Bored of the same old beaches in Singapore during this season? Change it up this weekend by visiting the Southern Islands for the day. While we can’t travel due to current circumstances, we can still visit the multiple Southern Islands of Singapore. The Southern Islands of Singapore consists of up to either major islands, including Sentosa. This weekend, visit one of these islands this weekend to relax and explore!
How to Get There
There are multiple ways of getting to the Southern Islands from Marina South Pier. You should check out their website to find out ferry timings. Buy them in advance to ensure a seat on the ferry too. Do all note that there are some islands, such as Sisters Islands, are only accessible by private ferry.
Things to Note While Visiting the Islands
As the islands do not have convenient stores, remember to prepare food and water before heading down to the islands. Also remember to bring your sunscreen and towels with you to protect your skin. Also check out the ferry timings in advance to plan when to leave!
St John’s Island
St John’s Island is the largest of the 8 Southern Islands in Singapore, and the most well known. Pack a picnic and have it along the beach of this island and take in the peaceful waves and sun. The island is also filled with adorable cats wandering around.
This island was once a quarantine centre for infectious diseases. After 1975, the island was transformed into an oasis filled with beaches, water and hiking trails.
To get there, book a ferry from Marina South Pier.
Lazarus Island and Pulau Seringat
Take a short walk from St John’s Island and you will reach Lazarus Island. This island has a beach with clear water and fine sand. Enjoy the nature and beauty around the island - you will feel like you are not in Singapore! If you love beaches, this is the island for you!
While you are on the island, take a short walk to Pulau Seringat. Even though this is land is undeveloped compared to the rest, it is definitely worth a visit.
Do take note that there are no stores on this island, so pack a lunch before heading down!
To get there, take a ferry from Marina South Pier then walk across the link bridge from St John’s Island to reach Lazarus Island.
Kusu Island
Legend has it that a giant tortoise turned itself into an island to save two shipwrecked sailors and in return, the people named it Kusu Island (tortoise island). This island has a Chinese Taoist temple, which also acts as a turtle sanctuary. You can also find multiple groups of turtles in ponds found around the temple. You can also climb 152 steps up the hill to visit the Kusu Kramats.
Sisters Islands
If you love water activities, visit the Sisters Islands to get under the sea. Whether it be snorkeling or swimming, the island is definitely one for you to visit. As this Island is a Marina Park, there are many underwater creatures for you to look out for! Bring your own gears to the Island as there are no rental shops there.
There are multiple legends that have been told about this island, one of which is about two sisters who were forced into marriage by pirates. They jumped into the water in an attempt to run away but ended up drowning. Where they perished, two islands had emerged in their spot.
To get here, you will need to charter your own boat as there are no scheduled ferry services currently.
Pulau Tekukor
Located in between St John’s Island and Sentosa is Pulau Tekukor. This island, also known as Pulau Penyabong, has been once associated with the once popular sport of cockfighting. The island is home to multiple marine creatures too! As this island is not as popular as the rest, it will be as if you are on your own private beach!
