20 Best Hidden Gems in Singapore Only Locals Know
I remember discovering a charming café in Joo Chiat, far from the bustling city centre. As I enjoyed a perfectly brewed kopi, I realised this was the real Singapore—a blend of tradition, community, and surprise at every corner.
While Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay are must-sees, the Lion City has countless hidden gems waiting to be uncovered by the curious traveller.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned one, this guide will help you uncover Singapore’s hidden places beyond the beaten path.
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
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Location: 301 Neo Tiew Crescent
Contact: +6567941401
Hours: Daily, 7 AM–7 PM
Price: Free entry
Website
After exploring the urban jungle, it’s refreshing to immerse myself in nature at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. I saw many birds and lizards there, and with plenty of shade, it’s enjoyable even on a hot day.
Spotting wild crocodiles is genuinely impressive and a unique experience compared to seeing them in a zoo. Expect to disconnect from the outside world as cell signals are weak in some parts of the trail, adding to the experience of truly getting away.
Pro-tip: There are only two washrooms and water coolers along the trail, so use them when you see them.
Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery
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Location: 88 Bright Hill Road
Contact: +6568495300
Hours: Daily, 8 AM–4 PM
Price: Free entry
Website
I accidentally discovered one of Singapore’s oldest Buddhist temple monasteries, recognisable by its golden rooftops. The temple is large and beautiful, with many scenic spots for photos so I was glad to stumble upon it.
Moreover, there’s a vegetarian restaurant, a library, a crematorium, and a columbarium within. It’s a peaceful place to relax, and I was impressed by its blend of new and old architecture, as I’m sure you will be, too.
Pro-tip: You can have lunch in the canteen from 9 AM to 2 PM if you visit in the morning.
Bukit Timah Railway Station
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Location: #1 Railway Station
Contact: 1800-471-7300
Hours: Open 24 hours
Price: Free entry
Website
I always say, follow the locals! You’ll find plenty of them hiking, walking, and biking along the Rail Corridor and into Bukit Timah Railway Station.
The station complex is beautifully maintained, giving you a glimpse into Singapore’s early infrastructure. Even though the colonial-era station no longer operates as a transit hub, its cultural significance is still very much alive.
Pro-tip: Weekdays are quieter on the Rail Corridor, but if you prefer not to be alone, visit on the weekend. Just be ready for more crowds and noise.
Japanese Cemetery Park
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Location: 825B Chuan Hoe Avenue
Contact: +65 6591 7621
Hours: Daily, 7 AM–7 PM
Price: Free entry
Website
A friend recommended a park for meditation and reflection, and it turned out to be the Japanese Cemetery Park. Instead of being a scary experience, the atmosphere is incredibly calming, even in the afternoon.
Now a memorial park, it contains the graves of Japanese ex-pats and World War II soldiers. It’s a lovely place to walk amidst the many wildflowers and read about the contributions of people from the past.
Pro-tip: If you’re into photography, visit in mid-March or mid-September for the colourful flowers.
Coney Island
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Location: Punggol Promenade Nature Walk
Contact: +6518004717300
Hours: Daily, 7 AM–7 PM
Price: Free entry
Website
This place reminded me of my time in Australia but with a Singapore twist. One amazing highlight was exploring Coney Island’s diverse flora and fauna.
I spotted several bird species, including the majestic baya weaver, and encountered a friendly family of wild boars on the way back. But watch out for sandflies in some rustic areas. Bring bug spray to avoid itchy bites!
Pro-tip: If you plan to bike around the island, ensure your tyres can handle gravel paths.
Yunnan Garden
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Location: 12 Nanyang Drive
Contact: +6567911744
Hours: Open 24 hours
Price: Free entry
Website
City waterfalls? Oh, yes! At Yunnan Garden, a 5.6-meter-tall man-made waterfall flows into Nanyang Lake, home to turtles.
It’s a clean, well-maintained space larger than 12 soccer fields dotted with red gazebos that offer seating for lunch or snacks. These attractive structures contrast beautifully with the lush greenery, making it a popular spot for cosplayers and selfie enthusiasts.
Pro-tip: Another great spot for photo ops is the 1955 Nanyang Gate at the edge of the gardens.
