I never imagined I would stroll along empty beaches in Indonesia – until I visited Batam!
Just a short ferry ride from Singapore, Batam is a small island rich in Malay, Chinese, and Indonesian influences. The best places to stay in Batam open a window into the island’s unique cultural heritage.
And let me tell you, there is a lot to learn.
With dizzying tourism growth in recent years, Batam is expanding its infrastructure to include golf courses, resorts, casinos—you name it. It’s a favourite with Singaporeans looking for respite from the hum of the city’s skyscrapers (spend a day in Singapore, and you’ll understand).
Since getting from one part of the island to the next can be a little challenging, staying in the right place is important.
For example, Nagoya is known for its malls, restaurants, and nightlife, while areas like Nongsa and Waterfront City are more peaceful, with upscale resorts scattering the beaches.
Check out my summary of the best regions of Batam to stay in my comprehensive guide.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Where is the Best Place to Stay in Batam?
So, here we are right at the start of this epic adventure, I’m gonna turn your world upside down with these selections. Or at least help elevate your backpacking trip in Indonesia to the next level. Let’s goooo!
Harris Hotel Batam Center | Best Budget Hotel in Batam
One of my personal favourite hotels on this list, the Harris Hotel Batam Center, is quite literally across the street from the Ferry Terminal, making it one of the most convenient places to stay in Batam. Being the only skyscraper in the area, all rooms are promised exceptional views of either the sea or the island and city.
Another highlight is the on-site restaurants, with one cafe serving delicious local Indonesian and Southeast Asian cuisine and another specializing in Italian food.
Turi Beach Resort | Best Hotel in Batam
Turi Beach Resort is set right on the beach in Nongsa, with a private beach area that leads into the property gardens and pools. It offers everything from private suites to self-contained villas, all following the local bamboo and wooden architectural style.
There is a gorgeous reef in front of the hotel (which is great for easy snorkelling), as well as a sizable golf course at the back end of the property.
One Bed Modern Apartment | Best Airbnb in Batam
For a modern apartment that looks like it fell out of the pages of a Scandinavian interior magazine, check out this city-centre studio in Nagoya. In addition to its stylish design and decor, the small flat includes access to shared building amenities, including a children’s playground, pool, and gym.
Batam Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Batam
Nagoya
If this is your first time visiting Batam, Nagoya is the most central part of the island. Staying here feels like being right at the island’s pulse. It’s lively and busy, with endless dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
Batam Kota (Batam Center)
Now, you might wonder, ‘Why would I stay in a city when I could be by the coast?’ Well, Batam Kota isn’t your average city. It’s relatively low-rise, close to the beach, and has a surprisingly relaxed vibe.
Nongsa
Nongsa offers a completely different experience. This serene retreat by the sea is located on the island’s northern coastline. Staying here feels more like a relaxing sanctuary, with just enough luxury resorts so the beaches aren’t crowded with screaming children!
Batam Island is part of Indonesia’s Riau Archipelago, just across the Singapore Strait from the bustling neighbouring city itself. It spans around 340 square miles, which, although small, actually makes it one of the larger islands in the area.
Despite its small size, the island offers diverse experiences, from busy urban centres to relaxing coastal retreats.
Nagoya, sometimes referred to by locals as Lubuk Baja, is Batam’s commercial and financial hub. It has shopping malls, restaurants, and a buzzing local nightlife scene. Although not many ex-pats live here, the Batam neighbourhood is known for having a mix of modern amenities and shops as well as local markets and warungs (AKA local restaurants).
Batam Kota is the island’s administrative centre and serves as Batam’s governmental hub. It’s famous for business travellers and is home to the ferry terminal that shuttles tourists to and from Singapore and Malaysia. You could think of it as the gateway into Batam. Since it’s one of the more built-up parts of the island, plenty of affordable accommodation is available here. You can choose from homestays to apartment rentals to budget hotels.
Located along the northeastern coastline, Nongsa is a spread-out region known for its rolling hills and stunning beaches. This is where you’ll find the best resorts, golf courses, and country clubs. It is a beautiful place in Indonesia to visit.
Whether you’re looking for a wind-swept beach escape at a resort or a city-slicker apartment in the hub of Batam’s activity, this list should help you better understand the areas and accommodations offered on the island.
