Pulau Ubin: A Must-Visit Destination in Singapore

Singapore

Ubin Island, located in the northeast of Singapore and adjacent to Changi International Airport, is renowned for its untouched natural beauty, making it a haven for nature lovers and those seeking peaceful outdoor experiences.

The Legend of Pulau Ubin

This region is a cape and also serves as the name for its expansive 100-hectare wetlands on Pulau Ubin island's southeastern shore in Singapore.

Historically, the Malays called Ubin Island "Pulau Batu Ubin" because of the stones that were used to craft ancient floor tiles, originally known as "Tibin"—a name that eventually evolved into "Ubin". The island, which lies northeast of Singapore, is also home to several granite quarries.

Legend has it that Ubin Island was created from a race among three animals from Singapore—frogs, pigs, and elephants—to reach the Johor coast. The slowest of them would be turned to stone. Each animal faced unique obstacles and none won, resulting in their transformations into stone. The pigs and elephants formed Ubin Island, while the frog became Frog Island, now known as Sekudu Island. Today, Ubin Island remains protected from development, preserving its natural beauty.

Getting to Ubin Island

A view of ferry boats shuttling passengers between Changi wharf and Ubin Island, a popular destination for weekend trips from mainland Singapore.

For those seeking to venture beyond Singapore's bustling city center, Ubin Island offers a natural escape. Here’s how you can reach it:

What Exciting Tours Can You Experience on Ubin Island?

A picturesque scene of the beach and wooden jetty on Pulau Ubin, Singapore.

Ubin Island is a perfect spot for a serene escape, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s chaos. If you’re a nature enthusiast seeking calmness, Ubin Island should definitely be part of your Singapore travel plans.

Here are some attractions to discover on Ubin Island:

Discover Ubin Island

Once you arrive at Ubin Island, enjoy a leisurely exploration. You can wander on foot, rent a bike, or hire a taxi for convenience.

Walk along the beaches to savor the sound of crashing waves, unwind on the shore, or sit atop the rocks for a view.

Explore Chek Jawa Wetlands

For walking or jogging enthusiasts, Chek Jawa Wetlands on Ubin Island is an ideal spot. Here, you can witness a rich variety of marine life, including starfish, sea anemones, sponges, monitor lizards, and local bird species.

Chek Jawa Wetlands features six unique ecosystems, including mangrove forests, coastal woodlands, rocky shorelines, seagrass lagoons, sandy beaches, and coral reefs.

Be sure to take photos as you wander along the expansive coastal and mangrove boardwalks. You can also climb Jejawi Tower for breathtaking views of the ocean.

Explore Teck Seng's Place

Discover Teck Seng's Place, a traditional Chinese village house that was once owned by Tuan Chew Teck Seng (1970-2005). In 2008, the National Parks Board (NPark) preserved its original architecture and furnished it with items contributed by the residents of Ubin Island.

A visit to Teck Seng's Place immerses you in the 1970s atmosphere, featuring furniture and decor that are now considered rare treasures.

Sensory Trail Pond

For those eager to immerse themselves in nature, the Sensory Trail is a must-visit. Here, you can explore various herbs, trees, fruits, and vegetables while engaging your senses to identify different spices and observe local wildlife, including dragonflies, storks, kingfishers, otters, and hornbills.

Ubin Island provides a rich experience, almost resembling a living museum that highlights a way of life from the past.

Where to Stay on Pulau Ubin?

For a distinctive lodging experience, consider camping on Ubin Island. Alternatively, several hotels provide cozy accommodations:

1. Aerotel Singapore

Aerotel Singapore offers a wide range of amenities, including air conditioning, a restaurant, a swimming pool, complimentary Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, and convenient check-in/check-out services. Situated near Changi Airport, MRT Station, Changi Museum, and the Medical Centre Complex, it has garnered a dedicated clientele with a solid rating of 8.3, reflecting its outstanding service.

2. Crowne Plaza Changi Airport

For a premium experience, opt for Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, featuring exceptional facilities such as a swimming pool, parking, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and an enticing dining selection. This hotel boasts an impressive rating of 8.9.

3. Village Hotel Changi

Village Hotel Changi offers cozy accommodations with stunning sea views. Guests can enjoy amenities such as cable TV, a safe deposit box, ergonomic desk chairs, and a bathtub with warm showers. Additionally, the hotel features a swimming pool for relaxation.

4. Changi Cove

Changi Cove boasts spacious rooms equipped with a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, a café, meeting rooms, and a bar. Its close proximity to Ubin Island allows for easy access, with just a brief 15-minute journey.

Accommodation Options on Pulau Ubin

Covering approximately 1,020 hectares, Pulau Ubin can be explored using a motorized vehicle for convenience.

Visitors to Pulau Ubin can make the most of their time by cycling, as several shops offer bicycle rentals. For cycling enthusiasts, this is a great opportunity to enjoy your holiday with various bike options, including mountain bikes, single-speed bikes, fat-tire bikes, and road bikes. Walking is also an option on Pulau Ubin.

If cycling, driving, or walking isn’t your preference, you can easily hail a taxi from either Ubin pier or Ubin Town itself.

Enhance your travel experience by booking your tickets and accommodations through Dinogo. With Dinogo, you can discover great deals on tickets, nearby hotels, flights, and various attractions. Additionally, read reviews and gather travel tips to maximize your visit. Start planning your adventure with Dinogo today for a seamless and unforgettable trip!