10 Free Things for Singaporeans to Do in Bintan for a Budget Getaway

Bintan might be known for its beach resorts and watersports, but there’s a quieter side to the island too. If you’re not looking to spend on activities or entrance fees, there’s still plenty to explore. Think early morning beach walks, hilltop shrines, local food streets, and temple grounds tucked away in sleepy villages.

This list brings together some of the best things to do in Bintan that won’t cost you a cent. Some may need a bit of legwork or local transport, but the trade-off is an experience that feels less touristy and more personal.

Also read: 7 Top Resorts in Bintan That Singaporeans Must Experience

1. Watch the sunrise at Trikora Beach

Opening hours: 24 hours

Trikora is one of Bintan’s most accessible public beaches, and it’s especially beautiful in the early morning. The sky turns soft pink, the waves come in slow, and the whole stretch is quiet except for the occasional local fishing boat. It’s not fancy, but there’s something grounding about starting your day barefoot in the sand. Bring breakfast and take your time.

2. Visit the Grotto Santa Maria

Opening hours: 24 hours

Tucked away in Malang Rapat, this Catholic shrine was once a stop for workers en route to Malaysia. The trail here takes you past limestone sculptures of the Stations of the Cross and ends at a small cave where a statue of Mary rests. It’s not crowded and doesn’t try too hard to impress. Just a quiet, shaded place where time seems to slow down. Come on a weekday and you might have the whole place to yourself.

3. Explore Penyengat Island

Opening hours: Varies by site, generally 8am – 5pm

Penyengat Island is small enough to explore on foot, but packed with history. This used to be the seat of the Johor-Riau Kingdom, and you’ll still find royal tombs, a grand mosque built partly with egg whites, and narrow paths that wind past stilt houses and small fishing communities. If you’re into old architecture or just want to see a side of Bintan that’s not resort-branded, this is a good place to start.

Note: While the island is free to explore, the water taxi to get there costs a few ringgit

4. Drop by the Banyan Tree Temple

Opening hours: 8am – 5pm

In the coastal village of Senggarang, there’s a Taoist temple slowly being overtaken by nature. A massive banyan tree has wrapped itself around the structure over the years, giving the place a strange, quiet beauty. The temple is small, but it doesn’t feel like a tourist site. It’s just part of the neighbourhood, open to anyone passing through.

5. Walk through Vihara Avalokitesvara Graha

Opening hours: 8am – 5pm

This Buddhist temple in Tanjung Pinang is home to a towering statue of Guan Yin, said to be one of the tallest in Southeast Asia. The temple grounds are open and peaceful, with bright colours and detailed carvings throughout. It’s a popular stop, but it never feels too crowded. You can take your time here, walk the perimeter, or just sit and enjoy the calm.

6. Browse the stalls at Tanjung Pinang’s morning markets

Opening hours: Varies by market, roughly 4am – 3pm

If you’re around Tanjung Pinang early in the day, take a walk through one of the traditional markets. Rimba Jaya Night Market is good for souvenirs and snacks, while the Tanjung Pinang Traditional Market is best for dried goods and fresh produce. You don’t need to buy anything; just being there gives you a feel of everyday life in Bintan.

Also read: 7 Best Things to Buy in Bintan: Local Snacks, Crafts & Coastal Keepsakes

7. Discover street eats at Akau Potong Lembu

Opening hours: 4pm – 10pm

This open-air food street is a local favourite. Come for dinner and you’ll see satay sizzling over charcoal, people lining up for mee goreng, and kids running between the stalls. The smells alone are enough to make you hungry, but even if you’re just walking through, it’s a fun, lively place to be after dark.

8. Visit the Library at Trikora

Opening hours: Typically 9am – 5pm (varies slightly by day)

Tucked behind the beach area, this community library is a small but thoughtful space. You’ll find books in Bahasa, English, and Mandarin, and it’s open to all ages, locals and travellers alike. It’s not air-conditioned, but the sea breeze and quiet setting make it a surprisingly nice place to take a break from the sun.

9. Enjoy a sunset at Lagoi Bay

Opening hours: Beach area open 24 hours

Lagoi Bay is best known for its resorts and restaurants, but the public beach remains free and open. If you’re in the area in the late afternoon, head down for a slow walk and stay to watch the sunset. The sand is soft, the waves come in steady, and the vibe feels just a little slower than the rest of the island.

10. Snap photos at Plaza Lagoi’s Lantern Park

Opening hours: 10am – 8pm

While the mall itself is mostly shops and eateries, the outdoor Lantern Park adds something extra, especially during festive seasons. Expect larger-than-life animal lanterns, glowing structures, and a few interactive zones for photo-taking. It’s quiet on most days, which makes it even better for an unhurried stroll.

Also read: Phuket vs Bintan: Which Weekend Getaway is for You?

Final thoughts

Bintan doesn’t need to be a splurge. If you skip the packaged tours and take your time exploring, you’ll find that some of the best experiences here are free. It’s in the early morning walks, the temple courtyards, and the in-between moments that you remember why you travelled in the first place.