Everything Singaporean travellers need to plan the perfect Redang Island trip — by road or by air, with a recommended overnight stop on Terengganu's stunning coastal beaches.
Redang Island is one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful tropical escapes, popular amongst Singaporeans and if you are travelling from Singapore, it’s closer than most people think.
Whether you drive up the peninsula or fly into Kuala Terengganu, the island’s reef-filled waters and powder-white beaches are well within reach for a long weekend or a school-holiday trip. This Redang Island guide is designed to ease travelers and tourists from Singapore, especially for first-time visitors.
What most guides don’t tell you is that the best way to travel to Redang Island from Singapore isn’t a straight shot to the jetty. Adding one night on Terengganu’s coastal mainland — specifically in Setiu, where Katsetiu Villas sits right on the beach — turns a travel day into part a meaningful experience holiday in Redang. Terengganu travel experience is when you wake up to South China Sea views, eat fresh seafood for dinner, and reach Merang Jetty in under 10 minutes the next morning – read for the full fledge Redang Island experience – be it a day trip, or a several night stay in Redang Island.
Not sure which island to pick?
Redang Island Travel Guide: Tourism Information, What to Expect and FAQ covers everything you need to know about the island itself — beaches, diving, resort types, and when to go.
Singapore to Redang Island at a Glance: Which Route Is Right for You?
| By Car (Road Trip) | By Air (Fly to Kuala Terengganu) | |
| Total travel time | ~9–11 hours (incl. Setiu stop) | ~4–5 hours door-to-door |
| Cost (approx. per person) | RM 50–120 fuel + tolls; shared cost | S$80–190 (budget to full-service) |
| Best for | Families, groups, flexible itineraries | Couples, solo travellers, time-pressed trips |
| Flexibility | Stop anywhere, carry more luggage | Fastest option; less luggage freedom |
| Our verdict | Best value and most scenic | Best for long weekends |
Option 1: Singapore to Redang Island by Road
Driving from Singapore to Terengganu is a genuine road trip — about 560–580 km from the Woodlands or Tuas checkpoint to Setiu, taking roughly 8–9 hours depending on your chosen route and rest stops. For families or groups of four or more, it’s often the most cost-effective option and gives you the freedom to stop, explore, and carry everything you need.
Before You Drive: Singapore Car Essentials
- Attach your VEP (Vehicle Entry Permit) to your windscreen — required for all Singapore-registered cars entering Malaysia.
- Top up your Touch ‘n Go eWallet before you leave — accepted at all Malaysian highway tolls. Load at least RM100–120 to cover the full journey.
- You’ll pay a RM20 Road Charge (RC) each time you enter Malaysia — debited automatically from Touch ‘n Go, separate from tolls.
- Set navigation to Setiu, Terengganu or Katsetiu Villas before leaving. Waze and Google Maps both cover this route well.
Route 1 (Recommended): The KL – Karak Highway — Fastest and Most Comfortable
Woodlands/Tuas → NSE (North-South Expressway) → Kuala Lumpur → Karak Expressway (E8) → East Coast Expressway (LPT) → Kuantan → Kemaman → Dungun → Setiu / Merang
This is the fastest and most comfortable route for most Singaporean travellers. After crossing into Malaysia, head north on the NSE toward Kuala Lumpur (about 4–4.5 hours).
In KL, pick up the Karak Expressway (E8), which cuts through the Titiwangsa mountain range via the Genting Sempah Tunnel and connects to the East Coast Expressway (LPT).
From there it’s a smooth, well-signposted run north through Kuantan, Kemaman, and Dungun before arriving in the Setiu–Merang area. That’s the closest to coastal location before you head to Redang Island via Merang Jetty.
| Leg | Highway/Road | Approx. Distance | Approx. Time |
| Singapore → KL | NSE (North-South Expressway) | ~340 km | 3.5–4.5 hrs |
| KL → Kuantan | Karak E8 + LPT East Coast Expressway | ~250 km | 2.5 hrs |
| Kuantan → Setiu / Merang | LPT + Federal Route 3 (coastal) | ~200 km | 2 hrs |
| Total (Singapore → Setiu) | Multiple expressways | ~560–580 km | 8–9 hrs |
Rest stop tips:
Plan fuel and food breaks at Skudai R&R (~1 hr from Woodlands), Ayer Keroh (Melaka, ~2 hrs), and Temerloh (after the Karak Highway). The Kemaman and Dungun stretch has genuine east coast seafood towns worth a lunch stop on the drive up.
Route 2 (Scenic): The Coastal Route via Kota Tinggi and Mersing
Tuas Checkpoint → Kota Tinggi → Mersing → Rompin → Pekan → Kuantan → Kemaman → Setiu
If you’re not in a rush and want to experience the east coast from the very start of the drive, the coastal route via Tuas Checkpoint and Federal Route 3 is a rewarding alternative.
