There's a time for hiking our local nature trails, and there’s a time for waiting for a table in a hipster cafe. But there's also a time for having a picnic outdoors – especially now that the weather's looking fine!
Get ready an umbrella, some food, a picnic mat, and don’t forget your sunscreen and insect repellent. Check out these outdoors spots in Singapore where you can spend some time having a picnic with your inner circle!
Singapore Botanic Gardens
Clearly the best park in Singapore to have a picnic in, the Botanic Gardens has plenty of ground where you can set up, sit down and soak up some nature. The best picnic spot is at Palm Valley, where you can get some shade from the trees that surround the area. There are also toilets nearby, beside the Cool House near Palm Valley Gate.
East Coast Park
East Coast Park is the go-to we’d suggest for people living closer to the east, with plenty of activities to do and plenty of spots to lay down a mat. In particular, we like to get away from the crowd at Area F, between car parks F2 and F3, or on the quiet beach beside Bougainvillea Garden. The closest toilet is located at car park F2 and it is also equipped with shower rooms.
HortPark
With over 20 themed sections at the HortPark, you’ll find a spot that suits your aesthetic tastes, whether it’s the stunning Silver Garden made up of light-reflective plants, or the Balinese themed garden. Plus there's plenty of shade around if you want to stay out of the sun. We like the HortLawn because it’s near the entrance, toilets and facilities. There's plenty of space here and it’s one of the most (if not the most) Instagrammable lawns in Singapore.
Palawan Beach
We like Palawan Beach for its more laid back feel as compared to Siloso and Tanjong Beach. Cross over the suspension rope bridge to get to the Southernmost point of continental Asia, also Asia's closest point to the equator. You can head up to the tower for a breathtaking view of Sentosa and to stay out of the sun, or settle by the waters for an intimate picnic.
Jurong Lake Gardens
One for the westies, Jurong Lake Gardens is the largest nature wonderland in the heartlands. The grounds are specially designed for the community to come together to play, learn, and bond. Settle down at The Lakeside Field and The Oval, which are close to scenic attractions such as the Rasau Walk and Grassland. If you’ve got kids, play areas such as Clusia Cove and Forest Ramble are nearby too!
Southern Islands
Miss travelling? Hop onto a ferry from Marina South Pier and head to the Southern Islands for a day! Getting away from the main island will make you feel like you’re taking a mini-holiday. Set down your mat under a tree by a beach, or settle on one of the benches and tables on St John’s Island.
Marina Barrage
Marina Barrage is definitely one of the most popular places to have a picnic in Singapore. With a 360-degree view of the bay area, it’s not hard to see why. We love coming at dusk to enjoy the sunset before Singapore’s night skyscape takes over, but the only downside is that it can get crowded on weekends.
Changi Beach Park
Changi Beach has remained relatively undeveloped, and we hope it stays that way. We love its rustic kampong vibes! This is your best bet if you want to escape the weekend crowds that’s everywhere else. Near Carpark 1 is our favourite spot, with a great view of the sea. There is also a huge playground nearby for the kids, as well as toilets.