Tired of being stuck in Singapore's usual hustle and bustle? There is actually a place in the south famous for beachgoers and families that’s not very Singapore-y. Why? Because it’s a beach island! It’s a paradise island of tranquility sought by travelers offering lots of sea, sand, and sun. Located in the Southern Islands, Lazarus Island in Singapore is known for its powdery white sands, azure waters, and C-shaped lagoon.
When tourists go for the Southern Islands island hopping, they only spend a few hours on this tiny island just enough to get a glimpse of it. But aside from the usual island hopping, swimming, and tanning, there are other ways to enjoy this tiny island the way you want it to and stay much longer than expected. So, if you’re looking for something to do this weekend, then Lazarus Island should be at the top of your list!
Lazarus Island got its name from the biblical character Lazarus, who was raised from the dead. Also known as Pulau Sekijang Pelepah, which means “Island of one barking deer and palms”, this tiny island was once home to several prison refinement sheds. Throughout the 19th century, a prisoner escaped, and fires broke out on the island, leaving sheds and vegetations destroyed. Years later, the government planned to develop the island into a beach resort but still has not yet occurred. For this reason, we recommend visiting the island before resorts start to flock and tourists from around the globe discover this hidden gem!
Do something different on the weekend, and beautify your day with tropical scenery and fun water sport activity at Lazarus Island. Read below for Roverista’s guide on how to enjoy this must-visit hidden beach in Singapore.
Often overlooked, the hidden Lazarus Beach is remote and uncrowded. The azure waters roll onto the stretch of the powdery white sand and lined up coconut trees. Dig your toes in the sand and enjoy a short stroll while appreciating the unobstructed view of the ocean and picturesque view of the horizon. Feel the invigorating heat of the sun on your face while walking barefoot in the sand. Walk close to the water and sense the gently crashing waves. Feel the nature, just relax and forget about your usual life
While strolling, score Instagrammable photos without too many people in the background. It is the perfect beach spot for families, friends, and couples. We recommend limiting your time in the sun between 10 AM to 2 PM when the sun is at its highest to avoid severe sunburns.
Lazarus Island holds more gems than the usual. Because of its quiet waters, it is home to various fishes, making it an excellent hotspot for fishing enthusiasts and beginners alike. You can catch big and rare fishes like snappers, groupers, eels, tusk fish, catfish, pufferfish, and sea bass. Popular fishing spots are at the breakwaters, and along the causeway, so you’ll be able to extend to deeper waters.
Don’t have any experience fishing? A fishing academy offers a 1-day Beginner Angler’s Course to learn the practical skills and theory of fishing. To learn more, please visit here
In 2000, Lazarus Island expanded and reclaimed lands over the submerged Pulau Seringat Reefs and Kias Island. This expansion was intended to transform the island into a Mediterranian-style resort destination with a 400-meter artificial pond and 1,000 coconut trees. While the said transformation has not yet transpired, Pulau Seringat boasts a beautiful backdrop perfect for a great photo opportunity and snap away those Instagrammable photos for the ‘Gram! The serene white sandy beach and crystal clear waters make you compare it to the stunning islands of Maldives. So, wear your most flowy sundress, strike a pose along the tall grass and beautiful tropical landscapes, and take hundreds of photos!
A perfect thing to do in Lazarus Island is having a picnic and enjoying the distant but beautiful Singapore downtown skyline. With an excellent nature backdrop, you can spend some quality time and hang out with your family or friends while sitting together on a mat. Besides, a beach trip is not complete without a picnic by the beach! So don’t forget to pack your picnic essentials if you are looking forward to doing so. Just be ready for the stray cats around the area to pet and feed them or play with them.
You don’t have to worry about finding a good shade for your picnic since abundant coconut trees are lined along the beach. For a relaxing picnic, choose a time when the sun is almost setting to avoid the hot humidity, sea breeze, and surroundings.
