This island in the Riau Archipelago is both a center of commerce and a lively vacation destination with beautiful beaches and an exciting nightlife.
Batam Island is the second largest island in Indonesia’s Riau Archipelago. Although it is largely a center of commerce, it is fringed with scenic wilderness and features a bustling cultural life. Explore the island’s cosmopolitan areas to experience waterfront dining and intriguing civic architecture. Walk through rainforest trails to secluded beaches and play a round of golf.
Start your visit in Batam Center, the hub of the island. The area is known for its government buildings and large shopping mall. Batam Island’s important role in commercial production with Malaysia and Singapore has given it a fascinating fusion of cultures. Don't miss the Masjid Raya, a Grand Mosque featuring striking pyramid architecture.
Waterfront City, on the western side of the island, is a small cluster of hotels and restaurants looking into Senimba Bay and a one-stop destination for leisure activities and dining. Try go-kart racing or go fishing. Rent a Jet Ski or go on a banana boat trip to explore the area by water.
Go on an excursion to the beautiful beaches on Barelang Islands. This chain of small islands is connected to Batam by a network of six bridges, making the area fairly secluded and untouched. As you make your way through the lush rainforests to the beaches, don't be surprised if chattering crowds of macaque monkeys greet you. Bring a rented bicycle for a scenic ride through rainforest trails.
Surrounded by tropical rainforests and beaches, Batam Island is a golfer's paradise. Tee off at one of seven golf courses on the island.
Reach Batam Island from several different cities in less than 2 hours. Batam is a short ferry ride across the Singapore Strait to Singapore. Johor, in Malaysia, is just a short drive beyond that. The island also has an international airport.
