How to get from Singapore to Pulau Ubin

Pulau Ubin is one of Singapore’s easiest nature getaways: just a short ride from the mainland via MRT, bus or taxi plus a rustic bumboat across to the island’s only jetty.

At A Glance (Singapore to Pulau Ubin)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚇🚌⛴️ MRT + Bus + Bumboat (City ↔ Changi Point ↔ Pulau Ubin)	~1–1.5h from central Singapore, including boat	Budget travelers, independent explorers, most locals
🧷 Cost: ~S$3–5 each way for MRT + bus, plus ~S$4–S$5 per person each way for the bumboat (cash only, extra ~S$2 for bicycles). » see wider Singapore transport options
🚕⛴️ Taxi / Ride-hail + Bumboat (Door-to-door → Changi Point → Pulau Ubin)	~40–60m door-to-door from city, including boat	Fastest trip, families, small groups, bulky gear
🧷 Cost: Taxi/ride-hail from downtown ~S$20–S$40 per car each way, plus bumboat fares as above. Prebook airport/city transfers via Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer, or use local apps like Grab, Gojek, TADA or Ryde.
🚗⛴️ Self-drive / Car Rental + Bumboat	~45–70m from most city hotels, including boat	Road trips, those already renting a car, early starts
🧷 Cost: Car rental in Singapore from ~S$90+/day depending on season and vehicle; add petrol, parking near Changi Village and bumboat fares. Check deals on Booking.com car rentals.
🚐🚲⛴️ Guided Tour / Day Trip Package	~4–8h round-trip, depending on tour	Hands-off planning, guided nature & cycling/kayak experiences
🧷 Cost: Commonly ~S$80–S$180+ per person including activities and gear. Browse Pulau Ubin tours on GetYourGuide, Klook or Trip.com.

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest / Most Convenient: Choose Taxi / Ride-hail + Bumboat (Option #2) if you want to minimise walking and transfers, are travelling with kids, or are starting from the airport or a hotel with luggage.
• Cheapest / Most Economical: Go with MRT + Bus + Bumboat (Option #1) if you’re comfortable using Singapore’s MRT and buses and don’t mind a bit of walking. This is how many locals do it.
• Most Scenic / Flexible Schedule: If you’re already renting a car or planning a wider road trip around Singapore or Malaysia, Self-drive + Bumboat (Option #3) gives you the freedom to combine Pulau Ubin with other East Coast or Changi-area stops.
• Most Structured / Activity-focused: Pick a Guided Tour or Adventure Package (Option #4) if you prefer a guide, want kayaking or cycling built in, or prefer not to worry about bumboat logistics and bike rentals.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Public transport & bumboats can’t be booked online: MRT and public buses use contactless payment (bank card or stored-value card) at the gates; bumboats from Changi Point Ferry Terminal to Pulau Ubin are pay-on-board in cash only, with no advance booking. Boats usually leave when about 9–12 passengers are ready, roughly between 7am and 7pm.
• Use transit and bus apps: For live bus timings to Changi Village, use official tools like the Land Transport Authority’s journey planner or operator apps such as the SBS Transit NextBus service, or any common transport app that supports Singapore.
• Book accommodation and flights together: If you’re flying into Singapore for Pulau Ubin, compare flights and hotels on Booking.com Flights and Singapore hotels, then pick a base with easy MRT access to the East-West Line.
• Airport and hotel transfers: For a smoother arrival, especially with family or large luggage, prebook an airport pickup with Welcome Pickups or a private car through GetTransfer, then continue separately to Changi Point Ferry Terminal.
• Bikes and gear: Most visitors rent bicycles directly on Pulau Ubin at walk-in shops near the jetty, but you can also prebook selected rentals via Klook’s Pulau Ubin bike rental or arrange city bike hire through platforms like BikesBooking if you prefer to ride to Changi.
• Luggage storage: If you’ve checked out of your hotel and don’t want to bring suitcases to Ubin, consider city-luggage services like Radical Storage in Singapore so you can explore the island hands-free.
• Check weather and tides: Pulau Ubin is outdoorsy and exposed; pack sun protection and rain gear, and avoid the hottest midday hours if possible. Trails can be muddy after heavy rain, so choose sturdy footwear.

