St John's Island is about 6.5km south of mainland Singapore, per SLA, and covers 39 hectares. It makes an easy escape if you want fewer crowds than the mainland beaches.

Getting there

SLA says regular ferries serve St John's Island from Marina South Pier on fixed schedules (MRT: Marina South Pier station). Third-party listings show fares of about S$15 to S$18. SLA also states that the St John's Island jetty was temporarily closed from 24 April 2025, with access via Seringat jetty, which is a 30-minute walk from St John's jetty. Please check the current arrangement with the ferry operator before you go.

Suggested plan

9am: Take the morning ferry from Marina South Pier.

10am to 12pm: Explore on foot. You can walk to Lazarus Island over the causeway (15 to 20 minutes, per SLA).

12pm: Picnic. SLA says there are no shops on St John's, so bring food and water for the whole day. BBQ pits at St John's are first-come, first-served.

2pm to 3.30pm: Relax in the shade, then plan your return ferry with a buffer.

Want to stay overnight?

SLA lists St John's Island Lodge, with several accommodation types, BBQ pits and shared kitchens. Applications must be submitted at least 14 days before.

Know before you go

  • There are no medical services on the islands.
  • Box jellyfish have been sighted in Singapore waters, and SLA has put up advisories on the Southern Islands.
  • Bag your rubbish. No open fires and no feeding of wildlife.