Bored of Singapore? Looking for your next island adventure? Whether you want to spend a week or weekend away from The Lion City, we’ve discovered a range of idyllic islands near Singapore to relax this season. Head just 20 minutes down the road or take a four hour journey to paradise for a short trip away from the city…whatever you choose, expect the ultimate island adventure. Here are 21 majestic islands to explore near Singapore.
1. Koh Lipe, Thailand
The Maldives of Thailand, Koh Lipe, is a stunning tropical island accessible via Malaysia’s Langkawi. Known for white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reels…it’s the perfect place for relaxation and adventure. There are three charming beaches to visit, as well as lively nightlife, watersports like snorkeling, delicious seafood, and more. The hidden island is easily reachable from Singapore via a one hour and 30 minutes flight to Langkawi International Airport, followed by a one hour and 30 minutes ferry to Koh Lipe. In fact, this island is one of Asia’s best hidden gems.
2. Palawan, The Philippines
One of the most beautiful islands in the world is Palawan in The Philippines. Discover pristine natural beauty, turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush jungles just two hours and 50 minutes flight from Singapore. Visitors can explore two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park and Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. Meanwhile, world-class gems like Coron and El Nido are unmissable. From savouring seafood delicacies to trekking to waterfalls, and strolling some of the world’s best beaches…Palawan is the ultimate island destination.
3. Phu Quoc, Vietnam
The largest island in Vietnam, Phú Quốc, is located off the coast of Cambodia. It’s known for white-sand beaches, a rich history, diverse culture, and activities from hiking in national parks, to the historic Coconut Tree Prison, to water fun like snorkeling and diving. Plus, one of the best things to do is hop on the Hon Thom Cable Car – which is one of the longest three-way cable cars globally – with 360-degree views of the island. The tropical climate makes this island a lovely place to go year round. Wonderfully, there are plenty of budget-friendly and luxurious resorts for every type of budget. To reach Phu Quac Island, you need to take a connecting flight via Kuala Lumpur or Vietnamese airports such as Ho Chi Minh City.
4. Pulau Pangkil, Indonesia
This exclusive tropical island resort, is located off the coast of Bintan, just two hours and 40 minutes boat ride from Singapore. Pangkil Island can be rented out by one group at time, offering a personalised and intimate experience, for friends and families. Stay in exotic wooden bungalows by the sea, take on water sports, or enjoy a wide range of attractions. Definitely, a serene island escape for corporate events or even a wedding.
5. Sri Lanka
The vibrant Sri Lanka is just a three hour and 45 minute flight from Singapore. It’s the perfect place for a blend of culture, heritage, beach escapes, and natural beauty. From admiring wildlife in National Parks to cruising past scenic landscapes on one of the world’s most iconic train rides through Ella, relaxing on golden beaches and getting a taste of the country’s past in cities like Galle and places like Dambulla Cave Temple, and more…you’ll be spoilt for choice. Definitely, Sri Lanka is an exceptional location for outdoor adventures and watersports. Plus, it’s an affordable place to travel a quick direct flight away.
6. Langkawi, Malaysia
The beautiful paradise island of Langkawi is just one hour and 20 minutes by flight from Singapore. Be captivated by the stunning landscape, diverse culture, white sand beaches, and wonderful wildlife. In fact, it’s a treasure trove for adventure seekers because there’s a popular Langkawi Sky Bridge, dozens of watersports, and more. Depending on your budget, there’s hotels and accommodations for all types of travellers.
7. Okinawa & Ryuku Islands, Japan
Fly to these undiscovered Japanese islands just five hours direct flight with Jetstar from Singapore Changi Airport. See the best of Asia through natural beauty, cultural richness, diverse cuisine, beautiful beaches, and a rich history. The fascinating islands is perfect for all types of travellers. Key highlights include the largest aquarium worldwide, a UNESCO World Heritage Site Shuri Castle, traditional meals such as Okinawan Soba and Taco Rice, to name a few. Definitely, Okinawa is one of the best islands near Singapore. Learn more about Okinawa.
8. Sugi Island
Otherwise known as Pulau Sugi, these two beautiful secret islands are home to Telunas Resort. Take a one hour ferry to Batam, then a 90-minute boat ride to the island which boasts total Maldives vibes. From oceanic villas along the sea to unforgettable watersports, starry beach nights, and more…it makes an excellent romantic getaway or solo adventure. Plus, there is no WIFI so it’s perfect for a wellness detox.
