While Singapore is certainly a bustling city, it’s also home to tranquil hideaways and lush green spaces that are perfect for picnics on lazy afternoons. Enjoy the tropical weather, bask in the sunshine and read on for our guide to the top places in the Lion City to have a picnic.


For an outing with friends

Sentosa

If your ideal image of a weekend afternoon involves white sands and pristine waters, make a beeline for Sentosa and its trio of beaches. Lay your mat out right next to the sea and sunbathe along Tanjong Beach, or work up a sweat with a round of volleyball at Siloso Beach.

Sentosa is also home to myriad beachside bars and cafes, which make for convenient pitstops to get your grub. If you’re looking for thrills and spills after getting your dose of tranquillity, be sure to drop by HydroDash or Skypark Sentosa.

If you’re planning an outing in the evening, we suggest visiting Palawan Green as an alternative—You’ll be treated to magnificent sunset views of the South China Sea.

For detailed instructions on the multiple ways to get to Sentosa, click here.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

A botanical wonder nestled in the heart of town, Singapore Botanic Gardens is a popular haunt for nature-loving locals and travellers alike.

There’re a whole range of scenic options for picnicking, but we recommend the Bandstand, the Shaw Foundation Stage or the Swan Lake. The latter is home to iconic swan statues, which make for a great for a group photo or three.

For a more secluded location, walk further into the gardens, to the newly-opened Gallop Extension.  This eight-hectare space is home to a conserved black-and white bungalow that dates back to the 19th century, as well as a nature-themed play space where you can while away the afternoon.

Singapore Botanic Gardens. 1 Cluny Road, Singapore 259569. Daily 5am-midnight.

Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park

A hidden heartland gem, Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park is one of the largest parks in Singapore, and ideal destination for a Sunday afternoon getaway.

Settle on a space along the open lawns facing the river, or enjoy the shade under the many towering trees. Sports lovers and families tend to frequent the park on the weekend, so bring a ball or frisbee to join in the fun!

Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park. Along Bishan Road and Ang Mo Kio Ave 1.


For family fun

Marina Barrage

For an unforgettable, 360-degree view of Singapore’s iconic skyline, mosey on by Marina Barrage, a popular spot for kite-flyers and families enjoying the weekend.

We suggest cycling or strolling here with the family from Gardens by the Bay while enjoying the balmy breeze along the river. Be sure to time your picnic for the later part of the day, so that you can enjoy the amazing sunset view.

If you can, stay till sunset for a visual treat.

Marina Barrage. 8 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018951. Daily 24 hours.

Green Roof at Marina Barrage. Mon-Thu 8am-9pm; Fri-Sun & PH 8am-10pm.

Labrador Nature Reserve

Located along Singapore’s southern coast, Labrador Nature Reserve is a picturesque locale that makes for an ideal weekend getaway with the family.

Take a stroll along the scenic Bukit Chermin Boardwalk—which boasts a beautiful coastal view—or explore the mangroves of Berlayer Creek, while keeping an eye out for rare birds like the White-bellied Fish Eagle or the Brahminy Kite.

If you’re feeling peckish, head to the nearby Tamarind Hill Restaurant. Located in a charming colonial bungalow, the restaurant serves up a range of tantalising Thai fare.

Labrador Nature Reserve. Along Labrador Villa Road.


For a romantic reprieve

Fort Canning Park

Besides being a venue that hosts plays, rock concerts and even ballet productions, Fort Canning Park is a great picnic spot on regular afternoons.

The park is home to bountiful heritage and nature, and you’ll be able to spend the day exploring the Fort Canning Spice Garden, admiring the mural at Pancur Larangan, and discover fascinating facets of history at the Artisan’s Garden.

When you’re done, we recommend setting down your picnic basket at the sprawling Fort Canning Green or the grounds at Fort Gate if you’re searching for shade on a warm afternoon.

Fort Canning Park. Bounded by Hill Street, Canning Rise, Clemenceau Avenue and River Valley Road. Singapore 179618.

Canterbury Road

Couples searching for their very own secret garden out of a fairy tale should make at trek to Canterbury Road.

A five-minute walk away from Hort Park, this serene stretch’s romantic atmosphere makes it a go-to destination for wedding photographers looking to snap the perfect shot, with its open fields, blue skies and golden sunsets at dusk.

Getting to Canterbury Road: Take Bus 51,61 or 120, alighting at SP Jain School of Global Management, before heading west along Hyberabad Road.

If you’re walking, head west from Hort Park along Hyberabad Road— Canterbury Road is at the junction before Berkshire Road.