Pulau Ubin,Singapore
Pulau Ubin is one of Singapore's last surviving rural landscapes, preserving kampong (village) life, granite-quarrying heritage and diverse coastal ecosystems. The island offers a living window into Singapore's past — from granite quarrying that supplied building stone for early Singapore to the traditional livelihoods of Malay and Chinese fishing and farming families. It is also a biodiversity hotspot, especially at Chek Jawa, a well-known intertidal area with rich seagrass, mangroves and rocky shore communities.
Places to visit
- Chek Jawa Wetlands (intertidal boardwalk and biodiversity-rich shore)
- Ketam Quarry / Quarry Viewpoint (scenic pools and granite cliffs)
- Puaka Hill (island's highest viewpoint with panoramic views and WWII relics)
- Pulau Ubin Village (Kampong Ubin) with traditional shops and coffee stalls
- German Girl Shrine
- Cycling routes and unsealed jeep tracks
- Birdwatching hotspots and mangrove trails
Unique Aspects
- Exposed granite formations and abandoned quarries turned scenic lakes
- Mangroves, seagrass beds and coral communities at Chek Jawa
- Relatively undeveloped, rustic kampong scenery — rare in urban Singapore
- High biodiversity for birds, butterflies, and intertidal life
Things to do
- Cycling around island tracks (bike rental available at the jetty)
- Guided nature walks at Chek Jawa and other trails
- Hiking/trekking to Puaka Hill and inland trails
- Birdwatching (early morning is best)
- Kayaking and coastal exploration (guided groups)
- Photography of landscapes, wildlife and kampong scenes
- Community-led beach cleans and biodiversity surveys (periodic)
Best Time to Visit
Best time: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler conditions and wildlife activity. The island is visitable year-round; avoid heavy monsoon periods (typically November–January) if you want drier, calmer conditions.
Weather Conditions
Tropical hot and humid conditions year-round—daytime temperatures commonly between 25–32°C with frequent, sudden showers. Bring sun protection and rain gear.
Accessibility
Access: Take a short bumboat ride (10–20 minutes) from Changi Point Ferry Terminal. The island's interior has unpaved tracks and some uneven terrain—suitable for cycling and hiking but limited for wheelchairs and strollers. No regular public buses on the island; basic services and small shops are concentrated at Ubin Village near the jetty.
Recommended Duration
Half-day to a full day for main highlights; plan a full day to explore Chek Jawa, cycle the island and visit Puaka Hill. Overnight stays are possible via limited homestays or with permits for camping—check regulations in advance.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Light, breathable clothing, sturdy closed shoes or sandals, insect repellent, sunhat and sunscreen, rain poncho, refillable water bottle, a small first-aid kit, and a bike lock if renting a bicycle.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Small coffee shops (kopitiams) and seafood stalls at Ubin Village serve local hawker-style food and seafood. Souvenirs are limited — consider supporting local vendors and picking up simple hand-crafted items or postcards. Pack out non-biodegradable trash and avoid removing natural items from the island.