Sumpat
Sumpat is the area along Sumpat Bay, in the north of Bintan island in Indonesia, between Bintan Resorts and Trikora.
Understand
The area consists of a few fishing villages along the beaches around the Sumpat river (Sungai Sumpat), and with the small Sumpat island (Pulau Sumpat) just off the coast. Administratively, the area is in the villages (desa) of Berakit and Pengudang in the district of Teluk Sebong.
Get in
For detailed information on how to travel to and from Bintan island see the main Bintan#Get in section. A new international ferry terminal is planned in nearby Berakit and should be open in 2011/12.
Get around
Sumpat is located about half way (30 km) between Bintan Resorts and Tanjung Pinang. The best way to reach it from the ferry terminal is by taxi or car / motorbike rental.
On the main road from Tanjung Pinang to Tanjung Uban turn at 46 km to take the local road to Pengudang. Alternatively Sumpat can also be reached from Tanjung Pinang via the road from Trikora beach going towards Berakit.
See
The main attractions are the unspoilt, white sandy beaches that stretch on for several kilometers. The area is also a popular fishing destination for local people. Kelong (floating fisherman houses) are a popular sight off the coast.
Do
The area is still widely undeveloped. But with more and more resorts and guest houses taking up the east coast along Trikora, the beaches around Sumpat are becoming an insider's tip for local tourists.
Rent a sampan to go Sumpat island or walk there during low tide. See the mangroves along Sungai Sumpat river.
Buy
There are only a few shops catering to the needs of the local residents, selling food and daily supplies.
Eat
Try the freshly caught seafood from the local fishing villages. During low tide you may see the women bringing back crab.
Sleep
Mid-range
Putri Pandan Resort. Jalan Hamidi, Desa Pengudang, Tel. +62-813-7287-3630, . Boutique resort located on a private beach. The roof of each bungalow is modelled after a different traditional Indonesian house. Large rooms with private bathroom and hot water shower. English (German, Japanese) speaking staff. Beach front wooden bungalows starting from S$ 30 per double room. The restaurant at the resort is also open to outside visitors.
Splurge
- Bintan Lagoon Resort, Lagoi, ☏ +62-770-691-388. Although not directly located in Sumpat, but within the Bintan Resorts area, this hotel offers speed boat excursions to Sumpat Island.
Go next
Transportation back to the ferry terminal can be arranged by the resorts.