It’s no secret that most of us spend several hours daily staring at a computer screen. And according to the sagely wisdom of our parents, taking a break and looking at lush greenery can help rest those eyes. But if you’ve done and dusted weekend walks through one of Singapore’s many nature reserves, check out Bay East Garden, a lesser-known green space right in the city.
Bay East Garden may be easily overlooked by those who prefer the towering Supertrees and Flower Dome exhibits of Gardens by the Bay. However, give this place a chance and this just might become your new favourite jogging spot or cycling route.
Image credit: @lim.swee.10 via Instagram
With everyone jumping on the fitness craze these days, outdoor spots like East Coast Park tend to be relatively packed, especially over the weekends. Bay East Garden is a worthy alternative thanks to having sparser crowds, making it a quiet and peaceful retreat. Plus, it’s just a 20-minute walk from GBTB, making it convenient to get to.
Filled with wide open spaces, this is a good location if you’re looking for a new exercise spot.
Image credit: Gardens by the Bay
It being “hidden” doesn’t mean it scrimps on the views either. Take a scenic jog around and discover the lotus and reed ponds tucked within the lush gardens – the perfect backdrop for that post-workout selfie.
Image credit: Raymond Koh via Flickr
If you head to the waterfront, you’ll get a panoramic view of Singapore’s iconic skyline. Marina Bay Sands, the F1 Pit Building, Singapore Flyer, and not to mention GBTB’s Flower Dome and Cloud Forest can all be seen from the garden.
Image credit: @ti.lu.na via Instagram
The main path that runs next to the waterfront stretches 2km, making it ideal for outdoor activities. On a clear day, you might see joggers, cyclists, and skaters cruising down the paved road while enjoying the picturesque views.
The good news is that the smaller crowd size means that the paths are relatively empty. This is definitely the spot for parents looking to teach their children how to cycle for the first time or if you’re picking up a new activity like rollerblading.
For non-bike owners, the Marina Bay GoCycling outlet offers affordable bike rentals, and you can cycle to Bay East Garden from there. This opens up a whole new cycling adventure instead of the typical ECP-Marina Barrage route.
Image credit: @tissuepaperrr via Instagram
If you need a place to rest, the garden is also connected to Marina Barrage, which is a 2.3km bike ride or walk from the Bay East Garden Visitor Centre.
Known as a popular picnic spot, this is a great place for a fun weekend gathering with your friends. You could even try your hand at kite flying by renting your own kites and competing against each other on a clear day.
If you’re already checking out Gardens by the Bay or the Marina Barrage, you’ll want to cross the Marina Barrage Dam to get to Bay East Garden. Alternatively, you can also reach the park by alighting at Tanjong Rhu MRT station along the Thomson-East Coast Line. It’s a 12-minute walk thereafter to reach Bay East Garden.
Come here during the late evening to be treated to an even more spectacular view of the sunset and night lights
Image credit: Jeffrey Tan via Flickr
When life gets too overwhelming, it’s good to give yourself a break. A quiet respite right in the heart of Singapore, Bay East Garden is a place worth considering the next time you’re looking to destress.
Check out other nature spots:
Cover image adapted from: @st.foong, @_eva.ngo_, @_hilmiphotography_, @calvincheee via Instagram
Originally published on 9th July 2021. Last updated by Raewyn Koh on 11th July 2024.
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