Marina Barrage might just be the most overlooked part of the entire Marina Bay area, and with the iconic Marina Bay Sands along with the beautiful Gardens by the Bay, I can’t say it’s entirely surprising.
Part of the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s vision of a sustainable Singapore as well as the creation of a freshwater reservoir at the Marina Channel, the Marina Barrage was officially opened in 2008 as Singapore’s 15th reservoir.
It opened to much fanfare back then, but with the new development projects that have turned Marina Bay into a tourist hub, the Marina Barrage has quietly moved into the background.
This also means that it’s an excellent opportunity and time to revisit the Barrage, especially if you’re getting bored of all the mainstream places packed with people.
Get some fresh air, fly some kites, and have a chill day overlooking the skyline of Singapore.
1) Fly Some Kites
You’ll be able to see numerous colourful kites soaring in the skies even before you reach Marina Barrage proper. With the large open garden space by the sea, strong winds are almost a guarantee, making it a prime place to fly kites.
They have a shop right at the Barrage so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own kite. With a bunch of various designs from rainbow-coloured ones to character designs like Spider-man, you’ll have your own kite in the sky before long!
2) Have A Picnic
It might get boring after the initial phase of getting your kite soaring, so why not have a picnic while you’re at it!
Bring your own mat, pack some of your favourite snacks and drinks, and just enjoy the breeze. It’ll be a good time to catch up with friends and family as you try to find your kite amongst the many in the sky.
3) Have a Photo Shoot/Take Photos Of The SG Skyline
The Marina Barrage is also a perfect spot for a photo shoot day!
You have the Singapore skyline as your background, anchored by iconic structures like the Marina Bay Sands, Glass Domes of the Gardens by the Bay, and the Flyer; frame it well, and you have yourself some amazing shots of Singapore.
If you have the time, wait for the golden hour for some truly spectacular photos.
4) Do Some Yoga
The area is always large enough that you’ll be able to find a nice quiet spot for yourself and your friends to set down some mats for yoga!
Similar to the sunset being an excellent time for photographers in the evening, the sunrise and cool morning breeze would be perfect for those doing yoga. Just as the morning light breaks through the clouds, you’ll be attuned to the serene and quiet environment around you.
5) Visit The Sustainable Singapore Gallery
Not many know that there is actually a gallery located at Marina Barrage. The Sustainable Singapore Gallery is located at the second floor of the building with its exhibits looking to provide an overview of Singapore’s efforts into creating a more sustainable environment.
Guided tours are also available every hour (except 12pm-1pm) where you will learn more about issues like climate change to our water and sewage system through the various interactive zones.
If you’re a museum lover, you can add the Sustainable Singapore Gallery to your list!
