11 Fun Things to Do in Batam for Your Next Weekend Getaway

Think you've done everything in Batam? There's definitely more to do in this island.

September 3, 2015, 8:00 am August 2, 2017, 9:48 am

Snow L. Snow is drawn to museums in every country like how opposite magnetic poles attract. From Disney to The Little Prince to ramen exhibitions, she simply enjoys staring and standing in front of exhibits; allowing her thoughts to wander occasionally. In an alternate universe, she imagines herself drawing and drumming. Meanwhile, she travels with a pen and notebook, as well as a missing DSLR.

Just a short boat ride from Singapore, Batam in Indonesia’s Riau archipelago is a popular weekend destination and a good side trip from Singapore and Malaysia. Apart from its close proximity to Singapore, this small island is frequented by visitors because of its wonderful beaches, elegant resorts, big shopping malls and vibrant nightlife.

If you have been to Batam several times and thought that you have experienced everything it has to offer, you might be wrong. Here, I've compiled a list of more awesome things you can (and should) do in Batam.

1. Go crazy shopping in Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall

The largest shopping mall in Batam, Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall is the most crowded and most visited mall because of its ideal location. You can find everything - funky souvenirs, clothes, electronics and perfumes! I did not get to visit this legendary mall during my previous trips. So go on my behalf, will you?

2. Conquer some exciting outdoor adventures

If shopping is not your cup of cappuccino, you can do outdoor activities instead. From flying fox to jetskiing, windsurfing and parasailing, Batam has your interests covered, whether it is on sea or high up in the air.

3. Window shopping at Batam City Square (BSC) Mall

Spend (or splurge) an afternoon away at BSC Mall. This is the place to go for cheap clothing. You can get your nails done too at the many cheap and good nail salons there. Don’t forget to drop by one of the many restaurants in the mall to satisfy your Indonesian cuisine craving.

4. Speed on a go kart

Notice the slightly wet surface on the ground in this photo? Nothing spells more fun than going on full gear at maximum speed, making sharp turns to avoid banging into car tyres, and having puddles of water splashed onto your shirts. You really have to experience this first-hand!

5. Sail in a kayak

Kayaking is a good way to have a romantic time with your partner or bond with your family and friends. Not only is it fun, it helps you burn those extra calories. Most of the resorts in Batam offer this leisurely water sport so don't miss it.

6. Keep calm and visit temples

Not an adventurous person? Pay a visit to the serene temples such as Tua Pek Kong Temple and Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple to restore some inner peace.

Here, you can offer incense for good health and luck. Also, you can easily spot Buddha statues and interesting features of the twelve zodiac animals directly opposite the temple.

Don’t hesitate to grab some adorable mouth-watering vegetarian buns inside the temple. Eating this colourful chocolate turtle bun left me feeling contented and “cruel” at the same time.

7. Capture sunsets at Barelang Bridge

In San Francisco, there is Golden Gate Bridge. In Batam, there is Barelang Bridge, a chain of six different types of bridges connecting the islands of Batam, Rempang, and Galang. Enjoy the picturesque seascape and wait for the stunning sunset while you're here.

8. Soothe your muscles

After a day of fun-filled activities in Batam, what your body really needs is nothing but two solid hours of massage. Yes, over at Reborn Massage and Reflexology (beside BSC Mall), a soothing full body massage awaits you.

My favourite part of the massage was when the experienced therapist placed a hot towel on the back of my neck towards the end of the session. So warm and cosy, it melted my worries into thin air.

Reborn Massage & Reflexology

Ruko Penuin Blok R-3

Batam, Indonesia

Open daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

9. Indulge in sinful seafood

By the time you walk out of the massage parlour (hopefully in one piece), it is probably dinner time. Did I just hear your stomach growl? Wait till you drool over the sweet and spicy mussels, black pepper crabs, steamed fish in Teochew style, fried golden calamari, huge tasty prawns and delicious oysters.

You can find plates of awesomeness at KTM Resort (20 minutes car ride from the Sekupang ferry terminal). Spend a lovely and undisturbed night at one of the romantic wooden huts far away from everyone and everything else. Don’t worry about a lack of after-dinner plans, for a pool table, karaoke rooms and board games are just some of the many wonderful amenities to keep you fully occupied.

10. Enjoy a morning stroll at KTM Resort

Give yourself enough time to appreciate the beauty of the surroundings. Take a stroll or an OOTD along these beautiful landscapes of KTM resort.

11. Do souvenir shopping early in the morning

Alternatively, take a cab to the crowded wet markets to join fellow travellers in buying crackers, sea cucumbers or the mandatory kueh lapis and honeycomb cakes back home.

A well-planned itinerary is important, but ultimately, it’s the company which makes all the difference. May you have lots of fun, joy and laughter in your next Batam trip, recharged and refuelled with sumptuous food, relaxing massage and good buys!