You’ll pass through Kota Tinggi, then Mersing — a pleasant breakfast or lunch stop with a charming fishing town feel — before heading through Rompin and Pekan (royal capital of Pahang) and rejoining the main coast road at Kuantan. Note this route adds roughly 1–1.5 hours versus Route 1, and some stretches through Johor involve traffic lights and slower township roads. Please avoid during the monsoon season (November–February) due to flood risk on low-lying sections.
| Leg | Road | Approx. Distance | Approx. Time |
| Singapore → Kota Tinggi | Tuas → Federal Route 3 | ~80 km | ~1.5 hrs |
| Kota Tinggi → Mersing | Federal Route 3 | ~90 km | ~1.5 hrs |
| Mersing → Kuantan | Federal Route 3 (coast) | ~190 km | ~2.5 hrs |
| Kuantan → Setiu / Merang | LPT + Federal Route 3 | ~200 km | ~2 hrs |
| Total (Singapore → Setiu) | Federal Route 3 coastal | ~580–600 km | 9–11 hrs |
Parking at the Mainland Before Crossing to Redang
A major advantage of driving is leaving your car at Katsetiu Villas while crossing to Redang. The property has on-site parking, so you’re not paying for a long-term car park at the jetty. Drive to Merang Jetty on the morning of your crossing — it’s under 10 minutes from the villas. This is an ideal or optimal way to travel to Redang Island for Singaporeans who wants to drive without having to worry about where to leave their cars.
The idea of staying at Katsetiu Villas for 1 night provide the comfort, safety and security that you can both enjoy – i.e a front beach private villas on a peaceful beach of Pantai Bari / Pantai Penarik area, and a boat ride day snorkelling or diving trip to Redang Island via Merang Jetty located 8-10 minutes away from Katsetiu Villas.
Option 2: Singapore to Redang Island by Air
Flying is the fastest way to get from Singapore to Terengganu, making it ideal for long weekends or anyone who’d rather spend hours on the beach than behind the wheel. The entire air journey — check-in, flight, and transfer to Setiu — can be done in under four to five hours from central Singapore.
Which Airport to Fly Into
Sultan Mahmud Airport (IATA: TGG) in Kuala Terengganu is your gateway. Do not fly into Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) intending to continue by road — the onward drive from KL to Setiu adds another 5–6 hours and negates the advantage of flying entirely.
| Airport | Code | Distance to Katsetiu Villas | Verdict |
| Sultan Mahmud Airport, Kuala Terengganu | TGG | ~40 km (~40 min drive) | Best choice — fly here |
| Kuala Lumpur International Airport | KUL | ~450 km (~5.5 hrs drive) | Not recommended |
| Kuala Lumpur Subang Airport | SZB | ~440 km (~5.5 hrs drive) | Not recommended |
Airlines Flying Singapore (SIN) to Kuala Terengganu (TGG)
| Airline | Route Type | Approx. Fare (One-Way) | Notes |
| AirAsia | Via KL (KLIA2) | S$40–53 | Cheapest; book early for best fares |
| Malaysia Airlines | Via KL (KLIA) | S$58–83 | Business class available; more legroom |
| Firefly | Via Subang (SZB) | S$45–76 | Comfortable mid-tier option |
Budget tip: AirAsia typically offers the most frequent connections and lowest base fares. Book 4–6 weeks in advance. One-way fares from around S$40–53 are achievable on off-peak dates — cheapest months are typically March and October.
Getting from Sultan Mahmud Airport (KT) to Katsetiu Villas in Setiu District
- Grab: best option — well-established in Kuala Terengganu. Fare to Setiu / Katsetiu Villas typically RM40–80, but it could go higher depending on peak time.
- Taxi: airport taxis from the dedicated counter in arrivals. Approximate fare: RM50 – RM 100 for a single trip to Merang / Setiu.
- Airport Transfer Service via Katsetiu Villas: pre-arranged transfer from Sultan Mahmud Airport — easiest if travelling with family or young children.
Why Spend a Night in Setiu Before Crossing to Redang?
Most Singaporean travellers book straight through to an island resort and treat the journey as dead time. But according to many Singaporean travellers, Setiu sits in one of the quietest and most naturally beautiful stretches of Malaysia’s east coast. Stopping here the night before your crossing costs almost nothing in extra time, and adds a completely different dimension to the trip – especially for families and even experienced divers.
Based on our surveys, here are some reasons why you should consider spending a night in Setiu for Singaporean travellers:
- You’re only 5–10 minutes from Merang Jetty — no 45-minute taxi scramble from KT town the next morning.
- Katsetiu Villas looks directly toward Redang and Perhentian Islands from the porch. You’re already in the destination zone.
