Thinking of what to do with the kids over a long weekend or just looking for a quick getaway to enjoy some sun, sand, and sea? Check out one of the many islands near Singapore. Just a short boat ride away are many unspoiled islands with pristine beaches and crystal clear water. Grab the family, pack a fab picnic, prep the snorkeling gear, fishing gear too, and go on one of these beautiful Singapore island day trips.
Just a short boat ride away is the tranquil St. John's Island. Housed on 40.5 hectares, this hilly island was transformed in 1975 into a serene getaway featuring swimming lagoons, beaches, picnic grounds, trekking routes, and soccer fields. The former St. John's Island Campsite and Holiday Bungalow have been renamed the St. John's Island Lodge. Improvements have been made, including new kitchenware, electric hobs, and furniture, as well as a smart lock system to be piloted in one of the camps.
Visitors can also explore the island's rich biodiversity, including coral reefs and various marine life, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling and nature walks. Families can enjoy a day of fun at the beach or engage in outdoor activities like hiking the scenic trails. Additionally, the island’s peaceful atmosphere offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, ideal for relaxation and bonding time with loved ones.
St. John’s Island, www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/sisters-islands-marine-park/st-johns-island-trail
Lazarus Island, located just off the southern coast of Singapore, is a hidden gem known for its pristine beaches and tranquil surroundings. Accessible by a short ferry ride from Marina South Pier, the island offers a perfect getaway for families and nature lovers.
The island features soft, white sandy beaches ideal for sunbathing and picnicking, along with clear waters that are perfect for swimming. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the shoreline, explore the lush greenery, or engage in outdoor activities like beach games and snorkeling.
Lazarus Island is also part of the larger Singapore Southern Islands cluster, which includes St. John’s Island and Kusu Island, making it an excellent option for a day trip or an overnight stay. Whether you're looking to relax, explore nature, or have fun with family, Lazarus Island provides a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Lazarus Island, www.islandcruise.com.sg/places-of-interest/lazarus-island/
Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the coastline, explore tidal pools, and even spot various birds and marine creatures. The island's lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal spot for picnics and relaxation.
Do note, however, that camping isn't allowed, so it's best to plan for a day trip. Facilities are limited, so bring essentials like food, drinks, and sun protection to fully enjoy your time in this serene paradise. Whether you're there for spiritual reflection or simply to soak up the sun, Kusu Island offers a unique blend of culture and natural beauty.
Kusu Island, www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/nature-wildlife/singapore-islands/kusu-island/
Break out those bikes, baby—it's time to island-hop to the isle of yesterday! Known as Singapore's Last Kampung, the island of Pulau Ubin is worth the trip. With its mangroves, jungle, and rivers, oh my! The day trip is an easy one, packed with nature fun for the whole family (babies included)!
The island is protected from redevelopment, creating a haven for eco-loving families and adventure seekers alike. Prepare to feast your eyes on Singapore as it was in the 1960s and explore the time-warped charm of this unique destination. Kids will love the chance to discover wildlife, ride bicycles along scenic trails, and enjoy the island's rustic atmosphere. Whether you're hiking through the lush greenery or relaxing by the water, Pulau Ubin promises a delightful escape into nature and a glimpse into the past.
Pulau Ubin, www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/pulau-ubin-and-chek-jawa
Coney Island is a great place to explore with the family and is an easy day trip getaway from Singapore. The rustic Coney Island Park is an ecologically sustainable park with many environmental initiatives. It focuses on conserving energy and water, recycling, and retaining the natural elements in the park.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including cycling along scenic paths, birdwatching, and discovering the diverse flora and fauna. The park is home to various ecosystems, such as mangroves, casuarina woodlands, and grasslands, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
What are you waiting for? Get the bikes out and start exploring! Don’t forget to pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated spots while taking in the beautiful views. With its serene environment and commitment to sustainability, Coney Island offers a refreshing escape from the city hustle and bustle!
Coney Island, www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/coney-island-park
The fabled Sisters’ Islands are just a short boat ride away. Swimmers and snorkelers can indulge themselves here, as the fantastic reefs are filled with vibrant marine life. The islands are separated by a narrow channel and are popular with picnic-goers because of their shady palm trees and beach shelters.
In addition to enjoying the sun and sea, visitors can explore the rich biodiversity, including coral reefs and various fish species. The calm waters make it an ideal spot for families with children who want to try snorkeling for the first time.
Watch out for monkeys, though, as they will want to join you for lunch! Hold on to your chips and burger buns, as these cheeky creatures are known for their playful antics. Whether you're relaxing on the beach or diving into the crystal-clear waters, the Sisters' Islands offer a delightful escape into nature’s beauty!
Sisters Island, www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/sisters-islands-marine-park
A day trip to Sentosa is guaranteed to be filled with fun and laughter! There are countless activities for kids of all ages. Whether it’s skydiving, whizzing down a zip line, surfing, or discovering fascinating marine life, you and the kids will want to experience it all.
Some of our favorite adventures for the perfect day in Sentosa include thrilling rides at Universal Studios Singapore, exploring the underwater wonders at S.E.A. Aquarium, and enjoying the sun at Siloso Beach. Don’t forget to check out the interactive exhibits at the Trick Eye Museum for some unforgettable photo moments!
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and let’s go on an unforgettable adventure in Sentosa!
Sentosa, www.sentosa.com.sg
This island is a favorite among divers and snorkeling enthusiasts. With beautiful lagoons perfect for swimming and sheltered beaches where kids can play, it's an ideal destination for families. You'll have the chance to spot a variety of marine creatures, including clownfish, damselfish, wrasses, and even the occasional seahorse.
In addition to water activities, the island is also popular with campers and day-trippers looking for a relaxing getaway. Whether you're exploring the vibrant underwater world or enjoying a picnic on the beach, this island offers something for everyone!
Pulau Hantu, www.pulauhantu.sg
This landfill island has been transformed into a pristine eco-getaway, designed to remain clean, unpolluted, and odor-free. In recent years, it has blossomed into a vibrant sanctuary featuring flourishing mangrove habitats and a thriving coral population, including a dedicated coral nursery that showcases ongoing conservation efforts.
Nature enthusiasts and fishing aficionados will find plenty to love here, with diverse ecosystems teeming with wildlife. The island offers guided eco-tours that allow visitors to explore its rich biodiversity, making it an educational and immersive experience for all ages.
Whether you're kayaking through serene waters, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in the lush surroundings, this destination is perfect for families looking to connect with nature. With so much to see and do, a day trip here promises not only adventure but also a chance to engage in eco-tourism and contribute to environmental preservation. We’re definitely in for this unforgettable experience!
Pulau Semakau, www.nea.gov.sg/energy-waste/waste-management/semakau-landfill
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