Pulau Ubin

Pulau Ubin is a pristine island located off Changi, and one of Singapore’s best kept secrets. The island is often referred to as Singapore’s last ‘kampung’, the traditional name for the village. Visiting this island and enjoying the serenity is one of the best things to do while in Singapore.

This adventure of a lifetime begins the moment you take the bumboat leaving Changi Village. Make your way to Changi Jetty, also known as the Changi Point Ferry Terminal. Look out for the Pulau Ubin queue and wait for the time of departure. There are no fixed departure times and the boats leave when full. Bumboats operate from dawn to dusk, but you can always make a special arrangement with the operators.

On arrival at the island, the tranquillity and lush green surroundings are a sight for sore eyes. For outdoor lovers looking for an adrenaline rush, nothing beats cycling the rustic roads as a fun way to explore the island. Biking enthusiasts can always hire bikes on location. There are also guided cycling tours for those who want to enjoy the sights and sounds of Pulau Ubin.

Pulau Ubin is one of the last areas that the country has preserved from urban development, so there are no skyscrapers and no tarmac roads. The wooden houses and jetties, coupled with undisturbed nature make the island a perfect destination for a day trip.

Take some time to visit Chek Jawa, a popular attraction on the island. The previous coral reef dates back thousands of years and is home to an array of marine species including octopuses, starfish and sea hares among others. Take the boardwalk that cuts across the mangrove and comes up close with the island’s biodiversity.

Pulau Ubin is the perfect place to take a break from the city and enjoy a quiet getaway. There are excellent camping options for those who want to stay overnight and admission to the island is free of charge.