Island Hopping Singapore
When we mention islands in Singapore, the rst to pop in mind is Sentosa. Perhaps it’s the only island most of us are familiar with. But not many know that Singapore is home to more than just one beautiful island. Trust me, after hustling hard all year, what you really need is to be away from the bustling city life. So what better way to do it than to go on an island hop? This is ideal for those who are looking to travel fuss-free with no passport and are on a budget. Here are some gorgeous islands you can visit off Singapore’s shores.
1. Lazarus Island
Would you believe it if someone told you that Singapore has one of most beautiful beaches? It’s very unlikely since the cleanest beach we all know is in Sentosa. But Lazarus Island will prove you wrong. Picture this. White sand, glistening waters, and a litter-free beach. Plus, an empty beach where all you can get is serenity and privacy. Sounds almost impossible? Head over to Lazarus Island to believe it. Furthermore, the fact that the beach has remained untouched makes it a lot more special than being at public beaches. Lazarus Island is a perfect short getaway location if you’d like to escape the bustling city life.
How to get there: There is no direct ferry to Lazarus Island. You can take the ferry from Marina South Pier to St John’s Island and walk on foot to Lazarus Island which is only 10 minutes away.
2. St John’s Island
St John’s Island, formerly known as Pulau Sekijang Bendera, was a quarantine station for cholera cases and a drug rehabilitation centre. Today, you can head over to St John’s Island for water activities in their clean swimming lagoons. Go diving and snorkelling – which many of us put on our bucket list and have yet to tick them off. So here’s your chance at giving it a go! Meet with the creatures underwater and be in awe of the marine life as you swim across them. Not a fan of getting drenched? Sit back, relax, and enjoy your packet sandwich. You can even spend there overnight by booking a holiday dormitory or the bungalow.
How to get there: Take the ferry from Marina South Pier. Make your bookings here.
3. Kusu Island
Not too far from Lazarus Island is a hidden sanctuary called Kusu Island. When directly translated into Hokkien, Kusu means turtle. This was the given name as the island closely resembled a turtle before land reclamation. That’s not only it, Kusu Island is actually rich in religious heritage. You can also nd quite a number of tortoise exhibitions around the island. Alternatively, hop on board a marine guide by Blue Water Volunteers to learn and interact with the sea turtles and corals.
How to get there: Take a ferry ride from St John’s Island’s jetty.
4. Sisters’ Island
We heard stories that a pair of sisters Minah and Linah drowned at sea during a storm and couldn’t be found – except where they were last seen. This resulted in the formation of the Sisters’ Island. The sisters’ story aside, it’s also home to some of the richest reefs which make for a great place to snorkel. Expect to see coral reefs, giant clams, sea horses, and more sea creatures you would’ve never seen before!
How to get there: Take a ferry from the Marina South Pier.
5. Coney Island
Pulau Serangoon, or what many know as Coney Island, is an island that’s brimming with lush greenery. The previous owners of this island were the Aw Boon brothers of Tiger Balm. After going through some reconstruction, Coney Islands stands on its own today as an eco-friendly park. With so many bikes available for free or rental – Ofo, Mobike, oBike – you can cycle your way through this beautiful nature trail. Got an iPhone 7 Plus? Make use of that portrait mode to take nice shots with the scenic background. Expect to see rare bird species such as Baya Weavers and Parakeets just to name a few. You could also get involved in water activities like water-skiing and shing.
How to get there: Take bus 84 from Punggol interchange and alight at Punggol Settlement. Then follow the directions that will lead you to Coney Island.
6. Pulau Semakau
Pulau Semakau is Singapore’s maiden man-made offshore landll where all your waste belongs. So you’re expecting it to be all stinky and hard to breathe but it’s quite the opposite. Pulau Semakau is surprisingly clean, serene, and a habitat for a diverse range of sea creatures. You would need to get a permit from National Environment Agency (NEA) before heading over to the island. While at it, book a nature tour with them where you’ll be visiting the coral nursery to learn about corals and marine life such as crabs and starsh.
How to get there: Take a ferry ride from West Coast Pier, Marina South Pier, or Pasir Panjang Ferry Terminal.
7. Pulau Ubin
Lastly, Pulau Ubin is an island that needs no introduction. Most of us, if not all, would’ve patronised this island once in our lives. When translated into English, Pulau Ubin actually means Granite Island. Simply because it was famous for the operation of granite quarries in the past. While at Pulau Ubin, you can cycle your way through the forest and come across one of the last few kampongs of Singapore. Othe leisure activities include kayaking, climbing the 20m high Jejawi Tower, or book a chalet to stay overnight.
How to get there: Take a boat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal.