🚇🚌⛴️ Option #1 — MRT + Bus + Bumboat (Most Popular, Lowest Cost)

Low cost Frequent departures Multiple transfers

• Overview: Ride the MRT to an eastern station, transfer to a bus bound for Changi Village Bus Terminal, then walk 5–10 minutes to Changi Point Ferry Terminal for the short bumboat to Pulau Ubin.
• Typical route choices: Common MRT + bus combos include East-West Line to Tanah Merah (EW4) then Bus 2, or Downtown/East-West Lines to Tampines or Pasir Ris then buses such as 59 or 109 towards Changi Village. Pick whichever is most direct from your starting point.
• How to book (with price): You don’t need reservations. Pay MRT and bus fares (typically ~S$1–2 per leg) with a contactless bank card or stored-value card. At Changi Point Ferry Terminal, pay the bumboat captain in cash, usually around S$4–S$5 per person each way, plus ~S$2 if you bring your own bicycle; boats carry up to 12 passengers.
• Pros: Very inexpensive, runs from early morning to late evening, easy with light daypacks. Cons: More steps and transfers; can be crowded on weekends and public holidays, and seats on the bumboat only leave when reasonably full.
• Official info: For latest visitor details, opening hours and maps, check the National Parks Board’s official Visit Pulau Ubin and Pulau Ubin pages, and use the Land Transport Authority’s public transport journey tools for trip planning.

Step-by-step: MRT + Bus + Bumboat

1. Head to an MRT station on a convenient line: From central areas like Raffles Place or City Hall, take the East-West Line (green) eastbound towards Pasir Ris or Changi Airport. Aim for transfer stations like Tanah Merah, Tampines, or Pasir Ris, depending on your chosen bus route.
2. Tap in and ride to your chosen transfer station: Use a contactless Visa/Mastercard/NETS card or a stored-value card such as EZ-Link to tap in and out. MRT fares are based on distance and usually around S$1–2 per trip for typical visitor journeys.
3. Transfer to a bus bound for Changi Village: Follow station signs to the adjoining bus interchange or nearby stops and board a bus such as 2, 29, 59 or 109 towards Changi Village Bus Terminal (check the exact route and stop in a journey planner). Ride until the terminal or the stop closest to Changi Village.
4. Walk to Changi Point Ferry Terminal: From Changi Village Bus Terminal, walk a few minutes through Changi Village and the hawker centre area, following signs for the sea or ferry terminal. The terminal is a small building near the waterfront.
5. Join the Pulau Ubin bumboat queue: Inside the terminal you’ll see separate queues for Pulau Ubin and other destinations. Once 9–12 passengers are assembled, the next bumboat will be called and you’ll be directed down to the boat.
6. Pay on board and ride to Pulau Ubin: Hand your cash fare directly to the boatman; exact change is helpful. The crossing is typically ~10–15 minutes and fairly sheltered, but expect a bit of spray and engine noise.
7. Arrive at Ubin Jetty: Disembark onto the main Pulau Ubin jetty. From here, bicycle rental shops, eateries and the NParks information kiosk are just a short walk away.

Getting to the main embarking points (Changi Point Ferry Terminal)

• From central Singapore (Marina Bay / City Hall / Orchard): Take the East-West MRT Line eastbound (towards Pasir Ris or Changi Airport) and transfer to an appropriate bus heading to Changi Village Bus Terminal, then walk to Changi Point Ferry Terminal.
• From Changi Airport: Either take the airport MRT shuttle to Tanah Merah and connect to buses towards Changi Village, or use a short taxi/ride-hail directly to Changi Point Ferry Terminal.
• From East Coast / Katong: Use a combination of buses heading towards Changi Village; journey planner apps and LTA tools are very helpful in picking the most direct route based on your exact starting point.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 📎 Google Map / 📎 OpenStreetMap

🚕⛴️ Option #2 — Taxi / Ride-hail + Bumboat (Fastest, Door-to-Door)

Time-saving Door-to-door Higher cost

• Overview: Take a metered taxi or app-based ride (Grab, Gojek, TADA, Ryde or CDG Zig) directly from your hotel or Changi Airport to Changi Point Ferry Terminal, then hop on the same bumboat as in Option #1 to reach Pulau Ubin.
• Typical duration: Around 25–40 minutes by road from central Singapore (less from the airport or eastern neighbourhoods), plus waiting time for the next bumboat and a 10–15 minute crossing.
• How to book (with price): Flag a taxi at the roadside or book via ride-hailing apps; typical fares from downtown to Changi Point might range from ~S$20–S$40 depending on time of day, traffic, surcharges and vehicle type. For guaranteed pickup times or larger vehicles, prebook a private transfer via Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer, then pay separately for the bumboat in cash.
• Pros: Quick, minimal walking, ideal with kids, older travellers or big picnic coolers and camera gear. Cons: More expensive than MRT/bus; road journey still subject to peak-hour traffic and taxi/ride-hail surcharges.
• Official info: For broader guidance on taxis, private hire cars and public transport, see the Land Transport Authority’s Getting Around page, and always confirm approximate fares and surcharges in your chosen ride-hailing app before booking.

