Underrated Day Trips from Singapore (That Aren’t Johor Bahru)

When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of Singapore, your first instinct might be to hop across the border to Johor Bahru again. Don’t get me wrong, JB has plenty to offer, but sometimes you just want something a little different. The good news? There’s a whole world of day trips just beyond Singapore that don’t involve battling Causeway traffic. Here’s your go-to list of exciting escapes, all doable in a day or weekend.

Nature escapes in Singapore’s backyard

You don’t always have to leave the country to enjoy an adventure. Singapore is surrounded by nature spots that offer a refreshing change of scenery right in our backyard!

Experience unexpected surprises on Coney Island

Yeah, you’ve probably heard all about it before: leafy trails, quiet beaches and…a cow? For a while, Coney Island was home to a solitary Brahman bull, freely roaming the island. No one knew exactly how he got there, but he became something of a local legend, a reminder that even in urban Singapore, nature has a mind of its own. 

This island is a well-loved destination where you’ll find an eco-friendly nature retreat as the park runs entirely on solar energy and uses eco-toilets! Take a trip here to experience Coney Island’s unique charm: the kind that was once enjoyed by a legendary cow.

Explore the tortoise island, Kusu Island

Kusu Island, “Tortoise Island” in Hokkien, is small, quiet, and steeped in legend. The island is famous for its Chinese temple dedicated to the god of prosperity and a trio of Malay shrines perched atop a hill. Thousands make the pilgrimage during the ninth lunar month, but outside of that, it’s delightfully peaceful. And perhaps best of all, there’s a tortoise sanctuary where dozens of the little guys laze around like they own the place. I took one look at them and was instantly charmed…planning my trip now!

Pulau Ubin: An adventure just 10 minutes away

I know, it sounds like another basic option. But Pulau Ubin has more to it than you might think. Most come for the Chek Jawa Wetlands, with its mangroves and coastal boardwalk, but if you venture a little further, there’s plenty more waiting to be discovered. 

Cycle past the jetty and you might find yourself at the German Girl Shrine, a mysterious hilltop altar with a backstory. Not far off, the abandoned Balai Quarry surprises with its vivid blue-green water and dramatic cliffs, while the Wei Tuo Fa Gong Temple offers a quiet, spiritual pause amid the greenery. Pulau Ubin seems to be an unassuming, well-worn travel location, but it’s more than worth exploring to experience a unique, serene adventure and nature’s calm.

St John’s & Lazarus Island: Explore, unwind, repeat

Just a short ferry ride from Marina South Pier, St John’s Island is often the first stop on a day out at sea. Linked by a causeway to its quieter sibling, Lazarus Island, this duo has some of the best natural beaches Singapore has to offer.

On St John’s Island, nature enthusiasts can explore well-paved paths ideal for cycling or scooter rides. There’s even the St John’s Island Escape Tour, which transforms the island into a life-sized escape room. To whoever came up with that idea, I’m completely onboard! Meanwhile, on Lazarus Island, you’ll find a serene horseshoe-shaped beach perfect for picnics, kite flying, or simply unwinding by the sea. 

Pulau Hantu: What’s in a name?

Pulau Hantu, which translates to “Ghost Island”, is a favourite among local divers. Don’t let the name fool you; this island isn’t actually haunted, unless you count getting lucky and catching the silhouettes of reef sharks gliding through the water! Accessible by private charter or organised tours, it boasts rich coral reefs and surprisingly good visibility, especially at low tide. It’s not as developed as other islands, but that’s exactly the appeal. If you’re ready to explore, bring your gear and a spirit of adventure.

Quick getaways just beyond Singapore

Got a little more time to spare? These overseas day trips from Singapore offer beach breaks, cultural sights, and a sense of being far away without actually going very far.

Spend an exciting beach day at Desaru, Malaysia

If you don’t mind a little sea crossing, Desaru on Johor’s east coast is an ideal beach escape without heading to JB. Catch a ferry from Tanah Merah and in just over an hour, you’ll be lounging on golden sands. Families will love the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark, while others might opt for a peaceful stroll through the Desaru Fruit Farm or a magical firefly cruise along Sungai Lebam. It’s laid-back, tropical, and ticks all the day-trip boxes!

Also read: Kulai or Desaru: Which is the Best Weekend Getaway From Singapore?

Explore beyond the resorts in Bintan, Indonesia

Less than an hour by ferry from Singapore, Bintan is the go-to for those wanting a proper island escape without the long-haul flight. While many head straight to the resort belt at Lagoi, there’s more to Bintan than beachside luxury. Explore its cultural side in Tanjung Pinang, or visit Penyengat Island, rich in Malay history and home to a mosque made partly of egg whites (Yes, I promise I’m not pulling your leg).

Close to home, far from ordinary

While JB might be the go-to for most Singaporeans, it’s by no means the only option. Whether you’re craving beaches, biodiversity, or just a change of pace, these day trips from Singapore offer something refreshingly different without straying too far. I know I’m definitely passing on the Causeway the next time I’m itching to escape the city!