12 beach getaway destinations near Singapore that you may not have gone to yet

A weekend getaway is the best solution when it comes to escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. Thankfully, there are many islands near Singapore that make for good getaway spots over the weekend! Read on and have fun planning the best weekend beach getaway!

1. Sugi Island, Telunas Resorts

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No, that is not Maldives. It is Sugi Island, Telunas Resorts. On this island, you have a choice to either stay at at the Telunas Private Island or the Telunas Beach Resort. Under the same establishment, both caters to different needs and budget. There is a strictly a no wi-fi policy to ensure that guests get the full island experience – it’s a good chance for you to let loose and spend quality time with your loved ones! And don’t worry about getting “bored”, the various activities, ranging from kayaking to a pampering spa experience, are made readily available within the island to keep you occupied.

How to get there: From Harbourfront Ferry Terminal, board a one-hour ferry ride to Sekupang, Batam. This is followed by a 90-minute boat transfer arranged by Telunas Resort to Pulau Sugi.

2. Rawa Island

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Located within the archipelago of the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park, Rawa Island is a hidden gem that you may not have heard about. Fun fact: To preserve and maintain the surrounding rainforests and coral reefs, little developments have been made to the Island. This brings about a serene and dreamy atmosphere, you should not miss out on! For accommodations, you may choose to stay at Alang’s Rawa Resort or Rawa Island Resort.

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With its crystal clear water and white sandy beach, Rawa Island is the ideal location for many water activities. It ranges from snorkeling, kayaking, and even playing on water slides.

How to get there: You may choose to drive or board a coach to Mersing Jetty. There are several coach companies you can choose from – StarMart Express, WTS Travel and KKKL Express. From Mersing Jetty, it will be an hour’s ride to Rawa Island.

3. Harimau Island

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At close proximity to Rawa Island is the stunning, Harimau Island! When viewed above from the sky, the island’s landscape looks very much like a tiger, which explains how the island got its name (harimau means “tiger” in Malay). Similar to Rawa Island, Harimau Island has also successfully retained its pristine nature. Left uninhabited, the island gives off maximum tranquility to visitors who are looking for a breather.

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There are many great areas to take pictures of when you’re in Harimau Island. You can head over to the lighthouse by the beach for a breathtaking landscape shot. There is also a cave you can visit for nice pictures. Besides that, Swimming and Scuba diving is a must when you’re in here! The water is so clear, you’ll be able to see the coral reefs and interact with the marine life. As there is limited infrastructure, you might want to plan your accommodations at a nearby island like Rawa’s.

How to get there: You may choose to drive or board a coach to Mersing Jetty. There are several coach companies you can choose from – StarMart Express, WTS Travel and KKKL Express. From Mersing Jetty, board a boat to Harimau Island. Alternatively, you can participate in Island Hopping Services provided by your choice of accommodation in Rawa Island.

4. Sibu Island

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Sibu Island is an Archipelago with a collection of pristine islands. Its panoramic sea view and white sandy beaches makes it the ideal place to unwind and be involved in various exciting water activities.

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In 1993, Sibu Island was designated a Marine Park for the conservation of the marine life in the surrounding water. Scuba dive your way into the sea to admire the beautiful coral reefs and marine life! If you’re up for an adventure, you can sign up for Jungle Trekking, run by the respective accommodations in Sibu Island. There are a variety of accommodations to choose from. These are some to be considered – Rimba Island Resort and Sea Gypsy Village Resort.

How to get there: From Singapore, drive to Tanjung Leman via Johor. From Tanjung Leman, boat transfers can be arranged by your choice of accommodation.

5. Tioman Island

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Tioman Island is located off the Eastern Coast of Malaysia. It is widely known for its white sandy beaches and white coral reefs. You can choose to unwind & relax on the beach or participate in your preferred choice of activity, Diving is a rather popular activity in Tioman. With plenty of dive sites available island-wide, you will definitely be spoilt for choices. The water here is high in clarity, which makes it a perfect opportunity for underwater photography too!

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While you’re here, don’t forget to visit the Juara Turtle Hatchery! Not only will you be able to see the turtles in their natural habitat, you will also have the opportunity to learn about the various species available. There are plenty of accommodations available in Tioman. It varies from hotels like, Berjaya Tioman Resort to B&B’s like, Juara Beach Resort.

How to get there: You may choose to drive or board a coach to Mersing Jetty. There are several coach companies you can choose from – StarMart Express, WTS Travel and KKKL Express. Proceed to take a ferry to Tioman Island from Mersing Jetty.

