Singapore Islands Every Traveler Should Explore
- Monster Day Tours
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Singapore's reputation as a bustling metropolis often overshadows its remarkable archipelago nature, boasting 64 stunning islands that offer everything from pristine beaches to rich biodiversity. While most visitors know about Sentosa, the Lion City's island treasures extend far beyond this famous resort destination. Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquility, or authentic local experiences through Singapore free walking tours, Singapore's islands provide the perfect escape from urban life.
The Southern Islands Collection
The Southern Islands form Singapore's most accessible and diverse island cluster, perfect for day trips and weekend getaways. This group includes eight distinct islands, each offering unique experiences just a ferry ride away from Marina South Pier.
Sentosa Island
As Singapore's premier resort island, Sentosa remains the most developed destination with 4.71 square kilometers of attractions. Connected to the mainland by road, Sentosa houses Universal Studios, SEA Aquarium, and world-class beaches. The island perfectly blends entertainment with relaxation, making it ideal for families and thrill-seekers alike.
St. John's Island
St. John's Island (Pulau Sakijang Bendera) spans 0.405 square kilometers of pristine natural beauty. Once a quarantine station, today it serves as a peaceful retreat with excellent beaches and historical significance. The island features well-maintained facilities and serves as the gateway to other Southern Islands, with regular ferry connections from Marina South Pier.
Lazarus Island
Connected to St. John's Island by a causeway, Lazarus Island (Pulau Sakijang Pelepah) covers 0.47 square kilometers of untouched paradise. Known for having one of Singapore's most beautiful beaches, this crescent-shaped bay offers crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming and picnicking. The island's secluded nature makes it popular for glamping experiences and romantic getaways.
Kusu Island
Kusu Island, meaning "tortoise" in Chinese, covers just 0.085 square kilometers but holds immense cultural significance. The island features a Chinese temple and three Malay shrines built according to local legend about a magical tortoise saving shipwrecked sailors. During the Kusu Pilgrimage season from September to November, thousands of devotees visit to pray for health and prosperity.
Sisters' Islands Marine Park
Sisters' Islands consist of two islets - Big Sister's Island (Pulau Subar Laut) and Small Sister's Island (Pulau Subar Darat). As Singapore's first marine park, covering 400,000 square meters, this protected area showcases incredible marine biodiversity. The park features dive trails, coral nurseries, and over 250 species of hard corals. Visitors can explore through guided walks, snorkeling in mangroves, and observing marine life through the floating boardwalk.
Northeast Region Islands
Pulau Ubin
Pulau Ubin represents Singapore's largest preserved island at 10.19 square kilometers, offering an authentic glimpse into traditional kampong life. Located off the northeast coast, this granite quarry-turned-nature-haven requires a charming bumboat journey from Changi Point Ferry Terminal.
The island's Chek Jawa Wetlands showcase six different ecosystems, including mangroves and seagrass lagoons, accessible via boardwalks and a 21-meter observation tower. Cycling remains the most popular activity, with bike rentals available at the jetty for exploring the island's rustic trails and discovering hidden temples like Fo Shan Ting Da Bo Gong Temple.
Wildlife enthusiasts can spot wild boars, otters, and over 100 bird species throughout the island's varied habitats. The Sensory Trail provides educational walks through traditional fruit orchards, while Ketam Mountain Bike Park offers challenging terrain for adventure seekers.
Coney Island (Pulau Serangoon)
Coney Island spans 1.33 square kilometers of protected parkland accessible without ferry rides. Connected to the mainland via bridges from Punggol, this unique destination features over 80 bird species and Singapore's only free-roaming Brahman cow.
The island's Casuarina trees create a distinctive landscape, while mangrove habitats support diverse wildlife including the critically endangered Sultan dragonfly and Smooth-coated otters. Bird hides positioned along trails allow for excellent wildlife observation without disturbing the natural environment.
Eastern Region Destinations
Pedra Branca
Pedra Branca (Batu Putih) marks Singapore's easternmost point, located 24 nautical miles from the mainland. This small granite outcrop covers just 8,560 square meters and houses the historic Horsburgh Lighthouse, built between 1847-1851.
The island gained international attention through the sovereignty dispute with Malaysia, resolved by the International Court of Justice in 2008, which awarded the island to Singapore. Today, it serves as a maritime landmark and hosts military communications facilities.
Western Region Industrial Islands
Jurong Island
Jurong Island represents Singapore's industrial prowess, formed by reclaiming and connecting seven smaller islands into a massive petrochemical hub. This artificial island houses over 100 leading global companies and employs more than 27,000 professionals in the energy and chemicals sector.
The island attracts over S$50 billion worth of investments and ranks as the world's top 10 chemical exports hub. Its underground Jurong Rock Caverns provide innovative storage solutions for the petroleum industry, showcasing Singapore's engineering capabilities.
Pulau Hantu
Pulau Hantu (Ghost Island) consists of two connected islets - Pulau Hantu Besar and Pulau Hantu Kechil - covering 0.126 square kilometers total. Located 30 minutes by boat from Singapore, this diving destination offers rich marine biodiversity despite challenging visibility conditions.
The island attracts macro photographers and experienced divers seeking diverse nudibranchs, seahorses, and Spanish dancers. Local legend tells of two warriors whose eternal battle transformed them into these ghostly islands.
Which Singapore Island You Want to Visit?
Most Southern Islands are accessible via Marina South Pier with ferry services operated by Singapore Island Cruise and Marina South Ferries. Island-hopping passes cost approximately $12 for seniors and $20 for adults, making island exploration affordable.
For an authentic Singapore experience that goes beyond the typical tourist path, consider combining your island visits with Singapore free walking tours to fully appreciate both the urban and natural sides of the Lion City. These expert-guided experiences provide insider knowledge about Singapore's hidden gems, including the best times to visit specific islands and local stories that bring each destination to life.
Whether you're interested in marine conservation at Sisters' Islands, historical exploration at Kusu Island, or authentic kampong life at Pulau Ubin, Singapore's 64 islands offer endless opportunities for discovery. Each island provides a unique perspective on Singapore's natural heritage, making them essential additions to any comprehensive Singapore itinerary that includes Singapore free walking tours for the complete local experience.
