Need a quick escape but don’t want to fork out too much? Jump into a boat and spend the day at Kusu Island! Kusum about 40 minutes away from Singapore, is one of the 63 islands that belong to Singapore.
Legends state that Kusu island came about because two sailors were saved from a vicious storm by a magical giant tortoise which transformed itself into the island.
On this island you will also find three holy shrines (kramats) of Malay saints. The shrines can be reached by climbing 152 steps. Many devotees head to the kramats to pray for good marriage, good health and harmony. The shrines are also popular with childless couples who pray for children.
The island which you can walk from end to the next in 20 minutes also has a Chinese Da Bo Gong (God Of Prosperity) Temple, built in 1923 and a turtle sanctuary, which the kids will love.
The blue lagoons, the relaxed atmosphere and the glorious beaches make it the ideal place to spend some good times with friends or family. We’re already packing our tiny bag for a day trip!
Kusu island Chinese temple
How to get to Kusu island:
Take a ferry from Marina South Pier. Do get to the ferry terminal early as it has been noted that their has been times where the ferry left 10 minutes before scheduled. Sale of tickets at Marina South Pier, Singapore Island Cruise & Ferry Services Pte Ltd.
Departure times (Singapore – Kusu island):
10 am and 2 pm (Mon to Fri), and at 9am, 12pm, 3pm (Sat), and 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm, 3pm and 5pm (Sun and public holidays).
Ticket price:
SGD 18.00 for adults return trip and SGD 12.00 for child (Child aged from 1 – 12 years old).
Tips to make your island adventure more fun:
1. Take a picnic mat, a big picnic basket and lots of water as there are no shops on Kusu island
2. Take fishing rods, beach toys and scooters for the kids
3. Pack sunscreen and mosquito sprays
4. Don’t get to close to the turtles as they bite!
5. Wear good walking shoes so you can climb up the shrine
6. No overnight stays are allowed on Kusu island
7. For peace and quiet avoid the ninth lunar month when thousands of pilgrims converge on Kusu island to pray to temple deities.
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