Tiny Away Escape’s Lazarus Island tiny homes to close less than 4 years after launch

The tiny houses at Tiny Away Escape @ Lazarus Island will wind down operations after bookings end on Jan 31, 2027, according to a social media post by the company.

“As this chapter begins to wind down, there is still time for a few more ferry rides, quiet walks by the shore and peaceful mornings on the island,” the post said. 

The reason for closure was not stated.

When the five cabins first launched in May 2023, they were billed as Singapore’s first overnight accommodation on Lazarus Island, a largely undeveloped southern island known for its beaches.

Operated by local ecotourism start-up Big Tiny, the pet-friendly cabins were designed to be compact but fully functional, each measuring about 150 to 170 sq ft – roughly half the size of a standard hotel room. Rates on their website start from S$284 (US$219) a night.

Despite their size, the units are equipped with modern comforts such as air-conditioning, kitchenettes and en-suite bathrooms, alongside eco-friendly features like solar-powered energy, sustainable building materials and biodegradable shampoo and body wash.

The project was part of plans by the Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) to develop the Southern Islands for eco-tourism.

In response to queries from CNA Lifestyle, a spokesperson from the SDC said that its activation of the Southern Islands was "conceived as a short-term proof-of-concept of three years" to test the demand for eco-tourism activities and the viability of such business offerings.

The spokesperson also revealed that the Southern Islands’ proof-of-concept will conclude on Mar 30 next year.

"We are encouraged by the public’s interest and demand of the offerings, which provided valuable insights as part of our considerations for future activations," said the spokesperson.

"Operators have been informed early to allow for sufficient time for planning their next steps. During this period, SDC will continue to work closely with operators to support a smooth reinstatement and transition."

CNA Lifestyle has reached out to Big Tiny for more information.