Experience nature up close at Big Sister’s Island’s revamped marine park

After three years of refurbishment, the Sisters’ Islands Marine Park is open to the public. Located about 30 minutes from the mainland, Big Sister Island is the perfect getaway for anyone looking to reconnect with nature or even escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

With about 40 hectares of parkland, it plays a key role in marine conservation, research, outreach and education efforts. The island has several new facilities including a new floating boardwalk which spans 220m. Aside from getting a scenic view of Big Sister’s Island and Small Sister’s Island, this floating boardwalk also features five moon pools along the boardwalk where marine experiments can be carried out, enabling researchers to study both naturally established and transplanted corals in a field setting

The island’s 230m coastal forest trail winds through lush foliage, and leads to a two-storey viewing deck. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the marine park and nearby islands like Pulau Semakau and Pulau Jong.

Another highlight is the lagoon tidal pool. When the tides are low, visitors can embark on intertidal walks, or go for a quick snorkel to observe the beautiful marine life, like the Haddon’s carpet anemone, sandfish and flower crab. One might spot some otters and turtles along the way too.

The reopening of Big Sister’s Island is a big win for Singapore’s marine biodiversity and a treat for nature lovers. Visitors can now explore this newly revamped gem in the 40-hectare Sisters’ Islands Marine Park, soaking in its natural beauty while discovering the importance of marine conservation. As the only part of the marine park open to the public, Big Sister’s Island offers a unique glimpse into Singapore’s underwater world. Meanwhile, Small Sister’s Island remains dedicated to research and conservation, with the western reefs of St John’s Island and Pulau Tekukor lying submerged as vital habitats for marine life.