Mamas, it’s time to reclaim your weekend! The year’s almost up and let’s face it, an extended family holiday is just as stressful as a normal school term. The Mummyfique team has got your back and we’ve curated the ultimate list of gorgeous islands just off Singapore that boasts a quick, rejuvenating escape. No long flights needed! These mini heavens in Malaysia and Indonesia are just a fuss-free ferry ride away. Here’s to a fruitful and much-needed sanity saving reset holiday! Read on and book your trip!
NIRUP ISLAND: Luxury Wellness Island Just 45 Minutes by Direct Ferry
This new wellness-retreat is just what you need, Mums! The Westin Nirup Island Resort & Spa is nestled on Nirup Island near Batam. It features such a peaceful space where you can spot breathtaking views of Singapore. The best part is that you can easily access this Indonesian gem via a quick direct ferry from Singapore. Yes, direct! Bask in the sun in your overwater villas, sprawl on their private beaches, book a wellness session at the Heavenly Spa by Westin, and explore dining experiences at multiple venues on the premise.
- Sailing duration from HarbourFront Centre ~ 45 minutes (direct ferry).
- The Westin Nirup Island Resort & Spa, www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/bthni-the-westin-nirup-island-resort-and-spa/overview/
CEMPEDAK ISLAND: Adults-Only Bamboo Luxury Escape Near Bintan
Cempedak is an exclusive, adults-only (15+) private island getaway off the eastern coast of Bintan. In fact, the resort is famous for its spectacular and unique bamboo architecture and champions barefoot luxury with a strong focus on sustainability. We simply love the 20 villas as they feature a private plunge pool and massive decks, guaranteeing privacy and stunning ocean views. If you’re up for some adventure, book activities like sailing, kayaking, and rock climbing. This little island escape is just what you need for some much needed quiet time.
- Sailing duration from Singapore to Bintan ~ 1 hour, land transfer to Kawal ~ 1 hour, and sailing duration to Cempedak ~ 30 minutes. (Total ~ 2.5 hours).
- Cempedak Island, www.cempedak.com
NIKOI ISLAND: Group-Friendly Luxury Island Resort Reachable Via 2.5 Hours By Ferry
Sister property of Cempedak Island, Nikoi Island is great for groups looking for a private island retreat. It’s just a stone’s throw from Bintan where you can chill on the beach or marvel magnificent granite boulders overlooking the rainforests. Furthermore, the island only features about 20 rooms so there’s plenty of space and privacy for everyone. A kids club also provides a range of activities such as treasure hunts and cinema night, keeping children entertained.
- Sailing duration from Tanah Merah ferry terminal ~ 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Nikoi Island, www.nikoi.com
TELUNAS PRIVATE ISLAND: 3 Hour Direct Boat Trip From Singapore Great For Groups And Kids
Telunas Private Island is one of Indonesia’s best-kept secrets and it checks all the boxes for an off-the-grid vacation to unwind among lush greenery. The island’s resort showcases villas built right over the sea, so you can enjoy panoramic ocean views and a cool sea breeze right in your room. Moreover, there are also a whole host of complimentary activities like kayaking and nature walks. Massage treatments are a must in your itinerary. If the little ones are tagging along, they can the free kids club events, which include movie nights and local craft classes.
- Sailing duration from Harbourfront Centre ~ 3 hours.
- Telunas Private Island, www.telunasresorts.com/private-island
TENGAH ISLAND: 4.5 Hours From Singapore By Car And Boat
Tengah Island, part of the protected Johor Marine Park, is an uninhabited island featuring pristine white sands and clear waters. The island is the best place to see three different types of turtles living and breeding at the southern shore. The best time to visit is between June and August where you’ll have higher chances of watching turtles laying their eggs! Nestled on this island is Batu Batu, an eco-resort that exudes tranquility and is the perfect place for you to unwind and just be. It’s surrounded by pristine beaches, a vibrant coral reef and boasts one or two bedroom villas by the pool. The resort is family-friendly too, with bunk beds for little ones so bringing the whole family along is a breeze.
- Coach journey from Singapore to Mersing Jetty ~ 4 hours and sailing duration ~ 20 minutes.
