To the world and most Singaporeans, our Little Red Dot is known for her lush greenery and clean streets, bustling Orchard Road and ever-vibrant nightlife and skylines. However, many don’t realize once you look past the touristy spots, there’s so much more to Singapore than meets the eye.

If you have a penchant for exploring new ground and want to get away from the skyscrapers just for a day, here’s our guide to island hopping in Singapore!

No plans for this weekend? Check out St John Island, Lazarus Island and Kusu island — it’s the perfect getaway from the hustle of city life.

You’ll want to start your journey at Marina South Pier, accessible via MRT at the end of the North-South Line. You can purchase tickets (S$18) there for a round trip from the pier to St John’s/Lazarus Island, then to Kusu Island and back to Marina South Pier. Remember to check the ferry schedule so you can plan your trip accordingly!

Your first stop, St John’s Island, is about a 15-20 minute ferry ride away, so just sit tight and maybe take a power nap before you disembark!

ST JOHN’S ISLAND

When you arrive at St. John’s Island, you’ll be greeted by a vast expanse of beach-land and shaded pavilions hidden amongst the tall trees. It’s the perfect place to enjoy refreshing waves of the ocean, basking in the warm sun.

As you stroll along the beach, keep an eye out for some trinkets you can bring home – seashells and crab claws. We were lucky enough to find a whole crab shell with its claws still intact!

Other than beaches, surround yourself in the abundance of greenery St John’s Island has to offer. They provide much-needed shade when the sun gets too harsh. It really reminds us that it’s fine to immerse ourselves in nature for a few moments without a care in the world.

LAZARUS ISLAND

To get to Lazarus Island, all you need to do is cross a bridge once you turn left from the Ferry Terminal at St John’s Island! The link-bridge is surrounded by azure waters and plenty of places to snap a nice photo. Since it’s so quiet, the entire road on the link bridge is a picture-perfect scene for you to enjoy as well!

If you fancy a swim and somewhere to lie down and take a nap under the sun, Lazarus Island’s white sandy beaches might be right up your alley. Though the beaches are relatively smaller than those of Sentosa and Bali, the aquamarine-coloured waters are still ever-so enticing.

The sandy beaches are also a popular spot for picnics! Cook up some simple pasta salad, bring a loaf of bread and your preferred toppings, some chips and some drinks and you’re all set for a hearty meal with your friends or family!

For those who love cats and furry creatures, if you’re lucky, you may spot some island cats. They’re super friendly and seem quite used to affection from humans!

KUSU ISLAND

The last stop for the day is Kusu Island. “Kusu” means Turtle or Tortoise in Hokkien, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at the island’s temple. Tortoises are said to live extremely long lives and are extremely important to the island.

Pray at the temple located just behind the Chinese pavilions and bridges. The temple is dedicated to the God of Prosperity and the Goddess of Mercy. It is a serene and picturesque scene that highlights the importance of Chinese culture in today’s modern world that is otherwise much forgotten and overlooked.

You can also make a wish on the wishing tree there! It is believed that tying a yellow cloth around the tree grants wealth, good marriage, health and harmony! If a wish comes true, believers come back and offer thanks, occasionally untying the cloths they have bound around the tree.

While taking the ferry back to the mainland, it’s as if you’re being transported back to reality from a day-long dream you’ve just enjoyed. Let’s be thankful for the presence of such getaway spots in Singapore, reminding us that there’s more to life than just the typical rat-race.

31 Marina Coastal Drive
Singapore 018988
Nearest Station: Marina South Pier

Singapore is beautiful. This Garden City has made a name for itself by being the best global commerce, financial and transportation hub in Asia, and prides itself in being a racially and religiously harmonious nation. Singapore is home to some of the best multi-cultural food in Asia, where you will be able to experience tastes, flavours and spices from all over the world.

This island nation also boasts beautifully greenery amidst city life, with some of the best activities, food and shopping there is. You can enjoy activities such as Universal Studios Singapore, Sentosa Beach, Singapore Zoo, River Safari, Night Safari and so much more. Singapore is also a good mix and old and new with preserved historical sites and modern towering skyscrapers—all on the same island.

