Bukit Chermin Boardwalk | Southern Region

Bukit Chermin Boardwalk is a scenic walking path located along the southern coast of Singapore, offering beautiful views of the harbor, the Southern Islands, and the surrounding greenery. It is part of the larger Southern Ridges trail network, a 10-kilometer stretch of connected parks and walking paths that link various nature reserves, parks, and recreational areas. Bukit Chermin Boardwalk is an elevated wooden boardwalk that provides visitors with a unique perspective of Singapore's southern waterfront area, showcasing both natural beauty and urban vistas.

1. Location and Overview

Bukit Chermin Boardwalk is located in the southern part of Singapore, specifically in the vicinity of Mount Faber Park and Telok Blangah Hill Park, which are part of the Southern Ridges. The boardwalk is a relatively short and easy walk, making it accessible to people of all ages, from families to fitness enthusiasts.

• Access: The boardwalk can be accessed from Mount Faber Park, which is connected to other parks and walking trails in the Southern Ridges area. The closest MRT station is Telok Blangah MRT Station, with bus stops nearby. From there, visitors can either walk or take public transport to the start of the boardwalk.

2. Design and Features

Wooden Boardwalk: The boardwalk is constructed from timber, giving it a natural and rustic feel that blends harmoniously with the surrounding environment. It’s designed to elevate visitors above the ground, offering unobstructed views of the area.

Scenic Views: As visitors walk along the Bukit Chermin Boardwalk, they can enjoy panoramic views of the Singapore Harbor, the Southern Islands, and nearby landmarks such as Sentosa Island. The walkway’s elevation offers a serene and elevated perspective of the waterfront and the green spaces that surround it.

Short and Easy Walk: The boardwalk is designed for a leisurely stroll, with a length of approximately 500 meters. It provides a gentle, flat route that’s suitable for walkers, joggers, and families with children. There are also resting spots along the way where visitors can stop and enjoy the views.

Eco-Friendly Design: The boardwalk is built with environmentally friendly principles, utilizing sustainable materials and integrating with the natural landscape. It minimizes disruption to the surrounding flora and fauna, preserving the natural integrity of the area.

3. Surrounding Nature and Wildlife

The Bukit Chermin Boardwalk is surrounded by lush greenery, adding to the tranquil experience. Visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of the tropical forest, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Flora: The area surrounding the boardwalk is home to a variety of tropical plants and trees, including large canopy trees, shrubs, and flowering plants. The mix of greenery creates a peaceful, shaded environment, ideal for a relaxing walk.

Fauna: The park and boardwalk area are home to various species of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. Bird watchers may catch glimpses of native species such as sunbirds, mynas, and kingfishers, while butterflies can be spotted flitting between the flowers and plants.

4. Key Attractions and Views

Harbor Views: From the boardwalk, visitors can enjoy stunning views of Singapore’s harbor and the Southern Islands, which include Sentosa, Lazarus Island, and St. John's Island. The area is particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset, with the soft light reflecting off the water and creating a serene atmosphere.

Sentosa: On clear days, visitors can see Sentosa Island, one of Singapore’s top tourist destinations, known for its beaches, resorts, and attractions like Universal Studios Singapore and the S.E.A. Aquarium. The boardwalk offers a unique vantage point to view this popular island from a distance.

Southern Islands: Bukit Chermin Boardwalk also offers views of the Southern Islands, a group of small islands located off Singapore’s southern coast. These islands are often used for recreational activities like hiking, picnicking, and water sports, making the boardwalk a great way to get a glimpse of these secluded spots.

5. Connection to the Southern Ridges

The Bukit Chermin Boardwalk is part of the larger Southern Ridges trail system, which includes several other parks and walking routes like Mount Faber Park, Henderson Waves, Telok Blangah Hill Park, and Kent Ridge Park. The Southern Ridges trail connects these parks, creating a seamless route for visitors to explore the natural beauty of Singapore’s southern region.

Southern Ridges Trail: The Southern Ridges is a popular walking and hiking route, and the Bukit Chermin Boardwalk provides an important section of this trail. It offers an easy walk between Mount Faber Park and Telok Blangah Hill Park, linking to other scenic spots such as the Canopy Walk and Henderson Waves.

Mount Faber Park: The boardwalk connects to Mount Faber Park, one of Singapore’s oldest parks, which offers panoramic views of the city skyline, the harbor, and surrounding islands. Visitors can continue their exploration of the park after finishing the boardwalk.

6. Recreational Activities

While the main draw of the Bukit Chermin Boardwalk is the relaxing walk and scenic views, the surrounding areas provide additional recreational opportunities.

Hiking and Walking: The boardwalk is an integral part of the Southern Ridges Trail, which offers a longer, more challenging walk across the Southern Ridges. Visitors can also explore nearby parks such as Mount Faber Park and Telok Blangah Hill Park to extend their hiking experience.

Photography: Due to its stunning views of the harbor and surrounding islands, Bukit Chermin Boardwalk is a favorite spot for photographers. The elevated position of the boardwalk provides excellent opportunities for both landscape and wildlife photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Fitness Activities: The boardwalk is ideal for a gentle walk, jog, or nature walk. It’s also part of a larger fitness loop for those looking to get a bit of exercise while enjoying the surroundings.

7. Visitor Information

Operating Hours: The Bukit Chermin Boardwalk is open to the public all day, though it is recommended to visit during daylight hours for the best views. Early mornings and late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and softer light, making these times particularly pleasant for walking.

Accessibility: The boardwalk is accessible by public transport, with the nearest MRT station being Telok Blangah. There are also bus services available, making it easy for visitors to reach the boardwalk.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, especially for those interested in photography or simply enjoying the cooler weather. The park is less crowded during these hours, and the light is ideal for capturing the beauty of the harbor and islands.

Entrance Fee: There is no entrance fee to use the Bukit Chermin Boardwalk, making it a free and accessible outdoor attraction for everyone.

8. Conclusion

The Bukit Chermin Boardwalk is a beautiful and peaceful location in Singapore, offering a short but scenic walking experience with excellent views of the harbor, Southern Islands, and surrounding parks. Its integration into the Southern Ridges trail system makes it an important stop for those exploring the city’s natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll, birdwatching opportunities, or simply a place to enjoy nature and take in the views, the Bukit Chermin Boardwalk offers a tranquil and picturesque escape in the heart of Singapore's southern coastline.