Located in the strait between Lingga Island and Singkep Island, Pulau Penuba is a tiny little island with a lot to offer the intrepid beach hopper. Two small towns on either end of the island provide basic traveler amenities, but it’s the fantastic beaches that lure visitors here.
There are superb beaches on both Penuba’s northern and southern coasts. The only town on the southern side of the island is Penuba. It has a few shops, basic accommodation and a local mosque. On the northern shore is the town of Tanjung Dua, an equally small and unremarkable place.
Both of these towns serve as decent bases for enjoying the truly stunning stretches of sand and sea that dot these sides of Penuba Island. The swimming is excellent, as is the snorkeling. Don’t expect anything in the way of nightlife or entertainment but that’s how most visitors to this virtually unknown destination like it.
Pulau Penuba features a mix of coastal landscapes, tropical forests, and quaint villages. The island enjoys a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year.
- Traditional Lifestyle: Pulau Penuba is known for its preservation of traditional Malay culture and lifestyle, providing an authentic cultural experience for visitors.
- Eco-Tourism: The island promotes eco-friendly tourism practices, ensuring the conservation of its natural and cultural heritage.
Where to Go
- Pantai Penuba: A pristine beach with white sand and clear waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
- Penuba Village: Explore the traditional Malay village to experience local customs, architecture, and crafts. The village is a great place to learn about the island’s history and culture.
- Pulau Kentar: A nearby island accessible by boat, known for its beautiful coral reefs and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Traditional Boat Building: Visit local workshops to see traditional Malay boat building techniques, a craft that has been passed down through generations.
When to Go
The best time to visit Pulau Penuba is during the dry season, which runs from May to September.
- Dry Season: (May to September) Warm and relatively dry, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). This period experiences less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the island. Perfect for beach outings, snorkeling, diving, hiking, and other water sports. The clear skies and calm seas provide excellent conditions for enjoying the island’s natural beauty and outdoor attractions.
- Wet Season: (October to April) Higher humidity and frequent rainfall, with occasional thunderstorms. Temperatures typically range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). While some outdoor activities might be limited due to rain, this season is suitable for cultural tours, enjoying local cuisine, and indoor activities. The island is less crowded during this time, which can be an advantage if you prefer a quieter experience. Heavy rains can sometimes disrupt ferry services and other travel plans. It’s important to check the weather forecast before your trip and have flexible travel arrangements.
Things to Do
- Beach Relaxation: Spend time on Pulau Penuba’s beaches, soaking up the sun and enjoying the atmosphere.
- Cultural Immersion: Engage with the local community, participate in traditional activities, and savor authentic Malay cuisine.
- Water Sports: Enjoy snorkeling, diving, and kayaking in the clear waters surrounding the island.
- Hiking: Explore the island’s lush greenery and scenic trails, offering a chance to experience its natural beauty up close.
- Fishing: Experience traditional fishing techniques with local fishermen and enjoy the fresh catch of the day.
Getting There
Visitors can reach this tiny island either from Lingga or Singkep via boat. Regular public boats run between Jago on Pulau Singkep and Tanjung Buton on Pulau Lingga several times during the daytime as demand calls. The boat trip takes only 10 minutes or so.
If you are in a rush to get to Pulau Penuba you can easily charter your own boat, but be sure and barter hard to get a fair price. Singapore is the most common starting point to reach this remote place, and the journey takes several hours and a couple of boat changes.
By Air
Raja Haji Fisabilillah International Airport in Tanjung Pinang, Bintan, is the closest major airport. From Tanjung Pinang, you can take a ferry to Pulau Penuba. The airport is well-connected with flights from major Indonesian cities such as Jakarta, Surabaya, and Medan.
By Sea
- From Batam: Regular ferries operate from Telaga Punggur Ferry Terminal in Batam to Pulau Penuba. The journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. Tickets can be purchased at the ferry terminal or online through various ferry operators. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
- From Tanjung Pinang (Bintan): Ferries from Tanjung Pinang on Bintan Island to Pulau Penuba take around 3 to 4 hours. Ferries typically depart from Sri Bintan Pura Ferry Terminal. Similar to the Batam route, tickets can be bought at the terminal or through online booking platforms.
- From Singapore:
- Via Batam: Travel from Singapore to Batam by ferry (around 50 to 60 minutes) from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. Once in Batam, transfer to a ferry bound for Pulau Penuba.
- Via Tanjung Pinang: Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Singapore to Tanjung Pinang (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours) and then take another ferry to Pulau Penuba.
- From Other Riau Islands: There are various local ferry services connecting Pulau Penuba with other islands in the Riau Archipelago. These ferries provide flexible travel options within the region.
Getting Around
- Local Transport: Motorbikes and bicycles are common modes of transport for exploring the island. Local taxis and car rentals are also available.
- Boat Tours: For island-hopping and reaching remote areas, boat tours and local ferries are convenient options.