Things to Do in Pulau Ubin: Your One-Stop Guide
With its untouched nature and rustic charm, Pulau Ubin is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Before modern development in Singapore, Pulau Ubin was home to a thriving granite quarrying industry. However, with the decline of the granite industry in the mid-20th century, the island's quarrying activities gradually stopped.
Despite the shift away from granite quarrying, a small kampong (village) community remained in Pulau Ubin, maintaining its traditional way of life.
Over the years, the population has decreased significantly, but a handful of families still call Pulau Ubin home, preserving the island's cultural heritage and adding to its rustic charm.
How to Plan a Pulau Ubin Day Trip?
For a well-planned day trip to Pulau Ubin, starting early in the morning is advisable to make the most of your time on the island.
In this guide, we'll uncover the top things to do in Pulau Ubin and provide you with essential information on how to get there.
How to Go to Pulau Ubin?
Pulau Ubin Ferry
You can easily explore almost every part of Singapore with an EZ-Link card or a taxi app—just not Pulau Ubin.
To get there, you’ll need to catch a ferry from the mainland, and the terminal is conveniently located at Changi Point Ferry Terminal.
The ticket prices are pretty budget-friendly, making it a great option for a day trip from Singapore, with a round-trip ticket costing around SGD 6 per person.
Changi Point Ferry Terminal
Address: 51 Lorong Bekukong, Singapore 499172
Pulau Ubin ferry timing: 6am to 7pm (there's no fixed timing, as the boats will wait until there's a full load of 12 passengers before moving off).
How to reach: Take Bus No. 2 from Tanah Merah MRT station to reach Changi Bus Interchange. You can then reach the ferry terminal after a short walk
Add These Activities to Your Pulau Ubin Bucket List
Explore the nature trails
Pulau Ubin is renowned for its picturesque nature trails, perfect for strolls and avid hikers. Head out to the Chek Jawa Wetlands, a biodiversity-rich area where you can explore mangroves, observe marine life during low tide, and spot exotic bird species.
Make sure to visit hidden gems such as the German girl shrine, Sensory trail, and Ketam quarry.
For a more challenging hike, venture into the Puaka Hill trail, which offers panoramic views of the island from its summit.
Going on an ecological tour
Led by experienced nature guides, this immersive tour takes you off the beaten path to explore the island's hidden gems and diverse ecosystems. Traverse through lush mangroves, dense forests, and serene coastal areas, all while learning about the island's rich biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Get a glimpse of kampong life
Immerse yourself in the local culture and experience kampong (village) living in Pulau Ubin. Learn about traditional village life at one of Singapore's last remaining kampongs, a far cry from the hustle and bustle of the mainland.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife
Pulau Ubin is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with abundant wildlife and a diverse bird population. Keep your eyes peeled for native animals, such as wild boars and monkeys, and monitor lizards as you explore the island. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the opportunity to spot various bird species, including rare migratory birds.
Explore Chek Jawa Wetlands
Chek Jawa Wetlands, located on the eastern tip of Pulau Ubin, is a nature lover's paradise which offers a fascinating blend of mangroves, seagrass lagoons, and coastal forests. Keep your eyes peeled for vibrant corals, playful mudskippers, and fascinating seashells.
Go on a Pulau Ubin cycling tour
A Pulau Ubin cycling tour offers an exhilarating and immersive experience on this rustic island. Rent a bicycle and journey through winding roads, picturesque trails, and charming villages. Passing by old kampong houses, rubber plantations and scenic coastal areas, a cycling tour in Pulau Ubin provides an opportunity to create lasting memories of this idyllic retreat.
Visit the Ubin Fruit Orchard
Embark on a fruit-picking adventure at Ubin Fruit Orchard, where you can savour seasonal fruits such as durians, rambutans and mangosteens. The orchard provides a serene environment, making it a perfect setting to relax and learn about local fruit cultivation.
Go kayaking
This exciting tour allows you to explore the idyllic island from land and water, providing a perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity. After a scenic ferry ride from Singapore's mainland, start your day with a refreshing Pulau Ubin kayaking excursion along the island's serene waterways.
Following the kayaking adventure, embark on a leisurely cycling journey, relishing in the island's unspoiled charm and cultural heritage.
Relax at Butterfly Hill
Nestled in the tranquil surroundings of Pulau Ubin, Butterfly Hill is known for its abundant butterfly population, attracting colourful fluttering creatures that enchant visitors of all ages. Take a stroll along the trails lined with vibrant flowers and witness the graceful dance of butterflies as they flit from one blossom to another.
Try local food in Pulau Ubin
Indulge in fresh and mouthwatering seafood such as chilli crab, black pepper prawns and steamed fish. Visit one of the four restaurants operating on the island, such as Encik Hassan's shop, which sells homemade Malay dishes like mee rebus, mee siam and nasi lemak.
'Cheong Lian Yuen' serves seafood with a small alfresco dining area in front of the restaurant.
Opposite the Wayang stage, a small restaurant called 'Sin Nam Huat' serves seafood and traditional 'teh' (tea) and 'kopi' (coffee).
Other activities to explore
Paddle to Pedal: Pulau Ubin Kayaking and Cycling Tour
This unique tour offers the perfect blend of paddling through serene waters and cycling along the island's scenic trails. Beginning with a kayaking expedition, you'll navigate the calm waters surrounding Pulau Ubin, witnessing mangrove forests and spotting diverse marine life.
Make Your Next Holiday Memorable
Pulau Ubin offers a unique escape from Singapore's urban landscape, providing a chance to reconnect with nature and experience traditional kampong life. Whether you're seeking adventure on the cycling trails, immersing in local culture, or simply enjoying the tranquillity of the island, Pulau Ubin has something for everyone.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is the best way to book a Kayaking and Cycling Tour at Pulau Ubin?
You can book a variety of tours and travel experiences at Pulau Ubin. Here are some options to check out.
Is it necessary to book in advance for camping at Pulau Ubin?
Yes, if you plan to camp at Pulau Ubin, it is advisable to make a booking in advance.
Are there any age restrictions for cycling in Pulau Ubin?
There are no specific age restrictions for cycling in Pulau Ubin. However, it is recommended that adults supervise their children and follow all safety guidelines while cycling on the island.
Are there guided tours available in Pulau Ubin?
Yes, there are guided tours available in Pulau Ubin. You can join organised tours led by experienced guides who will provide insights into the island's history, flora, and fauna.
Can I visit Pulau Ubin on a day trip?
Yes, Pulau Ubin can be visited as a day trip. The short ferry ride from Singapore makes it convenient for day-trippers to explore the island and engage in various activities.