Have you ever heard of Kusu Island, Singapore? If not, you are missing out on one of the most fascinating and enchanting islands in the world. Kusu Island, which means “Tortoise Island” in Chinese, is a small island located about 5.6 km south of Singapore. It is home to a rich and diverse history, culture, and wildlife that will captivate and inspire you.
According to legend, Kusu Island was formed when a giant tortoise turned itself into an island to save two shipwrecked sailors, one Chinese and one Malay. Since then, the island has become a sacred place for both communities, who built a Chinese temple and a Malay shrine on the island. The island is also a haven for hundreds of tortoises, who live in a sanctuary and are revered as symbols of longevity and good fortune.
But Kusu Island is not just a place of worship and wonder. It is also a place of fun and adventure, where you can enjoy the pristine beaches, the crystal-clear lagoons, and the stunning views of the sea and the city. You can swim, snorkel, picnic, or simply relax on the island, and experience the tranquility and beauty of nature.
If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable island-hopping experience in Singapore, you should definitely visit Kusu Island. In this guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about how to get there, what to do, and why you should visit this island of legends and turtles. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group, you will find something to suit your interests and budget on Kusu Island.
How to Get There
Getting to Kusu Island is easy and convenient. You just need to take a ferry from Marina South Pier, which is accessible by MRT. The ferry service operates daily from 7 am to 4 pm, and takes about 15 minutes to reach the island. The ferry tickets cost $18 for adults and $12 for children, and include a round trip and admission to the island. You can book your tickets online or at the ticketing counter at the pier.
The best time to visit Kusu Island is from October to November, when the weather is pleasant and the island hosts the annual Kusu Pilgrimage, a festival that attracts thousands of devotees and visitors. During this period, the ferry service runs more frequently and offers discounts for seniors and students. However, you should also expect more crowds and queues on the island, so plan your trip accordingly.
You should also note that Kusu Island is closed for maintenance every February, so you should avoid visiting during this month. Otherwise, you can visit the island any time of the year, as long as you check the ferry schedule and the weather forecast before you go.
What to Do
There are plenty of things to do on Kusu Island, whether you are interested in culture, nature, or adventure. Here are some of the highlights that you should not miss:
Visit the Da Bo Gong Temple, a Chinese temple dedicated to the God of Prosperity and Mercy. The temple was built in 1923 by a wealthy businessman, who was grateful for the blessings he received from the god. The temple features a colorful and intricate architecture, and houses various statues and relics of the god and other deities. You can admire the temple’s beauty, learn about its history, and make a wish or a donation at the temple.
Visit the Keramat Kusu, a Malay shrine dedicated to a pious man named Syed Abdul Rahman, his mother Nenek Ghalib, and his sister Puteri Fatimah. The shrine was built in 1963 by the descendants of the man, who was believed to have miraculous powers and healed many people. The shrine is located on top of a hill, and can be reached by climbing 152 steps. You can enjoy the panoramic view of the island, learn about the shrine’s legend, and pray or make an offering at the shrine.
Visit the Tortoise Sanctuary, a sanctuary that houses hundreds of tortoises of different species and sizes. The sanctuary was established in 1975 by the Singapore Tourism Board, who rescued the tortoises from illegal traders and smugglers. The sanctuary is a popular attraction for children and adults alike, who love to feed and interact with the tortoises. You can buy some vegetables or fruits at the nearby kiosk, and feed the tortoises at designated areas. You can also learn about the tortoises’ biology, behavior, and conservation at the sanctuary.
Visit the Wishing Well, a well that is believed to grant wishes to those who toss a coin into it. The well was built in 1972 by the Singapore Tourism Board, who wanted to create a romantic spot for couples and visitors. The well is surrounded by a lovely garden, and has a sign that says “Make a wish and it will come true”. You can try your luck and make a wish at the well, or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the sound of the water.
Enjoy the Beaches and Lagoons, the natural attractions that make Kusu Island a perfect getaway from the city. The island has three beaches and two lagoons, where you can swim, snorkel, picnic, or relax. The beaches are clean and sandy, and the lagoons are calm and clear. You can also spot some marine life, such as fish, crabs, and corals, in the water. You can bring your own snorkeling gear, food, and drinks, or rent them at the island. You can also use the facilities, such as showers, toilets, and lockers, at the island.
Island-Hopping
If you want to explore more of the Southern Islands of Singapore, you can also go island-hopping from Kusu Island. There are two other islands that you can visit, namely St John’s Island and Lazarus Island. Both islands are connected by a causeway, and offer more attractions and activities for you to enjoy.
St John’s Island is a former quarantine station and a drug rehabilitation center, that has been transformed into a recreational island. The island has a rich and dark history, which you can learn about at the St John’s Island National Marine Laboratory and the Sisters’ Islands Marine Park Public Gallery. The island also has a beautiful beach, a lagoon, and a jetty, where you can swim, fish, or kayak. You can also visit the St John’s Island Trail, a 2.8 km guided walk that showcases the island’s biodiversity and heritage.
Lazarus Island is a quiet and secluded island, that is ideal for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy some privacy. The island has a stunning beach, a lagoon, and a mangrove, where you can swim, sunbathe, or camp. You can also visit the Lazarus Island Trail, a 1.4 km guided walk that showcases the island’s flora and fauna. You can also spot some wildlife, such as monkeys, squirrels, and birds, on the island.
You can book your island-hopping packages online or at the ticketing counter at Marina South Pier. The packages include a round trip and admission to all three islands, and cost $25 for adults and $18 for children. You can also get discounts for seniors and students. The island-hopping packages are available daily from 9 am to 3 pm, and take about 4 hours to complete.
Kusu Island, Singapore is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and adventure. It is a place where you can learn about the legends and traditions of the island, interact with the tortoises and other wildlife, and enjoy the beaches and lagoons. It is also a place where you can explore other nearby islands, such as St John’s Island and Lazarus Island, and experience more of the Southern Islands of Singapore.
If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable island-hopping experience in Singapore, you should definitely visit Kusu Island. You can book your tickets, tours, or packages online or at Marina South Pier, and get ready for a fun and memorable trip. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group, you will find something to suit your interests and budget on Kusu Island.
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