Tanjung Pinang (Bintan)
The capital of the Riau Islands, and much easier to reach than you’d think.
Getting there: Ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Tanjung Pinang takes about 1 hour 40 minutes. Ferries run about 4 times a day. Book early for better prices.
Photography spots:
500 Lohan Temple — Rows of intricate Buddha statues in a meditative outdoor setting. The symmetrical alignment and dramatic light filtering through make for stunning shots. Best visited mid-morning for fewer crowds and softer light.
Gurun Pasir Busung (Blue Lake & Sand Dunes) — A former mining site transformed into a surreal landscape of golden sand dunes and a blue-green lake. Locals call it “the Dubai of Bintan.” Best light is before 11:30am or after 2pm.
Telaga Biru & Danau Kawal — Blue lakes surrounded by photogenic spots that most tourists walk past. Great for reflection shots.
Mangrove forests — Boat rides through the mangroves offer a completely different landscape to your usual beach shots.
