If you're ever sick of jostling with the crowd on the beaches of Singapore, then here's a piece of good news for you: in the South of Singapoore exists a lesser-known island, unhindered (mostly) by families and couples determined to do something outdoorsy on a weekend.

Lazurus Island, previously known as Pulau Sakijang Pelepah, literally translates to "Island of One Barking Deer and Palms" from Malay.

While the beach is reputed to be clean and secluded, the lack of a crowd also means that fewer amenities are available. Below you will find a list of pros and cons (thoughtfully compiled by someone who hasn't been there) so you go well-prepared (or end up not going at all).

Pros:

1. Cats

The vicinity of the island, we hear, is littered with cats. The rule, like all social interactions, is simple: to make friends, offer food.

2. Fewer people

Now, this might be the second and the last item on the list of pros, but the advantage of having fewer people around offers great possibilities, namely:

2a. Can get frisky

Not that you cannot do it elsewhere (cue small space jokes), but it's easier to avoid getting STOMP-ed here, ya know?

2b. Clean

Fewer people, less filth. Naturally.

2c. Instagram-worthy

Because the outing didn't happen until you've instagrammed it.

Cons: 

1. No toilet

The nearest toilet is at St. John’s Island. We kid you not. As Bob Dylan sings, "If you gotta go now, go now".

2. Long walk to reach

It's a 10-15 minute walk on a causeway to reach here from St. John island, depending on how hard nature is calling you.

3. No food stalls

This may be a serious deal breaker for some. Sure, you can pack picnic food, but they're not piping hot.

4. Mosquitoes

Because so few people visit, they might be extra enthusiastic about you.

5. No benches/tables

Because the mosquitos don't need it, okay?

6. Private yatchs

This would have been fine usually, but on Lazarus island it just reminds you of your peasant status as you crawl stroll across the causeway.

6. Relatively small beach

Before your imagination carries you away to somewhere Maldives-like, no. Sorry.

Bottomline: Go if you like beaches and want to explore somewhere new, but manage your expectations.

How to get there:

- Take a ferry from Marina South Pier and drop off at St John's Island

- Walk around 10-15 minutes across a causeway to get to Lazarus Island

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