St John’s Island: Things to Do, How to Get There & Visitor Tips
St John’s Island Singapore is a peaceful offshore escape where visitors can enjoy nature walks, coastal views and a glimpse into the island’s past. Located south of Singapore’s mainland, it offers a different pace from the city’s shopping districts and busy attractions. But planning a visit takes a little care: the main jetty is closed, and ferries currently use the landing point at Pulau Seringat. Here’s what to know about ferry tickets, the nature trail, nearby Lazarus Island and the practical details to check before setting off.
TL;DR: St John’s Island at a Glance
- Location: Singapore’s Southern Islands, south of the mainland.
- Getting there: Take a ferry from Marina South Pier; check the current landing point and return timetable.
- Top activity: Walk the 2.8 km St John’s Island Trail.
- Food: Bring your own food and drinking water.
- Nearby stop: Lazarus Island, reached on foot via a connecting route when access permits.
Quick Information About St John’s Island
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Southern Islands, Singapore |
| Main attraction | St John’s Island Trail |
| Trail distance | 2.8 km |
| Estimated trail time | 1–1.5 hours |
| Trail difficulty | Easy to moderate |
| Ferry departure point | Marina South Pier |
| Current landing point | Pulau Seringat Jetty; check operator updates |
| Food and drinks | Bring your own supplies |
| Nearby destination | Lazarus Island |
| Nature trail fee | Free for self-guided walks |
Trail information: NParks. Ferry access can change, so confirm arrangements before travel.
Where Is St John’s Island in Singapore?
St John’s Island lies about 6.5 km south of Singapore and forms part of the Southern Islands, a group of offshore destinations known for coastal scenery, heritage and nature. The island covers around 39 hectares and feels far removed from the traffic and tall buildings on the mainland.
It suits visitors who enjoy quiet walks, birdwatching, photography or a simple day outdoors. Families and couples can visit too, although the walk from the current landing point may be tiring for young children or anyone with limited mobility. Lazarus Island is nearby, while Kusu Island is another Southern Islands destination served by ferry services when operating. Check the latest access information before planning to visit several islands in one day.
How to Get to St John’s Island
Ferry Routes and Departure Points
The usual departure point is Marina South Pier, accessible by MRT, bus or taxi. Public ferry operators include Singapore Island Cruise and Marina South Ferries. Their routes and ticket options differ, so check the operator’s official website before booking.
There is an important access change to plan around. St John’s Island’s main jetty has been closed for repair works, and ferry services are being redirected to Pulau Seringat Jetty, near Lazarus Island. Singapore’s Land Authority says the walk from Seringat Jetty to the former St John’s Island jetty area is around 30 minutes. Follow the operator’s directions for your specific sailing rather than assuming the boat will arrive at the old jetty.
St John’s Island Ferry Tickets, Prices and Timings
Fares depend on the operator and the type of trip booked. Singapore Island Cruise lists Southern Islands ferry tickets from SGD 15, but the final price and included stops can vary by ticket. Check the price shown for your chosen date before paying.
| Cost item | What to check |
|---|---|
| Return ferry ticket | Operator’s current price; some options start from SGD 15 |
| Ticket inclusions | Which islands are included and whether the ticket covers the return journey |
| Extra transport | Confirm whether any separate transfer is required |
| Booking | Use the official operator’s booking page or ticket counter |
Schedules can change with weather, demand and island access arrangements. Arrive early, allow time to collect your ticket and confirm the last return ferry. Don’t plan your walk so tightly that you risk missing the boat.
Return Ferry and Journey Planning
Before leaving Marina South Pier, check where you will board for the return trip and which jetty the ferry will use. Save the timetable or booking confirmation on your phone. If you want to visit Lazarus Island as well, allow extra time for walking and check the latest access conditions.
Best Things to Do on St John’s Island
Explore the St John’s Island Nature Trail
The St John’s Island Trail is a good starting point for a visit. According to NParks, the self-guided route covers 2.8 km across 15 stations and takes about one to one-and-a-half hours. It is rated easy to moderate, so comfortable shoes are a sensible choice.
