The best secret and hidden beaches in Singapore

Follow the markers along the main trail that goes through Coney Island and take a turn that will lead you to one of the hidden beaches on the island (we recommend Beach Area C). Expect to walk through bushes, trees and even a mangrove boardwalk to get there. Though we wouldn't encourage sunbathing and picnicking (there are native macaques on the island), it's a pretty idyllic spot for a breather before you head back to finish your trek. If you're not a fan of sand, there are concrete steps by the water near the entrance of the island.

Far away from the city lies a swathe of white sand ringing clear, turquoise waters. No, we’re not talking about Boracay but Lazarus Island. One of Singapore’s best-kept secrets, it's a serene, undeveloped beach that you can (almost) call your own – just take the first ferry out at 9am on weekends and 10am on weekdays to claim the sands for yourself. Other beach bums descend around lunchtime in their yachts and speedboats. And don’t forget to pack everything you need – floats, mats, towels – as there are no shops on Lazarus.

Punggol Beach is actually pretty accessible by public transport – there is a direct bus from Punggol which doesn't require much walking and plenty of carpark space at the nearby Punggol Promenade. Take a walk on the white sandy beach or spend a day fishing at Punggol Jetty. Though it might seem tranquil, this beach has quite a past. In WWII, the Japanese army executed many civilians on the shores of Punggol so maybe you don't want to be hanging around too late at night for fear of what lurks in the dark.

Near the western edge of Sentosa, Tanjong Rimau beach can be accessed via the edge of the compound occupied by Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa and by descending the rocky slope to the beach. During the low tide, you can spot many marine creatures such as starfish and crabs along the coastline. Walk along the tidal pools, mangrove trees and caves nearer the coastline and look out for the pitcher plants on the cliffs. If you head towards the Tanjong Rimau beacon, you’ll be able to see Labrador Nature Reserve across the waterway. When walking along the beach, be careful of stonefish – their spines on their dorsal fin are venomous. To protect the natural environment and ensure the safety of everyone, visits to Tanjong Rimau are only available through guided tours by Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC), or SDC-approved tours. Guests are also urged to treat these fragile ecosystems with care so that these areas continue to thrive. 

On the outside, this hidden spot in Seletar might look like just shabby and abandoned village. Located near the popular cyclist spot Rower's Bay Park, Yishun Dam and Seletar Airport, you can find kampong huts and a wooden jetty (called Jenal Jetty) which is still being used by fishermen making a living. The 'village' part and Jenal Jetty is out of bounds to the public but curious types can sign up on private tours to get a closer look at the fishing village and its daily activities. Seletar Fishing Village may be known as the last fishing village in Singapore but fishing is not what it is popular for. Cyclists and explorers know that the small beach area and breakwater next to it is a secret – and probably the best – spot to watch the sunset in Singapore. When the tide is low, you can even walk down to the beach and swamp area. If you're thinking to explore the area in low tide, remember to wear proper walking shoes. And if you have time, don't forget to check out the views at the nearby Punggol Barat Island and also Rower's Bay Park. 

Sembawang Park's beachside locale is perfect for a lazy weekend picnic. While fishing is a popular pastime here, many can be seen crowding around barbecue pits and picnic tables sprinkled along the coast. Alternatively, flap out your picnic mat here and have yourself a feast here at one of the country's last remaining natural beaches.

Another offshore island far away from Singapore's buzz, St John's Island has everything a beach lover could want. Take a dip in the ocean, grill up a barbecue in the picnic area, visit the Sisters' Islands Marine Park Public Gallery or hang out with the friendly felines. To get to the island, just board a boat at Marina South Pier. The boats depart at various timings but ticket booths closes at 3pm daily.