Kusu Island

Home to legendary turtle folklore and sacred hilltop temples reached by climbing 152 steps for breathtaking panoramic views.

Kusu Island

Home to legendary turtle folklore and sacred hilltop temples reached by climbing 152 steps for breathtaking panoramic views.

Kusu Island, meaning "Tortoise" or "Turtle" in Chinese, lies 5.6 kilometers south of Singapore's mainland and is also known as Peak Island or Pulau Tembakul in Malay. This remarkable 85,000-square-meter island has transformed from two tiny reef outcrops into a unique cultural and recreational destination that seamlessly blends spiritual significance with natural beauty. What sets Kusu Island apart is its extraordinary combination of sacred temples, Malay shrines, and pristine beaches, creating a harmonious space where visitors can experience both cultural heritage and tropical tranquility. The island strictly prohibits overnight camping, making it a perfect day-trip destination accessible via ferry from Marina South Pier.

The Story behind the Island

Kusu Island's origins are rooted in a beloved legend shared by both Malay and Chinese communities in Singapore. According to the tale, a giant tortoise transformed itself into an island to rescue two shipwrecked sailors—one Malay and one Chinese—from the treacherous waters near Singapore. Overwhelmed with gratitude for their miraculous rescue, the sailors returned to give thanks to their savior. This act of gratitude led to the establishment of both a Muslim kramat (holy shrine) and a Chinese Taoist temple on the island, symbolizing the multicultural harmony that defines Singapore. The tradition continues today, with thousands of devotees visiting during the eleventh month of the lunar calendar, known as "Kusu season," to offer prayers and thanksgiving.

Kusu Island's origins are rooted in a beloved legend shared by both Malay and Chinese communities in Singapore. According to the tale, a giant tortoise transformed itself into an island to rescue two shipwrecked sailors—one Malay and one Chinese—from the treacherous waters near Singapore. Overwhelmed with gratitude for their miraculous rescue, the sailors returned to give thanks to their savior. This act of gratitude led to the establishment of both a Muslim kramat (holy shrine) and a Chinese Taoist temple on the island, symbolizing the multicultural harmony that defines Singapore. The tradition continues today, with thousands of devotees visiting during the eleventh month of the lunar calendar, known as "Kusu season," to offer prayers and thanksgiving.

Kusu Island's origins are rooted in a beloved legend shared by both Malay and Chinese communities in Singapore. According to the tale, a giant tortoise transformed itself into an island to rescue two shipwrecked sailors—one Malay and one Chinese—from the treacherous waters near Singapore. Overwhelmed with gratitude for their miraculous rescue, the sailors returned to give thanks to their savior. This act of gratitude led to the establishment of both a Muslim kramat (holy shrine) and a Chinese Taoist temple on the island, symbolizing the multicultural harmony that defines Singapore. The tradition continues today, with thousands of devotees visiting during the eleventh month of the lunar calendar, known as "Kusu season," to offer prayers and thanksgiving.

Fun Activities Available:

01

Temple and Shrine Pilgrimage

Explore the island's spiritual heritage by visiting the Da Bo Gong Chinese temple (built in 1923) and climbing the 152 steps to reach the three hilltop kramats dedicated to Syed Abdul Rahman, his mother Nenek Ghalib, and sister Puteri Fatimah, while discovering the nearby Tortoise Sanctuary.

01

Temple and Shrine Pilgrimage

Explore the island's spiritual heritage by visiting the Da Bo Gong Chinese temple (built in 1923) and climbing the 152 steps to reach the three hilltop kramats dedicated to Syed Abdul Rahman, his mother Nenek Ghalib, and sister Puteri Fatimah, while discovering the nearby Tortoise Sanctuary.

01

Temple and Shrine Pilgrimage

Explore the island's spiritual heritage by visiting the Da Bo Gong Chinese temple (built in 1923) and climbing the 152 steps to reach the three hilltop kramats dedicated to Syed Abdul Rahman, his mother Nenek Ghalib, and sister Puteri Fatimah, while discovering the nearby Tortoise Sanctuary.

02

Beach Picnics

Enjoy leisurely afternoon picnics with family and friends on the island's pristine beaches, where you can bask in the sun and appreciate the tranquil island atmosphere perfect for quality time together.

02

Beach Picnics

Enjoy leisurely afternoon picnics with family and friends on the island's pristine beaches, where you can bask in the sun and appreciate the tranquil island atmosphere perfect for quality time together.

02

Beach Picnics

Enjoy leisurely afternoon picnics with family and friends on the island's pristine beaches, where you can bask in the sun and appreciate the tranquil island atmosphere perfect for quality time together.

03

Swimming and Beach Relaxation

Take refreshing dips in the island's clear lagoons and relax on the beautiful beaches that offer a peaceful setting away from the mainland's hustle and bustle.RetryClaude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.

03

Swimming and Beach Relaxation

Take refreshing dips in the island's clear lagoons and relax on the beautiful beaches that offer a peaceful setting away from the mainland's hustle and bustle.RetryClaude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.

03

Swimming and Beach Relaxation

Take refreshing dips in the island's clear lagoons and relax on the beautiful beaches that offer a peaceful setting away from the mainland's hustle and bustle.RetryClaude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.

DESTINATIONS

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St. John's Island

A peaceful retreat rich in history, offering serene beaches and scenic walks just 6.5 kilometers from the mainland.

Previously known as Pulau Sakijang Bendera

View Details

Lazarus Island

Singapore's most pristine beach destination where powder-soft sands and crystal-clear waters create the perfect tranquil escape.

Also known as Pulau Sekijang Pelepah

View Details

Sisters' Islands

Singapore's premier marine park where vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life make it a snorkeler's paradise.

Big Sister's Island (Pulau Subar Laut) & Small Sister's Island (Pulau Subar Darat)

View Details

St. John's Island

A peaceful retreat rich in history, offering serene beaches and scenic walks just 6.5 kilometers from the mainland.

Lazarus Island

Singapore's most pristine beach destination where powder-soft sands and crystal-clear waters create the perfect tranquil escape.

Sisters' Islands

Singapore's premier marine park where vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life make it a snorkeler's paradise.