Pulau Ubin is one of Singapore’s most famous islands, alongside Lazarus, Sentosa and Coney Island. Known for its nature and heritage, Pulau Ubin has remained a popular destination for tourists and locals to take a breather away from the bustling city. This tranquil sanctuary is perfect for a day trip. You can even set up camp (with a permit, of course) if you’re feeling adventurous.
Getting to Pulau Ubin is easier than most think. The most popular way of getting there is by bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal. However, did you know you can also kayak there?
Read this short guide to find out the best way for you to travel to Pulau Ubin!
Public Transport + Bumboat
Not to be confused with Changi Ferry Terminal (which is where you catch ferries to Desaru and Johor Bahru), Changi Point Ferry Terminal is where the bumboats to Pulau Ubin are at.
You can get to Changi Point Ferry Terminal by public transport. Bus 2, 29, 59 and 109 are buses to Changi Village Bus Terminal, which is about a 5-minute walk away from the ferry terminal. You can catch the buses at Tampines East, Tampines, Bedok and Tanah Merah MRT Stations.
You can catch a ride there as early as 6am to 7pm. It is advisable to plan your rides ahead of time to avoid getting stranded there overnight. There are no set departure timings as the bumboats only set off when there are 10 – 12 passengers. The bumboat ride takes roughly 15 minutes.
Each ride there will cost you $4 or $6 if you’re bringing your bike onboard. The money is to be paid directly to the boat captains in cash. Remember to bring enough cash!
Directions
Bus Services: 2, 29, 59 and 109
MRT Stations:
- Tampines East (DT33): Take Bus 59 from Exit B
- Tampines MRT (EW2/DT32): Head to Tampines Bus Interchange and take Bus 29
- Tanah Merah MRT (EW4): Take Bus 2 from Exit B
- Bedok MRT (EW5): Take Bus 2 from Exit B
Alight at Changi Village Terminal (99009) for all buses, which is the last stop. It is a 10-minute walk away from Changi Point Ferry Terminal.
Kayak
The most adventurous way to get to Pulau Ubin is by kayaking there. Yes, it is totally possible and not as difficult as you might think.
If you’re an avid outdoors lover, this might be the way to Pulau Ubin for you. The nearest beach to Pulau Ubin from Mainland is Pasir Ris Park, where you can rent kayaks to start your journey. The closest MRT Station is Pasir Ris MRT.
There are two places to rent your kayaks from – PAssion Waves or Ohana Beach House. Sit-On-Top Kayaks are available for rental at both places without a certificate. Ohana Beach House also offers tandem kayaks, which can sit 2 people. Closed deck kayaks are available for people certified 1 STAR and above. You can choose to rent by the hour or the whole day. If you’re a PAssion Card holder, you can enjoy cheaper rates if you rent from Passion Waves. We would recommend renting the kayaks for the whole day so you can spend more time at Pulau Ubin.
You can see Pulau Ubin from Pasir Ris Beach so just paddle towards it. You can land at the beaches once you reach your destination as there are no designated places to park your kayaks. Paddle further down and explore mangrove forests, an experience you can only enjoy by kayaking.
