Ahoy there, ye mateys! If you are looking for a seafaring, pirate adventure for the little ones, set a course for the NEX Mall playground. This rooftop destination, officially known as kidzPLAY @ Skygarden, offers both wet and dry play areas that are perfect for families.
NEX Mall is a major hub in the Upper Serangoon area, featuring plenty of shops, restaurants, and a library. One of the most popular spots for parents is the rooftop playground, which provides a free space for kids to burn off energy.
This March 2026 guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the pirate-themed adventure waiting for you at the top of the mall. From splashing buckets to giant sea monsters, it is a highlight for anyone visiting Serangoon Mall.
The heart of the NEX water playground is a massive pirate ship play structure. It features multiple levels of decks where children can climb and explore while imagining they are charting a course through the high seas.
Water is a constant element of the fun here. A large bucket positioned at the top of the ship periodically splashes water down on the kids below. This adds a layer of excitement for those navigating the ship’s decks.
At the front of the pirate ship, younger children can enjoy a dedicated wet play area. This section features gentle fountains and cute cartoon sea animals, including octopi, a whale, and a sea star. It is a great spot for smaller toddlers.
The area is also surrounded by “coconut trees” that do not drop fruit. Instead, they send down buckets of water to keep the splashing fun going. It is easily one of the most engaging free mall playgrounds in the Serangoon district.
Why are the kids in a frenzy on the ship? It might be because a giant orange sea monster is chasing after them! This impressive structure is positioned just to the rear of the ship with its tentacles spread wide.
Daring kids can climb directly up the monster. There are hand and footholds located between its large, googly eyes, leading to a slide that runs down its back. A yellow tunnel also runs through the monster for extra exploration.
Throughout the rest of the NEX water playground, you will find various sprays and fountains. These are perfect for hot days when children need a chance to soak and cool off under the tropical sun.
For children who prefer not to get wet or those who forgot their swimmers, there is a separate dry playground. This area features a second ship, though this one flies the NEX flag instead of the Jolly Roger.
The red ship structure includes slides and several climbing apparatuses. It provides a great alternative for outdoor play areas when you want to avoid a full change of clothes after playtime.
Close to the dry ship, there are low swings that kids can either sit or stand on. These are designed to mimic the feeling of swaying back and forth amongst the waves, keeping the seafaring theme alive.
| Feature | Wet Play Area (Pirate Ship) | Dry Play Area (Red Ship) |
| Theme | Pirate Ship & Sea Monster | NEX Flag Cargo Ship |
| Required Gear | Swimwear & Towel | Standard Play Clothes |
| Primary Features | Water Bucket, Fountains, Slides | Climbing Frames, Slides, Swings |
| Best For | Cooling off and sensory play | Quick visits and climbing |
The NEX Mall playground is located at Level 4R, which is the rooftop level of the mall. The official address is 23 Serangoon Central, Singapore 556083. It is conveniently situated for anyone living in or visiting the Upper Serangoon area.
The playground is open from 11 am to 7 pm daily. Access to kidzPLAY @ Skygarden is free for all visitors, making it a budget-friendly option for a family day out in Singapore.
There is a small changing room located close to the entrance of the gated water play area. These rooms are decorated with sea creature cut-outs, making them easy for kids to identify when it is time to dry off.
To make the most of your visit to the Serangoon Mall rooftop play area, come prepared. Even though there are some seats for parents, the area can get quite hot during the middle of the day.
After a long session of play, you might be looking for a place to eat. You may be interested to read about Joji’s Diner, a 24-hour American-themed diner located nearby in the Serangoon area.
Navigating NEX Mall to find the rooftop can be slightly tricky for first-timers. The best way is to take the lifts that service the rooftop level (4R). Look for the “Skygarden” signage near the central atrium.
If you are coming by MRT, Serangoon Station is an interchange for the North East Line and the Circle Line. The mall is directly integrated with the station, providing seamless access to the playground.
Is the NEX playground free to enter?
Yes, access to both the wet and dry play areas at kidzPLAY @ Skygarden is completely free for the public.
What are the opening hours for the NEX water playground?
The playground is typically open from 11 am to 7 pm daily, although it may close during inclement weather.
Are there toilets nearby for changing?
There are dedicated changing rooms located right at the entrance of the water playground for your convenience.
What age group is the playground best for?
The playground is ideally suited for children between the ages of 2 and 12, with a dedicated area for younger toddlers near the fountains.
The NEX Mall playground is a fantastic destination for families seeking free fun. With its creative pirate theme and variety of play options, it remains a favorite in the Upper Serangoon neighborhood.
Whether your children want to brave the sea monster or swing among the imaginary waves, kidzPLAY @ Skygarden delivers. Be sure to check out our interactive playground map for more great spots to explore across Singapore.
