Things To Do
in Singkawang
Singkawang is a coastal city in West Kalimantan known for its multicultural tapestry and proximity to the sea. It blends Chinese Indonesian, Malay, and Dayak influences in its food, temples, and everyday life. The city has vibrant markets, colorful architecture, and a laid‑back pace that makes exploring pleasant.
Visitors are drawn to its unique food scene, approachable culture, and warm hospitality year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Singkawang Grand Mall, where you can enjoy breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Indonesian dishes. After breakfast, take a stroll through the nearby Singkawang Cultural Park, appreciating the vibrant sculptures and peaceful gardens. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you chat with friendly vendors showcasing their handicrafts.
In the afternoon, head to the Singkawang Grand Mosque, an architectural gem that offers a glimpse into the spiritual heart of the community. Afterward, visit the local market, where the colorful stalls brim with fresh produce, spices, and souvenirs. Engage with the local vendors, learning about their crafts and the stories behind their wares.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the beautiful Singkawang Bay. Savor the fresh seafood dishes while listening to the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, soaking in the night air and the twinkling lights reflecting off the water.
Spend your morning at the popular Singkawang Beach, where the soft sand and clear waters invite relaxation and fun. Start with a refreshing swim in the ocean, followed by some beach volleyball with locals or fellow travelers. Don’t forget to grab a fresh coconut from a nearby vendor to enjoy as you soak in the sun.
In the afternoon, dive into exciting water sports like jet skiing or banana boat rides, guided by experienced instructors who ensure your safety. Alternatively, take a snorkeling trip to explore the beautiful coral reefs just off the coast, where you can marvel at the colorful marine life. Afterward, unwind on the beach, enjoying the serene atmosphere and perhaps reading a book under the shade of a palm tree.
As evening approaches, join a beachside barbecue where you can indulge in freshly grilled seafood and local delicacies. The beach comes alive with music and laughter as both locals and tourists gather to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. End your day by watching the sunset paint the sky in brilliant hues of orange and pink, a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal at mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚕One-way local transport (taxi/ojek) | $0.5-2 |
| ☕Coffee or snack at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich multicultural atmosphere
- Delicious seafood and street food
- Affordable travel costs
- Friendly and welcoming locals
- Traffic can be congested during peak hours
- Nightlife options are limited compared to larger cities
- English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas
- Weather can be unpredictable with sudden rain showers
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana kamar mandi?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Siapa nama Anda?" - What is your name?
- "Maaf, saya tidak mengerti" - Sorry, I don't understand
- "Apakah Anda bisa berbicara bahasa Inggris?" - Do you speak English?
- "Boleh saya minta rekomendasi tempat makan?" - Could you recommend a good place to eat?
- "Selamat malam" - Good evening
Places to Visit in Singkawang
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful shophouses and the harbor backdrop create atmospheric sunset and street photography scenes.
Temple clusters on a hillside offer panoramic city views and golden hour silhouettes.
Chasing the golden light along the coast provides reflective water shots and silhouettes of fishing boats.
Bustling market mornings deliver candid portraits, vibrant produce, and dynamic street life.
Food in Singkawang
Singkawang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A signature noodle dish featuring chewy egg noodles, often with braised pork or seafood and a fragrant soy-based sauce.
Must-Try!
Grilled fish served with a spicy sambal and lime; commonly enjoyed at waterfront stalls and seafood restaurants.
Fragrant yellow rice served with fish or side dishes; a common breakfast or lunch option in markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh seafood, produce, and ready-to-eat snacks along the coast; try grilled fish skewers and steamed buns.
Bustling lanes with hawker stalls offering nasi goreng, bakso, fried snacks, and sweet treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and speak softly in temples and mosques.
Greet locals politely; use basic Indonesian phrases; avoid raising your voice or displaying anger in public.
Ask before photographing people, particularly at markets or within private spaces.
Show respect in social interactions and avoid public displays of disrespect.
Safety
Tipping in Singkawang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in hotels, tour guides, and higher-end restaurants. A small tip (5–10%) for good service is common in tourist areas.
Cash (IDR) is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller eateries. Many hotels and larger restaurants accept credit cards; ATMs are available in central areas. Some street vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
May to September is typically drier and more comfortable for outdoor activities and coastal explorations. Evenings are pleasant for walks along the waterfront, with minimal rain interruptions.
October to April brings higher humidity and frequent rain showers. Plan for indoor or sheltered activities and carry lightweight rain gear; afternoons can still be sunny at times.
Singkawang at Night
Hiking in Singkawang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Day trips to nearby forested hills offer scenic viewpoints, wildlife spotting, and moderate hikes suitable for a half-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Singkawang by plane.
The major gateway to West Kalimantan; regular connections to Jakarta and other Indonesian cities. From the airport, a road and ferry or overland transfer reach Singkawang.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Coastal Malay communities form a significant portion of the population, often practicing Islam and Malay cultural traditions.
A large and historic community contributing to commerce, cuisine, and cultural festivals.
Smaller communities with diverse traditions in the broader Kalimantan region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in schools and communities; casual games and local clubs can be found in many neighborhoods.
Common in recreational centers and gyms; suitable for all ages.
Traditional Southeast Asian sport played informally in parks and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Singkawang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in many restaurants, including tofu, vegetables, and mushroom dishes. Indonesian cooking often uses fish sauce or shrimp paste; ask to omit these or request a vegetable-only preparation.