If you are ever visiting Singapore, this list of 54 Things to Do in Singapore should be your checklist of activities and places to check out; if you are a Singaporean, be proud to call Singapore your Home.

#1 BAR HOP ISLANDWIDE

Singapore is home to some award-winning bars such as Manhattan Bar at Regent Hotel and 28 Hongkong Street. You would be surprised with some hidden gems you might be able to find at areas such as Keong Saik Road.

And to get you started, here are some Best Bars in Singapore That Even Locals Never Knew About!

#2 BUDGET SHOPPING AT BUGIS/SCAPE*

We are always looking for a bargain and if you are a like us and enjoy the occasional bargaining fun, head to places such as Bugis Street, *SCAPE, Chinatown, Little India and more. It is in these places that you get to find some interesting steals.

Read our guide on 13 things to see and do in Bugis that will change your impression of the neighbourhood.

#3 GO CAFE HOPPING

Singapore’s cafe culture is really strong and we have more cafes on our little island than we can count. Some of our favourite cafes are Fresh Fruits Lab, The Populus Coffee & Food Co., Lunar Coffee Brewers and Kith Cafe.

Read our guides on cafes in Singapore that you must visit.

#4 CATCH A CONCERT AT THE ESPLANADE

Esplanade is a performance arts theatre centre in the heart of the city. Its interesting and unique architecture shaped like a durian has hence become one of the most iconic structures of Singapore’s skyline.

#5 CYCLE AT PUNGGOL PROMENADE/WATERWAY PARK

Punggol is one of the newest neighbourhoods in Singapore and also home to the very beautiful Punggol Waterway, filled with lush greenery and the freshest air. Take a day off to skate, cycle, jog, or simply just enjoy the area, before heading down to grab a bite at The Punggol Settlement, @Punggol or the huge shopping mall Waterway Point.

#6 CYCLE/SKATE AT EAST COAST PARK

East Coast Park stretches along the long coastline of Singapore and is the place to go for cycling, skating or simply just a picnic or barbecue by the beach with the family.

#7 DAY TRIP TO PULAU UBIN

Many people head to Pulau Ubin for a day of trekking, or for other sports and activities. The island is only a short ferry ride away. A tip is to stay for the sunset; it will be one you won’t regret watching.

#8 ENJOY SILOSO & PALAWAN BEACH

Sentosa is an island on its own and it is home to many beaches such as Siloso Beach, Tanjong Beach and Palawan Beach. Apart from having lots of fun at the various attractions and activity centres, there is a whole plethora of restaurants and bars to dine at.

Not sure where to start? Here’s our Guide to Dining in Sentosa.

#9 TAKE A STROLL ALONG THE MARINA

What beautiful cityscape we have! To take them all in, take a stroll along the marina. There are several pathways to choose from, but we like the walk across Helix Bridge that leads us to Marina Bay Sands.

#10 EXPLORE CLARKE QUAY AT NIGHT

Clarke Quay is the nightlife neighbourhood of Singapore with great bars, clubs and restaurants. After having a dinner by the Singapore river, continue your night with some drinks.

#11 EXPLORE FORT CANNING PARK

Fort Canning Park is a historical site in Singapore that you must visit. Besides that, occasional concerts and events are held here and you can also have a picnic on the lawn.

#12 EXPLORE THE HIPSTER TIONG BAHRU NEIGHBOURHOOD

Tiong Bahru is one of our favourite neighbourhoods in Singapore because it is the perfect juxtapose of old and new. There is an eclectix mix of cafes, lifestyle boutiques and old-school shops.

To sum it up, here are 8 Things We Love About Tiong Bahru.

#13 FLY KITES AT MARINA BARRAGE

Marina Barrage has a huge grass patch on the top floor and it is a go-to spot for couples and families to have a picnic. It is also great for kite-flying or and some simple friskbee games.

