Batam vs Bali: Is Batam Better than Bali for a Short Holiday?
Photo Source : @UiHua Cheah
Bali is usually the first place that comes to mind when people think of holidays in Indonesia – with its stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, rich culture, and buzzing nightlife.
But that doesn’t always make it the best choice.
For shorter getaways, Batam may actually be the smarter option. It offers much of what Bali does, but in a quieter and more understated way. For Malaysians and Singaporeans, it’s more efficient, affordable, and better suited for a short holiday.
Here’s a side-by-side look at how Batam stacks up against Bali.
Travel and Accessibility | Winner: Batam
Photo Source : @UiHua Cheah
When your trip is only a few days, travel time can eat into your holiday.
Flying into Bali from KLIA to Denpasar takes at least 3 hours, not including check-ins and immigration. On top of that, you’ll likely be spending some time searching for deals on flights, which will likely still cost you about RM600 - RM900 per return ticket on a budget airline.
In contrast, Batam is reachable by a short, 90-minute ferry ride from Berjaya Waterfront in Johor Bahru. With a regular schedule of ferries departing almost every hour, seven days a week. You have flexibility in choosing a departure time that works with your schedule. Each ticket is priced at RM234 for a return trip regardless of timing.
If your holiday is going to be 4 nights or less, Batam wins from a travel cost and “usable time” perspective.
Bonus points for Batam: Parking at Berjaya Waterfront is only RM5 a day, so you can conveniently park at the ferry terminal itself rather than take a Grab or pay RM52 a day at KLIA.
Activities | Winner: Bali
Photo source: Wira Water Sport Bali
As a major international tourist attraction, it’s no contest that Bali offers much more in terms of tourist-friendly activities. From ATV rides to meditation retreats, to exciting nightlife; Bali is built for international tourism.
That said, it doesn’t mean you’ll be bored in Batam. The island also offers many tourist attractions and activities, but on a less commercial scale. You’d still be able to get a massage, party by the beach, and find a wide range of outdoor and indoor attractions - it’s just more understated compared to Bali.
Perhaps another factor is also authenticity. Bali is much more tourist friendly but feels commercial. Batam is less so, but feels more authentic.
Food | Winner: Batam
Photo source: EnjoyBatam.com
This one (quite literally) depends on your taste.
In Bali, local Indonesian fare can be hard to come by - especially if you’re staying in a tourist hub. Local food that you might find in cafes or restaurants are adjusted to suit western taste buds, so you’ll have to go out of your way for genuine local food. What you will find, however, are excellent cafés and international cuisine run by expats - Italian, Mexican, Korean - often better than what you’d get back in Malaysia.
In comparison, Batam is as local as you can get. Local favourites such as pecel lele, nasi goreng and ayam penyet are widely available. It’s less fancy, but it’s affordable and delicious - you can get a meal for as little as RM2! You can also find memorable cafes in Batam, but Bali has a lot more, and in greater variety.
But if you love seafood, then Batam is a clear winner. You can get 500g of live prawns for RM20, or a one-person serving of fresh scallops for RM14!
Hotels | Winner: Tie
Photo Source : @UiHua Cheah
Photo Source : @UiHua Cheah
Both Batam and Bali offer accommodations that fit every budget, from under-RM100 rooms to RM1000+ private villas. If it’s comfort and luxury you’re looking for, both will not disappoint.
Where Bali stands out is its blend of luxury with culture. In Ubud, for example, part of the experience is walking an additional 5-10 minutes from the lobby to your villa or room, passing by meticulously landscaped gardens with Balinese sculptures.
On the other hand, Batam hotels can offer luxury and beautiful aesthetics, but lack that distinct cultural flair.
Batam offers authenticity, Bali offers a touristy experience
Photo Source: Blue Fire Beach Club via Facebook
So here’s the final verdict:
If you’re after a short, affordable, and authentic break, Batam is the better pick.
If you’re going all out with your Annual Leave and holiday budget for the full holiday package with activities, nightlife, and cultural charm, Bali is much more suitable.
Either way, neither will disappoint.
Keen on Batam? Click here for Berjaya Waterfront ferry schedules, ticketing info, and more.