Tucked away in the northeast of Singapore lies Pulau Serangoon, commonly known as Coney Island, a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. If you’re looking for a serene getaway filled with nature, hiking, and outdoor activities, Coney Island is an ideal destination. Whether you're a local, someone who’s recently moved to Singapore, or a tourist looking for things to do in Singapore, this guide by Drive lah provides everything you need to know to enjoy Pulau Serangoon to the fullest. Plus, we’ll show you how you can make some extra cash by safely renting out your car with Drive lah, but first...
Location and History of Pulau Serangoon
Pulau Serangoon, or Coney Island, is located in the northeast of Singapore, near the ever-growing town of Punggol. Its charm lies in its untouched beauty, offering a contrast to Singapore’s more bustling areas. The island has a rich history. Once owned by Aw Boon Haw and Aw Boon Par, the creators of Tiger Balm, it was briefly known as Haw Par Island. Today, it remains an untouched natural reserve, giving visitors a rare glimpse into the wild side of Singapore.
How to Get There
Photo by Utpal Sarkar on Pexels
Pulau Serangoon is easily accessible via two bridges—one from Punggol and another from Pasir Ris. Whether you own a car, prefer public transport, or like to explore on foot, the island is well-connected and reachable.
By Car:
Parking is available at Punggol Settlement, located near the west entrance. Alternatively, you can park outside the east entrance, depending on which part of the island you wish to explore first.
By Public Transport:
Take Bus 84 from Punggol Interchange, which will drop you off close to the west entrance of Coney Island. If you enjoy walking, you can also take a scenic route from Punggol Promenade Nature Walk.
Park Connectors:
For those who prefer a leisurely stroll or bike ride, Punggol Promenade Nature Walk, Punggol Waterway, and Lorong Halus Park Connector are excellent options that link to the island.
Things to Do in Pulau Serangoon
Despite being relatively small, Coney Island is packed with activities that let you get close to nature. Here’s a rundown of the top things to do.
Hiking & Walking Trails
Coney Island offers several walking and hiking trails that cater to all fitness levels. The most popular is the 5.5km loop trail that takes you through lush greenery, offering scenic views of Singapore’s coastline. If you’re traveling with kids, make a stop at the Casuarina Exploration playground, which is an adventure in itself.
Biking
Mangrove Trail
The island is home to a unique Mangrove Trail, which includes a boardwalk through the mangrove forest. It’s a great place for spotting wildlife such as mudskippers and water snakes. This peaceful and often-overlooked trail is perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to enjoy a quieter part of the island.
Bird Watching
Photo by Mathew Schwartz on Unsplash
Coney Island is a bird-watcher’s paradise. Along the coastal trails, you’ll find bird-watching huts where you can observe a variety of rare species. Keep an eye out for the White-bellied Sea Eagle and other migratory birds.
Sunset Hike
If you’re planning a late afternoon visit, consider timing your hike to catch a stunning sunset. The island closes at 7 pm, so make sure you’re on the west side for the best views just before the gates close.
Wildlife on Pulau Serangoon
Nature lovers will appreciate the variety of wildlife found on Coney Island. The island is home to monkeys, specifically macaques. While they are generally harmless, it’s a good idea to keep food and plastic bags out of sight to avoid attracting them. In addition to monkeys, you might spot snakes, rare birds, and other species that thrive in the island’s natural environment. Be sure to respect the wildlife by not feeding the animals and staying on designated trails.
What to Bring
Here’s what we recommend packing:
- Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes.
- Comfortable cotton clothing, cap, water.
- A first aid kit, especially if you plan on hiking or biking.
- Garbage bags to ensure you dont leave anything behind.
- Long pants and covered shoes to protect yourself from insects and thorns.
Practical Information
Entrance Fee: There is no entrance fee, making it a budget-friendly outing.
Operating Hours: Coney Island is open daily from 7 am to 7 pm. Make sure to plan your visit accordingly to avoid being locked out after sunset.
Pet-Friendly: Coney Island welcomes pets, although there are no designated trails for them. Make sure your furry friend is on a leash.
Parking: The closest parking is available at Punggol Settlement, near the west entrance, making it a convenient starting point for your adventure.
How to Make Your trip Extra Fun with Drive lah
Car sharing in Singapore has grown in popularity as more people recognize the benefits of using their cars to earn extra income. Whether it’s a fellow Singaporean looking for a car rental for the weekend or a tourist exploring things to do in Singapore, you can share your car safely with Drive lah.
And if you don’t own a car, no problem! You can still easily rent a car through Drive lah, with a wide variety of vehicles available. From compact cars perfect for zipping around the city to larger vehicles ideal for group trips, renting a car in Singapore has never been easier.
If you’re a car owner in Singapore, visiting Pulau Serangoon might get you thinking about how often your car sits idle while you’re off exploring. With Drive lah, you can turn that downtime into an opportunity to earn extra money by sharing your car. It’s completely safe, and your vehicle will be insured while it’s being rented out. Whether you're planning a day trip to Coney Island or simply want to make some passive income, renting out your car can be a seamless and worry-free experience.
Final Thoughts
Pulau Serangoon offers a peaceful retreat just minutes away from Singapore’s busy urban areas. With its hiking trails, wildlife, and serene views, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to reconnect with nature. And whether you're renting out your car or renting a car, Drive lah makes it easy to enjoy Singapore. Happy exploring!
Also read:
Escape to Sembawang Hot Springs: Everything You Need to Know
Cruise in Style: Find the Perfect Car for Your Singapore Adventure
Exploring the Fusion of Food and Art in National Gallery Singapore