6. Bintan Island

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Bintan is probably not very foreign to most of you. As the largest island in the Riau Islands Province, Bintan offers a variety of accommodations, world-class golf courses, scenic attractions and plenty of interesting activities.

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Aside from the normal recreational activities, take some time to explore the Panglong Village, home to the Sea Gypsies and Senggarang Village, as well as some of the oldest chinese temples like the Banyan Tree Temple. This is the perfect opportunity to sight-see and learn about the cultural background of the various villages. If you’re into nature and wildlife, Bintan also offers an hour’s journey along the Sebung River. As you take in the scenery, you will discover various types of plants and animals living in the mangrove eco-system. If you’re looking places to stay, check out the Angsana Bintan and The Canopi.

How to get there: An hour’s ferry ride from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal.

7. Lang Tengah Island

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Lang Tengah Island is a hidden gem that is located off the East Coast Peninsular of Terengganu, Malaysia. Be captivated by the island’s deep blue crystal water and colorful reefs. You can indulge in a variety of water activities such as, diving, water sports, and snorkeling.

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Drop by the Islamic Civilization Park for a bit of sight-seeing! The park aims to demonstrate the achievements of Islamic Architecture and monuments like the Taj Mahal and Al Hambra Citadel! Amongst the many accommodations available, D’Coconut Island Resort and Blue Coral Island Resort are the few that seems to be popular with the visitors!

How to get there: A 3-hour flight from Singapore to Kuala Terengganu via Malaysia Airlines. From Kuala Terengganu, it will be an hour’s drive to Mersing Jetty. Board a ferry from Mersing Jetty to Lang Tengah Island.

8. Layang-Layang Island

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Layang-Layang Island, also known as the Swallow Reef, is an island located northwest of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia. It is dubbed as one of the world’s best diving destination. Brace yourself as you take in the underwater scenery filled with vibrant coral walls and marine life. There is only one place of accommodation found in the entire island – Layang Layang Island Resort.

How to get there: Take a 2.5 hours flight from Singapore to Kota Kinabalu, followed by an hour’s flight from Kota Kinabalu to Layang-Layang Island.

9. KarimunJawa Island

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KarimunJawa is an Indonesian Archipelago situated in the Java Sea. As part of the Marine Conservation Area, the island houses a diversity of marine life. Let go of your worries and take in the breathtaking view of the turquoise water and fine white sandy beaches.

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Don’t miss the opportunity to see sharks, turtles, & various fish species that comes along with snorkeling and Diving. At KarimunJawa Island, there are no shortages of places to stay at. We recommend – Kura Kura Resort and Ayu Hotel.

How to get there: An approximately 90-minute flight will take you from Singapore to KarimunJawa Island

10. Kapas Island

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Kapas Island is yet another hidden gem, situated off the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Terengganu. There are little population on the island,  allowing for more privacy for visitors. This is exactly what you need for a refreshing change! The clear blue water makes it ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. If not, you could simply just chill on the hammocks available island-wide. Popular choices of accommodation includes – Gem Island Resort & Spa, and if you’re looking to try something different, camp at Longsha Campsite.

How to get there: Take a 3-hour flight from Singapore to Kuala Terengganu via Malaysia Airlines. From Kuala Terengganu, it will be an hour’s drive to Mersing Jetty. Take a 15-minute speedboat from Mersing Jetty to Kapas Island.

11. Tenggol Island

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Tenggol Island is home to an abundant variety of marine life. Take in the breathtaking underwater scenery, filled with vibrant coral wall, rocks, and marine life when you go snorkeling or diving! You may choose to stay at Tenggol Island Beach Resort or Tenggol Coral Beach Resort.

How to get there: From Singapore, catch a flight to Kuala Lumpur and transit to Kuala Terengganu. From Kuala Terengganu, it will be an hour’s drive to Dungun Jetty. Lastly, board a ferry to Tenggol Island.

12. Perhentian Islands

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Perhentian Islands consist of two small islands – Big Perhentian and Small Perhentian, each catering to different accommodations and activities that will fit varied budget sizes. Many visitors spend their time basking in the sun while some prefer to snorkel and dive under the clear turquoise water. The luscious greens surrounding the island makes a good place for visitors to hike. There are plenty of accommodations to choose from, varying from Perhentian Island Resort to Bintang View Chalet.

How to get there: From Singapore, catch a flight to Kuala Lumpur and transit to Kuala Terengganu. From Kuala Terengganu, take a bus or taxi to Kuala Besut Jetty, and then a speedboat or ferry to Perhentian Islands.