- Terengganu’s mainland coast has a completely different character — mangroves, firefly rivers, turtle nesting beaches, and real kampung food. You’d miss all of this staying on Redang only.
- It buffers you against flight delays or rough sea days. If your boat can’t cross in the morning, you have a comfortable base to wait from.
Best Beaches in Terengganu to Visit on Your Stopover
Terengganu is home to some of Malaysia’s finest mainland beaches — largely unknown outside the region. Most are accessible from Setiu and make for a rewarding afternoon or morning stop. For a complete shortlist, see 10 Best Pristine Beaches in Malaysia (Terengganu) That You Must Visit. Here are the highlights closest to Katsetiu Villas:
| Beach | Distance from Katsetiu Villas | What Makes It Special |
| Pantai Bari | On-site (doorstep) | 3 km of deserted shoreline; sea views of Redang Island on clear days |
| Pantai Penarik | 5 min drive | Coconut palms, dramatic Terengganu coastline; Instagram-famous and among the most photogenic beaches in Malaysia |
| Pantai Chalok | 3 min walk | Quiet sunrise beach facing directly toward Redang; among the best stargazing spots on the east coast |
| Pantai Kemasik | ~45 min south | Often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches on the east coast; crystal water with rock formations |
| Pantai Rantau Abang | ~1 hr south | Historic leatherback turtle nesting site; culturally significant beach town |
| Pantai Batu Buruk | ~40 min (KT town) | Terengganu’s main town beach; good for evening walks, local food stalls, and cultural atmosphere |
For a full state-wide overview of attractions, beaches, and seasonal events, our Visit Terengganu maintains the most up-to-date official tourism resource for the state. This will assist many Singaporean travellers to Redang and Setiu District.
Where to Stay in Setiu: Katsetiu Villas
Katsetiu Villas is a private beachfront homestay enclave along Pantai Bari in Setiu — the closest quality accommodation to Merang Jetty that gives you direct beach access, resort-level amenities (eg: kitchen, family lounge, pool, free breakfast), and the flexibility of a private home. This modern contemporary tropical beach villas make a value offering and best deal for Singaporean families (with children), couples and experienced divers.
| Villa Type | Sleeps | Best For | Highlights |
| Large Beach Main Villa | Up to 12–14 pax | Families, large groups | 3 bedrooms, open-plan kitchen and lounge, direct sea view |
| Beach Villa A | Up to 4–6 pax | Couples, small families | Private, sea-facing; steps from beach |
| Beach Villa B (Sea View) | Up to 2–4 pax | Couples, duos | Cosy 1-bedroom with sea view and outdoor shower |
| Garden Rear Villa | Up to 4 pax | Quieter stay | Set back from shore; garden ambience |
| All 4 Villas (Full Property) | Up to 20–27 pax | Large groups, reunions | From ~RM140/person/night at full occupancy |
You may view several options, more photos and availability at Katsetiu Villas — All Villa Types, or check current nightly rates at the Katsetiu Villas Price List. Stays include complimentary breakfast (nasi dagang, nasi lemak, eggs), WiFi, pool, and full-time concierge staff.
If you prefer a snorkeling day trip to Redang before deciding to spend more than 1 night in the island, you may also explore affordable Redang Island Snorkelling Packages are available from SGD 35 (RM99) per person — covering 6–9 dive spots in a single day. This is amongst the best value deal you could find for Singaporeans seeking full day snorkeling packages in Redang Island without having to spend several nights in a cramped touristy Redang Island.
From Setiu to Redang Island: The Final Leg
Merang Jetty is 5–10 minutes by car from Katsetiu Villas. Most island resorts run their own speedboats from Merang and include the transfer in their package. Confirm your pickup time with the resort the evening before, as schedules are tide and weather dependent.
| Jetty | Distance from Katsetiu Villas | Crossing Time | Best For |
| Merang Jetty | 5–10 min drive | 30–45 min by speedboat | Recommended — closest, most resort boats depart here |
| Shahbandar Jetty (KT Town) | ~45 min drive | Up to 90 min (public ferry) | Use only if your resort specifically departs here |
For boat schedule details and public ferry ticketing, see Merang Jetty to Redang Island: Boat Transfer Options (Klook) or the Redang Island ferry and boat guide (RedangIsland.org). For a broader overview of the mainland-to-island crossing, read How to Get to Redang Island: Traveller’s Guide on the Katsetiu Villas blog.
