Waterfront City Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Waterfront City in Batam, Indonesia. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, this travel guide provides all the necessary information to plan the perfect trip.


Introduction to Waterfront City

Located in Batam, Riau Islands, Sumatra, Indonesia, Waterfront City is a must-visit destination for those seeking a tranquil retreat from the bustling city life. This beautiful coastal city is nestled on the shores of Batam Island and is known for its scenic natural beauty, bountiful outdoor activities, cultural attractions, delicious local cuisine, and welcoming hospitality.

List of Places to Visit in Waterfront City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are interested in Indonesian culture and history, then Waterfront City’s museums and historical places are an excellent way to learn more about the country’s rich heritage. Here are some top attractions you can visit:

  • Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya, a Buddhist temple with stunning architecture and scenery.
  • Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII), a cultural park with replicas of Indonesian traditional houses, museums, and other attractions.
  • Batam Layer Cake & Batik House, where you can learn traditional batik-making and sample the famous Batam layer cake.

Natural Attractions of Waterfront City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Waterfront City is blessed with breathtaking natural surroundings, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you want to go hiking, biking, or birdwatching, you won’t be disappointed. Here are some of the best natural attractions to explore:

  • Barelang Bridge, a chain of six bridges connecting several islands, offering spectacular panoramic views that are especially stunning at sunset.
  • Mangrove Tour, a guided boat tour through the mangrove forest to spot thousands of fireflies.
  • Nongsa Beach, a beautiful white sandy beach with crystal clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Waterfront City

Waterfront City offers some of the best hiking and biking paths for nature lovers. Here are some top routes to explore:

  • Bukit Senyum, a beautiful hill that offers a panoramic vista of Batam Island.
  • Kampung Vietnam - Tanjung Pinggir Loop, a scenic cycling route that covers the local villages and provides a glimpse into the island’s rural life.
  • Gunung Daik’s Jungle Trek, a challenging hike that takes you through the dense jungle, reaching the peak, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in Waterfront City: Activities and Tours

There is no dearth of exciting activities and tours you can enjoy in Waterfront City. Whether you want to take an adventurous motorbike ride or explore the city’s hidden alleys, there is something for everyone. Here are some top-rated activities and tours you should not miss:

  • Motorbike Adventure, an adventure that takes you around the city on a motorbike to explore the best sightseeing spots.
  • Sea Sport Adventure, where you can enjoy a variety of water sports like kayaking, jet skiing, or snorkeling.
  • Batam City Tour, a guided tour that takes you to all the iconic attractions of Waterfront City.

Week-Long Itinerary for Waterfront City

If you have a week to explore Waterfront City, here is a possible itinerary:

Day 1 Arrive in Batam, explore the city, and enjoy the nightlife
Day 2 Take the Motorbike Adventure tour and visit Barelang Bridge and Galang Island
Day 3 Visit Mangrove Tour and explore the local fishing village
Day 4 Go jungle trekking on Gunung Daik and picnic at Nongsa beach
Day 5 Take the Batam City Tour and visit Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya and the Batik House
Day 6 Explore the rural areas by taking the Bike tour to Kampung Vietnam - Tanjung Pinggir Loop
Day 7 Rest and relax by the beach, indulge in a spa treatment, or enjoy the local cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Waterfront City

Indonesia’s culinary scene is characterized by an abundance of spices and herbs, resulting in a wide range of delicious and aromatic dishes. Waterfront City is no exception, with plenty of local delicacies to satisfy your taste buds.

Must-Try Dishes

Here are some must-try dishes you can find in Waterfront City’s local restaurants:

  • Otak-Otak, a grilled fish cake served with peanut sauce.
  • Sate, skewers of grilled meat, from chicken to beef, served with peanut sauce, rice cake, and pickled cucumber.
  • Ikan Bakar, grilled or barbecued fish served with sambal, a spicy chili sauce.

Local Beverages

When it comes to beverages, Indonesia has a rich tradition of producing coffee, tea, and fresh juices. Here are some popular drinks you should try:

  • Teh Tarik, a frothy milk tea that is pulled between two cups to create the signature bubbles.
  • Kopi Luwak, a rare and expensive gourmet coffee made from the beans of civet cats.
  • Es Campur, a refreshing drink made with shaved ice, fruits, and sweet syrups.

Where to Stay in Waterfront City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Waterfront City has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some top picks:

  • Harris Hotel Batam Center, a modern hotel with a central location and easy access to the city’s attractions.
  • Swiss-Belhotel Harbour Bay, a four-star hotel with spacious and elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, and an international restaurant.
  • The Evitel Hotel Batam, a budget-friendly hotel with clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a spa.

What to Buy in Waterfront City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Waterfront City is a haven for souvenir seekers, with plenty of local products and handicrafts to choose from. Here are some things to buy:

  • Batik, a traditional Indonesian textile with intricate patterns that reflect the country’s ethnic and cultural diversity.
  • Layer Cake, a sweet and delicious cake that comes in various flavors and is a popular souvenir among tourists.
  • Kuda Lumping, a unique traditional Javanese puppet that depicts a horse or a dragon.

Local Culture and Customs of Waterfront City

Indonesia has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, influenced by Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity. Waterfront City is no exception, with many cultural practices and traditions that are worth experiencing.

Best Time to Visit Waterfront City

The best time to visit Waterfront City is during the dry season, which lasts from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The peak tourist season is during July and August when hotels and flights can be more expensive.

Do’s and Don’ts of Waterfront City

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Take off your shoes before entering homes or temples.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water, always consume bottled water.
  • Smoke in public places.
  • Be disrespectful towards the local community.

Safety and Health

Safety in Waterfront City

Waterfront City is a safe destination for travelers. However, it is advisable to take precautions to ensure your safety, such as avoiding any political rallies or demonstrations, and not carrying valuable items that may attract unwanted attention.

Health in Waterfront City

Indonesia is generally safe from communicable diseases. However, it is important to take precautionary measures such as using insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites and boiling or filtering water before consumption.

Getting to Waterfront City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Waterfront City

The nearest international airport to Waterfront City is Hang Nadim International Airport (BTH), located about 14 miles from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Waterfront City

From Jakarta, you can take a bus from the Kampung Rambutan Bus Terminal to Batam Center.

Other Options

There are also ferry services available from Singapore and Johor Bahru in Malaysia.

How to Get Around in Waterfront City

Waterfront City has many transportation options, such as taxis, buses, and motorbike rentals. Walking and cycling are also popular and convenient ways to explore the city’s attractions.

Where to Go Next from Waterfront City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time, there are plenty of places to explore near Waterfront City. Here are some suggestions:

  • Bintan Island: A neighboring island with beautiful beaches, resorts, and spas.
  • Singapore: A vibrant and cosmopolitan city-state with a plethora of attractions.
  • Krakatoa Island: An uninhabited volcanic island in the Sunda Strait.

Conclusion

Waterfront City is a fascinating destination with plenty of things to do and see. This travel guide provides all the necessary information to plan a memorable trip that caters to your interests and preferences. From cultural landmarks to natural attractions, Waterfront City has something for everyone.

The Minangkabau-style ferry terminal at Waterfront City The Minangkabau-style ferry terminal at Waterfront City Construction in Waterfront City, with the burned-out hulk of Snow World looming in the background Construction in Waterfront City, with the burned-out hulk of Snow World looming in the background Waterfront City's restaurant and nightlife strip Waterfront City's restaurant and nightlife strip