Batam’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Although there are a few options for where to stay in Batam, the island is pretty small and easy to get around (as long as you’re willing to rent a car or get on the back of a Gojek motorbike!) So, wherever you stay, you’ll never be too far from the city or the beach.
If picking a spot seems overwhelming, here are Batams best neighbourhoods and top accommodations:
1. Nagoya – Where to Stay in Batam for Your First Time
If this is your first time visiting Batam, Nagoya is the most central part of the island. Staying here feels like being right at the island’s pulse. It’s lively and busy, with endless dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The streets are bustling with local markets and modern malls during the day, and karaoke lounges and bars at night.
I love this area for first-timers because it’s super well-connected, with well-maintained roads and plenty of Gojek drivers (Indonesia’s equivalent of Uber) to take you where your heart desires. Although it’s always energetic, I felt comfortable with Nagoya’s urban buzz. That said, it’s the type of place where you want to base yourself if you thrive in busy environments.
I Hotel | Best Hotel in Nagoya
The I Hotel in Nagoya is one of the most sophisticated on the island. Its entire aesthetic is aimed at pleasing those who appreciate luxury, style, and simplicity. Features like moody lighting and Indonesian art bring the space together beautifully and with an authentic vibe.
While it is one of the best places to stay in Batam for business travellers to stay in Batam (you only have to check out the boardroom and banquet halls to see why), I rate it for its family-friendly amenities and close proximity to the ferry terminal.
Yello Hotel Harbour Bay | Best Budget Hotel in Nagoya
There is something about the Yello Hotel Harbour Bay that feels refreshing and vibrant. The space is designed with modern interiors and touches of yellow throughout – not a big surprise considering its name! The rooftop deck is my favourite place to hang out at sunset, with epic sweeping views across the city.
The rooms are well-designed and much more spacious than you’d expect from an affordable hotel. On top of this, everything is spotlessly clean. For $40 a night, you can’t ask for much more.
Modern Apartment with Gym Access | Best Rental Unit in Nagoya
This apartment would fit right in in an upmarket building in Sweden. It’s designed with Scandinavian simplicity and style, with neutral interiors, built-in cabinetry, and a space for everything.
This stunning apartment is located in the heart of Nagoya, near Nagoya Hill Mall, Batam Mall, Penuin Market and BCS Mall. Yup, there is a lot of shopping to do around here! And when you’ve stocked up on your retail goodies, this modern apartment is the perfect place to unwind and catch a break from the humidity.
Things to See and Do in Nagoya
- Get your shopping in at the Nagoya Citywalk and Diamond City Mall
- Take your pick of local street food at the Utama 98 Food Court
- Indulge in fresh Indonesian seafood at Okela Garden
- Join a day tour of the island with lunch included
- Admire the beautiful Chinese architecture of the Budhi Bhakti Temple
- Have dinner by the seaside at Harbour Bay Seafood
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. Batam Kota (Batam Center) – Best Place to Stay in Batam on a Budget
Now, you might wonder, ‘Why would I stay in a city when I could be by the coast?’ Well, Batam Kota isn’t your average city. It’s relatively low-rise, close to the beach, and has a surprisingly relaxed vibe.
It might be the island’s administrative centre, but this city has more to offer than the Mega Mall Batam Center and the Ferry Terminal that links the island with Singapore. It has a more local, everyday feel, with community spaces like gardens and squares. Oh, and it does help that there are plenty of places for budget travellers to stay in this neighbourhood in Batam.
Harris Hotel Batam Center | Best Hotel in Batam Kota
The Harris Hotel might look like your average skyscraper, but it is so much more. It sits on the water’s edge beside Batam Kota’s Ferry Terminal, which offers a direct link to Singapore. But its position isn’t just convenient for weekend travellers; it also provides some of the most outstanding views over the island.
Just make sure to pick a room with a sea view, and you can gaze out across the tropics with a coffee in your bathrobe every morning. The hotel also knows how to cater to travelling families, offering free cots for those who need them.
Oxy Suites at Shop House | Best Budget Accommodation in Batam Kota
If you’re looking for a space that is all your own, the Oxy Suites are the perfect middle ground between a hostel and a self-catering vacation rental. The room looks like a classic student bedroom, with a work desk (digital nomads, I’m looking at you) and a bunk bed sleeping setup.