#14 GO HIKING IN NATURE RESERVES

Working out in space limited Singapore doesn’t always necessarily mean pumping the iron or stomping the treadmill. How does breaking out the sweat while being surrounded by nature and Instagram-worthy views sound like to you?

Here are 10 Uncharted Nature Trails In Singapore To Tick Off Your Bucket List.

#15 VISIT THE SINGAPORE ZOO

The perfect destination for both wandering travelers or families is the Singapore Zoo. Surrounded by lush wildlife and greenery, the zoo is an oasis an escape from the hustle and bustle of Singapore’s urban landscape.

#16 GO PRAWNING

You can prawn in a few places in Singapore and one of them is in Punggol in the @Punggol area. Catch a couple of prawns and you can cook and eat them right away. It is a favourite past-time of many Singaporeans.

#17 GO TREKKING AT CONEY ISLAND PARK

Coney Island Park is situated near to The Punggol Settlement and it is home to the lushest greenery around. Many people choose to ride a bike through to explore the entire island.

#18 GO FARM HOPPING

Contrary to popular belief, Singapore is more than just glitzy skyscrapers. Despite having a 100% urban population, there are still several countryside farms that are open to public for visits.

From organic vegetable farm Bollywood Veggies to Singapore’s only goat farm Hay Dairies, here are 10 Farms in Singapore That You Probably Did Not Know About.

#19 DISCOVER HIDDEN PHOTO SPOTS IN SINGAPORE

Explore some of Singapore’s lesser known Insta-worthy photo spots such as the Tuas Lalang Fields and the Japanese Cemetery Flower Arches. They may be slightly less accessible, but they are definitely worth travelling to!

#20 EXPLORE HAJI LANE

An eclectic lane awaits. Haji Lane is famous for its indie vibes and alternative shopping. You can expect little lifestyle boutiques, local designers, tattoo parlours, shisha joints and lots of vibrance.

Read our guide on 24 cafes, bars and restaurants along Haji Lane & North Bridge Road.

#21 GO ON THE SINGAPORE FLYER

This large structure is similar to the London Eye. It is a gigantic observation wheel, overlooking Singapore’s magnificent skyline. Hop on for a short ride and take in all of Singapore’s beauty from the top of the world.

#22 GO TO THE SCIENCE CENTRE

The Singapore Science Centre is great not only for the younger audience but for adults too. Have a day of fun learning more about science via hands-on activities and enjoy shows and performances as well.

#23 BE FASCINATED BY INSTALLATIONS AT THE ART SCIENCE MUSEUM

With their ever-changing installations and fasincating art collections, you will gladly get lost in the beautiful works at the Art Science Museum. Their most renowned exhibition, Future World: Where Art Meets Science, besides being intriguing to the eyes, is also extremely Instagram-worthy.

#24 ENJOY A SINGAPORE SLING AT RAFFLES HOTEL

The Singapore Sling is Singapore’s iconic cocktail that can be found in bars all over the world. But when in Singapore, be sure to have it at the place where it was created—Long Bar in Raffles Hotel.

Still baffled about what a Singapore Sling is? This is a little history about the iconic national cocktail.

#25 JOG/PICNIC AT THE SCENIC BOTANIC GARDENS

This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a beautiful range of flora and fauna. Even taking a stroll around the park is calming and relaxing to say the least. If you have dogs, this is a perfect place for your furkid to run around and frolic under the sun!

#26 HAVE A BALL OF A TIME AT ADVENTURE COVE

Adventure Cove is a water theme park within Sentosa Island. Thrilling slides, pool fun and a whole day of water activities await!

#27 EXPLORE LITTLE INDIA

Little India is vibrant, colourful and cultural. You have to visit the megastore Mustafa, enjoy some seriously good Indian food and get a henna art done on your body while in Little India. Oh, if you fancy gold, you’d go crazy here.

#28 DISCOVER HIDDEN MURALS ON A WALL CRAWL AROUND SINGAPORE

Explore Singapore in a different way, discovering all sorts of art along the streets. These murals by local artist Yip Yew Chong will learn about Singapore’s heritage through his old-Singapore-inspired paintings. You can find the full list of paintings and locations here.

