Looking for a family-friendly Bintan resort that’s just an hour’s ferry ride from Singapore, with enough activities to keep the kids entertained while Mummy and Daddy get some downtime too? 🌴
We recently stayed at Holiday Inn Resort Bintan Lagoi Beach with our two boys, and it turned out to be such an easy, relaxing family getaway!
There was plenty to keep the boys busy — from the Kids Club and motorised cars to swimming and beach time. And yes, Mummy finally managed to sneak in a massage while the boys enjoyed their activities! 😂
What I particularly loved was how convenient everything was. We actually had all our meals within the resort, so there was no need to arrange transport or figure out where to eat every few hours.
If you’re planning a Bintan trip with kids, here’s our experience, along with practical ferry tips, hotel highlights, things to know before booking and other family-friendly activities worth considering.
🏨 Check Holiday Inn Resort Bintan room rates on Agoda
You can also use our Agoda promo code HENGXAGODA for up to 10% off eligible bookings, subject to the current promotion terms.
➡️ Claim up to 10% off next hotel booking
1. How to Get to Bintan from Singapore with Kids
One of the biggest reasons we enjoy Bintan is how accessible it is from Singapore.
There’s no need to take a flight, and the ferry journey itself is only about an hour!
We travelled with Bintan Resorts Ferries, departing from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore and arriving at Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal in Bintan.
The ferry ride takes approximately 60 minutes, excluding check-in, immigration and hotel transfer time.
🎟️ Book your Singapore–Bintan ferry tickets on Klook
Our Bintan Ferry Tips for Families
After travelling with two young boys, here are some tips I’d share with parents!
1. Board early if you’re travelling Economy Class
This is probably my biggest tip!
Economy Class uses free seating, so seats are not assigned.
If you’re travelling as a family of four, try to board early so you can find seats together. Otherwise, you might end up sitting separately, especially during busy periods.
With young children, being seated together definitely makes the journey easier.
2. Bring snacks to keep the kids occupied
An hour doesn’t sound long, but when you’re travelling with hungry or restless children, snacks can be lifesavers! 😂
I always recommend having some snacks, water, wipes and something to keep the kids entertained.
Check the ferry operator’s latest rules on bringing outside food and drinks.
3. Arrive at the terminal early
Don’t underestimate how much extra time you’ll need when travelling with kids!
Bintan Resorts Ferries generally recommends arriving around 90 minutes before departure, with check-in closing 40 minutes before sailing.
I’d rather have time to sit down and relax than rush through the terminal with luggage and two boys.
4. Know the disembarkation arrangement
During our journey, Emerald Class passengers disembarked first, followed by passengers from the forward section. So find seats at the forward section.
So don’t rush to stand up the moment the ferry arrives. Follow the crew’s instructions and wait for your turn.
5. My little trick: Send Daddy to queue first! 😂
When departing from Bintan Ferry side, once the relevant queue opens, my husband usually heads over first while I manage the boys and our belongings.
This saves us from having two impatient children standing in a queue unnecessarily!
Of course, we regroup and follow the crew’s instructions before proceeding through any required checks.
6. Consider Emerald Class if you’re travelling during peak periods
Economy Class works perfectly well for the short journey, but Emerald Class comes with assigned seating, priority boarding and disembarkation, and lounge privileges.
If you’re travelling during a school holiday or prefer a smoother experience, it may be worth comparing the price difference.
7. Remember the one-hour time difference
Bintan is one hour behind Singapore.
Do take note when planning your ferry, hotel transfers and activities!
8. Arrange your hotel transfer before arriving
Holiday Inn Resort Bintan advertises complimentary return transfers between Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal and the resort.
The hotel requests ferry details at least 48 hours before arrival.
I’d recommend confirming this directly with the hotel before your trip.
9. Check your travel documents
Everyone needs their own valid passport, including children.
Check the latest Indonesia entry requirements, passport validity rules and any applicable arrival declarations before travelling.
2. Our Stay at Holiday Inn Resort Bintan Lagoi Beach
For this getaway, we wanted something simple.
Somewhere the boys could enjoy themselves without us having to plan activities from morning till night, while we parents could relax too.
And that’s what made Holiday Inn Resort Bintan such an appealing choice for us.
The resort has plenty of family-friendly facilities, and with Lagoi Beach nearby, there’s a nice balance of indoor and outdoor activities.
