Pulau Ubin Singapore
Hidden in lush forests swarming with tropical flora and fauna, abundant with wildlife and the memories of a traditional Kampong lifestyle that was here decades ago, Pulau Ubin, an island off the northeastern coast of Singapore, is the best escape from the city.
As an alternative to the usual things to do in Singapore, there are plenty of things to do outdoors – from mountain biking to bird-watching; a biodiversity heritage park to bring your experience of this tropical paradise to the next level!
How to Get There
It’s easy to get to Pulau Ubin: take a bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal where bumboats will collect you throughout the day (departures are made every 12 people). Cost is around SGD 4 per person and an extra SGD 1 for bicycles. The speedboat trip there takes about 10 minutes but offers great water views and anticipation of what’s to come.
What to Bring
Packing for Pulau Ubin is straightforward but crucial. Here’s a checklist:
- Sunscreen: There is strong sunshine here, so you will have to you some sunscreen.
- Insect repellent: You should come with insect repellent because there is so many mosquitoes and other insects here.
- Appropriate footwear: Much of the island is trails so breezy walking shoes or sandals are a must.
- Water and snacks: The island has shops, which run out of stock in the high season, so it’s always a good idea to take something to eat and drink with you when you set out on your travels.
- Cash: Almost all the shops on Pulau Ubin take only cash.
Best Activities on Pulau Ubin
Pulau Ubin accommodates a variety of interests. Here’s a rundown of the kinds of activities you could try there:
1. Exploring by Bicycle
The best way to discover Pulau Ubin is cycling. Rent your bike from one of the shops near the jetty, and go along either the Chek Jawa route or the Ubin Bike Trail Adventure and enjoy the view and the adventure that comes with it.
2. Hiking Trails
Trying the hiking trails through the forest, a network across the island, is a must for any nature lover. You can complete short and easy trails such as the Butterfly Hill Trail or make it a day by going for longer and more challenging treks such as the Puaka Hill Loop.
3. Water Activities
And if water sports are your thing, you’ve come to the right place. Pulau Ubin’s waters are all you need for some kayaking. Enjoy the view from the water with either Mangrove Kayaking, Ubin Bisect Kayaking or Round Ketam Kayaking, depending on your preference.
4. Nature and Wildlife
It’s a great place for wildlife-watchers – visitor highlights include birdwatching (Pekan Quarry is a good place to spot birds); and there are butterflies in its Butterfly Hill.
5. Camping
Camping overnight is allowed at marked camping sites – Jelutong sits right on the beach; Mamam Beach is more beachside; and Endut Senin is less developed. But leave no trace.
6. Cultural Sites
There are also several sites where one can learn about the island’s history, such as the German Girl Shrine and Wei Tuo Fa Gong Temple.
7. Food and Refreshments
Finally, all that energy has to be replaced somewhere; Pulau Ubin has a number of local restaurants selling delicious authentic Singaporean food. If you prefer a more gentle repast, pack a hamper of food and appreciate the views at any of the island’s many idyllic spots.
Sightseeing and Photography
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Pulau Ubin is a paradise for Instagrammers: myriad pretty ponds and forsaken quarries frame languid interiors, peek out from under swaying frangipani. Prove you’ve been here, on your uncommon journey to this sleepy islet, with a shot of the most picturesque kampung house. Send it to friends, broadcast it to the world.
Conservation and Respecting the Environment
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What draws you to Pulau Ubin is its natural beauty. So take a few basic steps to minimise your impact. Stick to the marked trails, dispose of your rubbish correctly, and keep your distance from the wildlife.
Additional Tips
- If you wish to avoid having to contend with noise, it’s best to set out early and leave for the island as soon as possible.
- Wear appropriate clothing for outdoor activities, such as light and breathable fabrics.
- Plan your trip ahead of time by checking ferry schedules and activity availability.
- Bring a map, or find one online, because there’s room on your bike – and possibly in your pocket – and, if you take a wrong turn, you won’t have much choice anyway.
- Make sure you have a camera or phone with you to take pictures of the amazing island views.
Pulau Ubin Singapore
Pulau Ubin is the best cure for a crowded metropolitan and functions as a classroom to teach the natural and cultural history of littoral Singapore.
Pulau Ubin is for the city-state that all cities need — an ‘island getaway’ with plenty of green space for nature lovers and islanders tucked away from the busy life afloat.
By educating visitors about its diverse landscape and biodiversity, interested visitors have the opportunity to start learning about Ubin’s natural heritage.
Check out some of our other related articles and guides below:
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- Guide To Visiting Marina Bay Singapore (2024)
- Best Museums in Singapore (2024)
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you have any questions about Pulau Ubin Singapore, you can refer to the frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Visiting Pulau Ubin Singapore below:
What is the best time to visit Pulau Ubin?
The best periods to go over there is in the early morning and late afternoon. This time of the day is not hot, contrary to the midday, which is hot. For birdwatcher, also the early morning is perfect in order to discover all the bird species living there. In the late afternoon its possible to admire wonderful sunsets and wilderness still active.
How much does the bumboat ride cost?
A bumboat ride over there costs around SGD 4 per person, each way, with around another SGD 2 for a bike when you get there; the crossing gives you gorgeous water views and an easy pace with which to set your adventure into motion.
Are there any guided tours available?
A guided tour, for example, can serve as a portal to comprehend the island’s past, present and rich biodiversity. Led by an appreciator of the island’s heritage and natural history, these tours provide a meaningful way to shape your Pulau Ubin experience. They are an especially convenient way to go about a guided visit, whether you are a birder, cyclist or kampong fan.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
The island also has a rich indigenous flora and fauna: there are kingfishers and hornbills, herons and butterflies, not to forget wild boar and monitor lizards, not to speak of long-tailed macaques. Mangroves, coastal forests, casuarina plantations and other terrestrial and freshwater habitats help the cause. All you wildlife and naturalists can keep yourself busy here. Go before it turns into a series of super blocks.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
The island also has a rich indigenous flora and fauna: there are kingfishers and hornbills, herons and butterflies, not to forget wild boar and monitor lizards, not to speak of long-tailed macaques. Mangroves, coastal forests, casuarina plantations and other terrestrial and freshwater habitats help the cause. All you wildlife and naturalists can keep yourself busy here. Go before it turns into a series of super blocks.