9. Koh Samui, Thailand
Grab your friends and find cheap flights to one of the best global destinations this season. Just a one hour and 45 minutes flight from Changi Airport, Koh Samui makes the perfect weekend island escape from Singapore. Known as Turtle Island, travellers can lounge of golden beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters, and plenty more activities.
10. Karimun Island
This beautiful Indonesian island is the perfect weekend escape from Singapore. Just under two hours by ferry, it offers relaxing beaches like Pelawan and Pongkar, stunning hikes to places like Pongkar waterfall, the opportunity to swim with sharks and plenty of places to eat and stay. Certainly, a romantic adventure if that’s what you are after. Definitely, one of the best islands near Singapore.
11. Sentosa Island
Just 20 minutes from the city, this charming island is right on your doorstep and offers a magnificent day trip. Get your adrenaline pumping at Resorts World Sentosa, hangout at exclusive beach clubs or some of the world’s best beaches, to name a few things. Read all about our favourite things to do in Sentosa.
12. Rawa Island
This private tropical island in Johor in Malaysia is an ideal place to unwind after a long week. Nicknamed The Maldives of Malaysia, expect to bask in the sunshine on white sand beaches, snorkel in clear corals of the South China Sea, discover exotic rainforests and much more. Guests can drive three hours from Singapore or take a 20 minute boat ride from Kuala Lumpur. For more information, visit Rawa Island Resort.
13. Lazarus Island
This secluded island is just 25 minutes from Singapore. Lazarus Island is a favourite for day trips because you can discover stunning beaches, turquoise waters, awesome watersports, indulge in cycling and learn about plantations…while still reaching home by nightfall. Additionally, you can explore St.Johns Island nearby if you get bored. And, it’s an excellent place for sunset sessions.
14. Phuket or Krabi, Thailand
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, why not take a one hour and 45 minute flight to this popular destination in Thailand? With raging nightlife scenes in Phuket, unspoiled beaches, rare Elephant sanctuaries, island hopping around Krabi such as Phi Phi, cheap shopping and food…you’ll be spoilt for choice. Definitely, an excellent weekend group getaway with friends.
15. Bintan, Indonesia
Reach the largest island of Riau archipelago in just 50 minutes by ferry. From watersports, lush resorts, instagrammable hotspots like Gurun Pasir, golfing and more…it has everything to suit people of all ages. Read all about the best things to do in Bintan here.
16. Batam, Indonesia
Another one of the best islands to visit close to Singapore is Ranoh Island. From unique temples, traditional seafood, endless recreational activities at places like Ranoh Island…you won’t be disappointed. Read about the best things to do in Batam here.
17. Pulau Hantu
Compromising two small islets nicknamed Ghost Islands due to ancient legends about Malay warriors battling to death on Pulau Hantu. Nevertheless, it’s the most picturesque respite away from a bustling city. Wonderfully, get up close with marina life, scuba dive or even camp for a night. Interestingly, at low tide you can walk over the sand freely to reach both islets.
18. Nirup Island
Disappear from the city to a heavenly paradise just a few minutes from Singapore. Nirup Island in Indonesia is a charming place offering a tranquil escape boasting world-class beachfront villas, luxurious residences, beach clubs, a Sea Sports Centre, and more. Learn about Nirup Island.
19. Tioman Island, Malaysia
Feel like you’re in paradise at this Malaysian island boasting glorious beaches surrounded by the jungle just a short drive from Singapore. In fact, it’s one of Asia’s best kept secrets. Highlights include traditional Nasi Lemak, unique resorts in treetops or oceanfront, discovering ecological parks, monkeys in the tropical rainforest, epic sunsets, shipwrecks and plenty more. Certainly, one of the dreamiest islands escape from Singapore. Learn more about Tioman Island.
20. Gili Islands, Indonesia
As the most famous set of three islands in Indonesia, the Gilli Islands are scenic and unmissable. Complete with white sand beaches, the world’s best snorkeling experiences with turtles and an array of marine life. Additionally, take a glass bottom boat tour for a unique adventure. Whether you’re a honeymooner, party lover or solo traveller…it’s the ultimate vacay just a two hour flight to Bali and 20 minutes by boat. Definitely, some of the best islands near Singapore.
21. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is a hugely popular destination attracting travellers from across the world. Lucky for us, Bali is just three hours from Singapore by flight. Here you can discover majestic beaches and jungles, go wildlife spotting, stay in cheap exotic villas, see dreamy temples, surf to your heart’s content, and more. Get our Bali guide to see what you can do this year.
SEE MORE: The Best Romantic Holidays From Singapore