Overview
Pulau Ubin is a rustic offshore island preserving kampong (village) life — a car-free nature reserve reached by bumboat from Changi Point, with cycling trails through forest, quarries, and the remarkable Chek Jawa wetlands.
Highlights
- Chek Jawa Wetlands: A unique ecosystem where six habitats (mangrove, sandy beach, rocky shore, seagrass, coral) meet, with a boardwalk and viewing tower.
- Kampong Atmosphere: Wooden stilt houses, provision shops, and a pace of life that vanished from mainland Singapore decades ago.
- Cycling: Rent bicycles on the island and explore forest trails and granite quarry lakes.
History
Once home to 2,000 residents and several granite quarries, Pulau Ubin has been largely depopulated since the 1970s. It's now preserved as an example of Singapore's pre-development past.
Visitor Tips
- Bumboat: Boats depart from Changi Point Ferry Terminal when 12 passengers gather ($4 each way).
- Bring Supplies: Limited food options on the island — bring water and snacks.
- Duration: 4 hours.