The 3 Best Ferry Day Trips from Singapore
BINTAN – TROPICAL PARADISE
Bintan, Indonesia, is a popular island destination for quick getaways, boasting beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and activities like snorkeling and golfing. This stunning island is home to lavish hotels and epic swimming pools, offering both natural wonders and man-made marvels.
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Ferries to Bintan Island depart from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore, conveniently located closer to the airport than the city center. Bintan Resort Ferries and other operators provide regular services to Bintan, with journeys starting at just 1 hour and 10 minutes. Once you arrive, the best way to explore Bintan is by renting a taxi or a private car with a driver to customize your day as you wish, or by booking an organized tour to experience the island’s top attractions.
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Danau Biru & Gurun Pasir: The Surreal Blue Lake & Sand Dunes
Discover the mesmerizing Danau Biru, where surreal blue waters meet white sandy dunes, creating Bintan’s most distinctive attraction. Despite its natural appearance, Danau Biru is actually the result of mining activities, with ongoing operations in the area. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful visit with stunning views, indulging in activities like swimming, canoeing, and picnicking around the lake.
Amidst the rainforests, you’ll also find the unexpected stretch of desert known as the mysterious Gurun Pasir Busung. Once a quarry, this area has transformed into picturesque sand dunes, making it a popular yet low-key photo spot. Gurun Pasir offers visitors the chance to explore vast expanses of sand, go sandboarding, or simply admire the unique beauty of this desert-like landscape.
500 Lohan Temple
Indonesia’s diverse landscape includes mosques, churches, and temples coexisting harmoniously. Among Bintan’s intriguing religious sites is the 500 Lohan Temple, dedicated to Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. This Buddhist shrine features a captivating sculpture park showcasing around 500 Lohan statues, reminiscent of ancient shrines found in mainland China. Each life-size statue is unique, inviting visitors to wander through a maze of sculptures, where names are etched at their feet. Explore this distinctive temple for cultural insights and memorable photo opportunities amidst its array of stone statues.
Organize your Beach Escape
Dive in Trikora Beach or Escape to White Sands Island
Trikora Beach epitomizes Bintan’s original beachfront paradise, comprising a chain of four beaches numbered sequentially from south to north. During the dry season, visitors are greeted with pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling. The atmosphere is laid-back (as shown in the featured article photo), dotted with a few huts offering cold drinks and local snacks. Enjoy the serene company of local beach lovers and fellow travelers, all seeking the perfect blend of relaxed seaside living.
White Sands Island isn’t just a resort; it’s a private island offering a tailored holiday experience in a breathtaking tropical setting. Guests can indulge in snorkeling in the clear waters, kayaking around the lush island, or simply bask in the sun. After exploring this paradise, unwind with a drink at the bar or set up a seaside picnic and marvel at the stunning sunset.
You can also find organized snorkeling tours to explore the beaches and natural marine life in Bintan.
Extend your stay & try glamping in Bintan- The Anmon Resort Bintan
Experience a new level of glamping at The Anmon Resort Bintan, where luxury meets desert-inspired comfort. Lounge by their pool on colorful, unique floats during the day, and in the evening, unwind under the stars while enjoying an old-school cinema screen on sunbeds nestled in the sand! Plus it is only located 5 minutes from the Bintan-Singapore ferry pier.
This resort also boasts Southeast Asia’s first man-made seawater lagoon, Crystal Lagoon. Despite its popularity, the lagoon offers ample space — equivalent to an astonishing 50 Olympic-size pools — ensuring plenty of room for everyone to splash around. Whether you’re keen to explore underwater wonders or seek thrills above the surface, this expansive pool has something for everyone. Enjoy kayaking in the crystal-clear waters, paddle boating, speeding down the 7.5-meter Slip and Slide, or having a blast at the Water Sports Park!
Explore the Mangroves
Mangroves are coastal trees and shrubs that thrive in salty or brackish water. These unique ecosystems in tropical and subtropical regions provide crucial habitats for various species. The mangroves in Bintan are home to a diverse range of indigenous flora and fauna, including mangrove snakes, monkeys, kingfishers, and even otters. Additionally, night tours offer a magical experience, where fireflies illuminate the mangrove roots as you cruise beneath the starry sky.
PULAU UBIN – NATURE’S PLAYGROUND
Pulau Ubin, just a 15-minute ferry ride from the mainland, is perfect for both nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. To reach this idyllic island, hop on a bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal. These boats leave frequently without a fixed schedule, departing when they have 10-15 passengers. Simply pay the driver before the journey begins, and you can even bring your bicycle along for a small additional fee.
Once on the island, you have three options for getting around: taxi, cycling, or walking. Covering 10 square kilometers, Pulau Ubin is small enough to explore on foot, offering a fantastic chance to spot wildlife such as wild boars, otters, and various bird species, making Pulau Ubin one of the best day trips from Singapore destinations. If walking or cycling isn’t convenient, taxis are available at the jetty. These minivan taxis, which can seat up to 10 people, can be booked per trip or per hour. For those looking for a biking challenge, the Ketam Mountain Bike Park trails provide an exhilarating ride. There are also organized excursions with a bike from Singapore.
Walk around Chek Jawa Wetlands
A visit to the Chek Jawa Wetlands is a must for nature lovers. This area boasts six distinct natural ecosystems, including coral rubble, a seagrass lagoon, and mangroves. There are two main trails to explore: the Coastal Loop and the Mangrove Loop.
The Coastal Loop boardwalk offers pontoons and shelters, providing a scenic route where you can watch low-flying planes heading towards Changi Airport or take in the vast sea views with distant mountains on the horizon.