We spent most of our time enjoying the resort itself rather than travelling around Bintan.
Our Room: A Comfortable Retreat for the Family
After the ferry journey and hotel transfer, it was lovely to settle into our room.
With two boys, I always appreciate having enough space to unpack, move around and relax between activities.
Our room was comfortable for our family of four, and it was nice having a cosy place to return to after a full day of swimming and play.
The resort offers several room categories, including rooms and suites with different layouts and views.
HengMom tip: When booking with young children, don’t just compare the cheapest room rates. Check the bed configuration, maximum occupancy and whether breakfast is included.
You might also want to consider a pool-access room if your family loves swimming, although direct pool access requires extra supervision with young children.
🏨 Compare room options and rates on Agoda
We usually bring along our inflatable bed when we travel, so the boys have extra sleeping space without all of us squeezing onto one bed 😂 Sharing the one we use here if you’re looking for something similar
3. Mangrove House Kids Club: A Huge Hit with Our Boys!
One of the biggest highlights of our stay was definitely the Mangrove House Kids Club.
The boys had so much fun with the play facilities and activities, and it was lovely seeing them happily occupied.
The resort offers indoor and outdoor play areas, with activities designed for children.
There’s also complimentary daily playtime, while supervised half-day and full-day programmes are available separately for eligible children.
Can You Drop Your Kids Off at Holiday Inn Bintan Kids Club?
This is something I’d recommend checking carefully before your stay.
The resort advertises two hours of complimentary Kids Club play daily. Supervised programmes are designed for children aged 4–12, with separate registration, availability and possible charges.
If you’re hoping to leave your children at the Kids Club while enjoying some adults-only time, contact the resort beforehand to confirm the arrangements.
HengMom Tip: Book the Kids Club in Advance!
This is probably one of the most important tips I’d share, especially if you’re visiting during weekends, public holidays or Singapore school holidays.
If you’re planning to use a supervised drop-off programme, contact the resort before arriving to check availability and reserve your preferred session.
I wouldn’t leave it until check-in, particularly if you’re coordinating it with a spa appointment.
Also, remember to bring socks for the Kids Club!
And Yes… Mummy Finally Got Her Spa Time! 😂
One of the BEST things about having a four-year-old?
He’s finally old enough for certain supervised Kids Club programmes!
While the boys were enjoying their activities, I managed to squeeze in some much-needed relaxation at Sunjivva Spa.
The spa offers a range of wellness treatments, and it was lovely having a little pocket of time to unwind.
My advice: Book your spa appointment in advance too, particularly during peak periods.
The hotel’s spa information recommends advance reservations to secure your preferred treatment time.
I’d coordinate the Kids Club session first, then arrange the spa appointment around it.
Happy kids AND Mummy gets a massage? Now that’s my kind of family holiday! 💆🏻♀️❤️
4. Resort Activities: Motorised Cars, Swimming and Beach Fun
One thing I appreciated was that the resort had more than just a swimming pool.
There were several activities to keep the boys entertained throughout our stay.
Motorised Cars: One of the Boys’ Favourites!
If your kids love cars, they’ll probably understand why this was such a hit with our boys! 🚗
They had so much fun driving the motorised cars, and it was one of the activities they particularly enjoyed.
These little experiences make a resort holiday more memorable for children.
Do check with the resort for the latest operating hours, age requirements and any applicable charges.
Swimming Pools: Pool Time on Repeat!
Of course, no family resort holiday is complete without swimming!
Our boys were more than happy to spend plenty of time in the water.
The resort has family-friendly swimming facilities, including a children’s pool area.
If you’re travelling with younger children, remember to pack appropriate swim aids and supervise them closely around the pools.
Poolside Happy Hour for Mummy and Daddy 🍹
And while the boys enjoyed their pool time, we got to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere at Strawbella Pool Bar.
The swim-up bar serves drinks and light bites, and the resort has offered poolside happy-hour promotions.
This is exactly the kind of holiday experience I enjoy.
We don’t need a packed itinerary to have a good time — just some pool fun, a relaxing drink and a slower pace than our usual Singapore routine.
Check the current happy-hour timings and offers with the resort.
Beach Time at Lagoi Beach
Another lovely part of staying here is being close to Lagoi Beach.
