Singapore has many islands that can make you feel like you’ve truly travelled far far away from the busy city. One of these island’s worth the visit is the popular tranquil island of Pulau Ubin.
Enjoy a day trip with the kids to this island that is filled with various exciting outdoor activities!
Originally known as Pulau Batu Jubin, which translates to Granite Stone Island in Malay, the island is a great getaway destination to explore diverse habitats and wildlife.
Pulau Ubin: Getting There In Only 15 Minutes By Ferry
Image source: Visit Singapore website
Within just 15 minutes and no passport needed, you can kickstart your island adventure to Pulau Ubin! Since your trip will still be inside Singapore, it most probably won’t be as hectic as when you travel overseas.
To get there, all you need to do is board a ferry at Changi Point Ferry Terminal. The ferry is available daily from 6am to 7pm so you can simply arrive and look for a boat coordinator, who will arrange a boat for you based on your family size.
The most recent fee for a one way trip on the ferry is $4 per person, which you will pay directly to your boat driver. For those who are bringing along their own bikes, an additional $2 will be charged.
Do take note that the boat only departs once 12 people are onboard. Although, this could be subjected to change given the ongoing safety measures.
5 Important Things To Pack For Your Day Trip To Pulau Ubin
Image source: iStock
1. Money
First thing you need to know is that there are no ATMs on the island. So be sure that you have all the cash you need to pay for the trip. You can also withdraw at the Changi Village Hawker Centre beside the terminal before you board the ferry.
With the boat fees, food, drinks and even bike rentals, ensure that you have enough in your pockets to enjoy the complete Pulau Ubin experience.
2. Insect repellent
Don’t let the mosquitos ruin all your fun! You can protect yourself as well the kiddos from mosquito bites by bringing a handy insect repellent.
3. Water
With all the walking, hiking and biking you’re going to do at the island, it’s always best to pack an extra bottle of water with you to stay hydrated all throughout your trip.
You might also want to pack a full bottle of water in your child’s own backpack for they will certainly be looking for it in the middle of your day trip.
4. Sunblock
While getting some healthy vitamin D would be great for a sunny day out, a sunburn isn’t exactly ideal for a supposed relaxing getaway. So make sure to pack a handy tube of sunscreen.
5. Camera
As the popular phrase nowadays goes, ‘pics or it didn’t happen!’ Once you’re at Pulau Ubin and see all the breathtaking views the historic island has, you’re going to regret not taking several photos to commemorate your visit.
You might even find a special spot in the island perfect for a family photo to frame back at home.
Pulau Ubin: Family-Friendly Activities To Do
Image source: Visit Singapore website
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Stroll or hike your way through the island
To make your visit to the island of Pulau Ubin even more worthwhile, you can take a leisure stroll surrounded by nature instead of towering buildings.
You can hike your way up to Puaka Hill located next to Ubin Quarry where you will get to reach the highest point at Pulau Ubin. As you climb up the hill which stands at 74m, you and the kids will also be greeted with picturesque views of the island.
For bikers and thrill seekers, you can also head down to the Ketam Mountain Bike Path, which snakes across 10km. But for those who rented a bike to just really explore the island’s beauty, you can also have casual rides through safer bike trails.
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Go on a kayaking adventure
Go further into the island’s rich wildlife and mangroves by taking on a kayaking journey. While this is definitely more of an active activity, it would be worth it once you’re in the water and catch all the wonderful views of Pulau Ubin’s rich ecosystem.
If you plan to stay overnight, then might as well get the full outdoor experience and camp with the entire family! You’ll find camping sites all across the island that accommodate your during your visit.
This could be a great opportunity to have your child test their camping skills, which will eventually turn into a wonderful memory for them when they grow up.
Fun Facts About Pulau Ubin You Should Know
Image source: Visit Singapore website
Before you go, here are some interesting facts about the beautiful island of Pulau Ubin that you probably didn’t know:
1. The race to Johor myth
According to myth, a frog, a pig and an elephant raced against each other to get to Johor. Those who lost would turn to stone. But in the end, none of the animals made it.
This is why Singapore now has the Pulau Ubin island, which are the elephant and the pig, while the frog turned into Pulau Sekudu or Frog Island.
2. The island is shaped like a boomerang
This 1,020-hectare island is funnily enough shaped like a boomerang. It is also home to Singapore’s last village or kampongs as it has been there since the 1960s.
3. Chek Jawa Wetlands is one of Singapore’s richest ecosystems
The Chek Jawa Wetlands actually has six distinct habitats including coastal forests, rocky beaches, a mangrove swamp and many wonder creatures living within them.
Lead image source from NParks webiste.
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