Step-by-step: Taxi / Ride-hail + Bumboat

1. Request a ride to the correct destination: In your taxi or ride-hail app, set Changi Point Ferry Terminal (not Changi Ferry Terminal or Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal) as the destination. Double-check the address: 51 Lorong Bekukong, Singapore 499172.
2. Confirm vehicle size and payment method: Choose a car large enough for your group and any bicycles or bulky items, and verify whether you’ll pay via app, card, or cash. Some apps let you split fares with friends.
3. Ride to Changi Point Ferry Terminal: The driver will usually drop you close to the small ferry building or along Lorong Bekukong. From the drop-off point, follow signs to the terminal entrance (a few minutes’ walk at most).
4. Head into the terminal and join the Pulau Ubin queue: Inside you’ll find signage for Pulau Ubin bumboats. Join the appropriate line and wait until a boat is ready to load passengers.
5. Pay the boatman in cash: When boarding, hand over the per-person fare and any bicycle surcharge directly to the boat operator. Small notes (S$2/S$5) are best.
6. Enjoy the short crossing: Sit along the sides of the wooden boat, keep your belongings close, and enjoy views of Changi coastline and Pulau Ubin’s mangroves as you cross.

Getting to the main embarking points (Changi Point Ferry Terminal)

• From downtown / Marina Bay: Book a ride-hail or taxi directly from your hotel lobby to Changi Point Ferry Terminal. Many drivers are familiar with the Pulau Ubin route.
• From Changi Airport: Taxi stands and ride-hail pickup points are signposted in each terminal. Ask to be taken to Changi Point Ferry Terminal near Changi Village, which is only a short ride away.
• From other neighbourhoods: Use your preferred app to estimate fare and travel time from your exact starting point, then confirm and book. For the return trip, you can usually find taxis around Changi Village or book a ride when you arrive back from Ubin.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 📎 Google Map / 📎 OpenStreetMap

🚗⛴️ Option #3 — Self-drive / Car Rental + Bumboat (Flexible for Road-trippers)

Great for groups Flexible timing Urban driving & parking

• Overview: Rent a car in Singapore or use your own vehicle to drive to Changi Village, park near the waterfront, and then walk to Changi Point Ferry Terminal for the bumboat to Pulau Ubin.
• When it makes sense: This option is best if you already planned on renting a car for a wider Singapore/Malaysia trip, are travelling as a larger family or group, or want to combine Pulau Ubin with other East Coast attractions such as coastal parks and food stops.
• How to book (with price): Compare rental prices for Singapore or Changi Airport pick-up on Booking.com car rentals in Singapore. Daily rates fluctuate but often start from around S$90–S$120 per day for small cars, plus fuel, ERP tolls and parking fees. Bumboat fares are paid separately in cash at Changi Point.
• Pros: Maximum flexibility, easy to carry picnic gear, coolers or camera equipment, and convenient if you’re exploring multiple spots on the same day. Cons: Driving in Singapore includes expressways and electronic road pricing (ERP) gantries; parking around Changi Village can be busy on weekends, and you cannot bring vehicles onto Pulau Ubin.
• Official info: For road rules, licensing and parking guidelines, refer to the Land Transport Authority’s Getting Around resources and your rental company’s briefing at pick-up.

Step-by-step: Self-drive / Car Rental + Bumboat

1. Pick up your rental car: Collect your vehicle from your chosen depot (often at Changi Airport or city locations) and ensure your navigation app is working with mobile data or offline maps.
2. Drive to Changi Village: Set your navigation to Changi Village or directly to Changi Point Ferry Terminal. Follow expressways and arterial roads as directed, allowing extra time during weekend mornings or public holidays.
3. Park legally near the terminal: Look for public car parks around Changi Village and the waterfront. Note the parking charges and maximum durations, then pay according to the displayed instructions or using local parking apps, if required.
4. Walk to Changi Point Ferry Terminal: From your parking spot, walk a few minutes past the hawker centre towards the sea. The ferry terminal building is clearly signposted.
5. Join the bumboat queue and board: The process at the terminal is exactly the same as the other options: queue until there are enough passengers, then pay cash to the boatman and board.
6. Return and drive off: After your day on Pulau Ubin, take the bumboat back to Changi Point, pay the return fare, then walk back to your car and continue your journey elsewhere in Singapore.

Getting to the main embarking points (Changi Point Ferry Terminal)

• Route planning: Use your favourite navigation app and set Changi Point Ferry Terminal or its address in Lorong Bekukong. Check live traffic and possible expressway tolls before you set off.
• Timing considerations: Aim to arrive in the morning for easier parking and cooler walking/cycling conditions on Pulau Ubin. Remember that bumboats generally stop running in the early evening, so plan your drive back accordingly.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 📎 Google Map / 📎 OpenStreetMap

🚐🚲⛴️ Option #4 — Guided Tour / Day Trip Package (Most Structured)

