Together with Michelin stars, luxe hotels, and cloud-embracing skyscrapers, Singapore is also bestowed with a prime geographical location, lending it easy access to nearby islands, metropolitans, and tourist hotspots for weekend sojourns, so much so that some of these destinations are just an hour away via flights, ferry rides or buses. This guide puts together the best weekend getaways from Singapore, their gleaming attractions, and how to get there.
Also, check out our story on the top five wellness retreats near Singapore.
The best weekend getaways from Singapore via ferry
Batam Island, Indonesia
Located south of Singapore, Batam Island is a part of the Riau Archipelago. This popular tourist attraction is buzzing with world-class spas, water sports, sumptuous local food, shopping markets, and gorgeous golf courses.
How to reach: Take the roughly 1-hour ferry ride from Harbourfront Terminal to Batam.
Things to do on Batam Island:
- Indulge in retail therapy at the Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall, Mega Mall Batam Centre, and Kepri Mall;
- Admire the majestic Jabal Arafah Mosque;
- Visit the Barelang Bridge;
- Explore Batam Miniature Park;
- Pay respects at Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple;
- Go golfing at Batam Island Country Club Resort.
Where to stay: Batam Marriott Hotel Harbour Bay, Turi Beach Resort, Four Points By Sheraton Batam, Swiss Bel-Hotel Harbour Bay, and Kings Hotel Nagoya Batam.
Best restaurants: Kopak Jaya 007, Nagoya Hill Good Street, Warung Baso Priangan, Padang Cafe & Restaurant, Rezeki Seafood, Mie Terempa’K, Restoran Sederhana, and Yong Kee Seafood.
Explore our guide to luxury resorts in Batam and Bintan for your next getaway.
Book your stay at Batam Marriott Hotel Harbour Bay via Booking.com
Book your stay at Batam Marriott Hotel Harbour Bay via Agoda.com
Desaru Coast, Malaysia
Among our leading recommendations for a family getaway near Singapore, Malaysia’s Desaru Coast delights with plush resorts, beautiful beaches, and farms.
How to reach: Take a ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Desaru Coast. On this route, you’ll cross the border at Woodlands Checkpoint.
Things to do on Desaru Coast:
- Have fun at the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark;
- Explore the The Desaru Ostrich Farm;
- Unwind at the Desaru Beach;
- Go fruit picking at the Desaru Fruit Farm;
- Experience the unique Desaru Firefly Cruise;
- Visit the Tanjung Balau Fishing Village.
Where to stay: Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, One & Only Desaru Coast, Four Points by Sheraton Desaru, and Sebana Cove Resort.
Best restaurants: Prego, The Els Club, Ambara, 899 Good Restaurant, and Desaru Seafood Corner.
Book your stay at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas via Booking.com
Book your stay at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas via Agoda.com
Bintan, Indonesia
History, hilarity, and heaps of beach fun are promised on the Indonesian island of Bintan. Apart from its opulent resorts and golfing escapes, tourists can also indulge in snorkelling, hiking, and mangrove tours.
How to reach: Bintan is a 45-minute ferry ride from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal.
Things to do in Bintan:
- Love animals? Spend a morning at the Bintan Safari Lagoi & Eco Farm;
- Unwind at the Trikora Beach;
- Admire the 500 Lohan Temple;
- Visit the Raja Haji Fisabilillah Monument;
- Marvel at the Sei Carang Bridge;
- Add the charming Kijang Blue Lake to your itinerary.
Where to stay: Grand Lagoi Hotel Bintan, The ANMON Resort Bintan, The Sanchaya, Banyan tree Bintan, and The Residence Bintan.
Best restaurants: Warung Yeah!, Casa Italia Pizzeria, Spice Restaurant, Kelong Seafood Restaurant Nirwana Gardens, and Ciu Yong Seafood.
Book your stay at Grand Lagoi Hotel Bintan via Booking.com
Book your stay at Grand Lagoi Hotel Bintan via Agoda.com
Nikoi Private Island, Indonesia
This remote island in Indonesia offers the perfect mix of solitude, sophistication, and serenity. The mindful activities curated by the resort and white sandy beaches present comfort at every step. Elevate your weekend getaway from Singapore with our list of top hotels, spas, and pools in Indonesia this year.
