East Coast Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in East Coast Singapore. This comprehensive guide also covers local culture, food, and transportation options.


Introduction to East Coast

Located in the Southeast region of Singapore, East Coast offers an extensive range of activities for travelers with distinct interests. It is a popular destination for those seeking outdoor adventures, exquisite food and drinks, historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and much more. With many tourist attractions to discover, East Coast attracts a lot of Solo travelers, families, and backpackers alike.

In this guide, we will provide you with the ultimate travel guide to East Coast, Singapore. We cover everything from where to stay, what to do, eat and drink, transportation options, and more.

List of Places to Visit in East Coast

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Peranakan Museum

The Peranakan Museum is an outstanding tourist attraction that gives visitors the opportunity to discover Peranakan culture and heritage. It is home to several artifacts and galleries that display the culture, art, and history of the Peranakan people. Visitors to the museum can also participate in workshops, cultural programs, and even watch live performances.

Changi Chapel and Museum

The Changi Chapel and Museum is another popular tourist destination worth visiting in East Coast. It is a prominent historical landmark that tells the story of the innocent civilians and Prisoners of War (POWs) impacted by the Japanese Occupation during WWII. Visitors can explore the chapel and museum to understand the challenging life that prisoners experienced in the Japanese POW camp.

Natural Attractions of East Coast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

East Coast Park

East Coast Park is known for its beautiful beachside location, scenic views, and an array of activities for visitors. It’s an ideal destination for picnics, barbeques, cycling, jogging, and water sports - all in one place. East Coast Park is the perfect place to beat the heat and connect with nature.

Pulau Ubin Island

Pulau Ubin is a small island off the northeast coast of Singapore. The rural island is home to dense forestry and wildlife and attracts visitors who want to explore the natural side of Singapore. Biking, kayaking, and hiking are some of the activities one can enjoy while exploring the island.

Hiking/Biking Routes of East Coast

Coastal Adventure Trail

For adrenaline seekers, the Coastal Adventure Trail is an excellent way to get your heart pumping. The Coastal Adventure Trail is a scenic hike and biking trail that takes visitors through East Coast Park’s beautiful greenery alongside the scenic coastline.

Bedok Reservoir Park

For those looking for more of a challenge, Bedok Reservoir’s trails offer various obstacles and terrains such as rocky trails, uphill climbs, and more. The park also offers kayaking, fishing, and other fun water sports activities.

Best Things to Do in East Coast: Activities and Tours

Singapore Flyer

Located about 5 miles southeast of the city center, the iconic Singapore Flyer is one of the biggest observation wheels in the world. It’s a chance to have a bird’s eye view of East Coast, the skyline, and the stunning views of the Marina Bay area.

Water Sports

Paddle boating, windsurfing, wakeboarding, and kayaking are some of the water sports activities offered at East Coast Park. Visitors can take a crash course on these activities or just rent equipment to have fun at the beach.

Week-Long Itinerary for East Coast

Day 1: Discover Peranakan culture at the Peranakan Museum

Day 2: Explore the outdoor adventure trails at Bedok Reservoir Park

Day 3: Visit the historical Changi Chapel and Museum

Day 4: Check out the panoramic views from Singapore Flyer

Day 5: Experience the beautiful beach and water sports activities at East Coast Park

Day 6: Enjoy some retail therapy at the nearby Katong and Joo Chiat shopping areas

Day 7: Visit Pulau Ubin Island for a day of hiking and nature exploration

Food and Drink Scene of East Coast

Must-Try Dishes

Chili Crab

Chili Crab is one of Singapore’s national dishes and a must-try food experience. The dish is made with fresh, steamed crabs smothered in a spicy and tangy sauce.

Laksa

Laksa is a spicy soup made with vermicelli noodles, fish cakes, shrimp, and coconut milk, and flavored with traditional Singaporean spices.

Local Beverages

Kopi and Teh

Kopi and Teh are traditional coffee and tea beverages, respectively. They can be enjoyed in various styles such as iced or hot, with or without milk and sugar.

Singapore Sling

Singapore Sling is Singapore’s signature cocktail made with gin, pineapple juice, and cherry liqueur. It’s a refreshing and iconic drink that visitors should indulge in.

Where to Stay in East Coast: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

East Coast offers a variety of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some of the best hotels in the area include Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy, Village Hotel Katong, and Park Avenue Changi. Budget-friendly options include the Betel Box Backpackers Hostel and The Hive Backpackers’ Hostel.

What to Buy in East Coast: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Katong Antique House

The Katong Antique House is an excellent spot to stop by for antique enthusiasts. The antique store carries a collection of unique items such as ceramics, lamps, and oriental furniture.

Joo Chiat Complex

Joo Chiat Complex is a popular shopping complex that has an extensive collection of fabrics, traditional Southeast Asian textiles, and batik fabrics.

Local Culture and Customs of East Coast

Singapore is a multiethnic, multicultural country with diverse cultures and customs. Visitors should be respectful of the culture and customs of the locals, including refraining from chewing gum, smoking in public, and littering.

Best Time to Visit East Coast

The best time to visit East Coast is between February and April, during the dry season in Singapore. Visitors can avoid the heavy rainfall and high humidity experienced during the other months.

Do’s and Don’ts of East Coast

Do:

  • Be respectful of local customs and engage in cultural programs and workshops.

  • Carry an umbrella or raincoat as Singapore weather can be unpredictable.

Don’t:

  • Litter or smoke in public areas, including beaches and parks.

  • Chew gum in public spaces as it is illegal in Singapore.

Safety and Health

Safety in East Coast

Singapore is a safe place to visit, and East Coast is no exception. Visitors should be vigilant of pickpocketing in crowded areas and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Health in East Coast

Healthcare facilities in Singapore are modern and efficient. Visitors should pack basic over-the-counter medication to avoid trips to the pharmacy or hospital.

Getting to East Coast: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near East Coast

Singapore Changi Airport is the main airport in Singapore, about a 15-minute drive from East Coast.

Bus Stations Near East Coast

Bus stations are conveniently located throughout East Coast, including Bedok Bus Interchange and Paya Lebar Bus Interchange.

Other Options

Two of the most common transportation options in Singapore are the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and taxis. The MRT is a cost-effective way to get around, and taxis are readily available, though more expensive.

How to Get Around in East Coast

East Coast is easy to navigate on foot. Biking, taxis, and buses are also widely available options for getting around the area.

Where to Go Next from East Coast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Singapore Zoo

The Singapore Zoo is a world-class attraction located about 14 miles from East Coast. Visitors can expect to see many exotic animals and discover wildlife adventures.

Sentosa Island

Sentosa Island is Singapore’s favorite island destination famous for the Universal Studios theme park, the Siloso Beach, and the Sentosa Golf Club.

Conclusion

East Coast in Singapore has a little something for everyone. Travelers can explore the beauty of Singapore’s natural scenery, indulge in local food and beverages, explore the cultural and historical landmarks, and more. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can plan an itinerary to make the most of their trip to East Coast, Singapore.

Beach in Pasir Ris Beach in Pasir Ris Terraced houses on Koon Seng Road Terraced houses on Koon Seng Road Map of Katong and East Coast Park Map of Katong and East Coast Park Katong laksa at Famous 49, with ''belachan'' (spicy shrimp paste) and chopped laksa leaf on the spoon Katong laksa at Famous 49, with ''belachan'' (spicy shrimp paste) and chopped laksa leaf on the spoon Map of Geylang Map of Geylang