If you’re planning to escape the crowd for a slow-paced weekend getaway‚ the best things to do in Singapore are all about slowing down and reconnecting with nature․
Even though Singapore is filled with shopping malls‚ popular attractions and food hotspots‚ there are still plenty of places where you can go to find some peace and quiet from the hustle and bustle of weekend crowds․ Here are some crowd-free things to do outdoors over the weekend in Singapore‚ from quiet parks to scenic walks to recreational spots․
Explore Singapore’s Nature Parks
One of the better ways to escape the crowd is to head to the least popular nature parks that Singapore has to offer․ Tourist attractions such as Gardens by the Bay and East Coast Park usually see a huge crowd of visitors‚ while the parks less travelled include Thomson Nature Park‚ Tampines Eco Green‚ and Rifle Range Nature Park․ The parks include walking trails‚ natural habitats‚ and other green spaces where visitors can get out and experience nature․
Many of these parks have been set up for wildlife conservation‚ making them excellent choices for birding‚ photography or walking․
Spend a Day at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
One of the less-busy spots for nature- and animal-lovers in Singapore‚ the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is surrounded by boardwalks and trails in the wetlands and mangrove forests of Sungei Buloh‚ where migratory birds‚ mudskippers‚ monitor lizards and other wildlife can often be found․
Unlike most tourist attractions in the city‚ one can simply sit back and appreciate the peace and tranquility that Sungei Buloh has to offer․
Take a Ferry to the Southern Islands
But many Singaporeans never have‚ and the Southern Islands beyond Sentosa‚ including St John’s Island and Lazarus Island‚ are a very different experience․ These islands are quieter and less visited‚ so they have less crowded beaches‚ picnic spots‚ and ocean views than other popular waterfront destinations closer to the mainland․
Due to its tranquil environment and available open spaces‚ Lazarus Island is often a favored destination for those who prefer a short and relaxing day by the sea․
Cycle Coastal Roadside Pathways
If busy park connectors don’t appeal and you are looking for a relaxing ride‚ cycling east towards Changi‚ Lower Seletar Reservoir or the coastal roads around Changi Village are great options for a weekend leisure ride․ They often also have views of the waterfront‚ more ventilation‚ and fewer pedestrians for easier riding․
Cycling also allows you to discover parts of Singapore that the average tourist (and Singaporean) does not usually see․
Visit the Upper Seletar Reservoir Park
Upper Seletar Reservoir Park is described as one of the most peaceful places in Singapore‚ with its views over the reservoir‚ shaded walking paths and tranquility contrasting with the busy metropolis around it․ The distinctive rocket-shaped tower allows spectacular views of the surrounding countryside‚ and the reservoir itself offers opportunities for quiet reflection and walks․
The cooler mornings and evenings are ideal times for riding to enjoy the spectacular scenery and perfect conditions․
Explore Pulau Ubin
Alternatively‚ one can spend a weekend on Pulau Ubin‚ which is an island off Singapore that many Singaporeans think is a microcosm of Singapore in the past․ Ubin is home to villages‚ nature and trails that are hard to find back in the main island and you can rent bikes to cycle round the forest trails or visit Chek Jawa Wetlands to learn more about coastal ecosystems․
Pulau Ubin’s slower pace of life makes it a popular getaway for those seeking a respite from urban life․
Enjoy a Quiet Picnic
Sometimes a picnic in a quiet park can be just the thing for a break that revitalizes you and takes your mind away from the stress of daily living․ Kranji Marshes and Lower Seletar Reservoir‚ among others in Singapore’s cluster of nature parks‚ provide great tranquil spots for leisure with family‚ friends‚ or at times‚ quiet time alone․
Final Thoughts
You can escape the crowds without even leaving Singapore․ From pockets of nature parks and wetlands to tranquil islands and scenic cycling paths‚ you can have a quiet weekend all to yourself․ Make sure to take your weekend trips to places where you can be with nature and rest and explore so that you feel recharged for the new week․