Are you feeling fancy? Another exciting way to enjoy Lazarus Island is to rent a lavish yacht. You’ll head to the island then anchor in a tranquil bay away from all the crowds while having a barbeque. This is a perfect way to enjoy getting away with your loved ones and have fun in style! Enjoy the open seas while having the whole vessel all to yourself or with family and friends, and sail along the southern coast.
While docked, get a stand-up paddleboard and paddle away along the bay or to the coast. This is a nice physical activity to do and practice your balance while enjoying the surrounding beauty of nature. For more adventurous water activities, get on a jet ski and feel the thrill as you drive and play along the calm waters. Just don’t forget to get the picture-perfect Instagram flex to make your followers and friends extra curious and jealous!
The yacht rental already comes with food and a glass of wine, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own. Prices for yacht rental vary depending on the vessel’s size and capacity. The usual rates are:
Up to 22 guests – from S$400 to S$738
20 to 33 guests - from S$860 to S$1200
More than 30 guests – contact the yacht charter company directly
We recommend calling or emailing the yacht rental companies for more accurate pricing and reservations. With a yacht rental, you can freely tailor your own trip according to your wishes and preferences. Fancy staying just in Lazarus Island for 4 hours?! No problem! Your wish is their command.
Besides paddle boarding and getting on the jet ski, you can do other fun water activities while in Lazarus Island Singapore. Whether you are in for an adrenaline kick with windsurfing, laser sailing, and riding flying fish or banana tubes or prefer something calmer such as kayaking or stand-up paddling, there’s a perfect activity for everyone! Check below rates and immerse yourself in these water sports.
Windsurfing
Get your heart pumping with a more extreme water sport – windsurfing. With this water activity, you’ll embrace the power of the wind for the ultimate thrills. With experience, you’ll be able to perform tricks and reach incredible speeds. The perfect adrenaline rush! Beginners are welcome to learn, and we suggest you take lessons!
Beginner per hour - from S$30
Beginner student rate - from S$15
Intermediate per hour - from S$45
Intermediate student rate - from S$20
Advanced per hour - from S$60
Advanced student rate - from S$40
Laser Sailing
Laser sailing in Lazarus Island is a great water activity that presents a unique set of physical and skill-based tests. It’s a highly physical water sport that requires a high level of core fitness. But with all the physical work required, it’s a fun thing to do in Lazarus island, especially when the speed peaks up!
Per hour – from S$30
Kids board - from S$20
Student rate - from S$15
Kayaking
Kayaking is an easy, low-impact water sport that’s great for everyone. With a kayak, you’ll be able to explore the calm waters, coastline, and lagoon of Lazarus island.
2 hours – from S$12
Stand Up Paddling
Participate in more laidback water sports with stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Large boards make it easy to balance while paddling your way around. It’s popular for all age ranges, fitness levels, perfect for families.
Per hour – from S$30
Kids board - from S$20
Student rate - from S$15
If you are looking for a memorable, romantic, and luxurious trip to surprise your girlfriend or friends, then charter a private yacht and privately enjoy a fantastic time! What’s more exciting with a yacht is it’s perfect for any occasion – may it be a birthday, anniversary, proposal, or just quality time with the family we’re sure everyone's going to have a good time.
You can also travel there using public transportation via Marina South Pier. To get to Lazarus Island, you need to purchase ferry tickets to St. John’s Island. Purchase your tickets on Singapore Island Cruise or Marina South Ferry. Embark on a 30-minute breezy ferry ride to St. John’s Island, walk for 10 minutes and cross the link bridge to reach Lazarus Island.
Situated near the equator, Lazarus island is blessed with a tropical climate. The weather is always warm and humid so visitors can experience the same climate all throughout the year. Although there are rainy months from November to January which we highly recommend avoiding. Anyway, it’s always more fun being at the beach when it’s hot and sunny!
Please note that since there are no stores and shops on the island you need to bring your own drinks and snacks. The island is bare, so you also need to bring plenty of sunscreens, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. You might also want to bring insect repellent just to be safe from the lurking insects.