Along the way, look for mangroves, heritage trees and wildlife. Mangroves provide shelter for young fish and help protect the shoreline. You may also spot birds, crabs and other animals, although sightings depend on the season, tide and luck. Keep to accessible paths and observe wildlife without disturbing it.
Discover St John’s Island History
St John’s Island has played several roles in Singapore’s history. It was once used as a British quarantine centre for passengers with infectious diseases, and later served as a detention centre and an opium treatment centre. It eventually became known as a place for recreation, with swimming lagoons and campsites.
History stations along the trail help visitors connect these past uses with the island’s present-day natural setting. Take time to read the displays rather than treating the walk as just a route from one viewpoint to another.
Enjoy Coastal Scenery and a Picnic
Bring a packed lunch and enjoy a break outdoors, where permitted. The island’s greenery and coastal views make it a pleasant choice for a low-key day trip or a photography stop. There are no retail or food-and-beverage shops on St John’s Island, so don’t expect to buy lunch after arriving. Pack enough food and drinking water for the walk and the time you plan to spend outside.
Learn About Marine Biodiversity
St John’s Island is linked to Singapore’s marine conservation work, including the Sisters’ Islands Marine Park, which protects coral reefs and marine life around the Southern Islands. The Sisters’ Islands Marine Park Public Gallery on St John’s Island features displays about marine biodiversity, including a mangrove exhibit and coral displays.
Gallery opening hours and access can change, including temporary closures for works. Check the latest NParks notice before making it the main reason for your trip.
St John’s Island Visitor Tips
What to Bring
- Drinking water and enough food for your visit.
- Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat.
- A charged phone with your ferry booking and return details saved.
- A small bag for rubbish, so you can take it away if no suitable bin is available.
Food, Facilities and Safety
There are no retail or food-and-beverage shops on St John’s Island, and medical services are not available on the islands. Plan ahead, stay hydrated and be mindful of the heat.
Singapore Land Authority Check ferry notices before leaving home, especially during bad weather or periods of maintenance. Singapore’s Land Authority has also warned about box jellyfish sightings in Singapore waters; follow local advisories and avoid touching marine life. Don’t feed wildlife or leave rubbish behind.
St John’s Island and Lazarus Island Day Trip
St John’s Island and Lazarus Island can be combined in one day if ferry timings and current access arrangements work for your plan. Lazarus is known for its beach, while St John’s offers the nature trail and historic sites. The islands are connected by a walking route, but the current landing point at Pulau Seringat affects how you plan your journey.
Bring food and water, check the return ferry and leave enough time for the walks between places. If you also want to visit Kusu Island, confirm that ferry stops are operating on your chosen date.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get to St John’s Island?
Take a ferry from Marina South Pier with an operator serving Singapore’s Southern Islands. The main jetty is listed as closed, so check the latest instructions for landing at Pulau Seringat Jetty.
How much is the ferry to St John’s Island?
Singapore Island Cruise advertises Southern Islands ferry tickets from SGD 15. Prices and included stops can vary, so confirm the final fare on the official booking page.
How long does it take to explore St John’s Island?
The 2.8 km nature trail takes about 1–1.5 hours. Add time for the walk from the current landing point, breaks, history stops and any visit to Lazarus Island.
Is food available on St John’s Island?
There are no retail or food-and-beverage shops on the island. Bring your own meal and enough drinking water.
Can you visit St John’s Island and Lazarus Island in one day?
Yes, if the ferry timetable and walking access suit your plans. Check the landing point and return arrangements first.
Is St John’s Island worth visiting?
It’s a good option for nature lovers, history fans and anyone wanting a quieter outdoor day away from central Singapore. Visitors looking for restaurants, shops or lots of facilities may prefer another destination.
Conclusion: Is St John’s Island Worth Visiting?
St John’s Island is worth considering for its nature trail, coastal scenery, mangroves and unusual place in Singapore’s history. It works well for visitors who enjoy walking and don’t mind bringing their own food and water. Before setting off, check the latest ferry fare, timetable and landing point, as access arrangements can affect how much time you need. Pair it with Lazarus Island if the schedule allows, and leave enough time for the return journey.
