What to Do in Kusu Island?
Escape the city buzz by taking a ferry to Kusu Island, accessible only by boat until 3 p.m. daily from Marina South Pier. Singapore Island Cruise ships stop at St John's Island first before reaching Kusu Island, but the ferries do not stop there on their way back. Camping is prohibited, so check the ferry schedules and catch the last one back. Enjoy Kusu Island's scenic beauty, visit the Da Bo Gong Temple or swim in the clear waters. Don't forget to try the island's famous turtle soup at the food stalls. Two ferry companies, Singapore Island Cruise Ferry and Marina South Ferries, serve the island.
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Looking for things to do in Kusu Island? One of the best activities is enjoying the stunning view of the Marina Bay skyline from the beach. On a clear day, you can even spot notable Singaporean buildings and sites, starting with the iconic Singapore Flyer. Take a break from the city's hustle and bustle and savor local delicacies while admiring the Batam skyline and Formosa residence in Nagoya. The waves and scenery make for a relaxing getaway, making Kusu Island a perfect one-time destination.
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One of the must-visit places in Kusu Island is the Da Bo Gong Temple, also known as the Kusu Island Temple or Tua Pek Kong. This popular Chinese temple stands out for its remarkable architecture and is devoted to two deities - Da Bo Gong and Guan Yin. Visitors come to the island to seek blessings for long life, good health, prosperity, and happiness, and during the ninth lunar month, the temple serves as a spiritual retreat for Taoist, Buddhist, and Confucian devotees. Don't forget to visit the concrete lotus-shaped wishing well near the temple's centre to make a wish and toss a coin for good luck.
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Looking for a peaceful escape and wondering what to do in Kusu Island? Consider taking a refreshing dip in its pristine waters. With untouched beaches and clear blue seas reminiscent of the Maldives, Kusu Island remains unspoiled by over-commercialization and tourism. During low tide, lucky swimmers may even catch a glimpse of rare marine life such as corals and reefs. For added convenience, public bathrooms and outdoor showers are available in the north-eastern part of the island. Swimming in Kusu Island's lagoons is a must-do activity for those seeking a rejuvenating experience amidst nature.
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Looking for a serene getaway? Look no further than Kusu Island. Its unspoiled, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters provide the perfect backdrop for a brisk walk or a leisurely stroll with a cup of coffee. Marine conservation efforts have resulted in thriving coral reefs and marine life, making for an unforgettable experience. Families with children can bring sand toys to the island's two beaches, located on the north and south ends, to enjoy the cool breeze and swinging coconut trees. For a peaceful escape, Kusu Island is the perfect destination
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When you visit Kusu Island, make sure not to miss the tortoise sanctuary. It may just be a sunken concrete pit, but it is home to numerous tortoises of various shell patterns. Watching these slow-moving creatures take their tiny steps can be incredibly therapeutic. Although some people may argue that the terms "turtle" and "tortoise" are not interchangeable, on Kusu Island, they use the terms interchangeably. So, if you're wondering what to do on Kusu Island, don't forget to include a visit to the tortoise sanctuary on your itinerary. It's a unique experience that you won't want to miss!
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Kusu Island is home to the annual Kusu Island Pilgrimage, attracting thousands of devotees from all over the world between September and November. Legend has it that a Taoist shrine and a Muslim 'keramat' were built to honor two men who survived a terrible ordeal. To experience this pilgrimage, visitors can climb the 152 steps to the shrines to pray for good health, happiness, success, luck, and tranquility. For those wondering what to do in Kusu Island, this spiritual experience is not to be missed.
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Kusu Island boasts numerous sheltered benches with tables and alfresco wooden tables with benches, providing ample space to enjoy a picnic or lunch. However, visitors should be cautious of black ants that may be present at some tables and keep a close eye on their food to prevent it from being attacked. Additionally, while there have been reports of monkeys on the island, sightings are rare. To fully enjoy the island's serene environment, visitors can engage in various activities such as swimming, exploring the temples, or hiking the trails. Overall, Kusu Island is a beautiful destination for a day trip and offers a variety of things to do for all ages.
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Know Before You Visit Kusu Island
To access Kusu Island, visitors must travel by sea either via ferry or speedboat. The most popular mode of transportation is the ferry, which departs from Marina South Pier daily until 3 pm. For those using the MRT, take the North-South Line and alight at Marina South Pier station, then proceed to Exit B to reach the ferry terminal. The ferry ride to Kusu Island will include a stop at St. John's Island along the way. Travelers can expect a pleasant journey and stunning views of the surrounding waters before arriving at the island's tranquil shores.
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For optimal weather conditions, it is recommended to visit Kusu Island between November to January or May to August. During these periods, visitors can enjoy pleasant temperatures and ideal conditions for exploring the island's attractions. Whether it's swimming in the crystal clear waters or taking a stroll through the tranquil temples, Kusu Island offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
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- Book ferry tickets in advance or arrive at the counter before the fixed time of departure. Ticket counter closes at 3 pm.
- Ferry timings differ on weekdays and weekends.
- Adult ticket charges apply to children above 12 years of age.
- St. John’s Island has only one washroom, so freshen up before exploring.
- Refrain from touching tortoises or other reptiles at the Kusu Island Tortoise Sanctuary to avoid contracting diseases.
- No food or drink shops available on the island, bring your supplies.
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites such as the Chinese temple.
- St. John’s Island has many resident cats that may greet visitors at the pier.
- Overnight stays on the island are not permitted by the authorities.
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FAQ’s of Kusu Island
What is Kusu Island known for?
Kusu Island is known for its picturesque landscape, serene beaches, and religious significance. The island is home to two famous shrines, the Chinese Temple and the Malay Shrine, visited by devotees seeking blessings for good luck, health, and prosperity. The Kusu Island Tortoise Sanctuary is another attraction that houses hundreds of tortoises of different species. The island also offers several outdoor activities such as swimming, picnicking, and hiking, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
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Are there any restaurants or shops on Kusu Island?
There are no restaurants or shops on Kusu Island. Visitors are advised to bring their own food, drinks, and other necessary supplies when visiting the island. However, there are sheltered benches with tables and alfresco wooden tables with benches available on the island where visitors can set up their picnic or lunch. It is essential to note that visitors should keep the island clean and dispose of their trash responsibly.
How long does it take to visit the entire Kusu Island?
Kusu Island is a relatively small island, and visitors can explore its attractions within a few hours. The island is just 8.5 hectares, and it takes approximately 15-20 minutes to walk from one end of the island to the other. However, the duration of your visit to Kusu Island may depend on your interests and the activities you plan to engage in, such as swimming, picnicking, or visiting the shrines and the tortoise sanctuary. It is recommended to plan your visit accordingly and allocate ample time to enjoy the island's peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty.
What is the history of Kusu Island?
Kusu Island has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. According to folklore, a Malay saint named Syed Abdul Rahman arrived on the island to meditate in the early 1800s. He was said to have possessed supernatural powers and had the ability to cure diseases. Later, the Chinese also began to visit the island to pray for good luck and prosperity. In 1923, the Chinese built a temple on the island dedicated to the Taoist deity, Tua Pek Kong.
During World War II, Kusu Island was occupied by the Japanese, who used it as a military outpost. The island was returned to Singapore's colonial government after the war. In the 1970s, the Singapore government developed the island as a tourist destination, building facilities such as picnic areas, toilets, and shelters. The island was also designated as a nature reserve to protect its natural ecosystem.
Today, Kusu Island remains a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering visitors a glimpse into Singapore's cultural heritage and natural beauty.