Guided experience Activities included Highest cost

• Overview: Join a guided Pulau Ubin tour that bundles transport logistics, the bumboat, and activities like cycling or kayaking, plus a guide who explains the island’s nature and history.
• What’s usually included: Many tours provide hotel pick-up or a central meeting point in Singapore, bumboat tickets or arrangements, bicycle rental or kayaking gear, and a guided route around highlights such as Chek Jawa wetlands and kampong areas.
• How to book (with price): Browse options and reviews on GetYourGuide Pulau Ubin tours, adventure-focused trips like Klook’s Ubin Biking Adventure or nature kayaking & cycling tours, and full-day experiences on Trip.com activities. Expect to pay roughly S$80–S$180+ per person depending on itinerary length and inclusions.
• Pros: Stress-free planning, clear meeting times and locations, deeper interpretation of Ubin’s wildlife and heritage, and often safety gear like helmets and life jackets included. Cons: More expensive and less flexible than exploring independently; fixed timings may mean less free time on the island.
• Official info: Even with a tour, it’s worth reading NParks’ Visit Pulau Ubin guidelines beforehand so you understand rules around wildlife, camping, and protected habitats.

Step-by-step: Guided Tour / Day Trip Package

1. Compare tours and pick one that suits your interests: Decide whether you prefer a cycling-heavy trip, a nature walk focused on birds and mangroves, or a kayak-based itinerary. Check what’s included (transport, bikes, lunch) and what you need to bring (water, clothing, cash).
2. Book online and confirm meeting details: Complete the reservation through your chosen platform, then carefully read your voucher for meeting time, location and what to present on the day (e-voucher, passport, etc.).
3. Meet at the specified pickup point: Some tours collect you from your hotel lobby, while others meet at MRT stations or directly at Changi Point Ferry Terminal. Arrive at least 10–15 minutes early.
4. Travel with the guide to Changi Point: If transport is included, your guide or driver will bring the group to the ferry terminal and coordinate bumboat arrangements, so you don’t need to queue independently.
5. Follow the guided program on Pulau Ubin: After landing on the island, your guide will lead the group along pre-planned routes by bike, foot or kayak, explaining points of interest and ensuring the pace is appropriate for everyone.
6. Return to the mainland and drop-off point: At the end of the tour, take the bumboat back with your group, and then either get dropped off at your original meeting point or another designated location, depending on the tour terms.

Getting to the main embarking points (Changi Point Ferry Terminal)

• If transport is included: Simply be at the designated pickup point at the agreed time; your tour operator handles the route to Changi Point Ferry Terminal.
• If you meet at Changi Point: Use any of the methods described in Options #1–3 to reach the ferry terminal, then meet your guide at the entrance or another agreed spot near the jetty.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 📎 Google Map / 📎 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Singapore to Pulau Ubin)

Do I need my passport to visit Pulau Ubin?
Most visitors do not need to show a passport when travelling between the Singapore mainland and Pulau Ubin, as it is still part of Singapore and there is no immigration checkpoint on the route. However, you should carry an ID document as you would for any day out, and always check current regulations if you’re not a Singapore citizen or permanent resident.

What are the usual operating hours for the bumboats?
Bumboats between Changi Point Ferry Terminal and Pulau Ubin commonly run roughly from early morning (around 7am) to early evening (around 7pm), with the last boats varying by operator, day and demand. There is no fixed timetable; instead, boats depart when there are enough passengers. Arrive earlier in the day, especially on weekends or public holidays, to avoid queues and to ensure you can get a return boat.

Can I pay the bumboat fare by card or mobile wallet?
No – bumboat fares are typically cash-only, paid directly to the boat operator on board. Bring small Singapore dollar notes and coins for both directions, plus extra cash if you’re bringing a bicycle or planning to rent one on the island, buy snacks or drinks, or pay for tours that accept cash.

Can I bring my own bicycle, or should I rent one on Pulau Ubin?
You can do either. If you bring your own bike, expect to pay a small surcharge on the bumboat and factor in getting it to Changi Point by MRT, bus, taxi or car. Many visitors instead rent bikes from shops clustered near the Pulau Ubin jetty, choosing from basic or mountain bikes. For peace of mind, you can prebook selected rentals via providers such as Klook or check availability on arrival.

What should I wear and bring for a Pulau Ubin day trip?
Wear light, breathable clothing suitable for tropical heat, closed shoes if you plan to hike or cycle, and bring sunblock, a hat, insect repellent and reusable water bottles. Rain can appear suddenly, so a light rain jacket or poncho is useful. If you’re cycling or kayaking, a small backpack is more comfortable than carrying loose items in your hands.

Are there places to eat or buy water on Pulau Ubin?
Yes. Near the main jetty there are small eateries and shops where you can buy simple meals, drinks and basic supplies. That said, selection is limited and opening days or hours can vary, so it’s wise to bring at least some snacks and drinking water with you, especially if you plan to spend several hours exploring quieter trails.