Day Trips from Singapore: Johor Bahru, Bintan, and Beyond

Singapore is one of Asia's best launchpads for day trips: Johor Bahru is a 5-minute train ride across the Causeway; Bintan's beaches are ~60 min by ferry; Batam is 45–60 min by ferry; and Desaru Coast is ~90 min by ferry. All are passport-required international crossings with distinct entry formalities.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

What is the cheapest and fastest way to get from Singapore to Johor Bahru?

The KTM Shuttle Tebrau train from Woodlands Train Checkpoint to JB Sentral takes just 5 minutes and costs S$5 one-way (as of 2026). Public buses such as Causeway Link from Woodlands or Kranji are even cheaper at around S$1.25 one-way but are slower due to traffic. Note: the Shuttle Tebrau is scheduled to cease service in 2027 when the RTS Link opens.

How much does a return ferry ticket to Bintan cost?

Bintan Resort Ferries Economy class round-trip adult fares are approximately SGD 92 on regular dates and SGD 102 on peak/blackout dates (inclusive of levies and fees). One-way adult tickets start from around SGD 53–54 depending on operator and season. Book at brf.com.sg for the official price.

Do I need a visa to visit Bintan (Indonesia) as a Singapore passport holder?

Singapore passport holders enjoy visa-free entry to Indonesia for up to 30 days. However, from 1 October 2025, the All-Indonesia e-Arrival card is mandatory and must be completed within 72 hours before travel. Carry your passport (valid at least 6 months) and a return ferry ticket.

Do non-Singaporean visitors need any special forms to enter Malaysia (JB or Desaru)?

Yes. Most foreign nationals (non-Singaporeans) must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within 3 days before arrival; Singapore citizens are exempt. The MDAC is free and submitted at imigresen-online.imi.gov.my. A valid passport is required for all travellers.

Is there a direct ferry from Singapore to Desaru Coast?

Yes. BatamFast operates a ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal, taking approximately 90 minutes. As of 2025, it runs Thursday to Monday only, with one daily round-trip (approximate departure from Singapore ~10:10 am, return from Desaru ~5:30 pm). One-way adult tickets are approximately SGD 70; round-trip approximately SGD 108, inclusive of fees.

How do I get to Bintan from Singapore, and how long does it take?

Ferries depart daily from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (TMFT) to Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT) Ferry Terminal near Bintan Resorts, taking approximately 60–70 minutes. Bintan Resort Ferries (brf.com.sg) is the main operator; check in at least 1.5 hours before departure as check-in closes 40 minutes before sailing. Note that Bintan is 1 hour behind Singapore time.

How do I get to Batam from Singapore, and what does it cost?

High-speed ferries from HarbourFront Ferry Terminal or Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal reach Batam in 45–60 minutes. Sindo Ferry charges approximately SGD 28 one-way / SGD 56 return (base fare; terminal fees apply separately), while BatamFast charges approximately SGD 43 one-way / SGD 76 return inclusive of fees. Multiple operators run up to 18+ daily sailings.

What are the best day-trip options beyond JB and Bintan?

Popular alternatives include Batam (45–60 min ferry, Indonesian island with seafood, spas, and golf), Desaru Coast (90 min ferry, family beach resort with waterpark), and Melaka (3–4 hour coach, UNESCO heritage town). For those with more time, Legoland Malaysia in JB and Penyengat Island near Tanjung Pinang (Bintan) are also reachable as day trips.

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