#29 HIKE THE MACRITCHIE RESERVOIR TRAIL

The MacRitchie Reservoir Trail is one we recommend because it is the among the best hiking trail on our island. It is about 3 to 4 hours long and we promise that you will feel completely rejuvenated after.

#30 HIKE ACROSS SINGAPORE WITH THE 36KM COAST-TO-COAST TRAIL

If you love hiking and are up for a challenge, this new 36km-long trail links Jurong Lake Gardens and Coney Island. It may take up a whole day so remember to pack a whole lot of water and sunscreen for this hike across sunny Singapore!

#31 EXPERIENCE ART JAMMING

Art jamming is an alternative activity to destress in Singapore. It is also a romantic date idea, yes? Work on a painting together that you can hang in your homes (or future homes).

#32 HIKE ALONG THE SOUTHERN RIDGES, MOUNT FABER

The Southern Ridges is a trail that links parks along the southern ridge of Singapore. You can take a step back from your hectic life and enjoy the greenery and the walk through all the connecting bridges.

#33 INDULGE IN HAWKER FOOD

Singaporeans take pride in their hawker food and you haven’t really been to Singapore if you haven’t had a proper hawker meal. To get you started, you can head to Chomp Chomp Food Centre.

Here are some kickass hawker food in Singapore that are mostly found in hawker centres; you must try them at least once in your life.

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#34 LUXURY SHOPPING ALONG ORCHARD ROAD

Orchard Road is Singapore’s most popular shopping street. It houses some of the best brands you can find in Singapore—from global luxury labels to local designers.

And if you need to grab a bite in between shopping in Orchard Road, this is your Ultimate Guide to Dining in Orchard Road, Singapore. There are 112 restaurant and cafe options!

#35 TAKE THE SINGAPORE RIVER CRUISE

Taking the cruise will also mean that you get to see Singapore from a different view. You get to be treated to historical monuments and see a unique part of our nation as well.

#36 TRY THE EXOTIC DURIAN FRUIT

Durians have a mixed reputation and you either hate it or love it. Either way, if you have yet to try the King of Fruits, you have to take the plunge right here in Singapore.

Read our guide on 8 Durian Delivery Services in Singapore all durian lovers must know about.

#37 TRY LOCAL FAVOURITES – CHILLI CRAB, CHICKEN RICE AND MORE!

Ask any local what you must try on your first visit to Singapore and they would tell you Chilli Crab, Chicken Rice, Bak Kut Teh and Char Kway Teow. These are some of the most popular local dishes and what locals seek solace in.

#38 SPEND A DAY AT GARDENS BY THE BAY

This magnificent garden is now iconic of Singapore for it is filled with fauna and flora of a myriad of varieties that your jaws will drop. Admission is free of charge but if you are going to the Flower Dome, entrance fee applies.

#39 LEARN ABOUT CHINESE FOLKLORE AND HISTORY AT HAW PAR VILLA

What was once a theme park has become a historical site for Chinese folklore. Haw Par Villa is an acquired attraction, to say the least. The iconic 10 Courts of Hell is the centrepiece of the whole park but be warned that it is not for the faint-hearted.

#40 TAKE YOUR KIDS TO JURONG BIRD PARK

Jurong Bird Park is home to a kaleidoscope of bird from all around the world. It is Asia’s largest bird park with a collection of more than 5,000 birds across 400 species. Enjoy shows and take a peek at some of these majestic birds all around the park.

#41 MAKE A TRIP TO THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF SINGAPORE

National Gallery Singapore is a showcase of the world’s biggest collection of modern Southeast Asian Art. It mainly displays both local and general Southeast Asian art pieces and is a must-visit for history buffs.

#42 VISIT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM

The National Museum of Singapore is Singapore’s first ever museum. The exhibitions here rotate frequently and the museum holds various arts events regularly too.

Read our guide on 11 fascinating museums in Singapore you can visit over the weekend.

