Sometimes, we need to take a break from our rapidly moving lives. We need to go off the grid, escape the concrete jungle, and perhaps enter an actual jungle. In case you’re not financially capable of getting a ticket to some exotic island on the other side of the globe, here are a few places in Singapore where you can become one with nature without any interruption.
1. Coney Island
In America, Coney Island is a place of art. But in Singapore, it is where nature buffs congregate, and relish the abundance of flora and fauna. You don’t get the luxury of electricity or piped water, but you do get to catch sight of otters, and as many as 80 species of birds. While you’re there, swing by Punggol Stables to get chummy with the horses and ponies, and take a peek at the spookily derelict Haw Par Beach Villa (that is if you can find it).
Directions: Take bus 84 from the Punggol bus interchange to Punggol Road End, which is near Punggol Settlement/Punggol Point Park. Continue on the Punggol Promenade Nature Walk path for about 500m, and you’ll reach the west entrance of Coney Island.
2. Lazarus Island
A short ferry ride from Marina South Pier takes you to an offshore island not many know about. Despite being only 20 minutes away from the mainland, Lazarus Island looks and feels like a whole new world, as if you’re not even in Singapore anymore. To get to the beach, cross the bridge from St John’s Island, head left, and cut through a wooden pavilion. Just a few steps further, and you’ll reach the clearest and quietest waters in the country.
Directions: Take a ferry from Marina South Pier to St John’s Island, where you should cross a bridge, turn left at the end, and go through a pavilion to get to Lazarus Island.
3. Pulau Ubin
It’s almost like time froze in the 1960s in Pulau Ubin. Home to the last villages in Singapore, this rural retreat is stripped of the modern conveniences and creature comforts you’re so used to back in the city. Because of that, however, this island is able to maintain its unblemished beauty, allowing visitors to take in the lush nature, and encounter a smorgasbord of wild animals. And if that isn’t enticing enough, remember that local artist Inch Chua once wrote an entire album inspired by the island.
Directions: To get to Pulau Ubin, take a bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, which is just a few minutes’ walk from the Changi bus interchange.
4. Chek Jawa
Not far away from Pulau Ubin is Chek Jawa, a similarly tranquil, but much more uninhabited piece of land. With the serene sound of lapping waves in the background, and the sight of gorgeous foliage and turquoise waters, there’s no better place in Singapore than this hidden haven to relax and recharge before heading back to reality.
Directions: At Pulau Ubin, look for a van or land rover that will take you directly to Chek Jawa.
