Chek Jawa
A wetland of about 100 hectares.
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Pulau Ubin is an island in northeast Singapore and one of the country's last rural areas, with forests, old farms and simple houses. Its name means «granite island» in Malay, and it draws people wanting to escape the city and cycle among the trees. Its granite quarries once supported a few thousand settlers in the 1960s, but only about 40 villagers remained by 2012. The stone was once used for floor tiles, which is said to explain the name. The National Parks Board now manages it, and it forms part of an important bird area. In the 1990s, public interest saved the Chek Jawa wetland from reclamation. Stalls and hire bicycles greet you at the jetty, then quiet roads run through coconut palms and jungle. You will see an old quarry turned green lake, small tin-roofed cafes and a few houses. At the southeastern tip lies Chek Jawa, a cape and wetland of about 100 hectares and one of the island's finest sights. Small boats leave Changi Point Ferry Terminal when full, from about 6 am to 7 pm, according to NParks. Carry cash, wear light clothes, bring water, sun protection and insect repellent, and keep clear of wildlife. Return before the last boat, as a private charter can cost far more.
A wetland of about 100 hectares.
A lake in an old pit.
Through palms and jungle.
Northeast Singapore, by boat from Changi Point
By small boat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, leaving when full.
It is wise, as the boat and many stalls mostly take cash.