#43 LUXURIATE IN A SPA SESSION

You probably weren’t expecting this but Singapore is actually really good for a luxurious spa session. You’d be surprised by the sheer number of reputable spa houses on our little island, and many of them are actually world-class.

#44 ENJOY A SESSION OF AFTERNOON TEA

Sipping afternoon tea and eating sweets is such a British thing that we Singaporeans embrace. Options are aplenty in Singapore and no matter what your budget is, there should be something for you.

Here are 12 Best Afternoon Teas In Singapore We Love, as well as 13 Affordable Afternoon Tea Sets in Singapore For The Budget-conscious.

#45 HAVE FUN AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS SINGAPORE

As Singapore’s largest theme park, Universal Studios Singapore is where both young and old will have fun. Of roller coasters, kids’ shows, simulation rides and live water performances, you can easily spend an entire day at Universal Studios Singapore!

#46 FORGET ABOUT THE WORLD AT A BOOK CAFE

Lose track of time and be transported to other worlds at a book café in Singapore. Most of these cafes serve up tasty pastries and warm drinks so you can better relax and immerse yourselves in the pages of your chosen reads.

#47 VISIT THE ARMENIAN CHURCH AND ST ANDREW’S CATHEDRAL

St. Andrew’s Cathedral is the largest cathedral in the whole of Singapore and it is stunning. You can also walk over to Armenian Church to appreciate the beauty of the oldest standing Christian church in Singapore.

#48 HAVE KAYA TOAST AND EGGS FOR BREAKFAST

This is an iconic Singapore-style breakfast. Kaya Toast and Eggs is comforting and affordable and it is one that we absolutely love. Some of the best places for Kaya Toast and Eggs are Chin Mee Chin Confectionery, Tong Ah Eating House and Good Morning Nanyang Cafe.

#49 EXPLORE KAMPONG GLAM AND VISIT THE SULTAN MOSQUE

Take a break by visiting the beautiful Malay neighbourhood of Kampong Glam and marvel at the beauty of the Sultan Mosque. Right after, you can have a mini shopping trip at Haji Lane then dine at one of the many cafes there.

To give you an overview, here’s what Kampong Glam has to offer.

#50 VISIT TEMPLES AND LANDMARKS IN CHINATOWN

There are so many well-preserved landmarks in Chinatown—namely Sri Mariamman Temple, Jamae Mosque and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple—and they show you the perfect display of racial and religious harmony here in Singapore. Chinatown is a paradise for foodies.

Here is a Guide on What To See And Do in Chinatown.

#51 FIND ALL THE DRAGON PLAYGROUNDS IN SINGAPORE

Every Singaporean is familiar with the Toa Payoh Playground with the Dragon slide but did you know there are two more of these Dragon playgrounds located in Braddell and Macpherson? Kept as a reminder of Singapore’s first few playgrounds, these gems are a must-visit.

#52 TASTE SINGAPORE’S LOCAL ICE CREAM

The famous S$1 ice cream. Mobile ice cream vendors are an iconic part of Singapore’s food culture. Choose from a wide array of flavours including chocolate, raspberry and durian.

#53 EXPLORE JEWEL AT CHANGI AIRPORT

Head over to Singapore’s newest mall, Jewel at Changi Airport! Equipped with unique dining experiences, funky retail stores and the world’s largest man-made waterfall, it is a must-go for everyone, regardless of whether you are a local or visitor.

#54 SPEND YOUR DAY AT HABITAT BY HONESTBEE – NOT JUST FOR GROCERY SHOPPING

habitat by honestbee has been opened in Singapore for half a year now as Singapore’s first tech-enabled, multi-sensory grocery and dining experience. Never imagined that grocery shopping would be a fun experience in itself? Us too! That’s when you have to pay habitat by honestbee a visit. All you need to begin your experience is to download the honestbee app.

With 20,000 unique grocery items, including imports from all over the globe that you can purchase on their app and over 15 food and beverage vendors, you could spend a whole day here with your loved ones. Their smorgasbord of extensive dining concepts easily revs up your appetite and adds to our list of having one of the best fish and chips as well as best pancakes in Singapore.