanjung Pinang is also known as Guan Yin Temple. It is home to Southeast Asia’s tallest Goddess of Mercy Statue and that fact alone makes it well worth a visit. Interestingly, you will have to walk through a dragon fruit plantation while heading to the temple.

Source: Expat Living

#10 500 LOHAN TEMPLE

No, you are not in China. But we don’t blame you if you thought you have been mysteriously teleported. As its name implies, the 500 Lohan Temple features 500 life-size statues. Look closely and you will notice that each Chinese arhat statue is unique and has a different expression.