Pulau Ubin | Eastern Region

Pulau Ubin – A Glimpse into Singapore's Past and Natural Beauty

Pulau Ubin is a small island located off the northeastern coast of Singapore, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city life. Known for its rustic charm and natural landscapes, the island provides a unique experience of Singapore’s traditional kampung (village) life, rich biodiversity, and scenic beauty. It’s a popular destination for nature lovers, cyclists, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a quiet retreat.

Key Features of Pulau Ubin

1. Traditional Kampung Life

Pulau Ubin is known for its preservation of traditional village life, offering a stark contrast to the modern urban landscape of mainland Singapore. Visitors can walk through the island’s kampung-style houses, observe the simple living of the few remaining residents, and get a taste of how life was in Singapore before its rapid urbanization.

The kampung atmosphere is characterized by narrow, winding paths, wooden houses, and a slower pace of life, making it a unique place to experience Singapore’s past.

2. Ubin Town and the Jetty

The main village on the island is Ubin Town, located near the Pulau Ubin Jetty where visitors arrive via boat from the mainland. The town has a few small shops, local eateries, and quaint stalls, giving a taste of local life on the island. You can grab a snack or drink before heading out to explore.

The jetty area is also a good spot to take in views of the surrounding water and enjoy the seaside breeze.

3. Nature and Wildlife

Pulau Ubin is home to a diverse range of wildlife and natural habitats, including rainforests, wetlands, mangroves, and beaches. The island is a popular spot for nature walks and birdwatching, offering visitors the chance to observe a variety of animals, such as wild boar, monkeys, butterflies, and numerous species of birds.

The Chek Jawa Wetlands is a key attraction, where you can explore the island’s biodiversity through walking trails and boardwalks. It’s one of the most ecologically significant areas in Singapore, home to diverse ecosystems including mangroves, coral rubble, seagrass lagoons, and a rich variety of marine life.

4. Cycling and Exploration

One of the most popular ways to explore Pulau Ubin is by bicycle. The island offers a network of cycling paths that lead visitors through dense forests, wooded trails, and coastal roads. Bicycle rentals are available at Ubin Town, where you can choose from a variety of bikes, including mountain bikes for those looking for a more adventurous ride.

The cycling routes cater to different levels of experience, from beginners to more experienced riders. There are also routes that take you to some of the island's most scenic spots, such as the Puaka Hill, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

5. Pulau Ubin’s Rich History

Pulau Ubin also holds historical significance as it was once a thriving quarrying site for granite, which was essential for Singapore’s development. The island was home to several granite quarries, and remnants of the island's quarrying past can still be found today.

The Jubilee Hall and old quarry sites are some of the island’s historical landmarks. You can learn about the history of the island and the impact of quarrying on Singapore’s growth at some of these sites.

6. Water Activities

While there are no beaches for traditional sunbathing, Pulau Ubin offers opportunities for various water activities. You can try activities like kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoy a leisurely boat ride around the island’s coastline.

The Ubin Island coastline and surrounding waters are also ideal for kayaking enthusiasts looking to explore the area from the water’s perspective.

7. Hiking and Walking Trails

In addition to cycling, there are several hiking trails on Pulau Ubin, including the popular Chek Jawa Wetlands boardwalk and trails that lead through dense forests, offering a chance to experience the island’s natural beauty on foot.

The Puaka Hill trail is another popular hike, taking you to the island’s highest point, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the island and the nearby mainland.

8. Peaceful Atmosphere

One of the main draws of Pulau Ubin is its peaceful and serene atmosphere, far removed from the hectic pace of life on the mainland. It is a perfect place to unwind, enjoy nature, and experience a quieter, slower pace of life.

The island's lack of modern amenities, such as shopping malls and large hotels, helps maintain its rustic charm and ensures that visitors can truly escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Visitor Information

• Location: Pulau Ubin is located to the northeast of Singapore, and it can be reached by a 10-minute bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal.
• Ferry Access: The bumboats to Pulau Ubin depart from Changi Point Ferry Terminal regularly, and each boat can carry up to 12 passengers. The ferry service operates from morning until evening, with the last boat typically leaving at around 6:00 PM.
• Opening Hours: Pulau Ubin itself is open year-round, but individual attractions like Chek Jawa or bicycle rental services may have specific hours of operation.
• Entry Fee: There is no entry fee to visit Pulau Ubin, but the bumboat ride from Changi Point costs a small fee per person, and some activities on the island may require payment, such as bicycle rentals and guided tours.

Why Visit Pulau Ubin?

• Escape from the City: Pulau Ubin offers a chance to escape the fast-paced city life of Singapore and experience a more relaxed, rural environment.
• Nature and Adventure: Whether you enjoy cycling, hiking, birdwatching, or kayaking, the island offers ample opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration in a natural setting.
• Cultural and Historical Experience: Learn about the island’s rich history, from its quarrying past to the traditional kampung way of life that still exists on the island today.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: If you're looking for a quiet, tranquil getaway, Pulau Ubin provides the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and connection with nature.

Pulau Ubin is a unique destination in Singapore that offers visitors a rare glimpse into the island’s past and its natural beauty. Whether you're exploring its history, cycling through lush trails, or simply enjoying the calm surroundings, a visit to Pulau Ubin is a refreshing and rewarding experience.