Start planning some weekend getaways now and make the most of the region! We’ve rounded up cool hotels and island resorts near Singapore that are just a ferry or short flight away – think amazing sea views, and great local food and drinks!
Short Breaks and Weekend Getaways
# Beachside resort in Bali, Indonesia
Bali has long been a favourite destination when it comes to short getaways from Singapore, and if it’s a front-row ocean view you’re after, it doesn’t come much better than The Legian Seminyak, Bali. All 66 suites at the resort, along with the three-bedroom Beach House, come with ocean views and breezes.
Adjacent to the resort is The Club by The Legian Seminyak, Bali, a private estate with a 30-metre pool and 13 private pool villas. These one-, two-, and three-bedroom private pool villas (starting at 450 square metres) offer amazing space and serenity.
New and notable about this beach resort
The Legian Seminyak has this year launched a culinary concept that brings together Michelin-starred and internationally acclaimed chefs from some of the world’s most celebrated restaurants, creating an evolving celebration of global gastronomy. The Chef Series has already welcomed some exceptional culinary talents, including chefs from Royce Restaurant in Phuket, and Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in Dubai, as well as Bali-based chefs from Indigo Canggu and farm-to-table restaurant Begawan Biji. With a new guest chef featured every month, the series gives guests fresh reason to return and discover new flavours.
Also new is The Signature Collection, introduced by The Legian Seminyak and The Club by The Legian Seminyak. This exclusive portfolio of the resorts’ most prestigious two- and three-bedroom suites and villas has been curated for travellers seeking a luxury escape with a private and personalised touch. Along with a dedicated butler, Signature Collection accommodation includes privileges such as limousine airport transfers, daily Taittinger champagne, four hours of complimentary evening cocktails daily, a complimentary dining experience at an iconic Seminyak neighbourhood restaurant and more.
IG @thelegianseminyak | @theclub.thelegianseminyak
lhm-hotels.com
# Holiday homes on the beach in Krabi, Thailand
Set in a stunning corner of Krabi Province, Baan Railei consists of a pair of beachfront homes that make for the ideal short escape from Singapore.
Krabi’s Railay Peninsula is separated from the Thai mainland by plunging limestone cliffs and reachable only by boat. The most sought-after stretch of the peninsula is Railay West. Guests lucky to be staying in the small handful of places here – including Baan Railei – have direct access to the beach, a west-facing view of ocean and islands, and incredible sunsets!
Baan Railei’s two homes include a traditional Thai teak house, Baan Samarinda, whose green roof blends into the surrounding nature. The interiors are dotted with Asian artefacts, and wonderfully soft linens in the five bedrooms, while the master bedroom opens onto a covered deck with day beds.
The neighbouring four-bedroom house, Baan Kintamani, was added along the beachfront in the late 1990s. It features architectural elements from the owner’s native Indonesia, with unique carved doors and Balinese paintings. Creature comforts are everywhere you look, too, from air-con in all the bedrooms to 5G Wi-Fi, fully fitted kitchens and more.
Railay is considered one of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches – a stretch of white sand and turquoise water bookended by those signature cliffs. The sea is warm year-round with gentle waves – ideal conditions for children of all ages. And the lack of roads and traffic help to set a wonderfully serene tone.
Things to do on this short break
Start the morning with some nature-spotting (langur monkeys can sometimes be seen in the jungle canopy above). Then, jump on a kayak to explore hidden lagoons, or snorkel, dive or take boat trips to outlying islands. Rock climbers come from around the world for the limestone faces, too. For a change of pace, the walking street behind the beach offers cold beers, Thai food and local ice cream in equal measure. As for those striking sunsets, you can enjoy them from your deck, the Javanese pavilion, or the beach in front of Baan Railei, with a cocktail in hand.
The houses can be booked separately or as a pair if you’re with friends or extended family. While they’re set up as luxury self-catering retreats, you can also opt for a full-service holiday – think delicious dishes cooked by in-house Thai chefs, massages in your villa, food shopping delivery and more.
Fly direct to Krabi from Singapore via AirAsia or Thai AirAsia (approximately 1.5 hours). Transfers are provided to Ao Nam Mao pier and the long-tail boat to Railay West.
For more information and bookings, visit baanrailei.com.
# Private pool villas at The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah
The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah is a tropical escape with all the bells and whistles. Set on one of the world’s largest and deepest atolls – Gaafu Alifu – it’s a 2km-long island with soft white sand, more than 2,500 coconut palms, and calm, turquoise waters renowned for its diving.
