Island Quietude: The Low-Key Charm of St. John’s Island and Singapore’s Southern Isles
A short sail from the city, long on calm beaches, marine history and easy island walks
You step off the tender and the island inhales: salt, sun-warmed sand, the faint bruise of distant container ships threading the Singapore Strait. St. John’s Island—short, squat and resolutely low-lying—feels like a punctuation mark between the city’s glass skyline and the open sea. Palms lazily bow, rocks hold small, clear pools, and the mangroves at the lee of the island squat like weathered sentinels. For a few hours the city’s hard edges blur and the Southern Islands take over, offering an expedition that is part seaside picnic, part maritime history lesson and part easy coastal wander.
Trail Wisdom
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The island’s marine life is fragile—use mineral-based sunscreen to avoid harming corals and sea life.
Pack water and snacks
Facilities are limited; carry at least 1–2 liters of water per person and light food.
Mind the tides and currents
Swim only in calm conditions and check with your boat operator before entering the water.
Plan transport back
Charter trips and public launches have fixed schedules—confirm return times to avoid being stranded.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Lazarus Island sandbar and beaches (short ferry hop)
- •Kusu Island’s pilgrimage shrine and quiet tidal pools
Wildlife
sea turtles (occasionally seen offshore), migratory shorebirds and terns
Conservation Note
These islands rely on responsible visitors—avoid collecting shells, use reef-safe sunscreen and take all waste back to the mainland to protect coral reefs and shorebird habitat.
St. John’s Island served as a quarantine station in the 19th century and was noted as an anchorage location during Sir Stamford Raffles’s 1819 voyage.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: calm morning sails, beach walks, birdwatching
Challenges: intermittent showers, humid afternoons
March–May brings inter-monsoon conditions: generally warm mornings, occasional squalls and excellent early-morning light for photos.
summer
Best for: clear water snorkeling, evening cruises, fishing courses
Challenges: afternoon thunderstorms, strong sun
June–August tends to be drier with brief tropical storms; afternoons can be hot—start early and carry shade.
fall
Best for: sheltered beach days, boat-based sunset views
Challenges: increasing rainfall, choppier seas at times
September–November sees more convection and occasional rougher seas—check boat cancellations during heavy weather.
winter
Best for: spectacular sunsets, cooler breezes, calmer waters some days
Challenges: prolonged rain episodes during monsoon peaks, higher swell occasionally
December–February is the northeast monsoon period: expect heavier showers but also crisp, dramatic skies between downpours.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Reusable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated is crucial in tropical heat and facilities are limited.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and the island’s coral ecosystems.
Water shoesEssential
Protects feet when rock-hopping and during shallow snorkeling.
Light waterproof jacket
Useful for sudden inter-monsoon showers and wind on deck.
Common Questions
How do I get to St. John’s Island?
Access is by boat—either a private charter from Marina South/Sentosa or scheduled launches and small-boat operators that include the island as part of Southern Islands routes.
Are there food and drink facilities on the island?
Facilities are basic and intermittent; bring water and snacks. Some weekends may see temporary kiosks, but don’t rely on them.
Can I snorkel or swim at St. John’s Island?
Yes—there are good shallow spots for swimming and snorkeling, but check current conditions and avoid snorkeling after heavy rain, which reduces visibility and can stir debris.
Is St. John’s Island suitable for kids?
Yes—flat walks, beaches and shallow tidal pools make it family-friendly, but supervise children near rocks and water and bring sun protection.
Are drones allowed?
Drone use is restricted in many parts of Singapore and around some islands—check the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore and NParks rules before flying.
Do I need a permit to fish?
Recreational shore fishing is generally permitted, but commercial fishing and certain zones may be regulated—confirm with local authorities or your course operator.
What to Pack
Reusable water bottle (hydration), reef-safe sunscreen (protects coral), water shoes (rocky shores), waterproof pouch for valuables (salt and spray protection)
Did You Know
St. John’s Island was used as a quarantine station in the 19th century and is noted as the site where Sir Stamford Raffles anchored in 1819.
Quick Travel Tips
Book small-group cruises in advance; arrive early to snag shade on the boat; bring cash for sporadic kiosks; check weather and tide conditions before swimming
Local Flavor
Weekend crowds often come for simple pleasures: grilled seafood at Sentosa back on the mainland, Malay and Peranakan-influenced dishes in nearby coastal neighborhoods, and the low-key island ritual of bringing a picnic and a mat to watch the sea.
Logistics Snapshot
Know-before-you-go: reach the Southern Islands via charter or scheduled launch from Marina South/Resorts World Sentosa; limited facilities on St. John’s; bring water and sun protection; small-group cruises typically last 3 hours with anchoring stops.
Sustainability Note
Respect marine life: use reef-safe sunscreen, take all trash back to the mainland, avoid touching corals and do not feed wildlife—small actions protect breeding and nursery areas.