- Tengah Island Conservation, www.tengahislandconservation.org
RAWA ISLAND: 4.5 Hours Drive With 2 Resorts Available On This Island
This Malaysian coastal town provides the perfect setting for a peaceful beach getaway and is great if you want to snorkel or dive! The resort offers various affordable packages, which include boat transfers, meals, and access to indoor facilities like a kids corner and pool table. Additionally, if the kids are in tow, there’s a fantastic waterside that scoots you right into the sea! We love how you can snorkel right off the beach or take a slow relaxing hike up the jungle trail to catch the sunrise and gorgeous panoramic island views.
- Coach journey from Singapore to Mersing Jetty ~ 4 hours and sailing duration ~ 30 minutes.
- Rawa Island, www.rawaislandresort.com
PULAU JOYO: 4+ Hours From Singapore Via Bintan
Pulau Joyo is a little haven that’s surrounded by white sandy beaches and clear blue waters. Specifically, the entire island features just nine accommodation types, each with its own private beachfront view. If you’re bringing the whole family for the trip, there are plenty of activities them to be entertained and you can unwind with a traditional Javanese massage by the pool. There’s also snorkeling among the wonderful marine life at nearby beaches and reefs.
- Sailing duration from Singapore to Bintan ~ 1 hour, land transfer to Pama jetty ~ 1 hour 30 minutes and sailing duration from Pama jetty to Pulau Joyo ~ 30 minutes.
- Pulau Joyo, www.joyoresort.com
PULAU PANGKIL: 4 Hours From Singapore Via Boat
Pulau Pangkil is an exclusive tropical island resort located off the South Eastern corner of Bintan Island, Indonesia. It’s great how you can rent the entire island out, which suits groups of families or friends who want to gather without the crowds. It’s best to book a package that includes catered meals and drinks, transport from Bintan. What’s more, there’s also use of all facilities such as kayaks and snorkeling equipment. For the little ones, the resort also provides cots, toys, and babysitting services.
- Sailing duration from Singapore to Bintan ~ 1 hour, land transfer to Pama jetty ~ 1 hour 30 minutes and sailing duration from Pama jetty to Pangkil ~ 30 minutes.
- Pulau Pangkil, www.pangkil.com
PULAU SIBU: 3+ Hours Coach/Drive From Singapore + 20 Minute Sail
The Sea Gypsy Village Resort helms Pulau Sibu, which is right in the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park, Johor. It boasts crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and waterfront villas with your own private balcony. This remote Malaysian island, known mainly by fishermen, is definitely a hidden gem! You can explore the rich underwater life right off the beach or simply enjoy the views from your balcony. Furthermore, the resort offers plenty of water sport activities. These include diving, canoeing, windsurfing, and fishing. Looking for a bit more adventure? You can also visit the nearby kelong to experience the local life.
- Coach journey from Singapore to Tanjung Leman Jetty ~ 3 hours and sailing duration to Pulau Sibu ~ 20 minutes.
- Pulau Sibu, www.siburesort.com
DAYANG ISLAND: 4 Hours Drive From Singapore + 3 Hours Sailing
Some might say that this is like Maldives of Malaysia, with its white sand beaches and laid-back chalets! Pulau Dayang is great if you’re an avid scuba diver. As well, you can also snorkel among an array of marine life, including rays, barracuda, and sharks. Furthermore, there are plenty of easy hiking trails, suitable for all ages, with breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. The island also provides chalet-style accommodation like AC Dayang Island Resort.
- Coach journey from Singapore to Mersing Jetty ~ 4 hours and sailing duration ~ 3 hours.
- Pulau Dayang, https://dayangisland.com
KARIMUN ISLANDS: Good For Island Hopping – 1.5 Hours From Singapore By Ferry
Karimun Islands or knows as Great Karimun or Karimun Besar, is located between west Singapore and Batam. Declared as a marine conservation area, you also explore the Karimun Jawa National Park, which boasts amazing beaches, coral reefs, and mangrove forests. The park is also home to a wonderful variety of biodiversity such as black corals, hawkbill turtles, and red-breasted parakeets. For water adverturers, diving and snorkeling spots are conveniently located around the island. When on the island, indulging in seafood is a must!
- Sailing duration from HarbourFront Center to Tanjung Balai Terminal ~ 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Karimun Besar Island, www.indonesia-tourism.com/karimun