Southern Islands Singapore: Lazarus Beach, St. John's Island & Kusu Island Hopping Guide

Hidden in plain sight — just 30 minutes south of Singapore's glittering Marina Bay skyline — lies an archipelago of tranquil islands that most tourists never discover. The Southern Islands of St. John's, Lazarus, Seringat, and Kusu offer pristine beaches, sacred temples, and a profound sense of escape from the city.

1. Island-by-Island Guide

St. John's Island

Originally a quarantine station for immigrants in the 1800s, St. John's has been transformed into a lush nature park:

• Marine Park Outreach & Research Facility: Educational exhibits on Singapore's marine biodiversity.
• Rustic Walking Trails: Shaded coastal paths lined with mature tropical trees and wild peacocks.
• Swimming Lagoons: Calm, sheltered natural swimming areas perfect for families.

Lazarus Island & Seringat

Connected to St. John's by a paved causeway (10-minute walk), Lazarus Island is Singapore's best-kept beach secret:

• C-Shaped White Sand Beach Lagoon: Pristine, uncrowded beach with crystal-clear turquoise water — feel like you have been transported to the Maldives.
• Eco-Glamping Tiny Houses: Overnight stays in sustainably designed tiny cabins right on the beach (book in advance).
• Water Sports: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkelling rentals available on weekends.

Kusu Island (Tortoise Island)

A revered pilgrimage site for both Chinese and Malay communities:

• Da Bo Gong (Tua Pek Kong) Chinese Temple: A colourful waterfront temple dedicated to the God of Prosperity.
• Three Hilltop Malay Keramats: Sacred shrines accessible via 152 stone steps through the jungle canopy.
• Tortoise Sanctuary: Hundreds of live tortoises roaming freely in a dedicated conservation enclosure — considered sacred and auspicious.

2. Ferry Routes & Schedules

• Departure Terminal: Marina South Pier (31 Marina Coastal Drive). Directly connected to Marina South Pier MRT Station (NS28), Exit B.
• Ferry Schedule: Public ferries operate Monday to Sunday, with departures roughly every 1–2 hours. The hop-on hop-off route connects Marina South Pier → St. John's Island → Kusu Island.
• Round-Trip Fare: ~SGD 15–18 per adult.

3. Essential Visitor Tips

• Pack Your Own Food & Water: There are no shops, restaurants, or F&B outlets on St. John's or Lazarus Island. Bring a packed lunch and plenty of water.
• Leave No Trace: Bring garbage bags and carry all rubbish back with you. These islands are protected nature reserves.
• Beach Essentials: Towels, swimwear, sunblock, and waterproof phone pouches.
• Last Ferry: Pay close attention to the return ferry schedule — missing the last boat means you are stranded until the next day!