Pulau Ubin
Just a 10-minute boat ride from the bustling Changi Village lies a world that time forgot. Pulau Ubin, an offshore island of Singapore, is where nature lovers, cyclists, and those seeking an escape from modern life find peace, adventure, and old-world charm. Far removed from skyscrapers and city noise, this small but captivating island offers a rare glimpse into what Singapore was like in the 1960s.
From rich biodiversity and traditional kampong homes to scenic cycling trails and mangrove swamps, Pulau Ubin is not just a destination. It’s an experience. If you’re already visiting Changi Village Hawker Centre, this side trip is the perfect complement to your food journey.
Pulau Ubin Ferry
Reaching Pulau Ubin is a unique experience that starts with a scenic bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal. There’s no official ferry schedule; boats leave as soon as there are 12 passengers or whenever you’re willing to charter the full trip (usually S$36 per boat).
Each ride costs S$4 per person (cash only), and an extra S$2 for bicycles. The ride takes about 10 minutes, offering tranquil views of the sea and a peaceful lead-up to your kampong-style adventure.
How to go to Pulau Ubin
Accessing Pulau Ubin is part of the adventure itself. From Changi Point Ferry Terminal, located just a short walk from Changi Village Hawker Centre, hop aboard one of the small wooden bumboats. These boats run on demand, departing when there are at least 12 passengers, and the ride takes about 10–12 minutes.
- Fare: S$4 per person (cash only)
- Operating Hours: Daily from 6 am to 7 pm (subject to availability)
The ferry ride is scenic and breezy, offering panoramic views of the Johor Strait and a preview of the slower pace of life that awaits.
What to Do in Pulau Ubin
1. Cycle Through Nature
Pulau Ubin is best explored on two wheels. Rent a bike at the village near the jetty and take your pick of easy or adventurous trails. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider, there’s a route for you. Expect gravel roads, shaded forest paths, and serene lakesides.
Popular cycling trails:
- Jalan Noordin (for sea views)
- Ketam Mountain Bike Park (for thrill-seekers)
- Sensory Trail (family-friendly nature walk)
2. Visit Chek Jawa Wetlands
This 100-hectare ecological reserve is the crown jewel of Pulau Ubin. Home to mangroves, coastal forests, and rare marine life, Chek Jawa offers a unique look at Singapore’s natural diversity. Walk along the boardwalks, climb the Jejawi Tower for panoramic views, observe mudskippers and fiddler crabs, and even monitor lizards in their natural habitats.
Tip: Visit during low tide to see the intertidal zones in full glory.
3. Explore Traditional Kampong Life
Pulau Ubin still has a handful of traditional Malay kampong houses, complete with zinc roofs, vegetable gardens, and chickens running around. These preserved homes reflect Singapore’s pre-urban past and provide a nostalgic throwback that contrasts sharply with the modern city skyline.
Chat with locals, admire fruit trees like durians and rambutans, or relax under a shady coconut tree and soak in the simplicity of island life.
4. Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting
Pulau Ubin is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Bring your binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for:
- Oriental Pied Hornbills
- White-bellied Sea Eagles
- Kingfishers and Herons
- Wild boars and monkeys (Yes, really)
Nature photographers will find endless inspiration here.
Why Pulau Ubin is a Must-Visit Near Changi Village
Unlike any other part of Singapore, Pulau Ubin feels raw, untouched, and refreshingly disconnected from digital noise. It’s not just a getaway. It’s a reconnection with nature, heritage, and the slower rhythms of life. Being so close to Changi Village, it offers a complete day trip: eat your fill at Changi Village Hawker Centre, hop over to Ubin, and wind down by Changi Beach or the Changi Boardwalk in the evening.
Pulau Ubin Jetty
Once you disembark at the Pulau Ubin Jetty, you’re immediately greeted by a nostalgic throwback to old Singapore. The jetty is located at the southern edge of the island and is surrounded by bicycle rental shops, food stalls, and the famous Welcome Sign that marks your arrival.
From here, you can choose to walk, cycle, or hire a van taxi to explore key attractions like Chek Jawa Wetlands, Puaka Hill, and the various kampong homes that still stand today. The jetty area is also a great spot to start your journey with a quick bite or a map stop before heading deep into nature.
Adventure & Activities
| Activity | Experience |
|---|---|
| Bumboat Ride | Scenic, traditional wooden boat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal |
| Biking Trails | Easy to challenging, forested and coastal trails available |
| Chek Jawa Wetlands | Mangrove boardwalks, marine biodiversity, birdwatching tower |
| Village Exploration | Traditional kampong homes, fruit trees, friendly locals |
| Wildlife Encounters | Hornbills, boars, monkeys, and butterflies |
| Picnicking & Photography | Multiple spots with quiet, peaceful surroundings for outdoor lovers |
Before or After Your Visit
Fuel up before the boat ride, or reward yourself after a long cycle with some of Singapore’s best hawker food. Just minutes from the ferry terminal, Changi Village Hawker Centre is home to crowd favorites like:
- Changi Village Nasi Lemak
- Woon Woon Pek Beehoon
- Amigo Chicken Chop Hor Fun
- Tang Tea House and more nearby eateries
Don’t leave without trying the famous cendol from Makan Melaka or a cooling sugarcane juice to beat the tropical heat.
How to Plan Your Visit
- Getting There: MRT to Tanah Merah – Bus to Changi Village Bus Terminal – Walk to Ferry Terminal
- Best Time: Weekdays for fewer crowds; early morning for cooler weather
- What to Bring: Water bottle, insect repellent, sunscreen, cash, camera, and adventurous spirit
Final Thoughts
Pulau Ubin is a gem of old-world Singapore. Its charm lies in the contrast: just minutes from Changi Village’s lively food stalls and modern touches, yet worlds away in atmosphere. Whether you’re a solo traveler, family, or couple seeking a unique date idea, Ubin offers the kind of quiet, meaningful adventure that lingers long after your return to the mainland.
Pulau Ubin Map
A Pulau Ubin map is essential for making the most of your island adventure. With limited signage and vast stretches of trails, having a visual guide helps you plan your route efficiently, especially if you’re cycling or exploring on foot.
At the Pulau Ubin Jetty, you’ll find a large island map prominently displayed to help orient visitors. Free printed maps are often available from nearby bike rental shops or nature guides, or you can download digital versions online before your trip.
The Pulau Ubin map typically highlights:
- Chek Jawa Wetlands – A nature reserve with mangroves, boardwalks, and marine biodiversity.
- Ketam Mountain Bike Park – A must-visit for adrenaline seekers.
- German Girl Shrine – One of the island’s most mysterious landmarks.
- Ubin Fruit Orchard – Great for nature walks and birdwatching.
- Puaka Hill – The island’s highest point with a stunning panoramic view.
Using a Pulau Ubin map not only enhances your journey but also ensures you don’t miss out on hidden gems and scenic detours. It’s your key to exploring the authentic kampong charm of Pulau Ubin safely and confidently.
Pro Tip: Google Maps works on Pulau Ubin too, make sure you download the offline version before your ferry ride, as the signal may be patchy on the island.