The COVID-19 pandemic has definitely made us uncover more and more hidden gems in Singapore. From the picturesque Southern Islands to gems that look like they're overseas, there's plenty of amazing spots in our little red dot. If you're looking to go off the beaten path, there's one island in Singapore you have to add to your list - Pulau Hantu! The island is known as a diving spot due to its abundance of corals and reefs. It's no wonder that divers flock to this island now that travelling abroad is off the cards.
Named the "island of ghosts", legend has it that this was where ancient Malay warriors fought to their death and that their ghosts wander around the island. However, the island today is far from its dark legend as you'd be able to find swaying palm trees, white sandy beaches and swimming lagoons. It's just the perfect place for a peaceful and idyllic getaway!
There are two islands here - Pulau Hantu Besar and Pulau Hantu Kechil. Hantu Besar has several swimming lagoons and you there are plenty of areas for a picnic on both islands. When it's low tide, it is possible to walk from one island to another.
Getting to Pulau Hantu
Unfortunately, getting to Pulau Hantu isn't as easy as hopping on a public ferry or bumboat. Those of you who are avid divers can sign up with websites like The Hantu Bloggers, Marlin Divers, The Dive Company and Orpheus Divers. For those who are new to diving, you can sign up for an open water course through a package on Klook. Depending on which package you choose, your journey to the island begins from either the Republic of Singapore Yacht Club, Raffles Marina or One 15 Marina Club. It takes around 30 minutes to get to the island from mainland Singapore.
With a visibility of around 2-5 metres (mostly 2 metres), the experience of diving here might be nowhere near Raja Ampat, Sipadan Islands or Similan Islands in Thailand but it is still a great experience for those of you who have been deprived of your diving trips.
Credit: Felicia Ng on Facebook
What's more, you can still manage to spot some colourful marine life underwater. For instance, you can find clown fish, different species of corals, nudibranchs, seahorses and other sea critters. Suffice to say, while diving overseas is not an option right now, a trip to Pulau Hantu will definitely fuel your wanderlust. What's more, it's not every day that you get to explore this side of Singapore.
So, if you're an avid diver or game to try something new, why not sign up for a diving package and start exploring Pulau Hantu? SHARE this article with like-minded friends and let us know your experience ?
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