The beach is near the neighbouring Hotel Indigo, a short walk from Holiday Inn.
Families can also enquire about buggy transport if they don’t feel like walking under the hot sun.
For younger children, I’d recommend heading to the beach earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Bring sunscreen, hats, water and a change of clothes, especially if your kids love sand play!
5. Other Family-Friendly Activities You Might Not Know About
Besides the Kids Club, pools and beach, there are a few lesser-known activities and facilities worth checking out.
These are especially useful if you’re staying for several days or need alternatives when the weather isn’t ideal.
Complimentary Bicycles
There are complimentary bicycle use at the resort, including bicycles with child seats.
If your family enjoys cycling, ask Guest Services about availability, suitable bicycle sizes and whether any charges or restrictions apply.
Koi Fish Feeding
There are scheduled timings for koi fish feeding around the resort.
It’s a simple little activity that younger children may enjoy between meals.
Check with the resort whether fish feeding is currently available and whether staff provide suitable fish food.
Indoor Games and Resort Centre
The resort offers indoor recreation facilities, including activities such as table tennis, foosball, shuffleboard and board games.
These can be useful when it’s raining or the children need a break from swimming.
Buggy Service Around the Resort
The resort grounds are fairly spread out, and the beach is a short walk away.
Some travellers have found the buggy service especially convenient when travelling with young children.
Ask Guest Services about buggy availability and pickup arrangements.
Complimentary Shuttle to Plaza Lagoi
If you’d like a short outing outside the resort, ask about the complimentary shuttle to Plaza Lagoi.
The hotel has advertised an hourly service between 12pm and 9pm, although schedules may change.
Confirm the current timetable and return arrangements before heading out.
Complimentary Sampan Service
I’d recommend asking for the schedule when you arrive at the resort. We missed the timing when we were there
HengMom tip: Ask for the latest resort activity schedule when you arrive. That way, you won’t accidentally miss activities your children might enjoy!
6. Breakfast and Dining: We Had All Our Meals at the Resort!
One thing I particularly appreciated was the convenience of having several dining options within the resort.
We actually had ALL our meals at Holiday Inn Resort Bintan!
No need to search for restaurants, arrange a driver or travel out whenever the boys got hungry.
Parents will know how quickly a relaxing holiday can become stressful when everyone is hungry at the same time. 😂
Breakfast at Warung Pak Lagoi
Our mornings started with breakfast at Warung Pak Lagoi, the resort’s main all-day dining restaurant.
Breakfast includes a buffet spread with local and international options.
Having breakfast at the resort made our mornings much easier.
We could eat, get changed and head straight for swimming or the day’s activities.
Though if grab do delivers there it would be a bonus, but to answer that, no, grab doesn’t delivers there.
What Dining Options Are Available at Holiday Inn Bintan?
The resort lists five dining and refreshment outlets:
1. Warung Pak Lagoi
The main all-day dining restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with Indonesian and international dishes.
2. Ginger Root Lounge
A relaxing spot for coffee, pastries, cakes and refreshments.
3. Strawbella Pool Bar
A swim-up pool bar serving drinks and light bites.
4. Kokonut Snack Bar
A casual option for snacks, juices and treats near the children’s facilities.
5. Strawbella Wheels
A food truck offering casual bites around the pool area.
There’s also in-room dining.
Not all five outlets are full-service restaurants, but together they provide a good range of dining and refreshment options for a resort-focused holiday.
Kids Eat Free: A Nice Bonus for Families!
Another family-friendly benefit is Holiday Inn’s Kids Stay and Eat Free programme.
Eligible children can enjoy Kids Eat Free privileges at Warung Pak Lagoi, subject to the hotel’s programme conditions.
The resort also advertises complimentary stays for up to two children under 12 sharing a room with up to two adults, subject to room occupancy and availability.
For dining, do check the age requirements, children’s menu and accompanying adult conditions.
It’s a nice perk when travelling with more than one child!
Can You Dine at Neighbouring Hotel Indigo?
If you’re staying longer and want a change of scenery, you can also explore dining options at neighbouring Hotel Indigo Bintan Lagoi Beach.
One option is SugarBEATS Beach Club, which offers a beachfront dining atmosphere.
Do check the restaurant’s current opening hours and reservation requirements, particularly during weekends and school holidays.