What makes this resort different? It’s home to the longest wooden bridge in the Maldives – stretching over a kilometre to link Dhigurah with its sister island, Falhumaafushi. You can cycle, walk, or hop on a buggy to explore both islands. The resort is fully all-inclusive, so meals and drinks are covered across both islands. On Dhigurah alone, there are five restaurants and three bars to choose from – from Mediterranean-style plates at Café del Sol and classic Cantonese at Li Bai, to cocktails at the Beach Club.
The 173 villas (beach, lagoon or overwater) all come with private pools and either sunrise or sunset views, making it a great choice for a memorable short trip from Singapore without the long-haul slog.
Things to do at this resort
- The Spa by Clarins consists of overwater treatment pavilions, with options for solo or couple sessions.
- There’s also a gym, yoga pavilion, beauty salon and nail spa if you’re after some self-care.
- Keen to stay active? Try floating fitness classes in the Beach Club pool or explore the resort’s Earth Basket garden with a chef. You can pick your own produce and cook a meal from scratch.
- The kids are sorted too, thanks to one of the largest Kids Clubs in the southern atolls, with beach games, arts and crafts, and nature walks on the programme.
- End the day on a traditional Maldivian dhoni, cruising at sunset and spotting dolphins.
Special offer: Make the most of school holidays with a family beach break. Save up to 40 percent when you book 31 days in advance, plus enjoy complimentary scenic domestic flight transfers for two in a one-bedroom villa or four in a two-bedroom villa. Meal plans are flexible, with Bed & Breakfast, Half Board, or All-Inclusive options, and you’ll have access to nine restaurants and bars across two connected island resorts. For last-minute bookings within 30 days, you’ll still get 30 percent off. A minimum four-night stay applies.
# An easy weekend getaway from Singapore at The Residence Bintan
The Residence Bintan sits on the quieter south-eastern side of the island, far from the tourist trail. Getting there is straightforward: a 55-minute ferry from Singapore followed by an 80-minute drive.
Part of the Cenizaro Hotels and Resorts group, the property is surrounded by tropical greenery and overlooks the South China Sea. There are 127 rooms, including one-bedroom garden and sea-view villas, and larger two-bedroom villas suited to families or groups. The beachfront villas put you steps from the sand, while the garden terraces offer more privacy.
Rica Rica, the signature restaurant, focuses on Indonesian flavours with a modern spin. You’ll also find two other casual spots for lighter meals or a drink by the pool.
This easy short trip from Singapore is close enough for a weekend getaway, but far enough to feel properly disconnected.
Things to do at this resort near Singapore
- Activities include nature walks, bike rides, and a batik painting workshop for creating your own piece to take home.
- The Spa at The Residence Bintan is a quiet spot to unwind, offering traditional treatments with a modern touch. It uses Ila products and has eight private rooms for couples – each with its own bathtub. There’s also a reflexology room and spaces for facials and other beauty treatments.
- Families love the Kakatu Kids Club, a free programme for children aged three to 12 that keeps little ones happily engaged. They’ll enjoy everything from yoga and beach explorations to cooking classes and local dance lessons.
cenizaro.com/theresidence/bintan
# Island resort getaway at The Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi
Looking for an island resort with serious castaway charm? Set in the remote Gaafu Alifu Atoll – one of the largest and deepest in the world – this resort near Singapore is made up of 94 beach and over-water villas, blending right into the lush surroundings. Think palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear water, and a thriving house reef where you might spot turtles and reef sharks just off your deck.
Villas are made with natural materials and local touches, giving them a rustic-luxe vibe that fits right in with the scenery.
Dining-wise, there are three restaurants and two bars to choose from. They include The Falhumaa, perched at the end of a 230-metre jetty with Indian Ocean views – perfect for a romantic night out.
Things to do at this resort
- You’ll also find the exclusive Spa by Clarins here sitting over the lagoon, as well as its sister spa on nearby Dhigurah island. (They’re connected by a kilometre-long bridge.)
- Enjoy diving? The on-site PADI 5-star Dive Centre has everything you need to explore the coral reefs and vibrant marine life.
- There’s also a kids club, fitness centre, and plenty of water activities to keep everyone happy.
Special offer! Save up to 40 percent on a minimum four-night stay in the Maldives. Book at least 31 days in advance to enjoy the biggest savings, plus complimentary scenic domestic flight transfers for two in a one-bedroom villa or four in a two-bedroom villa. Choose from flexible meal plans – Bed & Breakfast, Half Board, or All-Inclusive. Booking last-minute? You’ll still get 30 percent off the Best Available Rate when reserving within 30 days.
cenizaro.com/theresidence/maldives-fm
# Family escape in Jimbaran at the InterContinental Bali Resort
Bali remains one of the most accessible destinations for families travelling from Singapore, and Jimbaran Bay offers a slower pace than the island’s busier enclaves to the north. At the heart of this stretch of coast is InterContinental Bali Resort, a property designed with families in mind – and just a short flight away.