How to reach: Hop on a one-hour ferry ride from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Bintan Ferry Terminal, followed by an hour-long car drive and a 20-minute speed boat ride to Nikoi Island.
Things to do in Nikoi Island:
- Check into a beach villa;
- Indulge in water-bound adventures like stand-up paddleboarding, scuba diving, sailing, fishing, and snorkelling;
- Enjoy guided walks along rock pools;
- Swing on Tarzan ropes.
Where to stay: Nikoi Villas
Best restaurants: Nikoi Island Restaurant
Book your stay at Nikoi Private Island, Indonesia
Telunas Private Island, Indonesia
If you fancy the idea of waterfall hikes, overwater villas, and pottery workshops, look no further than Telunas Private Island in Indonesia. Located just 50 km south of Singapore, this island is perfect for a taste of slow and simple living.
How to reach: Take an hour-long ferry from the Harbourfront Center Ferry Terminal to Sekupang Ferry Terminal, from where the resort staff will escort you on a charter boat or public ferry.
Things to do in Telunas Island:
- Fishing from the jetty;
- Cooking classes;
- Pottery workshops;
- Sea kayaking;
- Stand-up paddleboarding;
- Deck jumping.
Where to stay: Telunas Resorts
Best restaurants: Telunas Resorts
Book your stay at Telunas Resorts
Lazarus Island, Singapore
Accessible by ferry, Lazarus Island (also called Pulau Sakijang Pelepah) is a quaint and uninhabited island off the Straits of Singapore. This destination is perfect for pitching a picnic and beach-combing.
How to reach: You can either take a 20-minute ferry ride from Marina South Pier or hop on a 15-minute speed boat ride from Sentosa Cove to reach Lazarus Island.
Things to do in Lazarus Island:
- Kite-flying;
- Beach photography;
- Exploring the coastline on foot;
- Sunbathing;
- Beach Volleyball;
- Snorkelling.
Where to stay: Tiny Away Escape and Into the Woods. We also recommend checking out the eco-friendly cabins, by the Tiny House brand, which were constructed in 2023. Some of these cabins are pet-friendly too.
Best restaurants: Some restaurants near Lazarus Island include The Dragon Chamber, Singapore Seafood Republic, and Yardbird Table & Bar.
Book your stay at Into The Woods
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Weekend getaways from Singapore via plane (under 2-hour flights)
Langkawi, Malaysia
Multi-sensory adventures, culinary feasts, and sightseeing trails are promised at Malaysia’s Langkawi. The adventure and wildlife parks make it a solid pick for those travelling with kids.
How to reach: Take a 1.30-hour flight from Singapore to Langkawi, Malaysia. Also, check out the ultimate list of private jet services for destinations near Singapore.
Things to do in Langkawi:
- Visit the famed Langkawi Sky Bridge;
- Hitch a ride onboard the Langkawi SkyCab;
- Go snorkelling at Pulau Payar Marine Park;
- Get clicked at Dataran Lang;
- Explore Langkawi Wifllife Park;
- Visit Crocodile Adventureland.
Where to stay: Berjaya Langkawi Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, Lagkawi, The Datai Langkawi, The St. Regis Langkawi, and The Danna Langkawi.
Best restaurants: The Gulai House at The Datai Langkawi, Planter’s at The Danna Langkawi, The Cliff Restaurant Langkawi, The Pavillion at The Datai Langkawi, and Ikan-Ikan at Four Seasons Resort Langkawi.
Book your stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi via Booking.com
Book your stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi via Agoda.com
Penang, Malaysia
If a weekend seeped in gorgeous sunrises, zen temples, and delicious culinary staples sounds like your jam, consider Penang. Here, make sure to sample the Curry Mee and Penang Laksa.
How to reach: Take the 1.30-hour flight from Singapore to Penang, Malaysia.
