PUBLISHED April 19th, 2024 06:00 am | UPDATED April 26th, 2024 08:59 pm
While the big city offers convenience, there’s no shame in admitting the need for some time away to find inner peace. That’s where island life comes in – and why venture far when we have eight islands off the Southern Coast of Singapore? Enter Lazarus Island, the new eco-tourism destination with a blend of engaging activities and serene settings for a brief weekend escape. So, let your hair down and indulge in the island dream as we dive into your ultimate guide to Lazarus Island!
Morning
Just 30 minutes by ferry from Marina South Pier or 15 minutes from Sentosa Jetty @ Cove, you’ll arrive at Lazarus Seringat Jetty. From there, take a brief stroll to Eagle’s Bay, where most of your activities and accommodations are situated.
Stock up on the necessities at convenience store, Sol by BDC. Built from a repurposed shipping container, this convenience store houses a curated selection of daily essentials such as snacks, drinks, cup noodles, toiletries, sunscreen, and even medicated oils for those pesky mosquito bites. Additionally, you can find ready-to-eat microwaveable meals and ready-to-grill food items and platters curated by Chef-owner Samuel Quan, ensuring you’ll be spoiled for choice as you load up for the day ahead!
Afternoon
Sun’s out, buns out! The afternoon is prime time for getting active and exploring all the island has to offer.
For aquatic adventures, head to the picturesque beachfront, where you can partake in a variety of water activities at the Lazarus Sea Sports Centre. From Stand-up Paddle-boarding (S$20++) to Floating Yoga (S$20++), and Water Biking (S$30++), these are just some of the activities you can enjoy under the guidance of experienced instructors. Otherwise, take a dip in the beckoning crystal-clear waters.
On the sand, enjoy classic beach activities like volleyball, sunbathing, or picnicking with loved ones. Meanwhile, your little ones can have their own beach fun, building sandcastles and playing to their hearts’ content! Whatever you choose, remember to slap on your sunscreen!
If scenic journeys are more your style, take a leisurely stroll over to St. John’s Island, just 20 minutes away via a connector bridge, and rent a bike (S$25 for two hours) from Gogreen @ St John’s Island for some land-side fun! If cycling isn’t your forte, don’t worry – they also offer scooters (S$25 for two hours) for rent. However, be sure to plan your visit for a weekend, as they are closed from Tuesdays to Thursdays.
Lastly, don’t forget to witness Lazarus Island’s spectacular sunsets before calling it a day.
Evening/Night
In the past, Lazarus Island was primarily a daytime destination due to the lack of proper accommodation. While old-school camping was an option, not everyone enjoys roughing it. Luckily, Lazarus Island now offers two, pet-friendly accommodations, ideal for overnight stays without compromising on your comfort.
Experience an oasis away from the city’s hustle and bustle with Tiny Away Escape @ Lazarus Island (S$284++ per night). Developed by eco-tourism startup Big Tiny, these low-carbon, sustainable accommodations offer five charming tiny houses, each with its own unique theme – from colonial-era to groovy retro and modern Scandinavian aesthetics. Complete with air conditioning, a kitchenette, television, and an en-suite bathroom, these cozy retreats ensure a comfortable stay amidst nature’s tranquility.
For those seeking a camping experience without the actual grit, check out Into The Woods (S$380++ per night). This glamping site features nine units, offering overnight beachfront glamping at Lazarus Island. While the units do not come with an en-suite bathroom, a private outhouse is available for staying guests. With an emphasis on bringing you closer to nature, specially curated welcome kits are provided, containing items such as “plantable” stationery and a natural watercolour painting set, inviting you to rejuvenate and enjoy a slower pace of life through low-intensity activities like painting and drawing during your stay.
When it comes to dining, each accommodation is equipped with a microwave for heating up your microwavable meals. Feeling like whipping up something nourishing for your body and soul? Tiny Escape offers a smokeless barbecue grill, perfect for cooking ready-to-grill items from SOL. Over at Into The Woods, they provide a cast iron pan and soup pot with a portable cassette stove with gas cassette, along with other basic cooking equipment, allowing you to cook to your heart’s desire.
With Singaporeans adopting a slower pace in life, getaways like these are all you need for a weekend rejuvenation before gearing up to take on the hustle and bustle of city life.
Top Image: Lazarus Island by Big Tiny