For a closer encounter with nature, venture onto the Mangrove Loop. This trail immerses you in diverse flora and fauna, leading you to the 7-story Jejawi Tower. From the top, you’ll enjoy a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the entire area. As you make your way up, keep an eye out for wildlife and beautiful plant life.
Conveniently, the Chek Jawa information kiosk is just a 6-minute walk from the Pulau Ubin terminal, making it easy to gather more details about your tour before setting off on your adventure.
Puaka Hill: Island Panoramic Views
Standing at 74 meters tall, Puaka Hill might be easy to miss at first glance, blending in with other road forks. However, a short 10-minute (300-meter) hike up the trail reveals a breathtaking panoramic lookout, rewarding you far beyond the effort required to reach the top.
The trail begins with mud and dirt and becomes a bit rocky towards the summit, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes to prevent slipping. Once at the peak, you’ll be amazed by the expansive views stretching over the horizon, offering a magical landscape and a rare moment of serenity and stillness—a perfect spot for capturing picture-perfect memories.
Butterfly Hill & Pekan Quarry Viewpoint
On the trail to Puaka Hill, you’ll come across the old quarry that has transformed into a serene blue lake. This spot is easily accessible and offers several places to sit and soak in the view. Surrounded by unique flora and fauna, the calm waters of the lake make it a fantastic spot for hiking and capturing stunning photos. You’ll find this picturesque lake on the right side of Butterfly Hill.
Imagine strolling through a beautiful park filled with more butterflies than you’ve ever seen in one place. At Butterfly Hill, you’ll encounter butterflies in an array of colors, patterns, and shapes, showcasing their diverse species. Informational signs are scattered around, providing the names of these enchanting creatures. At the top of the hill, you’ll discover charming flower shelters and fruit gardens, adding to the delightful experience.
Walk around the Sensory Trail
Near the main Ubin dock, the Sensory Trail offers a charming, hour-long walk through a landscape reminiscent of a giant kampung backyard. Best described as soothing, this nature trail is situated in the southern part of Ubin. While it might be a bit tricky to find—look for wooden fences along the path and a yellow and black bollard—following the pathway will lead you there soon enough, creating an inviting into-the-woods vibe. The trail is easy to navigate, making it perfect for families to explore and enjoy together.
Be cautious on rainy days, as the paths can become muddy and challenging to cross. As you stroll, you’ll pass by vibrant vegetable, spice, and herb farms, adding a burst of color and aroma to your walk.
ST. JOHN’S ISLAND – BEACH BLISS
Discover St. John’s Island, an oasis perfect for picnics, swimming, and exploring its rich marine biodiversity. This island offers a tranquil sandy beach experience, ideal for a relaxing day trip. Ferries depart from Marina South Pier, conveniently located near the city center, and the journey takes just 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can arrange a private boat or take a water taxi from nearby islands like Sentosa or Pulau Ubin. Several tour operators also offer organized trips to the island.
There are no public transport or taxi services on St. John’s Island. Exploring the island is best done on foot using designated footpaths that connect St. John’s Island, Lazarus, Seringat, and Kias Island. It’s advisable to bring a hat and sunscreen as shade is sparse. Bicycles are available for rent from local shops if you need them.
Once a quarantine and drug rehabilitation center, St. John’s Island now serves as a peaceful retreat for Singapore residents seeking a quick escape from urban life. Larger than nearby Kusu Island and Sisters’ Islands, St. John’s Island dedicates a significant portion to research and hosts a holiday lodge, with only about 35% accessible to the public.
Discover St. John’s Island National Marine Laboratory
At the National Marine Laboratory, delve into Singapore’s marine biodiversity and conservation efforts. The Public Gallery offers a fascinating glimpse into the Marine Park, featuring a 3D miniature model of dive trails, a timeline highlighting Singapore’s conservation initiatives, and interactive displays including viewing pools and aquariums. Admission to the Public Gallery is free, and restroom facilities are available on-site.
The walk from the jetty to the gallery takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes, with the path leading uphill and limited shade along the way. Be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen for your visit.
St John’s Island Beach
St. John’s Island boasts a single beach, making it the perfect destination for swimming, sunbathing, and unwinding by the sea. This tranquil lagoon is sheltered by sea barrier rocks, offering a safe environment to relax. From the beach, you can catch glimpses of Singapore’s skyline across the water. There is a toilet near the beach equipped with basic shower facilities, though public toilet options are limited on the island. For those seeking a more expansive beach experience, Lazarus Beach is recommended for its larger space and serene atmosphere.
Solve a Mystery
If you are a lover of escape rooms and scavenger hunts you can join an exciting island adventure where you are tasked with finding a cure for a deadly pandemic. In this game you will explore Sentosa and St John’s Island, uncover missing journal pages, and solve the mystery to save mankind in an immersive adventure.
Walk to Lazarus Beach
From St. John’s dock, a brief 10-minute stroll leads you to Lazarus Island, connected by a causeway. The path offers little shade, so it’s wise to bring along an umbrella or wear a hat for sun protection.
Lazarus Beach itself is approximately a 17-minute walk from St. John’s Island dock, contributing to its serene ambiance and crystal-clear waters. During peak season, private boats and yachts may ferry visitors to this secluded lagoon giving the beach more vibrant vibe. Note that Lazarus Island lacks toilet facilities; the nearest restroom is located at Seringat Island’s pier, just a 5-minute walk away.
It’s also the sole beach in this region where camping is permissible, boasting six designated campsites. Remember, a camping permit is mandatory!
Should you wish to explore more of St. John’s Island on foot or by bike, consider venturing to Seringat and Kias Islands. Both islands are accessible from Lazarus via reclaimed land. Kias Island additionally features the City View Lookout Point, offering breathtaking vistas of Singapore’s cityscape and towering buildings.
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