Riau Islands

Description

Just across the water from Singapore lies the Riau Islands Province (Kepulauan Riau), a scattered chain of over 2,000 islands offering quick escapes, cultural encounters, and pristine coastlines. Best known for Batam and Bintan, the province also includes remote, beautiful islands like Anambas and Natuna. Whether you’re looking for a weekend beach break, underwater exploration, or a slow-paced island retreat, the Riau Islands deliver—all just a short ferry ride from city life.

Highlights

• Bintan Island: Home to high-end resorts, golf courses, and soft beaches—ideal for couples, families, or weekenders from Singapore looking for relaxation without long-haul flights.

• Batam: A mix of industry, nightlife, shopping, and water sports. Great for short, affordable trips with spas, seafood, and cultural spots like Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya, one of Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temples.

• Anambas Islands: Remote, postcard-perfect islands with clear water, coral reefs, and no crowds—ideal for diving, snorkeling, and off-the-grid experiences.

• Penyengat Island: A small island near Tanjung Pinang with historical ruins from the 19th-century Malay-Riau Sultanate, including a mosque built using egg whites.

• Local Seafood & Floating Kelong Villages: Try fresh chili crab, grilled fish, and spicy curries in simple waterfront settings—or dine in floating seafood restaurants near Batam and Bintan.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Riau Islands is March to October, during the dry season, when the sea is calm and skies are mostly clear.

• March–October (dry season): Ideal for beach trips, island-hopping, diving, and water sports. The weather is hot but less humid than during monsoon months.

• November–February (wet season): Expect heavier rains, especially on outer islands like Natuna and Anambas. Sea conditions can be rough, so ferry trips may be delayed. However, Bintan and Batam remain accessible and operational year-round.

Holiday Tip: Weekends and public holidays can bring large crowds—especially from Singapore—so plan accordingly for peak pricing and availability.

How to get there?

The best time to visit the Riau Islands is March to October, during the dry season, when the sea is calm and skies are mostly clear.

• March–October (dry season): Ideal for beach trips, island-hopping, diving, and water sports. The weather is hot but less humid than during monsoon months.

• November–February (wet season): Expect heavier rains, especially on outer islands like Natuna and Anambas. Sea conditions can be rough, so ferry trips may be delayed. However, Bintan and Batam remain accessible and operational year-round.

Holiday Tip: Weekends and public holidays can bring large crowds—especially from Singapore—so plan accordingly for peak pricing and availability.