Also, don’t assume the Holiday Inn Kids Eat Free privilege applies at every neighbouring outlet.
7. Things to Do in Bintan with Kids Beyond the Resort
If you’re staying for three days or more, you might want to include an excursion outside the resort.
Two activities worth considering are the Bintan Mangrove Tour and Bintan Fireflies Tour.
Although they explore the same general mangrove environment, they offer different experiences and can be booked separately.
Bintan Mangrove Tour: A Nature Adventure for Kids
The daytime mangrove tour takes you on a guided boat ride through the Sebung River mangrove forest.
Depending on the conditions and a little luck, you may spot monkeys, birds, monitor lizards and other wildlife.
I love the educational aspect of this activity because it gives children a chance to explore a different ecosystem.
It’s also a great opportunity to talk about why mangroves matter, how they protect coastlines and why wildlife habitats are important.
Tips for families:
- Choose a morning or late-afternoon departure if possible.
- Bring hats, water and insect repellent.
- Make sure suitable life jackets are available for your children.
- Manage expectations — wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed.
🌿 Book the Bintan Mangrove Tour on Klook
➡️ Read about our experience here
Bintan Fireflies Tour: A Magical Evening Experience
The fireflies tour takes place after dark.
You’ll travel by boat along the mangrove river, looking for fireflies glowing among the trees.
It’s a lovely way to introduce children to bioluminescence — the ability of living organisms to produce light.
For families with younger children, the main consideration is the timing.
Because the tour happens in the evening, I’d recommend having an early dinner and considering whether your child will be comfortable on a boat after dark.
Tips for families:
- Check the departure and hotel pickup times.
- Bring insect repellent.
- Keep children seated and wearing their life jackets.
- Avoid using bright camera flashes.
- Remember that sightings depend on weather and natural conditions.
✨ Book the Bintan Fireflies Tour on Klook
➡️ Read about our experience here
HengMom tip: You don’t necessarily need to do both tours on the same day. If you’re travelling with younger children, spacing them out can make the experience more enjoyable.
8. Suggested 3D2N Bintan Itinerary with Kids
If you’re planning a short family getaway, here’s how I’d structure it without making the schedule too packed.
Day 1: Singapore to Bintan + Resort Fun
Morning
- Take the ferry from Tanah Merah to Bintan.
- Transfer to Holiday Inn Resort Bintan.
- Have lunch and explore the resort.
Afternoon
- Check into your room.
- Enjoy swimming and the children’s facilities.
- Explore the Kids Club and check the activity schedule.
Evening
- Dinner at the resort.
- Relax and have an early night.
Day 2: Kids Club, Spa and Beach
Morning
- Enjoy the breakfast buffet.
- Let the kids enjoy their booked Kids Club activities.
- Parents can arrange spa time if supervised drop-off is available.
Afternoon
- Lunch at the resort.
- Motorised car fun or other activities.
- Swimming and poolside relaxation.
Evening
- Enjoy Lagoi Beach.
- Return for dinner at the resort.
Alternative: Replace the evening with a fireflies tour.
Day 3: Slow Morning + Ferry Home
Morning
- Enjoy breakfast.
- Fit in one last swim or some playtime.
- Pack and check out.
Afternoon
- Go for the mangrove tour if you are taking a later timing ferry
- Take the hotel transfer to the ferry terminal.
- Return to Singapore.
My advice: Don’t try to squeeze too many excursions into a 3D2N stay.
One of the biggest benefits of a resort holiday is being able to slow down!
9. What to Pack for Bintan with Kids
Here’s my quick family packing checklist:
- Passports and travel documents
- Ferry tickets and hotel confirmation
- Swimwear, goggles and swim aids
- Sunscreen and hats
- Insect repellent
- Sandals and comfortable footwear
- Socks for the Kids Club
- Snacks and water bottles
- Wet wipes and a change of clothes
- Small activities, books or an e-reader for the ferry
- Essential medications
If you’re planning the fireflies tour, I’d also pack a light layer for the evening boat ride.
10. Frequently Asked Questions About Holiday Inn Resort Bintan
Is Holiday Inn Resort Bintan good for young children?
Based on our experience, yes!
The Kids Club, swimming facilities, beach access and resort activities make it an appealing choice for families with young children.
However, check the age requirements for supervised Kids Club programmes if you’re hoping to arrange some adults-only time.
