The story of Kusu
The island got its name when stories passed by the Malays and Chinese in Singapore, citing that a giant tortoise turned itself into an island in order to save two shipwrecked sailors, a Malay and a Chinese near the Singapore waters. The sailors were so grateful to the tortoise that they returned to the island to give thanks.
According to their belief, a Muslim kramat and a Taoist Shrine were built on the island. Since then, many other people have continued this tradition of giving thanks and prayers on the eleventh month of the lunar calendar which is also known as the "Kusu" season.
Watch Tortoises in their natural habitat
As the island’s name literally translates into Tortoise Island, there is bound to be ample opportunities for visitors to gaze and marvel at the incredible tortoise population at Kusu Island. The government of Singapore has invested its resources and time into preserving the tortoise population that live fairly close to urban environment of Singapore at the Kusu Island Tortoise Sanctuary. With the help of environmental experts and nature conservatives, this place is one of the lesser known ecotourism destinations in the Singapore islands.
Visit the Kusu Island Chinese Temple
Apart from the fact that Kusu Island temple has been very beautifully constructed, it is an important pilgrimage site for the local Chinese people that have been residing in Singapore for centuries. The temple is a spiritual home for Taoist, Buddhist, and Confucian devotees who come and visit this place during the ninth lunar month every year.
Try food and drink on island
You will find a small food court in the middle of the island to buy refreshments or your lunch. The fresh coconut is the best choice. If you prefer consuming your own food, you will find numerous benches and several shaded picnic tables as well.
Swim in the lagoons of Kusu Island
As Kusu Island has not yet beared the burden of commercialization and tourism, its surrounding waters, lagoons, and beaches remain in near pristine condition. The marine life around its coastal waters is lively and unperturbed by the side-effects of human exploitation. A lot of locals fancy the opportunity of going out for a swim into the lagoons of Kusu Island on a hot and humid summer day.
A picnic with your loved ones at Kusu Island
A prefered picnic destination for locals, the Kusu Island’s beach is also now getting attention from travelers who occasionally want a break from the fast-paced life in a metropolis like Singapore. Travelers yearning for a calm, peaceful, and unfiltered environment would love to visit this small beach for an afternoon lunch with their loved ones which can help them zone out momentarily from the urban jungle chaos.