Boh Geh Uncle Canteen
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Location: 398 Piccadilly
Hours: Monday to Friday, 6 AM–1.30 PM
Price: $
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While Seletar has seen massive development over the past dozen years or so, Boh Geh Uncle Canteen remains frozen in time. It may not feel like an Instagram-worthy spot with its rustic, old-school vibe, but it’s perfect for reminiscing about pre-modern Singapore.
I tried the Malay stall’s mixed rice for lunch, and it was delicious, especially the gravy and fried chicken. The nasi lemak is also quite satisfying.
Pro-tip: Bring cash, as it’s the only accepted mode of payment here.
Tuas Lamp Post 1
Location: Tuas S Boulevard
Hours: Open 24 hours
Price: Free entry
Website
What’s so unique about an ordinary lamp post, you ask? Well, in a city full of restrictions, it’s the only lamp post in Singapore where it’s legal to paste stickers, thanks to an exception made by the authorities in 2021!
Tuas Lamp Post 1 is a popular spot for cyclists, who often stop to add their own stickers and take photos. It’s located on Tuas South Boulevard, near the Tuas Mega Port so there’s a bit of vigil involved if you want to see it.
Pro-tip: If you’re planning to visit, it’s best to travel by bike or car, as it’s located in a remote area far from public transport.
Seng Chew Quarry
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Location: Bukit Gombak
Contact: +65 6515 0075
Hours: Open 24 hours
Price: Free entry
Unlike the more popular quarries like Little Guilin, Seng Chew Quarry remains largely untouched and offers a serene escape from the busy city. It’s one of those places that feels like a secret spot shared among locals who cherish a quieter slice of nature.
I remember the first time I ventured there with friends; we felt like explorers stumbling upon a forgotten piece of Singapore’s past. The lack of signs adds to the thrill, making it feel like you’re uncovering a hidden treasure.
Pro-tip: Start at Bukit Gombak MRT Station, walk past the sports hall, and follow a path up a grassy slope into the forest.
The Mill
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Location: 5 Jalan Kilang
Contact: +6563833333
Hours: Daily, 9 AM–6 PM
Price: Free entry
Website
Designed by some of the best architects in the country, The Mill is a striking building. It features a unique black exterior and a mix of post-industrial American, Art Deco, and Gothic influences.
While there are no bats to worry about, the building’s design is certainly eye-catching!
On the second level, you’ll find a cosy coffee shop that’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up. There’s also an art gallery that holds regular shows featuring local and international artists.
Pro-tip: Several creative studios hold office at The Mill and often welcome visitors to observe and discuss their processes and products.
Bukit Batok Hillside Nature Park
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Location: 1 Bukit Batok West Ave 2
Hours: Open 24 hours
Price: Free entry
Website
Bukit Batok Hillside Nature Park is perfect for adventurous travellers who trust their instincts and gut feel. The hike isn’t straightforward, but experienced hikers have tied pink and yellow ribbons on trees to guide you.
Following them led me to the Japanese gate, though I did get several mosquito bites along the way, so be sure to bring mosquito repellent if you plan to visit.
Pro-tip: Wear shoes with good traction, as some paths can be slippery.
Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle
Location: 85 Lor Tawas
Contact: +6562686121
Hours: Daily, 9 AM–5 PM
Price: Pottery class: S$45/adult, S$25/child
Website
A dragon kiln is a traditional wood-fired kiln for pottery, originating in China over 1,000 years ago. Thow Kwang Pottery is Singapore’s last remaining dragon kiln and is worth visiting.
You can walk through the kiln to buy traditional Chinese and Peranakan pottery or take a pottery lesson. Although I’m not a pottery collector, I was mesmerised by the atmosphere of the place and how they arranged the plates and vases by style and pattern.
Pro-tip: It can get quite hot in the shop, especially during summer, so bring water to keep hydrated.
Seletar Fishing Village
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Location: Seletar North Link
Hours: Open 24 hours
Price: Free entry
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Seletar Fishing Village is one of Singapore’s last traditional fishing villages, and it offers a glimpse into a simpler, quieter way of life that’s hard to find in our bustling city. This place isn’t just about nostalgia, though; it’s a fantastic fishing spot and vantage point for sunset lovers.
