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Pulau Ubin, Singapore

51 Lorong Bekukong, Singapore,

Description

Pulau Ubin (meaning Granite Island in Malay) is in the narrow channel between the northeast of Singapore and the State of Johor in Malaysia. There are hardly any residents left on the island which is now managed by the National Parks Board but, historically, it was settled by workers in the several granite quarries that supplied Singapore's construction industry - until they closed down in the 1970's. The island is quite popular with day trippers and has a few concrete roads that can be explored by bike, some beaches, and a mountain bike park.

Access & Transport

Access to the island is via a 10mins bumboat trip from Changi Point Ferry terminal in Changi Village. Each boat can carry up to 12 passengers (and some bicycles) and departs when full or the equivalent fare has been paid. The easiest way to Changi Village is by car / taxi but there are also bus services along Loyang Ave / Changi Village rd.

Instructions & Recommendations

The best times to go are early morning and mid-afternoon until evening to avoid the hottest part of the day. We would recommend wearing proper walking shoes to visit the island in comfort and bring the standard sunny weather kit: sunblock, hat/cap, sunglasses and plenty of water (there are various places selling drinks but best carry some with you)

Meta review

The attraction is not really known among foreign tourists so most of the online reviews are from residents who enjoy the rural setting, in particular the butterfly hill and the Chek Jawa wetland with its long boardwalk and Tudor-style countryside cottage. The main advice are to go as early as possible during the day because of the heat and to bring your own bike lock as it has to be left at the entrance gate.

Environmental & Social

The protected wetland helps maintain the country's biodiversity. An excellent outdoor option for Singapore residents.

Conclusion

Pulau Ubin makes for an excellent half-day outing for Singapore residents wanting a change of scenery but the island doesn't really qualify as a tourist attraction, i.e. we would not recommend travellers with only a few days in the city to invest so much time to go there. For residents, it is the best place to go for an uncrowded casual bike ride in the countryside and one of the best mountain biking spots.

Key positive

The most rural area in Singapore

Key negative

Takes time to get there

Bike rental is a little expensive

Suitability

Suitable for all ages but be prepared to carry younger children. The bumboats are not accessible for wheelchair users and would be challenging to board for visitors with reduced mobility.

About this Rating

TYPE

Onsite

RESEARCHED IN

May 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Reflects operating hours of the boat services

av. transport time:1h

est. visit time:3h 30m

Regulated hours

Monday07:00 - 19:00

Tuesday07:00 - 19:00

Wednesday07:00 - 19:00

Thursday07:00 - 19:00

Friday07:00 - 19:00

Saturday07:00 - 19:00

Sunday07:00 - 19:00

Pricing
Cost of a 2-way boat fare
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
60 - 99
SGD 8
Adult
12 - 59
SGD 8
Child
3 - 11
SGD 8
Infant
0 - 2
SGD 0
S$2 extra if you are bringing your bicycle

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