Set across 14 hectares of tropical gardens, the resort is laid out on flat terrain – ideal for navigating with children or older relatives. Accommodation spans from stylish rooms to expansive suites and private villas, giving flexibility for couple and families. Six swimming pools are scattered across the grounds, while five restaurants – among them KO Restaurant for Japanese teppanyaki and Bella Cucina for Mediterranean flavours – offer plenty of choice, with children’s menus available throughout.
Things to do at this resort near Singapore
- For younger guests, Planet Trekkers, the resort’s dedicated kids’ club, is the highlight. Designed for ages 4 to 12, the programme blends fun with cultural discovery, from Balinese dance to eco-inspired activities. Outdoors, a children’s pool with new water-play features and a landscaped adventure zone complete with trampolines, climbing structures, swings and even giant chess ensure endless entertainment.
- Parents can slip away to the spa, join a yoga class, or relax with sunset cocktails by the ocean.
- The resort also features family-friendly activities in its programming, including Balinese cooking classes, temple and market visits with cultural ambassadors, and surf lessons with the Rip Curl School of Surf.
- Even infants and toddlers are catered for, with complimentary cribs, baby amenities and babysitting services giving parents peace of mind.
Special offer! The Jimbaran Family Fun Package is a ready-made getaway that combines a three-night stay with curated experiences for all ages. Inclusions range from daily breakfast for two adults and two children and a two-course lunch or dinner at Jimbaran Gardens, to IDR 1,000,000 net resort credit for dining, spa or activities. Families can also enjoy a purification ritual for two adults, a kite-making workshop and Planet Trekkers access for kids. There’s also a one-hour cycling tour for the whole family.
+62 361 701888 | bali.intercontinental.com
# An exclusive weekend getaway at Pangkil Island Resort
If you’re craving a proper breather from Singapore life, Pangkil Island, a small hideaway off the coast of Bintan, is one to put on the shortlist. It’s close enough for a weekend, but remote enough that stepping onto the sand feels like switching everything to holiday mode.
The journey is easy: ferry to Bintan, a short drive, then a boat ride out to a private island with driftwood “palaces”, open-air lounging areas and a pool looking straight out to sea. The part people always rave about? Privacy. Stays are on an exclusive-use basis, so the island is yours for the weekend.
Things to do at this resort near Singapore
Days can be as slow or as active as you like. Think beach breakfasts, hammocks and books, or kayaking and snorkelling between swims. Evenings tend to revolve around sundowners and candlelit dinners prepared by the island’s team.
Set-up wise, it ticks a lot of boxes for families, couples or a group of friends who want time together without too much coming and going. From what guests say in reviews, Pangkil comes across as one of those trips you finish already wondering why you didn’t plan it sooner.
paradise@pangkil.com | pangkil.com
# A private island near Singapore – Joyo Island Resort
Looking for a short break that skips airports and long transfers? Joyo Island is one of those easy weekend options – a good way to get off the grid without actually going very far. It’s the usual route to Bintan (ferry, then a drive), followed by a short boat ride to a small private island off the eastern coast. It’s one of those moments where you realise how spoilt we are in this part of the world. Not everyone can just hop to a private island for the weekend!
The feel is rustic and laid-back: driftwood-style bungalows with Indonesian character, lots of open space and sea views from bed. It works whether you’re going as a couple, a family or a group of friends – enough room to spread out, but you’re never far from whoever’s mixing the next round of drinks.
Things to do at this resort near Singapore
Days are low-key. You can kayak, snorkel or book a massage, or just fall into that island rhythm of reading, napping and wandering in and out of the sea. Evenings are relaxed too – sandy feet, big skies and dinner by the beach before everyone drifts off to bed.
reservations@joyoresort.com | joyoresort.com
More short trips from Singapore
Where to go in Indonesia – Bali to Bintan
There are an estimated 17,508 islands in Indonesia, of which only about 6,000 are inhabited. The main islands are Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Irian Jaya and, last but not least, Java. The latter is home to 70 percent of the country’s population. Resorts with beaches less than an hour away by ferry include on the islands of Bintan and Batam, and some smaller nearby islands such as Telunas.
Elsewhere in Indonesia, head to Bali for terraced rice paddies, temples, ruins and jungle walks. Luxury villas can be very reasonable if you’re sharing with a group of friends or family. Lombok is described by many as “the Bali of 20 years ago”, and the nearby Gili Islands are an idyllic hideaway. Wakatobi, meanwhile, is perfect for scuba diving and snorkelling enthusiasts, with stunning scenery and volcanoes.