Things to do in Penang:
- Pay respects at the Kek Lok Si Temple;
- Visit the Penang Hill Funicular Railway;
- Admire the Chayamangkalaram Buddhist Temple;
- Head to the Pinang Peranakan Mansion;
- Brush up your history at Fort Cornwallis.
Where to stay: Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang, Hotel Jen Penang, The Edison, and Ren i Tang.
Best restaurants: Kebaya Dining Room, Orinea by Farquhar Mansion, Spice Market Cafe, and Beach Blanket Babylon.
Book your stay at Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang via Booking.com
Book your stay at Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang via Agoda.com
Krabi, Thailand
Another popular destination on our list of weekend getaways from Singapore is Krabi – the land of seashells, sunshine, and endless soirees! From discovering hidden beaches and exploring hot springs to ATV riding, Krabi has something for everyone. Also, go through our guide on Krabi vs Phuket to pick a holiday destination best suited to your interests.
How to reach: Take the 1.30-hour flight from Singapore to Krabi, Thailand.
Things to do in Krabi:
- Admire the Wat Tham Sua Aka Tiger Cave Temple;
- Explore the prehistoric caves of Khao Khanap Nam;
- Savour storybook views from the Khao Ngon Nak Viewpoint;
- Sample the local food at Koh Lanta Yai;
- Immerse in the wilderness at Thung Teao Forest Natural Park;
- Admire the turquoise waters of Phi Phi Island.
Where to stay: Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, The Phu Beach Hotel, Krabi Chada Resort, SAii Phi Phi Island Village, Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf and Spa Resort, and Banyan Tree Krabi.
Best restaurants: Gecko Cabane, Umberto’s Cuisine, The Grotto, Jenna’s Bistro & Wine, Sunset Bar, and The Brightside Bistro.
Book your stay at Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve via Booking.com
Book your stay at Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve via Agoda.com
Phuket, Thailand
Be it thunderous nightlife, local markets, or tourist circuits including temples and museums, Phuket seamlessly fills in for all tastes and itineraries. Some unmissable experiences at this Thai escape include swimming in waterfalls, sampling the local fare at street markets, and sauntering through the time-honoured gems of Phuket Old Town.
How to reach: Phuket is a one-hour 55-minute flight from Singapore.
Things to do in Phuket:
- Explore the Phang Nga Bay,
- Pay respects at Chalong Temple;
- Ascend to the Big Buddha, an iconic 45-metre-tall white marble statue;
- Party the night away at Bangla Road;
- Admire the architecture and culture of Phuket Old Town;
- Spot planes at Mai Khao Beach.
Where to stay: Iniala Beach House, Amanpuri, Sri Panwa Phuket, Keemala, Banyan Tree Phuket, and Six Senses Koh Yao Noi. You can also go through our list of eight luxury Airbnbs in Phuket for any kind of budget.
Best restaurants: Chuan Chim, O Cha Rot, Go Ang Seafood, Mee Ton Poe Phuket, Nam Yoi Restaurant, and Kopitiam by Wilai.
Book your stay at Banyan Tree Phuket via Booking.com
Book your stay at Banyan Tree Phuket via Agoda.com
Koh Samui, Thailand
For a holiday doused in virginal beaches, holy shrines, and lush wildlife experiences, look no further than Koh Samui. The world-famous spa and wellness experiences are the cherry on the cake!
How to reach: Koh Samui is a two-hour flight from Singapore.
Things to do in Koh Samui:
- Opt for a dose of adrenaline at Chaweng Beach’s water sports;
- Check out the Ta Hin Lai rock formations;
- Explore Ang Thong National Marine Park;
- Admire the striking Guanyin Idol at Wat Plai Laem;
- Go swimming at the cascading Na Muang Waterfalls.
Where to stay: Four Seasons Koh Samui, Kamalaya, Anantara Bophut, W Koh Samui, Avani+ Samui Resort, and SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort.
Best restaurants: Khao Horm, Seventy Fahrenheit, Chez Francois, Ocean 11 Restaurant, The Journey Bar & Restaurant, and Salefino Koh Samui.
