Island Hopping in Singapore

After previously covering the two most well-known surrounding islands of Singapore, Pulau Ubin and Sentosa, it’s time to look further out to sea.  

Sisters' Islands

Directly south of Sentosa Island sits Sisters’ Islands, made up of Big Sister’s Island and Little Sister’s Island, there are various myths as how the islands got their name. The most common myth is that two young sisters died escaping pirates and then two islands appeared the next day. Their proximity to Singapore makes them perfect for a short visit, the main attraction being the long-tailed macaques that live on Big Sister’s Island. Swimming and snorkelling is also possible but beware that the narrow channel between the two islands creates a very strong current. To get to Sisters’ Islands you need to charter a boat from Marina South Pier.

    

Saint John's Island

Just east of Sisters’ Islands is Saint John's Island. The island’s historical importance dates back to 1819 when Sir Stamford Raffles anchored his ship here before meeting the Malay chief of Singapore. The island went on to further mark its place in history when it became a quarantine station for people with cholera, beriberi and leprosy. In the mid-20^th century it became a prison and drug rehabilitation clinic before being converted into a tourist destination in the 1970s. St John’s is the only island off the mainland that provides accommodation, with bungalows that can house up to 10 people available to rent. While on the island you can swim in one of the many lagoons or take a guided nature walk. To get to Saint John’s Island you can a take a ferry from Marina South Pier.

Kusu Island

Further east is Kusu Island. The most unique of Singapore’s islands due the number of holy sites, Kusu Island means Turtle Island or Tortoise Island in Chinese. The story goes that a magical tortoise turned itself into an island to save two shipwrecked sailors, one a Malay and one Chinese. The island has since become a centre of worship by both Malays and Chinese. Climb the 152 steps to see the Malay shrines or explore the Chinese shrines near the water. There is also a tortoise sanctuary which is a must see while on Tortoise Island. The ferry to Saint John’s Island also stops at Kusu Island.  

Pulau Hantu

Located south-west of the Singapore mainland, Pulau Hantu is a popular camping destination. Made up of two islands separated by a channel that can be waded across at low tide, Pulau Hantu is a popular swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving destination. Beware that if it’s been raining, visibility underwater may not be very good. On a clear day however you be able to see coral, angelfish and maybe even the odd stingray. To get to Pulau Hantu you need to charter a boat from the West Coast Pier.

Pulau Semakau

The furthest away of all the tourist-friendly islands of Singapore, Palau Semakau is just a bit further south of Pulau Hantu. Situated 8 kilometres (5 miles) from Singapore, the island makes a great escape from the city, boasting clean air and clear night skies. Without the light pollution from the mainland, the island has become popular with astronomers and casual stargazers. The best way to get here is by a guided tour from the Sport Fishing Association, the Nature Society, Raffles Museum of Biodiversity or the Astronomical Society of Singapore. The boat trip takes 20-35 minutes.

When staying in Singapore it’s great to discover that there’s more to the city-state than just shopping and food. Exploring the southern islands is the perfect way to do this. If you get a chance to go camping or stay in a Saint John’s Island bungalow you should take it as it will show you a side of Singapore tourist rarely experience. Just be aware that permits are needed for camping so just do a little research on whichever island you choose to visit. 

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