Malaysia is a great choice for short trips from Singapore
Right on our doorstep, Malaysia is an easy weekend getaway near Singapore. Many Malaysian destinations are just a drive away. It has some great beaches, historical towns and delicious food.
Just across the causeway, Johor Bahru (“JB”) can be good for the occasional shopping and eating experience. (You can get there by car, taxi or bus.) Kids will love Legoland there too; it’s barely an hour’s drive from home. Note that on Singapore public holidays, the roads can be busy, with long wait times at borders.
The Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur has areas of historical and cultural interest, fabulous views from the Petronas Towers, and buzzing nightlife in Bangsar. The nearby Batu Caves are worth visiting, and among the best places to visit near Singapore for stunning nature.
For white-sand beaches, Langkawi off the peninsular west coast and Perhentian and Redang islands off the east coast are highlights. Tioman, Sibu and Rawa are all great for weekend getaways. Kota Kinabalu in Borneo (East Malaysia) is a stepping-stone to Mabul and Sipadan, for diving resorts near Singapore.
Elsewhere, Penang and Malacca hit the spot for history. Taman Negara has the world’s oldest rainforest, and the Cameron Highlands and tea plantations are located on the spine of the peninsula. And don’t forget the orangutans in Sabah! All are ideal destinations for short trips from Singapore.
Where to go in Thailand for a city or beach holiday less than two hours from Singapore
Colourful but busy Bangkok has amazing food, fabulous temples, numerous markets and malls, and interesting nightlife. Not far away are the stunning temples of Ayuthaya which are best seen by bicycle. For a beach holiday less than two hours away from Singapore by air, visit Phuket, Koh Samui or Krabi. Or take a boat trip around the breathtaking Ao Phang Nga National Park. Up north, a jungle adventure awaits you in the Golden Triangle’s Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.
Where to go in Vietnam for nature or culture lovers
Cruise along the Mekong Delta and visit the astonishing Cu Chi tunnels just outside Ho Chi Minh City for a reminder of the war years. In the north, soak up the colonial French atmosphere of Hanoi, then leave the city for a boat trip around picturesque Halong Bay. The middle of the country boasts culturally significant Hue and the photogenic, sleepy Hoi An, a must-visit for a step back in time.
There aren’t too many places to visit near Singapore that are like the rural area around Sapa. This part of northwest Vietnam is something different. It offers everything from village retreats to rugged cycling trips, and cooking lessons so you can bring your holiday experience home.
Weekend getaways to Laos and Cambodia
There are plenty of other great short trips from Singapore. World-renowned Angkor Wat in Cambodia is a must-see, Luang Prabang is a meditative river town in Laos, and there are other resorts near Singapore in both of these countries for culture, food, beaches and more.
Like these ideas for short trips from Singapore? Read about more places to visit near Singapore and other weekend getaways in our Travel section.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – click for the answers!
The article highlights island resorts, beach getaways, cultural towns and nature retreats across Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Maldives and Vietnam – perfect for short weekend trips from Singapore.
Some are just a ferry ride away, like those in Bintan. The Residence Bintan, for example, is about 55 minutes by ferry followed by a short drive. Other destinations require a short flight.
Resorts such as The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah and Falhumaafushi offer overwater and lagoon villas, while luxury options in Bali and other parts of Indonesia provide private pool villas for added privacy.
Yes, the article mentions family-friendly resorts like The Residence Bintan and InterContinental Bali Resort, which feature kids’ clubs, children’s menus and family suites for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Guests can enjoy spa treatments, yoga sessions, nature walks, snorkelling, diving, cultural tours, cooking classes and a range of water sports. Or they can just relax by the beach!
Some resorts offer attractive promotions such as early booking discounts, last-minute deals or packages that include meals and spa credits for better value.
The Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi is perfect for those seeking privacy, offering rustic-luxe villas, quiet beaches and tranquil surroundings away from crowded tourist spots. Baan Railei in Krabi, Thailand is another fantastic spot for peace and quiet.
Suggested spots include Langkawi and Redang for beaches, Penang and Malacca for culture, and the Cameron Highlands for cool, scenic getaways.
The article mentions cities like Hanoi, Hoi An, Luang Prabang and Siem Reap for their rich heritage, temples, colonial charm and opportunities to explore local markets and cuisine.
Check visa requirements, travel time, seasonal weather and available resort offers. Planning around holidays or low seasons can help balance convenience, cost and crowd levels.
