Best Day Trips From Singapore For a Day of Fun

One of the most popular day trips from Singapore, Sentosa Island is 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. It is speckled with panoramic gardens, amusement parks, a breathtaking aquarium (Underwater World), beach clubs and an ethnic village.

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. The main attraction here is the Chek Jawa Wetlands. Whether it is adventurous mountain biking or cycling around the pristine island, Pulau Ubin is an ideal spot for a day trip.

Get a vibe of the conventional Indonesian way of life at Bintan which is an hour's drive from the Bandar Bentan Telani Port. Panglong Village in Bintan is home to Bintan's fishermen and their families, making it a perfect indulgence for those who want to see the real Bintan, which is far away from the resorts, and those interested in the local culture.

Known For : Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple Barelang Bridge Adventure Sports in Batam

The island of Batam is one of the most picturesque islands in the Riau Archipelago, and also one of the most modernised areas in Indonesia. 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 South-East Asia.

Best Time: May to September.

11 Batam Attractions

Known For : Legoland Malaysia Angry Birds Activity Park Johor Zoo

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, various cultural Malay attractions like beautiful mosques and Chinese attractions. A must-visit here is the Hindu Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple and the Johor Bahru City Square.

9 Johor Attractions

Known For : Jonker Street St Paul's Church Melaka Stadthuys

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 for visits. There is also a little river running through the city, providing it with a calm, peaceful aura. From the famous Christ Church to the busy night markets, there is lots to do in the city, for every kind of traveller.

Best Time: April to May; October

24 Melaka Attractions

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. 

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. Desaru also has an Ostrich Farm which is a fun visit if going with family. A quick day trip from Singapore, Desaru is a nice little place to visit with friends.

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!