Located just a short journey from Singapore, Ria Bintan Golf Club offers a well-rounded golf retreat designed for players seeking both performance and relaxation. As interest in golf tourism continues to grow, proximity, course quality, and integrated facilities have become key considerations in planning an efficient golf trip. This article explores how Ria Bintan positions itself as a strategic golf resort near Singapore, combining thoughtfully designed courses, comfortable accommodations, and supporting amenities to create a seamless and enjoyable golfing experience.
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Ria Bintan: A Must-Visit Golf Course Near Singapore
Ria Bintan Golf Club is one of Asia’s top golfing destinations, and its reputation is well-earned. Here is what makes it stand out as the go-to golf resort near Singapore.
Overview of Ria Bintan
Established in 1998, Ria Bintan Golf Club spans 447 hectares within the Bintan Resorts area in Lagoi, Kepulauan Riau, Indonesia. The club features two courses designed by golf legend Gary Player, who himself ranks Ria Bintan among his top 10 favourite courses out of more than 300 he has designed. The club has been consistently recognised as the best golf course in Asia and Indonesia, and holds the Certified Audubon International Classic and Cooperative Sanctuary certification, making it the first course in Indonesia to receive this distinction.
Strategic Location
Ria Bintan is easily accessible from Singapore via a short ferry ride to Bintan, making it a practical choice for weekend golf trips. The proximity means golfers can escape the city, play a full round on award-winning courses, and return without the hassle of long-haul travel. For Singaporeans looking for a quality golf resort just across the border, Ria Bintan delivers on both accessibility and experience.
Affiliates
Ria Bintan Golf Club is affiliated with Eco City International Club, Spring City Golf and Lake Resort, Marina at Keppel Bay, and Sedona Yangon. These affiliations reflect the club’s standing within a wider network of premium golf and leisure destinations across the region.
Golf Courses Designed for Performance and Enjoyment
Ria Bintan offers two distinct courses, each designed to challenge and reward golfers of different skill levels. Whether you prefer ocean views or forest surroundings, there is a course that fits your game.
Ocean Course
The Ocean Course is an 18-hole, par-72 championship layout stretching 6,470 metres from the black tee, with a course rating of 74.9 and slope of 131. Cut through the native jungle of Riau, the course opens up dramatically at its signature holes. Hole 7 reveals the South China Sea, Hole 8 is surrounded by ocean views on three sides, and Hole 9 features a rocky outcrop tee-off that challenges even seasoned golfers. Greens are laid with Bermuda Tifdwarf grass for consistent playing conditions year-round.
Forest Course
The Forest Course is a 9-hole, par-36 layout covering 2,987 metres from the black tee, with a course rating of 73.2 and slope of 131. Set within mature woodlands with serene lake views, the course offers a quieter but technically demanding round. Varied bunkers and fairways make it both challenging and rewarding, particularly for players looking to sharpen their short game.
Play Your Way with 18-Hole or 9-Hole Options
Golfers can choose between the full 18-hole Ocean Course or the 9-hole Forest Course depending on time and preference. This flexibility makes Ria Bintan suitable for both those planning a full-day golf outing and those fitting in a shorter session as part of a broader trip itinerary.
Accommodation for a Comfortable Golf Stay
Ria Bintan Golf Lodge features 27 contemporary guest rooms designed to complement the golfing experience. Rooms offer scenic views of rolling greens overlooking the South China Sea, giving guests a direct connection to the course environment even off the fairway. Room categories include Par, Birdie, Eagle, and Albatross, each with modern amenities and accommodation suitable for up to three adults per room. The Stay and Play package allows golfers to combine their rounds with overnight stays for a more relaxed and complete trip.
Facilities That Support a Complete Golf Trip
Beyond the courses and rooms, Ria Bintan provides the supporting infrastructure that makes a golf trip run smoothly. Every key facility is on-site, so golfers can focus entirely on their game and recovery.
Driving Range
The 20-bay driving range features both mat and turf practice tees, with measured distances to landing areas so golfers can calibrate their club selection before heading out to the course. It is open daily from 8am to 5pm. Rates are Rp. 140,000 for 100 balls and Rp. 70,000 for 40 balls, making it an accessible warm-up option for all visitors.
Pro Shop
Open daily from 7am to 7pm, the Pro Shop stocks a range of golf attire, accessories, and limited-edition Ria Bintan memorabilia. Whether you need to top up your gear before a round or pick up a souvenir after, the Pro Shop covers the essentials without requiring a trip off-site.
F&B Outlet
The Food and Beverage Outlet at Ria Bintan offers more than post-round refreshments. Teebites restaurant serves snacks, finger food, and Asian dishes from 6:30am to 7:00pm on weekdays and until 9:00pm on weekends. The H19 Lounge and Karaoke is available from 11:00am to 11:00pm, giving golfers a space to unwind after their round.
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Conclusion
For Singaporeans planning a golf trip, Ria Bintan Golf delivers on every front. It offers championship-level courses designed by Gary Player, flexible play formats, on-site accommodation with scenic views, and a full suite of supporting facilities. The short travel distance from Singapore makes it one of the most practical and high-quality golf resorts in the region. If you are ready to plan your next golf trip, visit riabintan.com to check rates, availability, and current packages.