Planning a Pulau Ubin day trip from Singapore? This small island feels like stepping back in time, with quiet village roads, wildlife encounters and plenty of space for kids to explore.
Just a short bumboat ride from the mainland, Pulau Ubin is one of the easiest nature escapes in Singapore. Whether you want to cycle around the island, visit Chek Jawa Wetlands or simply get out of the city for a few hours, it’s a surprisingly easy day trip to organise.
Here’s everything you need to know, including how to get there, what to do and tips for visiting with kids.
Quick answer: Is Pulau Ubin worth visiting?
Yes – Pulau Ubin is one of the best easy day trips from Singapore, especially for families. It’s known for cycling, wildlife, Chek Jawa Wetlands and a relaxed village atmosphere that feels completely different from the city.
Pulau Ubin day trip at a glance:
- Travel time: 10-minute bumboat ride
- Cost: Around $4 SGD per person each way
- Best for: Cycling, nature, wildlife
- Time needed: Half day to full day
- Good for kids: Yes (especially if they can ride push bikes)
Why visit Pulau Ubin
“Mum, look, that monkey has a bag!” yells Ripley.
I sigh. “Mate, are you telling stories again?” I ask. “You know your pants will catch on fire or your nose will grow or something.”
“Yes, look!” he shouts back excitedly.
Sure enough, the little long-tailed macaque sitting in the middle of the dirt road in front of us was up to his shoulder, rummaging around in the bag. Not a fancy one, although this is Singapore, so it’s quite possible. But the reusable fabric kind you get from the supermarket.
I’m guessing earlier that day, someone put that bag down, fully expecting their lunch to still be there when they came back.
I couldn’t help myself. I started laughing. He didn’t look in the slightest bit guilty that he had just been caught red-handed stealing.
That unexpected yet brief encounter pretty much sums up Pulau Ubin. It’s wild, a little bit unpredictable, and completely different from the polished, ultra-modern version of Singapore most people expect. It feels like stepping back into an older, slower version of the country… and that’s exactly why it’s worth visiting.
Best things to do on a Pulau Ubin day trip
Cycle around the island
The best way to explore Pulau Ubin is by bike. As soon as you arrive in the village, you’ll find plenty of rental shops with everything from basic bikes to kids’ sizes and seats.
Just be warned – it’s not completely flat. I was led to believe it was, and my legs strongly disagreed. There were at least two hills where I questioned all my life choices. Still, cycling is by far the easiest way to see the island.
- Best for: Exploring at your own pace
- Time needed: 2-4 hours
- Good for kids: Yes
Visit Chek Jawa Wetlands
If you only do one thing on your Pulau Ubin day trip, make it Chek Jawa Wetlands.
This unique area, where six ecosystems meet, is one of the most interesting natural spots in Singapore. There’s a boardwalk through mangroves and another section that stretches out over the water.
There’s also the Jejawi Tower, which offers views over the jungle and coastline… although I’ll be honest, I didn’t make it up there. Carrying a three-year-old who had declared a walking strike meant those stairs weren’t happening.
Watch: Our ride out to Chek Jawa Wetlands with kids (60 seconds)
We filmed this on the ride so you can see exactly what to expect:
- Best for: Nature and wildlife
- Time needed: 1-2 hours
- Good for kids: Yes
Explore the quarries
Pulau Ubin has several old granite quarries that have now filled with water, creating some surprisingly beautiful viewpoints.
They’re easy to stop at while cycling and make a good break point (especially when your legs need it).
- Best for: Scenic stops and photos
- Time needed: 30-60 minutes
- Good for kids: Yes
Spot wildlife
From monkeys (obviously) to wild boar and nearly 300 species of birds, Pulau Ubin is full of wildlife.
Just remember – don’t leave your belongings unattended unless you’re happy to donate your lunch.
- Best for: Animal encounters
- Time needed: Ongoing
- Good for kids: Yes
Relax in Pulau Ubin Village
After exploring, head back to the village for a drink or something to eat. It’s a great place to cool down and soak up the laid-back atmosphere before heading back to the mainland.
- Best for: A break and refreshments
- Time needed: 30-60 minutes
- Good for kids: Yes
How to get to Pulau Ubin from Singapore
To get to Pulau Ubin from Singapore, head to Changi Point Ferry Terminal near Changi Village Hawker Centre.
From there, you’ll catch a traditional bumboat to the island.
The boats don’t run on a strict timetable – they leave once there are enough passengers (usually around 10–12 people). The ride takes about 10 minutes.
Pulau Ubin Ferry (bumboat) tips
- Cost is usually around $4 SGD per person each way
- Cash only – no cards
- Boats leave when full, so wait times are usually short
- You can pay for the whole boat if you don’t want to wait
We waited less than five minutes each time.
Pulau Ubin map and planning tips
It’s worth taking a photo of the main map (on a signboard) when you arrive at Pulau Ubin Village – it’s often easier to read than printed brochures.
You can also download a map in advance from Singapore’s National Parks website.
Is Pulau Ubin worth it for families?
If you’re looking for an easy escape from the city, a Pulau Ubin day trip is absolutely worth it.
It’s one of the few places in Singapore where you can slow down, get into nature and let kids explore a bit more freely.
It’s not polished or luxurious and that’s exactly why it stands out. Between the cycling, wildlife and Chek Jawa Wetlands, it ended up being one of our favourite things to do in Singapore.
FAQ: Pulau Ubin day trip
Most people spend between half a day and a full day on Pulau Ubin, depending on how much exploring you want to do.
Yes, Pulau Ubin is great for kids, especially if they enjoy cycling, wildlife and being outdoors.
The bumboat costs around $4 Singapore dollars per person each way and is paid in cash.
Yes, but cycling is the easiest way to explore the island.
Where to next?
Let me know what you think!