Although the space is tight, the bathroom has a generously sized rainwater shower and is spotlessly clean.
Modern One Bed Apartment with Gym and Pool | Best Private Rental in Batam Kota
You won’t believe how affordable this studio apartment in Batam Kota is. It’s located on the 51st floor of a skyscraper, which means epic uninterrupted views of the island from the incredible floor-to-ceiling windows.
It’s centrally located so you can quickly grab a coffee downstairs in the morning or unwind with a beer at the pub below the apartment in the evening without feeling rushed. Another thing that makes this one of the best places to stay in Batam is the swimming pool, which is much needed in a place this humid and hot.
Things to See and Do in Batam Kota
- Catch a live music show at the Central Square Garden
- Hike up the golden cliffs at Tanah Hitam
- Drink Indonesian tea at Jomtea Mega Legenda
- Ride the Ferris wheel at Ocarina Beach
- Indulge in a spa day at Top 2 Toe Spa
- Drive an ATV, or play paintball at the Batam Adventure Park
- Eat street food along Jalang Raja Alikelana
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
Jetpac eSIMs work just like an app: you download it, pick your plan, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!3. Nongsa – Best District in Batam For A Luxury Beach Holiday
Compared with Batam Kota and Nagoya, Nongsa offers a completely different experience. This serene retreat by the sea is located on the island’s northern coastline. Staying here feels more like a relaxing sanctuary, with just enough luxury resorts so the beaches aren’t crowded with screaming children!
Aside from beaches, the area is popular with country clubs and golf courses. It’s a nature lovers paradise. As you walk along the quiet beaches, it’s easy to forget how close you are to the bustling urban centres of the island.
Nongsa Village | Best Resort in Nongsa
Tucked away in the lush greenery of Nongsa Point, Nongsa Village is a hotel made up of self-contained villas. The villas follow a traditional Indonesian design, with plenty of dark wooden furniture and a touch of modern elegance.
When you aren’t chilling in your private villa, the ocean is a mere stroll away. Start your day with a dip in the sea at the hotel’s private beach area, and spend the rest of the day lounging by the swimming pool. This is what I call bliss.
Turi Beach Resort | Another Great Resort in Nongsa
Turi Beach Resort is the quintessential Indonesian resort. It offers a variety of rooms, from suites to multiple-bedroom private villas, and is set right on the banks of the sea in this awesome Batam neighbourhood.
Like most resorts, its facilities make it special: Think tennis courts, watersports, and a gorgeous private beach. The breakfast buffet is out of this world, and the hotel feels secluded and serene no matter the season.
Traditional Two-Bed Villa with Private Pool and Jacuzzi | Best Self-Catering Villa in Nongsa
This traditional two-bedroom villa is here to help you live out your tropical dreams. It’s set in a gated community in Nongsa, nestled in a bamboo grove.
In fact, it’s linked with the Turi Beach Resort mentioned above, so visitors can access the resort’s pool, private beach, hot tub, and gym. It’s pretty much the perfect combination between a resort and a private self-catering villa.
Things to See and Do in Nongsa
- Settle in at The Island Bar at the Turi Beach Resort
- Check out the yachts docked along the Nongsa Marina
- Join a full-day tour with Kelong lunch included
- Take a short hike to the Nongsa Point Rocks
- Admire the beauty of the Nongsa Mangroves
- Hire some jet skis at the Cabana Club
- Play a round of golf at the Batam Island Country Club
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Batam
So, you wanna know more about all the great places to stay in Batam, what a coincidence, cus I’ve just written this FAQ. What are the chances!?
What To Pack For Batam
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Batam
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Batam.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Batam
Being just a short ferry ride from Singapore, Batam is most popular with Singaporean locals who visit for weekend getaways. Like other parts of Indonesia, it’s popular for its stunning beaches and resorts. However, unlike Bali and other popular attractions, it still has a much more authentic and local feel.
I recommend this island for travellers on a budget since there are plenty of affordable places to stay in Batam.
That said, there are a few extravagant hotels and gorgeous apartments on the market, too. Take, for example, this One-Bedroom Modern Apartment with Gym Access in Nagoya. If unique accommodation is your vibe, you might want to check out the villas at Nongsa Village.
Either way, you’re gonna have a great time. Enjoy!
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking around Indonesia.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Southeast Asia backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
