exploring singapore southern islands *St John’s, Lazarus & Kusu Island \\ Tareksara vlog
St. John's Island
41ha, mangroves, coral reefs, rocky shores and natural sandy shores. Swimming, camping and chalets.
Uniquely Singapore! The reefs of St. John's Island are only 15 minutes from the city centre by fast boat! More about our city reefs.
St. John's Island houses several government facilities, but there are still portions of the island accessible to the public. There are also short stretches of natural shores that have some of the most exquisite corals and other reef life. These shores are rather delicate so please be gentle when visiting them. There is also a small patch of mangroves.
History of St. John's Island
A former quarantine station for leprosy cases and a penal settlement for political prisoners and ringleaders of secret societies.
St. John's island today
In recent times, the western end of the island hosts a $30million Marine Aquaculture Centre. This large hilly island also has swimming lagoons, beaches, picnic grounds, trekking routes and soccer fields.
Marine life of St. John's Island
St. John's natural shores is ringed by coral reefs with a variety of hard and soft corals. St. John's Island also has small patches of mangroves, which shelters a rare variety of mangrove tree. For some reason, dolphins seem regularly sighted at St. John's.
Join a guided nature walk on St. John's Island conducted by the Tropical Marine Science Institute. See also the wild shores of singapore blog.
More tips for visitors
There is a daily ferry from Marina South Pier currently provided by Singapore Island Cruise, see their website for their latest charges and ferry schedule.
You can also charter a fast work boat from Marina South Pier. Rates will have to be negotiated with the operator which depends on their availability and diesel prices among others. The work boats operate 24-hours, but the booking desks at the Pier only opens during office hours. The work boats generally service business for ships in our harbour. These boats are not intended for leisure trips and are not designed for comfort.
There is an admission charge of 50cents per person for those arriving by private charter. This fee is incorporated into the ferry cost for those taking the ferry.
There are chalets and camping facilities available on the island. These are managed by the Sentosa. More on the Sentosa website It is advisable to consult Sentosa if you are bringing large groups even if it's just a day trip.
Facilities include: Swimming lagoons, toilets, shelters and picnic areas. No food on sale on the island.
Kusu Pilgrimage season is held during the ninth month of the Chinese lunar calendar. During this time, about 100,000 pilgrims make the trip to Kusu island. Ferry services to St. John's Island, road access to Marina South Pier and other regular services may be suspended and changed. Check the Sentosa website and Maritime Port Authority website for the latest updates nearer the event. Public information on this will also be
