One of the most popular day trips from Singapore, Sentosa Island is a tiny resort island off the southern coast of Singapore, home to themed attractions, sun-washed beaches, lush rainforests, amazing spas, and some popular resort hotels. Explore attractions such as Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and the beautiful beaches on the island.
Travel Time: Accessible by a short cable car ride or via road
Known For : Barelang Bridge Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall Water Sports in Batam
Batam is one of the most picturesque islands in the Riau Archipelago and one of Indonesia's most modernized areas. It is most famous for its beaches, water-themed adventure sports, and its large golf courses. Batam also is home to the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia.
Travel Time: Around 45 minutes by ferry
Best Time: May to September.
Malaysia's third-largest city, Johor Bahru, also goes by JB, is just 24 kms from the city of Singapore. Perfect for a day trip from Singapore, you can indulge in many shopping opportunities and various cultural Malay attractions like beautiful mosques and Chinese attractions. The Hindu Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple and the Johor Bahru City Square are must-visits here.
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour by road or train
Known For : A'Famosa Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum Jonker Street
Melaka was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2008. It is a city that is culturally rich and also has a number of historical sites to visit. Discover Malacca's rich history through heritage sites like A Famosa, St. Paul's Hill, and Jonker Street for shopping, and enjoy authentic Peranakan cuisine.
Travel Time: Around 3 hours by bus or car
Best Time: April to May; October
Get a vibe of the conventional Indonesian way of life at Bintan, an hour's drive from the Bandar Bentan Telani Port. Panglong Village in Relax on pristine beaches, engage in water sports, or explore nature reserves and golf courses on this tranquil Indonesian island.
Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 hours by ferry
Pulau Ubin is a 10.2 square kilometre island lying northeast of Singapore. Translating to Granite Island in Malay, it is one of the last two kampongs of Singapore - a place where one can truly enjoy and experience Singapore for what it used to be. Immerse in rustic charm with cycling trails, hiking, and bird-watching in this preserved island showcasing Singapore's past.
Travel Time: Short ferry ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal
Known For : Boh Tea Plantation Cameron Lavender Garden Mossy Forest
Cameron Highlands is a gorgeous hill station nestled in the hills of Pahang in Malaysia. Bordered by the Malaysian states of Perak and Kelantan, this hilly district is home to eight different settlements that boast of stunning views, expansive plantations, nurseries, colonial bungalows, and hidden waterfalls.
Travel Time: About 5 hours by car or bus
Known For : Petronas Towers Chinatown Kuala Lumpur Menara Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur, popularly referred to as KL, is the capital city of Malaysia. Steel-clad skyscrapers, mega shopping malls, renowned monuments, bustling markets and burgeoning nightlife - that is Kuala Lumpur for you! Explore the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, Batu Caves, KL Tower, and indulge in vibrant street food and shopping experiences.
Travel Time: Approximately 4-5 hours by train or bus
Best Time: December to February, May to August
A 100 kms away from Singapore is the beautiful Malay island of Desaru. Bask in beautiful blue beaches, a paradise getaway is just a half-hour ferry ride away. Discover pristine beaches, golf courses, and water parks such as Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark and The Els Club. A quick day trip from Singapore, Desaru is a nice little place to visit with friends.
Travel Time: Around 2 hours by car or ferry
Iskandar Puteri is home to some of the most iconic theme parks like Legoland Malaysia and the Hello Kitty Indoor Theme Park and is the perfect day trip from Singapore for families. Make space in your tummy for a variety of fantastic options such as Spice Grill, a stylish Indian restaurant that even has western offerings.
Part of the southern islands, Kusu Island is a pristine island just 5.6 km to the south of the main island of Singapore. The pristine island is famous for its clear blue waters and a breathtaking view from the beaches. It also has a very rich history from which it also derives its name as Kusu means turtle or tortoise in Chinese. It can also be entirely covered by walking from end to end in 20 minutes.
The peaceful little Lazarus Island, nestled just south of mainland Singapore, is blissful heaven offering the perfect getaway into a luxuriant beach without the hassle of too many people. One of Singapore's best-kept secrets, the beach is a perfect sandy affair and an ideal spot to soak in the rays and have a picnic in the shade of the trees.
St. John's Island is a stunning island known for its chequered past and the former prison feel, located approximately 6.5 km south off of the main island of Singapore. The mesmerising sight is visited for the small patch of mangrove trees and turquoise water beaches used by the families for picnicking. It is also frequented for a spot of fishing. This, as well as its closeness to the main island, has made St. John's Island an ideal day trip from Singapore.
This island in Singapore was meant to be a private resort but was soon opened to the public and now is a perfect day trip from Singapore. Left undeveloped to preserve the natural ecosystem, there are minimal amenities and electricity here, which gives visitors a taste of the wild. Take a day trip to this island to forget civilization, become one with nature and go on an adventure with loved ones. Remember to carry water - there is none on the island!
This island gets its name from the fact that parts of the two smaller islets - Pulau Hantu Besar and Pulau Hantu Kechil - which disappear during high tide. Pulau Hantu is famous for its pristine waters and white sand beaches, which are ideal trekking and camping spots. You can enjoy great snorkelling expeditions here as well.
The name of the island means 'One Tree Island'. Pulau Satumu holds the distinction of being the southernmost island of Singapore and is home to Raffles Lighthouse which is an important landmark in the history of the city. Inaugurated in 1855, it is still in operating condition, which is why the island is usually restricted to the public. But don't worry = there are special occasions which offer exclusive experiences to the public. Plan your trip accordingly!