- SINGAPORE
Best Family-Friendly No-Flight Getaways From Singapore
Travel Without Needing An Air Ticket!
Long weekend ahead or already planning for the school holidays? Instead of stressing over booking flight tickets and getting jet lag, why not get on a boat and jet off to an island getaway instead? Lesser known to many, Singapore is only a few hours away to several vacation destinations where you won’t even need to board a plane. From Tioman to Batam, we’ve round up the best family-friendly no-flight getaways so you can plan your next fam trip pronto!
Want more? Check out related articles here:
-
BATAM: Indonesia *Best Family-Friendly No-Flight Getaways From Singapore
Travel duration: 45 minutes via boatThink “nearby island” and Batam will likely pop into mind. Yes, it is the nearest offshore island to get a breather at just 45 minutes away, and it is filled with plenty of family-friendly resorts that you can check in to, such as Montigo Resort, HARRIS Resort and Holiday Inn Batam. All of these destination spots have kid amenities like pools and kids clubs, so your stay will be guaranteed to be a fun-filled one!
-
BINTAN: Indonesia *Best Family-Friendly No-Flight Getaways From Singapore
Travel duration: 1 hour via boatAn alternative to Batam, Bintan is another nearby getaway in Indonesia where the sun shines bright enough to take your mind off worries. Some even call it a cheaper version of Bali, since you get the beach and food options without the hefty price tag. Stay options include Banyan Tree, Nirwana Gardens or Club Med, but for an unconventional glamping experience, go for ANMON Resort Bintan, which combines extravagance with nature.
-
DESARU: Malaysia *Best Family-Friendly No-Flight Getaways From Singapore
Travel duration: 1 hour 30 minutes via ferryOff the coastal shores of Malaysia is Desaru, which is less than a movie’s duration away from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. Set sail and be greeted by sandy beaches and luxe resorts which you can find comfort in with the whole family. A highlight for the little ones will definitely be the Adventure Waterpark – a water theme park boasting 13 waterslides, a giant wave pool and even roller coasters for those that have a thirst for high thrills.
-
TIOMAN: Malaysia *Best Family-Friendly No-Flight Getaways From Singapore
Travel duration: Around 5 hours via boatNature lovers will want to make their way to Tioman the soonest they can. The Malaysian island has plenty of outdoor adventure options. Think mountains for trekking, beaches for lazing and clear blue waters for diving. There’s other forms of entertainment too, such as sea turtle conservation and kid-friendly resorts like Tunamaya Resort and Berjaya Tioman Resort.
-
LAZARUS ISLAND: Singapore *Best Family-Friendly No-Flight Getaways From Singapore
Travel duration: 30 minutes via boatHere’s a getaway that won’t just have you saving on a plane ticket, but you won’t even need your passport! Lazarus Island has always been a peaceful option for quick getaways, but now it’s made even better with Into The Woods, an island glamping experience that is both kids and pet friendly. Sleepover by the beach in comfort, and wake up to a beach stroll or barbeque at your deck, you decide.
-
RAWA ISLAND: Malaysia *Best Family-Friendly No-Flight Getaways From Singapore
Travel duration: Around 4 hours via boat and carIf dad and mum need some quiet time away from the kiddos, Rawa Island might just be the magic place, since the sole resort on the coast doesn’t permit kids on Fridays and Saturdays. Of course, you can let the little ones tag along during the rest of the week to soak in clear waters, white beaches and delicious seafood options. Those looking to make high adrenaline memories can explore the slides at the jetty or cliff jumping too.
-
NIKOI ISLAND: Indonesia *Best Family-Friendly No-Flight Getaways From Singapore
Travel duration: Around 2 hours 30 minutes via boat and carIf you’re looking for a place that’s more obscure than Bintan, traverse further towards Nikoi Island. This private island is mostly untouched, making it a prime spot for families who want utmost peace and privacy. There’s only one residence on the island, but the villa is all you’ll need since it comes with a pirate-themed kids club, water sport arrangements and two swimming pools.
-
PANGKIL ISLAND: Indonesia *Best Family-Friendly No-Flight Getaways From Singapore
Travel duration: Around 3 hours via boat and carIf your family trip includes extended relatives or close friends, a private island booking is in order. There’s perhaps no better option than Pangkil Island, which is usually booked for an entire group at a time. Everytime will be covered, from meals, transport and staff help. Did we mention that there’s also a movie room, pool, bar, and an evening bonfire for extra good vibes under the moonlight?
-
RIAU ISLAND: Indonesia *Best Family-Friendly No-Flight Getaways From Singapore
Travel duration: Around 2 hours 30 minutes via boatWant to fully escape work and school? Book a stay at Telunas Beach Resort in Riau Island which, get this, has no wi-fi and no air condition. While the concept might seem daunting to some, being off the grid means you get to enjoy the infinity pool, kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding to your heart’s content.
-
PULAU JOYO: Indonesia *Best Family-Friendly No-Flight Getaways From Singapore
Travel duration: Around 3 hours 30 minutes via boat and carHead south of Bintan and Batam to find yourself at Pulau Joyo. This secluded spot is where Joyo Resort lies, a traditional accommodation that will offer you time to wind down amidst nature. Perfect for families or groups of friends, choose between staying indoors and enjoying the amenities, or heading out in the sun for a round of kayaking or snorkeling free of charge.
Want More?
Little Steps Asia knows what families need.
Sign up for our email newsletters to get the most out of Asia!
SIGN UP
Singapore Tips, Deals + Events.
Recommends
Got kids? Little Steps Asia gives you the scoop on all the things to do and see with babies, toddlers, and kids in Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bali, Jakarta, Macau, and beyond. From family-friendly hotels, kids and baby shops, the best schools and after school activities, pregnancy tips and meet-ups and more – we have you sorted.
Sign up to receive the free Little Steps email newsletter packed with news, offers, and hidden treasures for Singapore families.
© 2025 Little Steps Asia. All rights reserved.