How long is the ferry from Singapore to Bintan?
The ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Bandar Bentan Telani takes approximately 60 minutes.
Allow additional time for check-in, immigration, baggage collection and hotel transfers.
Does Holiday Inn Resort Bintan provide complimentary ferry transfers?
The resort advertises complimentary return transfers when ferry details are provided at least 48 hours before arrival.
Confirm the arrangement directly with the hotel.
Email to reservations.holidayinnresortbintan@ihg.com for reservations.
Is the Kids Club free at Holiday Inn Resort Bintan?
The resort advertises two hours of complimentary daily Kids Club play.
Supervised programmes have separate eligibility requirements and may incur additional charges.
Should I book the Kids Club in advance?
If you’re planning to use supervised drop-off, I’d strongly recommend contacting the resort before arrival, especially during weekends and school holidays.
This is particularly important if you’re coordinating the session with a spa appointment.
You may explore the available options and contact the team through the following link
Holiday Inn
Email to reservations.holidayinnresortbintan@ihg.com for reservations.
Do I need to book Sunjivva Spa in advance?
Yes, advance booking is recommended if you want a particular treatment or appointment time.
I’d avoid relying on walk-in availability during peak periods.
Email to sunjivva.spa@ihg.com for reservations.
Do kids eat free at Holiday Inn Resort Bintan?
Eligible children can enjoy Kids Eat Free privileges at Warung Pak Lagoi, subject to the hotel’s age, menu and accompanying adult conditions.
Check the current terms before ordering.
Is the beach directly outside Holiday Inn Resort Bintan?
Lagoi Beach is near the neighbouring Hotel Indigo, a short walk from Holiday Inn.
You can also enquire about buggy transport.
Is two nights enough for Bintan with kids?
For a resort-focused holiday, I think 3D2N is a nice starting point.
If you want to explore more of Bintan, including the mangrove and fireflies tours, you could consider staying longer.
Is Emerald Class worth it on the Bintan ferry?
If you value assigned seats, priority boarding and lounge access, Emerald Class may be worthwhile.
For families on a budget, Economy Class works too — just try to board early so everyone can sit together.
11. Our Verdict: Is Holiday Inn Resort Bintan Worth It for Families?
For us, the biggest appeal of Holiday Inn Resort Bintan Lagoi Beach was how easy it made our family holiday.
The boys had plenty to keep them entertained, from the Kids Club and motorised cars to swimming and beach time.
Meanwhile, we parents could slow down, enjoy our meals, relax by the pool and even squeeze in some spa time.
And because we had all our meals within the resort, we didn’t have to spend much time arranging transport or planning where to eat.
Would I recommend it?
If you’re looking for a short, relaxing Bintan getaway from Singapore with young children, I think it’s definitely worth considering.
If your family prefers sightseeing, exploring local attractions and trying lots of restaurants outside the hotel, I’d suggest adding another day and planning some excursions too.
For us, sometimes the best family holidays aren’t the ones where we do the most — they’re the ones where everyone has fun, and Mummy and Daddy get to relax a little too. ❤️
Book Your Bintan Family Getaway
Here are the links to help you plan your trip!
🏨 Holiday Inn Resort Bintan Lagoi Beach
Check hotel rates and availability on Agoda
Try promo code HENGXAGODA for up to 10% off eligible bookings, subject to the current promotion terms.
⛴️ Singapore–Bintan Ferry
Book Bintan Resorts Ferry tickets on Klook
🌿 Bintan Mangrove Tour
Check Mangrove Tour packages on Klook
✨ Bintan Fireflies Tour
Check Fireflies Tour packages on Klook
You can also try our Klook promo code HENGXKLOOK on eligible bookings, subject to the current promotion terms.
Disclosure: Some links in this article are affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you make a booking through them, at no additional cost to you. Our recommendations are based on our family’s experiences and travel research.
Planning a Bintan Trip with Kids?
Have a question about the ferry, Kids Club, spa or resort facilities?
Leave us a comment below! We’re always happy to share what we’ve learnt from travelling with our two boys.
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For more family travel ideas, follow our adventures on Instagram @hengtrails. ❤️
Love family getaways with a mix of beach time and kid-friendly activities? You might also enjoy our 7-day Penang family itinerary, where we share our favourite places to stay, eat and play.