Book your stay at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui via Booking.com
Book your stay at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui via Agoda.com
Weekend getaways from Singapore by road (via car/bus)
Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Seeking a weekend getaway from Singapore with your family? We highly recommend Johor Bahru! From dynamic theme parks and sprawling agricultural farms (a meet-and-greet with furry animals is promised) to inspiring art galleries, a memorable holiday awaits.
How to reach: The bus ride from Singapore to Johor Bahru takes roughly one hour and 15 minutes.
Things to do in Johor Bahru:
- Visit Legoland Malaysia;
- Explore Johor Zoo;
- Admire the Sultan Abu Bakar Stae Mosque’s architecture;
- Visit the unique Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple;
- Unwind at Desaru Beach.
Where to stay: DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru, Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel, Amari Johor Bahru, Ramada Suites by Wyndham The Straits Johor Bahru, and Berjaya Waterfront Hotel. Also, skim through our list of the best beach resorts in Johor Bahru.
Best restaurants: Hua Mui, Kam Long Ah Zai Curry Fish Head, Yummy Nasi Lemak House Johor Bahru, Restoran Ya Wang, and Ong Shun.
Book your stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru via Booking.com
Book your stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru via Agoda.com
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
At the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur, a sophisticated weekend getaway from Singapore is guaranteed. Spend your mornings at national parks, dine at Michelin stars, go bar-hopping, and indulge in one-of-its-kind shopping experiences.
How to reach: The bus ride from Singapore to Johor Bahru takes about 5-6 hours.
Things to do in Kuala Lumpur:
- Explore the Skyview Deck at the KL Tower;
- Visit the Batu Caves;
- Hop on a Putrajaya Boat Cruise;
- Attend a PUSAKA show;
- Make sure to visit the observation deck at Petronas Twin Towers;
- Savour the street food at Jalan Alor.
Where to stay: Hilton Garden Inn Kuala Lumpur Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman South, InterContinental Kuala Lumpur, an IHG Hotel, Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur, Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur Hotel, and Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur.
Best restaurants: Dewakan, Entier, Fatt Hei Len, Table & Apron, and Li. Also, check out our guide to the best rooftop restaurants in Kuala Lumpur.
Book your stay at Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur via Booking.com
Book your stay at Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur via Agoda.com
Malacca, Malaysia
A glorious city on the UNESCO World Heritage list, Malacca delights with historic charms, some of the best street food in Malaysia, inspiring street art, and museums. Heighten the fun by embarking on the Melaka River Cruise, a blissful way of immersing yourself in history while being surrounded by the lapping waves.
How to reach: The bus ride from Singapore to Johor Bahru takes roughly four hours.
Things to do in Malacca:
- Visit the ruins of A’Famosa;
- Spend an evening at Jonker Street;
- Soak up the charming views from Shore Sky Tower;
- Book a Melaka River Cruise;
- Sunbathe at Pantai Klebang;
- Visit the Christ Church Melaka.
Where to stay: DoubleTree by Hilton Melaka, Casa del Rio Melaka, The Majestic Malacca, Holiday Inn Melaka, an IHG Hotel, ibis Melaka, and Rosa Malacca.
Best restaurants: The Humble Table, Yee Bao Bao, Tong Sheng, Wild Coriander Café, Calanthe Art Cafe, and The Baboon House.
Book your stay at Holiday Inn Melaka via Booking.com
Book your stay at Holiday Inn Melaka via Agoda.com
(Feature Image Credit: Telunas Resorts)
This story first appeared here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Singapore delights with a string of weekend getaway options, which can be reached via ferry, buses, or flights.
We recommend Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Penang, and Johor Bahru in Malaysia from a weekend getaway from Singapore.
For a weekend getaway in Thailand, we recommend visiting Koh Samui, Phuket, and Krabi.
From luxuriating at beachfront resorts and immersing yourself in water sports to unwinding at the spa, there's no dearth of refreshing experiences on a weekend getaway.
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Writer by day, reader by night, Yashita has a flair for all things travel, wellness and food. She has previously worked at Condé Nast India and Times Internet. When not working, you can catch her binge-reading the latest thriller on the block, re-watching Friends, trying a new recipe or hosting her friends.
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