If you’re looking for a safe playground for your kids to indulge in some outdoor activities and play, you must plan a trip to the West Coast Park.
If you live in the west, then you may be familiar with the place and may already know that this amazing space has plenty of green, making it one of the favourite spots for Singaporeans who love outdoor fun.
West Coast Park is a large regional park that is located in the southwest of Singapore. The 50-hectares of parkland runs parallel to West Coast Highway and kids can have fun with adventure play, inclusive play, sand play and much more.
How To Reach West Coast Park
Screenshot courtesy: National Parks
If you are planning to reach West Coast Park, then the closest MRT is at Haw Par Villa on the circle line. Then it is just around 30-40 minutes walk from here to the playground.
The park extends all the way to Pasir Panjang Wholesale Centre, so you will have to walk the West Coast Highway for a little bit. If you find it difficult to walk in the middle of the scorching Singapore heat, then hop on the 175/176 bus.
On the other hand, if you want to head straight to the grand lawn, playground or Marsh Gardens, then stay on the bus and get down at McDonald’s. If you’re driving down, then McDonald’s is the nearest car park for all the activities.
Map Of West Coast Park
When you reach the Park, you will need a map to help you keep track of your location. You can download the map and save it on your phone or take a printout of the image below.
Image courtesy: NParks
7 Activities To Try At West Coast Park
Screenshot courtesy: National Parks
1. Playground
The Adventure Playground comprises of eight playsets and obstacle courses. So no matter how old your kids are, they’re sure to have a blast.
Playground for the kids:
For your little ones, West Coast Park has a dedicated toddler zone. You can find fire engines, sandpits galore, buckets, spades and more. There are also two ships for nautical-themed adventures. Oh yes, and don’t forget the humble swing!
Playground for the older kids:
Your older ones will go nuts over the huge climbing frames and the slide combo. There’s more, you have the zip lines, an assault course, and balancing beams galore to explore!
2. Barbecuing
You can hold a barbecue at West Coast Park. You have the option of cooking your own food and eating it in great outdoor locations. There are close to 9 BBQ pits located in Area 2.
3. Camping
If you want to spend the night out in the great outdoors, you can surely try the camping experience with your loved ones. There are designated areas within West Coast Park where you can set up a tent to spend the night. For this, you will require a camping permit.
Note: In line with the latest advisory amid the pandemic, bookings of barbecue pits and applications of camping permits continue to remain suspended until further notice.
4. Bird watching at Marsh Garden
Screenshot courtesy: National Parks
You can take a stroll along Marsh Garden and try spotting the white-breasted Waterhen (Amaurornis phoenicurus) and striated heron (Butorides striata). This garden is located at the opposite end to Pasir Panjang Wholesalers.
The beautiful garden also offers a boardwalk leading to a small lake and jetty, where your little ones can spot terrapin.
5. Kite Flying
West Coast Park is very popular among kite flying enthusiasts. Get your kite and head to the Grand Lawn, an open space of three hectares, and have fun flying your kite!
6. Look out for animals
If you are lucky, you can spot some animals at West Coast Park. There are some twisty tree walkways at the start of the park, near the Pasir Panjang Wholesale entrance.
You will find that monkeys are regular visitors at the Park. You can even spot a hornbill or two.
7. Cycling paths
At West Coast Park, there’s actually more than just the playground- a cycling path goes around the park from the Eastern portion around the playground.
There’s a Go Cycling Kiosk, where you can rent your bicycle at the park. It is located near Carpark 2.
You can also get your own scooters to ride in and around the area.
Here’s Where To Eat At West Coast Park
After exploring the places around, your kids may feel hungry and might even want you to stop at a restaurant or cafe nearby. Here are some options:
McDonald’s
This place is located conveniently next to the playground. You can order burgers if you like and even pick up shakes, to your heart’s content.
Kith
If you are looking for a quick caffeine fix then head to Kith. You can enjoy many food options for your kids as well.
Pack your food
You will not find plenty of healthy food options at West Coast Park. So if you’re health conscious, its a good idea to pack your own food. There are plenty of open spaces that are perfect for families looking to enjoy a picnic!
While you soak in the fun activities, don’t forget to follow the COVID-19 safety guidelines. Wear your mask, carry a hand sanitiser, wash your hands frequently, and maintain social distancing.
Lead and featured image source: NP Parks
