5 fun things to do on St John's Island, Singapore's offshore gem only 30 minutes away

Back to nature.

A few kilometres south of Singapore lies a secret beach with clear waters and white sands on St John's Island, one of the country's many beautiful offshore islands.

This popular day trip destination (previously known as Pulau Sakijang Bendera) was once a quarantine centre for immigrants coming into Singapore who had cholera, beri-beri and leprosy; it was later used to house political prisoners and drug rehabilitators. (You can still see the high barbed-wire fences!)

Today, there are tons to do there, on land and beyond its shores.

GETTING TO ST JOHN'S ISLAND

Make your way to Marina South Pier (right next to Marina South Pier MRT Station) and buy your ferry tickets from Marina South Ferries around the main entrance of the pier.

Check out the daily ferry schedule and ticket prices here.

1. JOIN A GUIDED NATURE WALK

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St. John’s Island is home to mangroves, coastal plants and coral reefs. Find out how you can book a guided intertidal walk around the island here.

The St John's Island National Marine Laboratory, a local marine research facility on the island, also organises visits to the institute as part of its public education programme to create awareness in the marine sciences. Get in touch with them here.

2. HIT THE BEACH

St John’s Island best kept secret is actually another island of its own. Laidback Lazarus Island is linked to St John’s Island by a little paved bridge for an easy walk and it’s home to tranquil beaches and lagoons.

P.S. If you’re planning a picnic by the beach, you’ll need to bring everything you need as food and drinks are not sold on both islands!

3. EXPLORE FURTHER

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From Lazarus Island, you can walk to yet another naturesque island, Pulau Seringat. The place is relatively undeveloped but we hear it may not stay that way for long, so pop over and venture if you have the time.

5. BOOK AN ISLAND STAY

A holiday bungalow, furnished with cooking facilities, is available on the island and it can hold up to 10 people. For larger groups up to 60 people, the dormitory-style holiday camps are your best choice.

Do note you can only stay overnight on St John’s Island if you book these accommodations as camping is strictly not allowed.

6. BOOK A PRIVATE YACHT

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Not that you needed any more excuse to visit this gem of an island, but you can even charter a private luxury yacht that’ll take you on a cruise around the beautiful Singapore waters before taking you to St John’s Island to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Perfect party idea? We think so!

This article was first published in The Finder.