Island Getaways Near Singapore’s Mainland to Incorporate Into Your Itinerary

Overview

For groups looking to plan activities away from the skyscrapers of downtown Singapore, Sentosa naturally comes to mind. Whilst this tourist hotspot boasts loads of activities and attractions to keep groups well occupied, your participants will be pleasantly surprised to find other unique island getaways that are within close proximity to the city.

Here are four options that can be a refreshing change for that memorable team building experience or incentive trip.

Lazarus Island

Beach lovers are in for a treat on Lazarus Island, with its clean white sand bordering clear waters. The secluded island is ideal for group activities, team building games, swimming, sunbathing or simply to enjoy a slow picnic with colleagues. Cat lovers will also enjoy making friends with the resident felines there.

To take the experience up a notch, you can also hire a private vessel to hold your corporate party or team meetings. The vessels come in various sizes and offer delectable snacks as you embark on a customised voyage to other Southern islands.

How to get there: Take a ferry ($18 for a two-way trip) to St. John’s island from Marina South Pier terminal, and take a 20-minute stroll to Lazarus Island via a link bridge. Alternatively, contact a vessel chartering company for a tailored experience. 

Coney Island

Located off the north-eastern coast of Singapore, this ecologically sustainable park is home to over 80 species of birds and a wide variety of flora and fauna – some are even critically endangered. Your participants can explore the forests and mangroves from the boardwalk and even stroll to the beach for some R&R.

To learn more about the biodiversity on Coney Island, sign up for a two-hour guided walk organised by the National Parks Board. Email them to enquire about a group booking as the tour is limited to 30 participants. To explore the island more efficiently, rent bicycles (from $8 per hour) from Punggol Settlement before heading to the entrance. 

How to get there: Bus 84 will take passengers from Punggol MRT to Punggol Settlement. Then walk or cycle for about 500m to get to the island’s West entrance

Pulau Ubin

For tranquillity and rustic charm, Pulau Ubin is the place to be. Whether your associates choose to spend the day walking, cycling or driving on the island, the fresh air and unhurried pace will relax the mind and soothe the soul.

Nature lovers should make a beeline for Chek Jawa Wetland, one of Singapore’s richest ecosystems. Your group can also kayak (a great team bonding activity), check out a Chinese kampong (village) house typical of the rustic villages of old Singapore, or head to the top of Puaka Hill for Insta-worthy views. The Nature Society (Singapore) also organises activities on Pulau Ubin periodically.

How to get there: Take a 15-minute bumboat ride ($3 per person for a single trip) from Changi Point Ferry Terminal.

Smith Marine Floating Restaurant

Technically, this isn’t an island, but this Halal-certified floating restaurant deserves a mention for its uniqueness. Located between Pulau Ubin and Changi Point Ferry Terminal, Smith Marine serves up some of the freshest seafood you can find in Singapore. The catch: some of you will have to fish for your dinner from the “sure catch” pond! (Warning: This can easily turn into an intense competition.)

Your group can also bring games or simply enjoy a relaxing chat in the middle of the sea. The whole experience is likely to take about three hours. You are recommended to form a group (or multiple groups) of eight to 10 to make a reservation.

How to get there: When you confirm your reservation, the restaurant will book your 10-minute bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal (a two-way ride for 12 passengers costs $100).