The majority of us have probably travelled to Batam earlier, as a brief weekend getaway an hour’s ferry ride from Singapore. What are usually things to do in Batam? Yes, we hear you — chilling in your beach resort, shopping at Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall, indulging in a seafood lunch, going for massages and having a go at those fun water activities by the beach like kayaking and riding on the banana boat.
But if you believe that’s all to Batam, you can’t be more wrong. Have you ever heard of a lotus lake, a monastery nestled on a hilltop, a cultural carnival or a hidden waterfall? When you haven’t, we’re going to bring you around to each of these hidden places in Batam you never knew existed! You can explore lots of fascinating things to do there.
- Opt for an exceptional glamping adventure at Ranoh Island
We have heard of glamping adventures in Bali but little did we know that Batam has them too! If you’re searching for unique accommodation in Batam but not quite prepared for some die-hard camping and all of its rough stuff, we’d highly recommend you to provide glamping with a go.What better way to get an adventure than on a hidden pristine island?
Situated south of mainland Batam, Ranoh Island is where you can experience barefoot luxury away from technology, noise, stress, needs and obligations. The island is also close to Pulau Abang — a famed place for snorkellers since it uncovers a magical underwater world. The whole journey from Singapore to Ranoh Island will take you about 4 hours (including all ferry and boat transfers in addition to customs in Batam).
There are a lot of activities at Ranoh Island, so that is why we’d recommend you to stay overnight rather than drop by for just a day excursion. Besides snorkelling, you will also have access to additional water-activities like kayaking and banana boats in addition to their exciting giant waterpark that sits smack-bang from the ocean!
- Spend time at SENSE Coffee & Pool
We all love a right hipster spot with exceptional Instagram-worthy stains and unusual foods, don’t we? This whimsical cafe in Batam will bring you a slice of what’s general in Bali. Spend time here and enjoy an envy-inducing pool, rustic interiors and trendy dishes (yes, smoothie bowls are a part of the menu too!).
If you are in for something a little less healthy (it’s alright, you’re on your vacation after all!), select their salted-egg chicken served with rice. As for dessert, do not miss their waffle snacks topped with melting strawberry ice-cream! We bet you’ll stay for coffee too!
- Bounce on a floating waterpark: Sea Forest Adventure
Do you wish to play in a waterpark that’s floating directly on the sea like this one? This is part of Sea Forest Adventure, a special themed recreational place where you can unleash your inner child.
Here, you can experience nature, survival and adventure science, with four essential sections for you to explore — the assembly centre, Glamp Camp, Rain Forest and Water World. And this floating water park is Water World, situated just around 100 metres away in the Palm Spring beach. You can bounce, climb, slide and roam around this lovely playground for kids and adults alike!
Don’t be worried about safety — you will be given a life vest, and the staff will brief you on what to expect, before starting your playtime. There’ll be fun and facilities coming to Water World such as a floating bar, cliff bar, hidden shore and other exciting watersports. It is time to taste this new floating water park before everybody else!
Ready to start your gateway to Batam? Visit Wonderful Indonesia and don’t miss out on the magic!
