Kusu Island Singapore
A serene island escape in Singapore's Southern Islands, featuring cultural shrines, a turtle sanctuary, and access to beautiful beaches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Kusu Island Singapore
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene island escape in Singapore's Southern Islands, featuring cultural shrines, a turtle sanctuary, and access to beautiful beaches.
"Escape the city bustle for a peaceful island retreat with cultural gems and natural beauty."
🚢 Ferry Booking
Book ferry tickets in advance or at Marina South Pier. Schedules vary, check timings!
🍎 Pack Food & Water
No shops on Kusu Island. Bring lunch, snacks, and plenty of water.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kusu Island Temple
Hilltop
Ascend to the hilltop temple for spiritual ambiance and panoramic views of the surrounding islands.
Turtle Sanctuary
Near the temple
Observe the island's namesake 'tortoises' or turtles in their natural habitat. A charming encounter for all ages.
Beaches of Lazarus Island
Adjacent Lazarus Island
Enjoy pristine sandy shores and clear waters on the nearby Lazarus Island, accessible via a causeway. Perfect for a relaxing day.
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Logistics are Key
Pack Smart for Island Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry Booking
Book ferry tickets in advance or at Marina South Pier. Schedules vary, check timings! +1
🍎 Pack Food & Water
No shops on Kusu Island. Bring lunch, snacks, and plenty of water.
☀️ Sun & Bug Protection
Essential: sunscreen, hats, and mosquito repellent.
📶 Spotty Mobile Signal
4G signals can be weak. Download offline maps.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry Booking
Book ferry tickets in advance or at Marina South Pier. Schedules vary, check timings! +1
🍎 Pack Food & Water
No shops on Kusu Island. Bring lunch, snacks, and plenty of water.
☀️ Sun & Bug Protection
Essential: sunscreen, hats, and mosquito repellent.
📶 Spotty Mobile Signal
4G signals can be weak. Download offline maps.
🚶♀️ Island Hopping
Combine Kusu with St. John's and Lazarus Islands for a full day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kusu Island for its tranquil atmosphere, cultural sites, and the opportunity to connect with nature, especially the turtles. It's seen as a refreshing escape from Singapore's urban environment, with the adjacent Lazarus Island offering beautiful beaches. However, the lack of amenities and reliance on packed provisions are frequently noted.
"Lovely location to relax, enjoy the beaches (including Lazarus Island) and look at the Chinese Temple and tortoise sanctuary. Would have been good to have had a sign with information about the sanctuary, e.g. were these rescued tortoises?
Great service from Island Cruise Ferries."
Alan Shipman
"A peaceful getaway from the mainland starting with a comfortable ride in air-conditioned ferry on a guided community tour.
The island was serene, charming and quiet.
Met the caretaker of the island who explained the history, and challenges of maintaining the island.
Enjoyable experience, and worth coming here"
R Lim
"A welcome dose of peace and quiet, Away from the city grind, a chance to hear my own thoughts again in kusu.
The 152 steps climb wasn’t easy, but the view was a good payoff. Kusu is
A chance to reflect without pressure and The temple, the shrines, the turtles offer a life stripped back to essentials."
David Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ferries to Kusu Island depart from Marina South Pier. Several ferry operators run services, and you can typically purchase tickets at the pier. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes. +1
Ferry schedules can vary, especially on weekends and public holidays. It's best to check the latest timings with the ferry operators at Marina South Pier or online before your trip.
Yes, you can usually buy ferry tickets at the jetty right before departure at Marina South Pier. However, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons or festivals. +1
Ferry ticket prices are generally affordable, often around S$14-S$18 for a round trip, but can vary slightly between operators. Check with the specific ferry company for the most up-to-date pricing.
No, all ferries to Kusu Island depart from Marina South Pier. You'll need to make your way to this terminal first.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While you can often buy tickets at the pier, booking in advance is advisable to secure your spot, especially during busy periods or the Kusu Island festival. +1
Kusu Island is generally accessible during daylight hours, coinciding with ferry operating times. The temples and shrines are open for visitors to explore.
There is no entrance fee to visit Kusu Island itself. The primary cost is for the ferry ticket to get there.
Based on past information, Southern Islands ferry tickets, including those for Kusu Island, may not be eligible for SRV. It's best to confirm current eligibility.
The 'ticket price' typically refers to the ferry ticket, which is around S$14-S$18 for a round trip.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Kusu Island features a hilltop Malay shrine, a Chinese temple, and a turtle sanctuary. The island also offers beautiful beaches on the adjacent Lazarus Island.
Kusu Island is generally not too crowded, except during the annual Kusu Island festival. Weekdays are usually quieter than weekends.
Visitors can explore the temples, visit the turtle sanctuary, relax on the beaches of nearby Lazarus Island, and enjoy the natural scenery.
Amenities are very limited. It's crucial to bring your own food, water, and any personal necessities as there are no shops or extensive facilities.
While Kusu Island itself is more about the cultural sites, the adjacent Lazarus Island has lovely beaches where swimming is popular.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food establishments on Kusu Island. Visitors must bring their own food and drinks.
Pack sandwiches, snacks, fruits, and plenty of water. Consider items that are easy to eat outdoors and won't spoil quickly.
Yes, picnicking is a great way to enjoy your brought-along food. Find a scenic spot and enjoy the island's tranquility.
📸 📸 Photography
The hilltop temple offers great panoramic views. The beaches of Lazarus Island are also picturesque. Don't forget to capture the turtles! 
Drone usage regulations can be strict in Singapore. It's advisable to check with the relevant authorities before flying a drone on or around Kusu Island.
Expect scenic coastal shots, cultural temple architecture, and wildlife photos of the turtles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection, as facilities are minimal. The ferry ride itself can be an adventure for younger ones. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for the whole family.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, pack your own food and drinks. This avoids the expense of purchasing items on the mainland or hoping for vendors that don't exist on the island.
🧘♀️ Nature & Peace Seekers
Combine your visit with Lazarus Island's beaches for a truly relaxing day. The lack of commercial development and limited amenities contribute to its unspoiled charm. Visiting on a weekday will further enhance the sense of peace and quiet.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Southern Islands
When planning your island hopping adventure, consider the ferry schedules carefully. While some ferries may travel between islands, it's often more straightforward to return to St. John's Island (which has a jetty) and then take another ferry to your next destination, or to plan your route logically. The causeway connecting St. John's and Lazarus Islands is a key feature for easy access between them.
Remember that these islands are largely undeveloped, so come prepared with all your necessities. The natural beauty and relative tranquility make them a worthwhile excursion for those seeking a different side of Singapore.
The Cultural Significance of Kusu Island
During the ninth lunar month (typically October), Kusu Island becomes a pilgrimage site. Devotees visit the shrines to pray for good fortune, health, and prosperity. This period sees a significant increase in visitors and ferry services, transforming the usually serene island into a bustling hub of activity.
Beyond its religious significance, the island offers a glimpse into Singapore's multicultural heritage. The coexistence of these sacred sites reflects the harmonious blend of traditions that characterize the nation.
Preparing for Your Island Getaway
Sun protection is non-negotiable. The tropical sun can be intense, so bring high SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses. Lightweight, breathable clothing is also recommended. Don't forget insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be present, especially in the late afternoon.
For those planning to explore the beaches of Lazarus Island, swimwear and a towel are a must. Comfortable walking shoes are advisable for navigating the island's paths and climbing to the temple. Lastly, be aware that mobile phone reception can be intermittent, so consider downloading offline maps or important information beforehand.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit