Need a break from the city life in Singapore? We feel you. Living in a fast-paced environment such as Singapore would mean that many of us crave a getaway for a good rest.
Even so, not many of us have the luxury of taking time off for travel as and when we desire due to different commitments.
If you are looking for a fuss-free day trip without the hassle of having to change your currency and bringing your passport, here are 8 Islands You Can Explore Without Travelling Out Of Singapore.
#1 CONEY ISLAND PARK
Pulau Serangoon, or better known as Coney Island Park, is slightly off Punggol and you can get to the West entrance of the island by walking along the Punggol Promenade Nature Walk.
It is currently a favourite spot among cyclists! If this is your first time going to Coney Island Park, do take note that the park closes at 7pm as no lighting is provided in this eco-friendly island.
#2 KEPPEL ISLAND
Admire the lineup of super yachts in the day and sip on wine at Privé Cafe by night at Keppel Bay which is located on Keppel Island. The breathtaking view makes it a romantic destination for couples on a date.
Walk across Keppel Bay Bridge, which links Keppel Island to the mainland.
Photo Credit: Breathing Asia, Living Singapore
#3 KUSU ISLAND
The story behind Kusu Island will have you intrigued about the place before you even head there. Devotees of Tua Pek Kong believe that the deity transformed a tortoise into Kusu Island, which translates to “tortoise island”.
Visit the tortoise sanctuary, play beach volleyball on the beach shores or dip into the lagoons of Kusu Island. You can take a ferry from Marina South Pier.
#4 LAZARUS ISLAND
Looking for a white sand beach with glistening waters sans the crowd? You will get all that at Lazarus Island! Sounds too good to be true? Visit the island in the morning for a picnic and you can see its beauty for yourself.
By the way, you can walk to Lazarus Island from Saint John’s Island so that’s two islands off your checklist!
#5 PULAU SEMAKAU
Don’t be taken aback when we tell you that this is a landfill site because that only takes up the eastern side of the island. Recent developments of Pulau Semakau has made it a tourist friendly area for those who love nature.
Look forward to thriving mangrove habitats and a coral population. Those who are interested can even learn more at the coral nursery. Book a tour with NEA beforehand!
#6 PULAU UBIN
One of the most visited offshore islands of Singapore, Pulau Ubin needs no introduction. Rent a bicycle there and challenge the uneven terrains which are a notch higher than what you can find at East Coast Park or Sentosa.
Other leisure activities to do there are kayaking, climbing the 20-metre tall Jejawi Tower and a chalet vacation with your buddies.
You have to take a boat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal.
#7 SAINT JOHN’S ISLAND
Started off as a rehabilitation centre for opium addicts, today’s St John’s Island is a must-visit for many Singaporeans and even tourists. The island is home to clean lagoons, beaches, routes for trekking and soccer fields.
There are bungalow chalets where you can have a barbeque gathering together for up to 60 people. Hop onto a ferry from Marina South Pier to get there.
Photo Credit: The Straits Times
#8 SISTERS’ ISLANDS
It has been said that two sisters who drowned in the storm were never found but at where they were last seen are two islands which stand till today—no surprises for guessing which islands they are referring to.
That aside, snorkelling enthusiasts have another place to add on to their list. Witness rich diversities of coral reefs, giant clams, sea horses and more! If that’s not your thing, you can opt for a guided tour with NParks instead.
Get onto a ferry from Marina South Pier which will take you to Sisters’ Islands.