The village’s rustic charm, with its wooden kampong huts and a scenic jetty, transports you back in time. While the jetty is not open to the public, you can still wander around the area, explore the beautiful views, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Pro-tip: Wear comfortable shoes and clothes if you plan to explore the swampy areas at low tide.
Clementi Forest
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Location: Clementi Road
Hours: Open 24 hours
Price: Free entry
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As a local, I’ve always known about the more popular spots like Bukit Timah and MacRitchie, but Clementi Forest was a revelation. Unlike the more manicured parks around Singapore, Clementi Forest retains a rugged charm that makes it feel like a step back in time.
The forest is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare terrestrial orchids, and features two rivers that add to its serene beauty. I also stumbled upon some old railway tracks that were once part of Singapore’s industrial past.
Pro-tip: There’s no clear signage, so it’s best to go with someone who knows the area or is good with navigation
Jurong Eco Garden
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Location: Cleantech Loop
Contact: +65 6560 0056
Hours: Open 24 hours
Price: Free entry
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If you’re a bird watcher, bring your binoculars and head to Jurong Eco Garden. The recent sighting of the blue-eared kingfisher has attracted bird enthusiasts like me to this relatively unknown spot of nature.
I’m not exaggerating when I say the air here feels cleaner and fresher. While exploring, check out the sculptures and the Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle next door.
Pro-tip: If you want the garden all to yourself, visit very early in the morning (around 6 AM).
Smith Marine Floating Restaurant
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Location: Pulau Ubin Coastal Area FC97E
Contact: +6597927609
Hours: Daily, 10 AM–7 PM
Price: $$
Website
As someone who loves seafood restaurants, I couldn’t resist trying Smith Marine Floating Restaurant. My family and I took a small boat (with a capacity of about 10) from Changi Terminal, and the boat fare was covered by the restaurant.
This floating restaurant offers fresh fish, crabs, and prawns, all alive in the sea before they’re served. I recommend sitting in the recreational room or the alfresco area, as they’re quite breezy and relaxing.
Pro-tip: The food is halal and the staff can also accommodate vegetarian requests.
Pearl’s Hill City Park
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Location: Chin Swee Road &, Pearl’s Hill Rd
Contact: +6518004717300
Hours: Daily, 7 AM–7 PM
Price: Free entry
Website
Pearl’s Hill City Park is one of those secret cuddle spots in Singapore (whoops, looks like I spilt some canoodle beans!). But I recommend visiting it even if you’re an avowed singleton with nobody to share the golden hour with.
In the morning, the sound of birds chirping creates a tranquil atmosphere. For a workout, there’s a free outdoor callisthenics gym. Just look for the fish pond and keep walking uphill to find it.
Pro-tip: If you’re patient enough, you can spot some cute Asian otters in the pond!
Kampong Lorong Buangkok
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Location: Lorong Buangkok
Hours: Open 24 hours
Price: Free entry
Website
Kampong Lorong Buangkok is a true hidden gem in Singapore, offering a rare glimpse into the country’s kampong past. On my first visit, I was warmly welcomed by a local family who shared stories of the kampong’s history and even offered me some rambutans.
The simple wooden houses, lush greenery, and laid-back atmosphere make it a unique escape. It was heartwarming to see how the residents maintain a tight-knit community, with neighbours chatting on their patios and sharing meals.
Pro-tip: Remember to be respectful of the resident’s privacy and enjoy this living slice of history by first asking permission before taking pictures.
Raffles Marina Lighthouse
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Location: 10 Tuas West Drive
Contact: +65 6861 9000
Hours: Daily, 8 AM–10 PM
Price: Free entry
Website
I recommend strolling towards the Raffles Marina Lighthouse if you’re in the area for dinner or a visit. When it’s all lit up, it looks quite magical at night, making it a lesser-known but excellent spot for sunsets and photography.
Even though it’s a bit off the beaten path, this spot offers stunning views of Malaysia’s Forest City and Tuas Checkpoint. Plus, the sea breeze is incredibly refreshing here.
Pro-tip: It’s also a great place to hold prenuptial wedding shoots!