Pulau Ubin

Pulau Ubin is a small island off Singapore's north-east coast, and a trip here feels like stepping back several decades. Instead of towers and malls, there are wooden village houses, abandoned granite quarries that have filled with water, mangroves, fruit trees and narrow roads used mainly by bicycles. Only a small community still lives on the island, which is managed by the National Parks Board, and it gives visitors a glimpse of the kampong life that has all but disappeared from the mainland.

The island's best-known nature area is Chek Jawa, a wetland of around 100 hectares at its eastern tip. A boardwalk runs through the mangroves and along the coast, and at low tide the exposed sand and seagrass flats reveal crabs, sea stars and other marine life. Elsewhere, cycling is the classic way to explore: the main roads loop past quarry lakes, old plantations and viewpoints, and mountain bikers can try the dedicated trail at Ketam Mountain Bike Park. Bicycles can be hired from shops near the jetty in the village, where there are also a few simple places to eat and drink.

Getting there is part of the fun. Bumboats run on demand from Changi Point Ferry Terminal between about 6am and 7pm, usually leaving once 12 passengers are on board, and the crossing takes around ten minutes. The fare is about S$4 per person each way, plus S$2 per bicycle, payable in cash, so confirm the price with the boatman. Outside those hours, boats must be chartered at a higher price. Arrive early in the day, when the trails are coolest and the boats fill fastest.

Pulau Ubin suits families with children old enough to cycle, couples and anyone keen on nature. Allow at least half a day, or a full day if you want to cycle to Chek Jawa and explore properly. Bring sun protection, insect repellent, water and cash, as card payment is not always possible on the island. Facilities are limited, so expect a rustic day out rather than a polished attraction.

Changi Point Ferry Terminal sits in Changi Village, at the eastern end of the island, and buses reach it from Tanah Merah and Tampines MRT stations. Changi Village Hawker Centre, next to the terminal, is a good place for a meal before or after the crossing, and the coastal boardwalk at Changi Point makes a pleasant short walk.