Pulau Ubin

Pulau Ubin is a small island located off the northeastern coast of mainland Singapore, known for its rustic charm and rich natural environment. It’s one of the last areas in Singapore where you can experience kampong (village) life, offering a peaceful contrast to the city’s urban landscape. Pulau Ubin is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and cyclists due to its lush greenery, wildlife, and heritage sites.

 

How to Get There

You can get to Pulau Ubin by taking a bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal. The boats operate daily from sunrise to sunset, typically leaving when there are about 10–12 passengers ready to board.

  • Travel Fare: The bumboat ride costs SGD 4 per person each way. If you’re bringing a bicycle, there is an additional charge of SGD 2.
  • Travel Time: The boat ride takes approximately 15 minutes to reach Pulau Ubin.

Interesting Places to Visit on Pulau Ubin Island

  1. Chek Jawa Wetlands: One of Pulau Ubin’s main attractions, this is a rich and diverse ecosystem where six different habitats meet, including sandy shores, mangroves, and a coral rubble area. Visitors can walk along the boardwalks and observe marine life, birds, and plant species unique to the area.

  2. Puaka Hill: For those who love hiking, Puaka Hill offers a short but rewarding climb, with a great panoramic view of Ubin Quarry and the surrounding area from its summit. It’s one of the best places on the island for photography.

  3. Ubin Quarry: There are several quarries on Pulau Ubin, remnants of the island’s history in granite mining. Ubin Quarry is the largest and provides scenic views of the clear blue waters, surrounded by dense foliage.

  4. Butterfly Hill: A man-made garden designed to attract and preserve local butterfly species, this is a great spot for nature lovers and photographers. The diversity of butterflies and plants makes it an ideal location for a peaceful walk.

  5. Jelutong Campsite: For those looking to camp, Pulau Ubin offers free campsites, with Jelutong being one of the more popular options. Visitors can enjoy a night under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature.

  6. Sensory Trail: This is a 1.5 km trail designed to allow visitors to experience nature through their senses—sight, sound, smell, and touch. The trail passes through fruit plantations, a herb garden, and traditional kampong houses.

  7. Balai Quarry: Another scenic quarry that you can visit for a peaceful, serene experience. It’s not as popular as Ubin Quarry, but offers a quieter place for reflection.

  8. German Girl Shrine: A unique and slightly eerie historical site on the island, this shrine is dedicated to a German girl who died during World War I. It’s a place of pilgrimage for some, with offerings frequently left by visitors.

Pulau Ubin is perfect for a day trip and offers visitors a glimpse into Singapore’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Don’t forget to bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes if you plan to explore the island!