Lazarus Island & St John’s Island Beach Day
Full-day beach escape to two of Singapore’s most idyllic Southern Islands. This trip combines a relaxed beach day on Lazarus Island’s powdery sands with a nature and heritage stroll on St John’s Island — ideal for swimming, snorkeling, picnics and short nature walks. Accessible by public ferry, it’s a convenient way to experience Singapore’s island shoreline away from the city.
Location
Lazarus Island & St John’s Island (Southern Islands), Singapore, Singapore
Duration
6–8 hours (typical day trip; morning departure, return late afternoon)
Best Time to Visit
Morning to early afternoon on weekdays; drier months or calmer seas (typically Feb–Apr), but islands are visitable year-round—check weather & ferry status before traveling.
Pricing
Typical cost (per person): SGD 12–30
- Ferry round-trip: ~SGD 12–20 (varies by operator & ticket type)
- Optional guided tour or boat charter: SGD 80–250 (group/private)
- Suggested budget for food/refreshments & rentals: SGD 10–40
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Lazarus Island: long, golden-sand beach and clear swimming waters
St John’s Island: historic quarantine island, shaded groves and marine life areas
Snorkeling around shallow reefs and rock pools (bring mask/snorkel)
Picnics, sunbathing and relaxed beach games
Short coastal walks, beachcombing and bird/shoreline wildlife spotting
Photography opportunities: sandbars, turquoise shallows and sunset (if staying late)
Itinerary
Meet at the ferry departure point (commonly Marina South Pier or other scheduled departure). Purchase or collect ferry tickets; board the scheduled ferry to St John’s Island.
Arrive early to secure seats and confirm return ferry times. Bring ID if required for bookings.
Ferry crossing to St John’s Island (~15–30 minutes depending on operator/route).
Enjoy views of the Southern Islands. Keep seasickness meds handy if you’re prone to motion sickness.
Explore St John’s Island: shady paths, historical markers, the small jetty and marine life pools.
Visit information boards; learn about the island’s quarantine/heritage past and marine conservation efforts.
Transfer to Lazarus Island (short walk/boat depending on tide & operator).
Access between the islands can be short; follow local guidance for the safest route.
Beach time on Lazarus: swimming, snorkeling, picnic and relaxing on the sand.
There are no lifeguards on most parts—swim with caution. Pack shade, water and a reef-safe sunscreen.
Return to St John’s Island to gather gear and catch the afternoon ferry back to the mainland.
Confirm the last return ferry times early in the day to avoid missing departures.
Ferry back to the mainland and disperse.
Some schedules vary; plan buffer time for delays or extra exploring.
Safety Requirements
Check the ferry schedule and weather forecast before departure; services may be cancelled in rough seas.
No lifeguards on Lazarus — swim at your own risk and avoid strong currents; do not swim alone.
Wear a life jacket for any boat transfers if provided or requested.
Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid stepping on or touching corals and marine life.
Bring sufficient drinking water, sun protection (hat, long-sleeve rash guard), and a basic first-aid kit.
Carry a charged phone and inform someone of your plans/return time.
Tips
Bring everything you need (food, water, shade) — limited facilities on the islands.
Pack out all trash — there are no regular waste services in some island areas; practice Leave No Trace.
Bring biodegradable or reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine ecosystems.
Wear water shoes to protect feet from rocks or shells when snorkeling or walking on intertidal areas.
Go early on weekdays to avoid crowds and secure shaded spots.
Check return ferry timings on arrival and buy a return ticket if needed; schedules can be limited in the late afternoon.
If snorkeling, consider bringing a mesh bag for shells and a small waterproof pouch for valuables.
Consider a guided small-group trip if you want snorkel gear, safety briefings, or deeper local knowledge.
