While Singapore is famous for its modern skyline, there is a quieter side just off the southern coast. The Southern Islands offer sandy beaches, walking trails, and calm coastal views. Lazarus Island is one of the most popular, connected to St John's Island by a causeway. Here, you can enjoy a slower pace, open beaches, and a break from the busy city.
This guide covers Lazarus Island's history, how to get there from Marina South Pier, what the beach is like, activities to try, and helpful tips for your visit.
What Is Lazarus Island’s History?
Lazarus Island was once called Pulau Sakijang Pelepah in Malay, meaning 'Island of One Barking Deer and Palms.' This name shows how remote the island used to be.
Lazarus Island's history is part of the wider colonial story of Singapore's Southern Islands. St John's Island, nearby, was a quarantine station from the 1870s, where thousands of new arrivals were rechecked for diseases before entering Singapore. The island, now linked to St John's by a causeway, shares this background.
Over time, the island was cleared and turned into a public spot for recreation. Today, it feels very different from its past, with wide sandy beaches, fresh air, and hardly any crowds during the week.
How to Get to Lazarus Island from Singapore?
You can't reach Lazarus Island by road or bridge. The only way to get there is by sea.
Ferry from Marina South Pier
All ferries to the Southern Islands leave from Marina South Pier. It's just a one-minute walk from Marina South Pier MRT Station (NS28), Exit A or B.
Two ferry companies run services to the Southern Islands. Depending on which one you choose and current jetty operations, you might arrive at St John's Island or at Pulau Seringat Jetty on Lazarus Island.
Marina South Ferries | Singapore Island Cruise | |
Route | Direct to Lazarus Island (Pulau Seringat Jetty) | Marina South Pier > Lazarus > Kusu > return |
Days | Daily | Daily |
Departure Times | Multiple daily (check website) | Multiple daily (check website) |
Adult Fare (Two Way) | SGD 15 | SGD 15 |
Child Fare (Two Way) | SGD 12 (below 12 years) | SGD 12 (ages 1 to 12) |
Infants | Free (0 to 2 years) | Free (under 1) |
Pets / Bicycles | Free | Free |
Note: Fares are indicative. Verify current rates on the respective operator websites before booking.
Tribe Travel Tip: Get to Marina South Pier at least 25 minutes before your ferry leaves. On weekends and public holidays, boarding is first come, first served. You can bring pets, bicycles, and prams on board for free.
Charter a Private Yacht
If you want more flexibility, you can charter a private yacht from Marina South Pier or nearby marinas. There is no set schedule, so you can pick your own time and route.
This is a good choice for groups celebrating special occasions. Lazarus Island is one of the few Southern Islands where private yachts are allowed to anchor and dock.
What Are the Lazarus Island Beaches Like?
Lazarus Island beach forms a horseshoe-shaped lagoon with a long stretch of white sand, calm water, and trees along the edges. The main beach is called Eagle Bay.
This is one of the longest natural beach stretches in Singapore. What draws visitors back to Lazarus Island beaches in Singapore, time and again, is how undeveloped they remain. No jet skis, beach bars, or vendors, just open sea and sand.
The water is usually calm and good for swimming. However, check the SLA website for the latest advisories before you go, as box jellyfish have sometimes been seen in Singapore's southern waters.
The best time to visit Lazarus Island beaches is on a weekday morning. There are fewer people, the light is nice, and the lagoon is especially peaceful.
What Can You Do on Lazarus Island?
Most people visit Lazarus Island to relax and unwind. Still, there is more to do than just sit on the sand.
Water and Beach Activities
- Swimming: Lazarus Island beach has designated swimming areas marked within the Eagle Bay lagoon. The water is calm and generally safe for a swim.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Equipment is available for hire at the Lazarus Sea Sports Centre on the island.
- Fishing: Permitted along the breakwaters and rocky outcrops. Common catches include snappers and groupers.
- Kite flying: The open beach and steady sea breeze make it a natural fit. Bring your own kite.
- BBQ: Fixed barbecue pits are available at designated areas. No open fires outside these pits.
Planning a beach BBQ? Here is what to pack:
- Charcoal and a lighter (the pits are fixed, you supply the fuel)
- Marinated meat, seafood, or vegetables packed in a cooler box with ice
- Disposable plates, cups, and cutlery
- Garbage bags (no waste collection service on the beach)
- Wet wipes and hand sanitiser
- Sufficient drinking water (tap water on the island is untreated and not safe to drink)
- Tongs, skewers, and foil for cooking
Other Things to Do
- Cycling: Hire a bicycle or kick scooter at the Gogreen Eco Adventure booth on Lazarus Island. The causeway to St John's Island is also accessible from here.
- Walking the causeway: The causeway between St John's Island and Lazarus Island takes roughly 15 to 20 minutes each way.
- Birdwatching: Keep an eye out for the resident Brahminy Kite and other bird species around the forested edges.
- Photography: Early morning light on Lazarus Island beach and the distant city skyline make for strong shots.
What to Know Before You Visit Lazarus Island?
Lazarus Island is simple, and that's what makes it special. Still, it's good to be prepared before you go.
- Food: There are no restaurants or shops on the beach, so buy your food and drinks before you board at Marina South Pier. The convenience store on Lazarus Island is only open Friday to Sunday, from 10am to 6pm. Hours may change, so check before you visit.
- Drinking water: The tap water on the island is not treated and isn't safe to drink. Bring enough water for your whole day.
- Toilets: You'll find toilets at Pulau Seringat Jetty, about a five-minute walk from the beach.
- Sun: There's not much shade outside the forested areas, so bring sunscreen and a hat.
- Insects: Mosquitoes come out at dusk, so remember to bring insect repellent.
- Return ferry: Where you board for your return from Lazarus Island depends on your ferry operator and current jetty operations. Check this before you head back.
- Book ahead: Ferry tickets and places to stay often sell out on weekends. It's best to book online in advance.
Best time to visit: Try to avoid November to January, as that's when it rains the most. September is usually nice with lighter showers. For the quietest Lazarus Island beach experience, go on a weekday morning.
Ready to Plan Your Next Holiday?
Lazarus Island is one of the easiest coastal getaways in Singapore. All you need is a ferry ride, a well-packed bag, and a quiet weekday morning to enjoy a relaxing afternoon. The beach is clean, the pace is slow, and you can still see the city skyline in the distance.
If you're planning a well-planned international holiday, Holiday Tribe can help you create a custom itinerary tailored to your interests. We offer land-only packages for couples, families, and solo travellers. Talk to one of our advisors to get started.
