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This list of islands in Singapore shows a quieter side of the city beyond the busy streets and tall buildings. These islands in the southern waters offer green spaces, calm beaches, and rich history, perfect for a short break or a day trip. Whether you enjoy nature walks, peaceful shores, or cultural sites, these islands in Singapore provide something special for every traveller. Just a short boat ride away, they reveal a calm and scenic escape from the city.
10 Islands In Singapore For A Scenic Travel Experience
Experience the best of sun, sea, and sand with our detailed guide to the 10 best islands in Singapore worth visiting:
1. Sentosa Island
Photo: Dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons
Once a British military installation, Sentosa Island is now Singapore’s top tourist destination. It is considered to be one of Singapore’s most well-known islands. Attractions like Universal Studios Singapore are open for visitors to explore, excluding S.E.A. Aquarium, and Adventure Cove Waterpark. The island also offers pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and historical sites such as Fort Siloso. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the Sentosa Nature Discovery trail, showcasing the island’s rich biodiversity.
Nearest Airport: Singapore Changi Airport
Nearest Seaport: HarbourFront Ferry Terminal
2. Pulau Ubin
Photo: William Cho / Wikimedia Commons
Pulau Ubin’s historic kampong homes and rustic beauty provide a window into Singapore’s past. The island is a haven for nature enthusiasts, featuring diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore the island by bicycle or on foot, immersing themselves in its natural beauty. Highlights include the Sensory Trail, which appeals to all five senses, and the Chek Jawa Wetlands, which are home to a wealth of marine life.
Nearest Airport: Singapore Changi Airport
Nearest Seaport: Changi Point Ferry Terminal
3. St. John’s Island
Photo: Bob Tan / Wikimedia Commons
Situated 6.5 kilometres south of Singapore, St. John’s Island is home to serene beaches and a diverse array of wildlife. Once a quarantine station, it now serves as a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking relaxation and nature exploration. The island features walking trails, picnic spots, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. Its historical significance adds depth to the visitor experience, offering insights into Singapore’s past.
Nearest Airport: Singapore Changi Airport
Nearest Seaport: Marina South Pier
4. Lazarus Island
Photo: Jpatokal / Wikimedia Commons
Lazarus Island, which is famous for its immaculate beaches and crystal-clear waters, is connected to St. John’s Island by a bridge. The island offers a serene environment, ideal for picnics and leisurely strolls along the shore. Its unspoiled beauty makes it a hidden gem among Singapore’s southern islands. Sunbathing, beach games, and discovering the island’s flora and fauna are among the activities available to visitors.
Nearest Airport: Singapore Changi Airport
Nearest Seaport: Marina South Pier
5. Kusu Island
Photo: Jacklee / Wikimedia Commons
Kusu Island, meaning “Tortoise Island” in Chinese, is known for its cultural significance and tranquil beaches. During the yearly Kusu Pilgrimage, pilgrims flock to the island to take in its serene atmosphere and picturesque vistas, which include a Chinese temple and Malay shrines. The Tua Pek Kong Temple, which was founded in 1923 and is devoted to the deity Tua Pek Kong, is a major destination for pilgrims.
Nearest Airport: Singapore Changi Airport
Nearest Seaport: Marina South Pier
6. Sisters’ Islands
Photo: RH D 22 / Wikimedia Commons
Singapore’s first marine park includes the Sisters’ Islands, which are made up of Big Sister’s and Little Sister’s Islands. The islands are home to diverse marine life and coral reefs, making them popular spots for snorkeling and diving. Little Sister’s Island is set aside for conservation, whereas Big Sister’s Island is accessible to the general public. The marine park promotes marine-related education, research, and conservation activities. Through educational programs and guided tours, visitors may discover more about Singapore’s marine biodiversity.
Nearest Airport: Singapore Changi Airport
Nearest Seaport: Marina South Pier
7. Pulau Hantu
Photo: Wzhkevin / Wikimedia Commons
Pulau Hantu, consisting of two islets, is a favored destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, making it among the most popular islands in Singapore. The island’s sheltered beaches and lagoons provide opportunities to observe diverse marine life in their natural habitat. Pulau Hantu offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers. The island is known for its various species of nudibranchs, slugs, and other marine critters. Diving trips are available every weekend, providing access to Singapore’s rich underwater ecosystems.
Nearest Airport: Singapore Changi Airport
Nearest Seaport: West Coast Pier
8. Pulau Semakau
Photo: Meutia Chaerani / Wikimedia Commons
Pulau Semakau is Singapore’s first offshore landfill, ingeniously designed to be environmentally sustainable. The island also supports a thriving marine ecosystem, making it a unique blend of waste management and conservation. Guided tours offer insights into its innovative operations and biodiversity. The landfill is clean and odour-free, demonstrating Singapore’s commitment to sustainable development. Pulau Semakau harbours flourishing natural ecosystems like mangroves, seagrass meadows, and coral reefs.
Nearest Airport: Singapore Changi Airport
Nearest Seaport: West Coast Pier
9. Pulau Seletar
Photo: Emran Kassim / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Pulau Seletar is a tranquil island located in the northern region of Singapore. The island is characterized by its lush greenery and serene environment, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the island’s natural beauty and peaceful ambiance. The surrounding Seletar area offers cycling routes, wetlands, and cosy cafes for a relaxing day out. Pulau Seletar’s undeveloped landscape provides a glimpse into Singapore’s natural heritage.
Nearest Airport: Seletar Airport
Nearest Seaport: Marina Country Club
10. Pulau Jong
Photo: Dudecon / Wikimedia Commons
Pulau Jong ranks first among the small islands in Singapore. The island is known for its distinctive conical shape and surrounding coral reefs, which support a variety of marine life. Pulau Jong remains undeveloped, offering a glimpse into Singapore’s natural coastal environment. The island’s coastal forest and rocky shores are home to native plants and marine species. Pulau Jong’s untouched ecosystems provide valuable opportunities for ecological studies and conservation efforts.
Nearest Airport: Singapore Changi Airport
Nearest Seaport: Marina South Pier
Singapore’s islands offer a peaceful break from city life, perfect for a day out or a short trip. From Sentosa’s sandy beaches to Pulau Ubin’s natural charm and the marine life around Sisters’ Islands, each spot has its own appeal. These southern islands show a quieter, greener side of Singapore. Explore nature, unwind, and see a different view of the city with TripXL’s guide to Singapore’s best island getaways.
Cover Photo: Bob Tan / Wikimedia Commons