Suggested Itineraries for Singaporean Travellers
Long Weekend (3–4 Days) — Fly Option
| Day | What to Do |
| Day 1 (Thurs/Fri) | Fly Singapore → Sultan Mahmud Airport (TGG). Transfer to Katsetiu Villas, Setiu (~40 min). Afternoon on Pantai Bari or Pantai Chalok. Dinner at local seafood stall near Penarik Beach. |
| Day 2 | Morning transfer to Merang Jetty (~8am). Speedboat crossing to Redang Island (~40 min). Afternoon snorkelling at Pasir Panjang or Teluk Kalong. Night at Redang resort. |
| Day 3 | Full day on Redang — diving, snorkelling, or beach. Late afternoon boat back to Merang. Option: final night at Katsetiu Villas. |
| Day 4 (Sun) | Morning in Setiu. Grab or airport taxi to TGG (~40 min). Fly back to Singapore. |
Road Trip (5–6 Days) — Drive Option
| Day | What to Do |
| Day 1 (Fri) | Depart Singapore early (6–7am) via NSE → KL → Karak E8 → LPT. Lunch stop in Kemaman. Arrive Setiu / Katsetiu Villas by late afternoon (~5–6pm). |
| Day 2 (Sat) | Morning: Pantai Penarik, Pantai Bari, Setiu Wetlands boat tour. Optional: snorkelling day trip to Redang from the villa. Evening BBQ dinner on the beach. |
| Day 3 (Sun) | Morning crossing from Merang Jetty to Redang Island. Full day and night on the island. |
| Day 4 (Mon) | Second full day on Redang — dive sites, glass-bottomed boat, beach time. Night at resort. |
| Day 5 (Tue) | Morning boat back to Merang. Return to Katsetiu Villas for a final night. |
| Day 6 (Wed) | Depart Setiu by 8–9am. Drive back to Singapore via same route. Arrive early evening. |
Best Time to Travel from Singapore to Redang Island
Weather in Terengganu: Best Time to Visit has full month-by-month detail, but here’s what Singaporean travellers need to know:
| Period | Sea Conditions | Crowd Level | Verdict |
| March – May | Excellent — calm, clear water | Low to moderate | Best value — before peak crowds |
| June – August | Good — peak beach season | High — SG & MY school hols | Book 4–8 weeks ahead |
| September – October | Good | Moderate | Good shoulder option; fewer crowds |
| November – February | Rough — monsoon | Most resorts closed | Avoid — Redang resort season shut |
Practical Tips for Singaporean Travellers
- Currency: Malaysia uses MYR (Ringgit). Rate typically around S$1 = RM3.30–3.50. Change S$200–300 before you go, or use a Wise/Revolut card.
- Data SIM: Malaysian SIM card (Celcom, Maxis, or Digi) with 5–10GB data costs RM15–30. Buy at KLIA2 on connection, or at 7-Eleven in JB.
- Timing the ferry: boats to Redang run roughly 8am–1pm. If flying in, take the earliest flight so you don’t miss the morning crossing. A night at Katsetiu Villas eliminates this risk entirely.
- Luggage on the boat: a 20L daypack and one soft duffel per person is the practical sweet spot for a 40-minute open-water speedboat crossing.
- Coral etiquette: Redang Island is a Marine Park. Use reef-safe sunscreen and do not stand on or touch coral.
- Large group booking: contact Katsetiu Villas directly about exclusive booking of all four villas (up to 20–27 pax at approximately RM140/pax/night).
Frequently Asked Questions: Redang Island from Singapore
Can Singaporeans drive to Redang Island?
There’s no road to Redang Island itself. But yes, Singaporeans regularly drive to Merang Jetty, park at Katsetiu Villas (only 5 minutes away), and take a speedboat to Redang.
Is there a direct flight from Singapore to Redang Island?
No. Redang has no commercial airport. Fly into Sultan Mahmud Airport (TGG) in Kuala Terengganu, then transfer to Merang Jetty. Total door-to-door time from Singapore is roughly 4–5 hours.
How much does it cost to travel from Singapore to Redang Island?
Budget around S$150–250 per person for travel only (flights or shared driving cost plus jetty transfer), excluding accommodation and resort costs. Katsetiu Villas is from RM140/pax/night — significantly cheaper than island resorts.
What is the best route to drive from Singapore to Terengganu?
Route 1 via the North-South Expressway (NSE) to KL, then Karak Expressway (E8) and the East Coast Expressway (LPT) to Kuantan and up the coast to Setiu. Total approximately 560–580 km, around 8–9 hours with rest stops.
How far is Katsetiu Villas from Merang Jetty?
Approximately 5–8 minutes by car — one of the closest quality accommodation options to the jetty on the Terengganu coast. See the Katsetiu Villas Location page for GPS coordinates and directions from KL, the airport, and Singapore.
Ready to Plan Your Trip from Singapore to Redang Island?
Whether you road-trip up with family or take a quick flight for a long weekend, the formula is the same: arrive in Terengganu, spend a night on the Setiu coast, and cross to Redang rested and ready. The journey becomes part of the holiday rather than something to survive.
Start by checking villa availability at Katsetiu Villas, browse the Redang Island Snorkelling Packages, or reach out via the Katsetiu Villas contact page.