Escape the concrete jungle and step into the raw, untouched beauty of Coney Island Singapore. Located off the northeastern coast of Punggol, this 50-hectare island is a haven for nature lovers, cyclists, and photographers.
Unlike the manicured gardens of the Botanic Gardens or the futuristic Supertrees, Coney Island (historically known as Pulau Serangoon) offers a rugged, back-to-nature experience. It is a place where tall Casuarina trees rustle in the wind and gravel paths replace paved roads.
However, visiting this rustic park requires a bit more planning than your average park run. From navigating the new transport routes to avoiding the infamous sandflies, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Whether you are planning a family cycling trip or a solo photography walk, here is your ultimate handbook to surviving and enjoying Coney Island Singapore in 2026.
Getting to this northeastern gem has become significantly easier with recent transport upgrades. While it feels secluded, it is quite accessible if you know the right routes.
The most convenient way for public transport users is via the North East Line. You should alight at the newly opened Punggol Coast MRT Station.
Take Exit 2 and enjoy a leisurely walk towards the Punggol Point Park/Jetty area. From there, it is a straightforward 500m walk along the promenade to the Coney Island West Entrance.
Alternatively, you can take Bus 84 from Punggol Interchange, which loops directly to Punggol Road End. This drops you right at the Punggol Settlement, just steps away from the entrance.
If you are driving, your destination is The Punggol Settlement. This is the dining cluster located right at the coastline.
There is an open-air car park available here, but be warned: it fills up very quickly on weekends and public holidays. Arrive before 9:00 AM to secure a lot comfortably.
From the car park, simply walk past the restaurants towards the Punggol Promenade Nature Walk. Follow the signs for about 5 minutes, and you will see the iconic gates of Coney Island Singapore.
For many, the journey is part of the adventure. You can cycle directly from Punggol Waterway Park via the Park Connector Network (PCN).
The scenic route takes you along the My Waterway@Punggol, past the Safra Punggol clubhouse, and straight to the West Entrance. It is a flat, easy ride suitable for beginners.
| Transport Mode | Convenience | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| MRT + Walk | High | Low | Solo travelers / Couples |
| Car | Medium (Parking issues) | High (Parking fees) | Families with young kids |
| Cycling (PCN) | High | Free | Fitness enthusiasts |
Once you pass through the gates, the vibe changes instantly. The noise of the city fades, replaced by the sounds of the forest. Here are the top activities to prioritize.
This is a favorite spot for families. The Casuarina Exploration is a rustic adventure area constructed entirely from upcycled wood found on the island.
Instead of plastic slides and rubber mats, you will find wooden balancing beams, stepping stones, and simple obstacles. It blends perfectly with the surroundings.
It is a fantastic way for children to engage with nature physically. Just be sure to keep an eye out for red ants, which are common on the wooden logs.
Cycling is arguably the best way to cover the 50-hectare park. The main spine of the island connects the West Entrance to the East Entrance (leading to Lorong Halus).
Be prepared for a bumpy ride. The paths are unpaved gravel and dirt, which adds to the charm but can be tricky for thin-tired road bikes. Mountain bikes or hybrids are ideal here.
If you didn’t bring a bike, you can rent one at The Punggol Settlement. Shops like Go Cycling offer hourly rentals that you can return at different outlets island-wide.
For a slower pace, head to the Mangrove Boardwalk. This elevated wooden path takes you through the coastal forest and right into the mangrove habitat.
During low tide, you can spot the unique root systems of the mangrove trees. Keep your eyes peeled for mudskippers and tree-climbing crabs scuttling on the trunks.
Coney Island Singapore is a hotspot for biodiversity. It is home to over 80 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Look out for the colorful Baya Weavers nesting in the acacia trees. You might also spot the Oriental Magpie-robin or the Changeable Hawk-eagle soaring above.
The lighting in the early morning (around 7:30 AM) is spectacular for photography. The sun rays filtering through the tall trees create a magical, ethereal atmosphere.
The island features five designated beach areas, labeled simply as Beach Area A through E. These are not your typical sandy beaches like Sentosa.
They are raw, rugged, and completely natural. Do not expect pristine white sand; instead, you get a quiet, seaside serenity that is hard to find elsewhere.
Beach Area A is the most accessible. It is located just a short distance from the West Entrance. Because of this, it tends to be the most crowded.
If you want privacy, cycle further down to Beach Area C or D. These spots are often empty, offering you a private slice of the coastline.
From the beach areas and the paved promenade, you get an unobstructed view of Pulau Ubin across the water.
On a clear day, you can easily see the coastline of Johor, Malaysia. It is a peaceful spot to sit on a log, hydrate, and watch the bumboats passing by.
The island is teeming with wildlife. While the famous Brahman cow that once roamed here has sadly passed away, there is still plenty to see.
Long-tailed Macaques are very common. They are generally curious but can be aggressive if they see food.
Important Safety Rule: Never feed the monkeys. Keep your snacks hidden in your bag and do not hold plastic bags in your hand, as they associate the sound with food.
You might also encounter Wild Boars. They are usually shy and will avoid humans, but it is best to keep a safe distance and not corner them.
One of the main reasons Coney Island Singapore exploded in popularity is its aesthetic. It doesn’t look like Singapore.
The tall, slender Casuarina trees give it a distinctly Australian or Balinese vibe. The fields of tall Lalang grass are perfect for portraits.
Pro-Tip: The best photos are taken on the main gravel path where the trees arch over the road. Visit during the “Golden Hour” (6:00 PM – 7:00 PM) for that warm, cinematic glow.
This is the most critical section of this guide. Coney Island is not a manicured park with full amenities. You need to come prepared.
This is the number one complaint from unprepared visitors. The beaches are notorious for sandflies. Their bites are itchy and can last for days.
Protection is key: Wear long lightweight pants and covered shoes. Do not wear sandals or shorts if you plan to walk near the beach areas.
Apply strong insect repellent generously before you enter the park. Reapply if you have been sweating profusely.
There are zero toilet facilities and zero water coolers inside the island itself. It is completely off-the-grid in terms of plumbing/electricity.
Strategy: Use the toilets at The Punggol Settlement or Punggol Point Park before you enter.
Bring at least 1-2 liters of water per person. The humidity on the island can be intense, and dehydration sets in quickly when cycling.
The park is open strictly from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
The gates at both ends (West and East) are locked promptly at 7:00 PM. Park rangers patrol the area to sweep visitors out before closing.
Do not try to stay overnight. There is no lighting on the island, and it becomes pitch black and potentially dangerous after sunset.
No, entry to Coney Island Singapore is completely free for everyone.
No. Camping is strictly prohibited. Fishing is also not allowed within the park boundaries to protect the marine ecosystem.
You can rent bikes at The Punggol Settlement. Look for “Go Cycling” or “Jomando Adventure.” They have options for kids, adults, and even double bikes.
Walking from the West Entrance to the East Entrance takes about 45 minutes to an hour at a leisurely pace. If you explore the beaches, plan for 2-3 hours.
Coney Island Singapore remains one of the few places where you can truly unplug. It offers a raw, unfiltered connection with nature that is rare in our city-state.
Whether you are navigating the gravel trails on a bike or spotting rare birds in the Casuarina trees, the experience is always grounding.
Just remember the golden rules: cover up against sandflies, bring plenty of water, and leave the island before the gates lock at 7:00 PM.
So, grab your water bottle, lace up your hiking shoes, and head to Punggol this weekend. The rustic charm of the island awaits!
