Ria Bintan is widely recognized as the best golf course in Riau, offering a world-class golfing experience complemented by stunning ocean views. Conveniently located and easily accessible from Singapore, this golf destination combines a unique coastal course and forest course designed to suit players of all skill levels.
This article will explore the course design, premium facilities, and overall playing experience that make Ria Bintan Golf a top choice for golfers seeking both quality and scenic beauty in one destination.
Golf Course with Ocean View That Elevates the Game
What makes Ria Bintan stand out goes beyond the fairways. It is the setting itself, where the South China Sea frames every round, that turns a good game into an unforgettable one.
Overview of Ria Bintan Golf
Established in 1998, Ria Bintan Golf Club has grown into one of Asia’s most celebrated golfing destinations. Both courses were designed by golf legend Gary Player, who himself ranks Ria Bintan among his top 10 favourite courses out of the more than 300 he has designed worldwide. The club has been consistently named the best golf course in Asia and Indonesia, and has hosted numerous regional events including the annual Ria Bintan Open.
Location
Ria Bintan Golf Club is located at Jalan Perigi Raja, Lagoi, Bintan Resorts, Riau Islands, Indonesia. For golfers from Singapore, access is straightforward: a short ferry ride to Bintan Resort Ferry Terminal followed by a land transfer to the club. The proximity makes Ria Bintan a popular weekend escape for Singaporean golfers who want a premium course experience without a lengthy travel commitment.
Affiliates
Ria Bintan Golf Club is part of a network of prestigious golf destinations, affiliated with Eco City International Club, Spring City Golf and Lake Resort, Marina at Keppel Bay, and Sedona Yangon. This network reflects the club’s standing as a serious, internationally recognized golfing destination.
Membership
For golfers who visit regularly, Ria Bintan offers membership through its Elite Golf Plan (EGP). Members enjoy unlimited green fees and driving range access, special accommodation rates at Ria Golf Lodge, arrival and departure land transfers, buggy and personal caddy service, plus discounts on merchandise at the Pro Shop, restaurant, and spa. The EGP membership is available on a one-year term basis. For frequent visitors from Singapore, it is one of the most rewarding ways to maximise every trip.
Multi-Concept Golf Experience Beyond the Ocean View
Ria Bintan offers more than one way to play, making it suitable for a quick game or a full day out on the course.
Coastal Course Experience
The Ocean Course is the flagship experience at Ria Bintan. This 18-hole, Par 72 championship course stretches 6,470 metres from the black tee, with a course rating of 74.9 and slope of 131. What sets it apart is the dramatic coastal scenery that reveals itself hole by hole. At Hole 7, the South China Sea opens up in full view. Hole 8’s green is flanked by ocean on three sides, and Hole 9 presents a rocky outcrop tee-off that challenges even seasoned players. Greens are laid with Bermuda Tifdwarf grass, ensuring a consistent, quality playing surface.
Forest Course Alternative for Varied Play
For a contrasting experience, the Forest Course offers a 9-hole round set within mature tropical woodlands and serene lake views. It plays to Par 36 over 2,987 metres from the black tee, with a course rating of 73.2 and slope of 131. The varied bunkers and fairways make it both challenging and rewarding. Note that the Forest Course is currently closed for improvements, so do check the latest status before visiting.
Flexible Play with 18-Hole and 9-Hole Options
Whether you have a full day or just a few hours, Ria Bintan accommodates both. The Ocean Course provides a complete 18-hole round, while the Forest Course offers a shorter 9-hole option when available. Golfers can also book under a Just Golf or Stay and Play package depending on their preferences.
Premium Facilities for Maximum Comfort
A world-class course deserves world-class support. Ria Bintan delivers on every front.
Driving Range
The 20-bay driving range is open daily from 8am to 5pm, featuring both mat and turf practice tees with measured distances to the landing areas. It is an ideal warm-up spot before heading out on the course. Rates are Rp140,000 for 100 balls and Rp70,000 for 40 balls.
Accommodation
Ria Bintan Golf Lodge provides 27 contemporary guest rooms, available in Par, Birdie, Eagle, and Albatross categories, accommodating up to three adults per room. Each room combines modern comfort with views of the rolling greens and the South China Sea, making the Stay and Play package a compelling option for golfers flying in from Singapore.
Pro Shop
Open daily from 7am to 7pm, the Pro Shop carries a curated range of golf attire, accessories, and limited edition memorabilia. Whether you need to gear up or find something to bring home, it has you covered.
F&B Outlet
Post-round dining is handled by Teebites, the club’s restaurant serving snacks, finger food, and Asian dishes from 6:30am to 7pm on weekdays and until 9pm on weekends. For a more relaxed evening, the H19 Lounge and Karaoke is open from 11am to 11pm, subject to occupancy, offering drinks and entertainment to wind down the day.
Conclusion
For golfers searching for the best golf course in Riau, Ria Bintan delivers on every measure: course design by Gary Player, dramatic ocean views, two distinct playing environments, and a full suite of on-site facilities. It is a destination that earns its reputation not just for the scenery, but for the quality of every round played. Whether you are visiting for a day trip from Singapore or planning a full golf retreat, Ria Bintan Golf Club is the clear choice. Book your tee time now at riabintan.com and experience why it remains Asia’s top golfing destination.