Singapore round island road trip
Hailing from the Eastern part of Singapore, I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s curious about what the rest of the island has to offer if we actually visited those far-flung and ulu places. This is especially true when meeting Westies who claim to live in the “best side”; when all that Google Maps shows is endless miles of industrial areas, shipping ports, and jungles.
So to answer the question of what each zone has to offer and possibly find which side is best, we embarked on a Singapore round–island road trip.
Table of Contents
– North –
1. Ku-Kai Izakaya
Seaside Japanese bar & eatery
After a long wait, travel restrictions have recently been lifted and people can now fly freely from Singapore to Japan. But those who are craving a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine without venturing abroad can drop by the SAF Yacht Club in Admiralty to dine at Ku-Kai Izakaya.
Located near the sea, this little-known izakaya – which translates to “stay-drink-place” – has all the feels of Japanese islands like Okinawa, complete with an abundance of palm trees and a prime sunset view. It even has its very own Torii gate with a red hanging lantern, great for wanderlust pictures.
The alfresco dining area makes heavy use of wooden furnishing and fixtures, giving the place a rustic and traditional ambience. Warm fairy lights and paper lanterns add to the cosiness, and you might very well forget that you’re in Singapore as you feel that sea breeze.
Image adapted from: 神武不败 & Joseph Tan via Google Maps
This makes it the perfect place to indulge in Japanese must-tries like Age-Gyoza ($12.80) and Jaga Mentaiko ($13), both of which pair exceptionally well with the light touch of Japanese beer like Sapporo – you can share twin beer towers with your drinking buddies for $120. Since seating is limited, we recommend calling them to reserve your seats to ensure a meal with a great view.
Ku-Kai Izakaya review: “I’ve been here multiple times, and for one the chicken tail is to die for. Imagine popcorn chicken, but its juicy, chewy and that bounce in your mouth will surprise you. Their kitchen menu is equally amazing especially their noodles and rice, give it a try if it havr big groups!” – James Ang via Google
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2. Kampong Wak Hassan
Beach hideout with a fusion restaurant
Kampong Wak Hassan was one of the oldest villages in Singapore, with a rich history dating back to 1914. While the village had to be cleared for modern housing projects in the 1990s, remnants of this kampong in the North can still be found near Sembawang Park.
Just don’t stay past sundown as the beach is a known hangout spot of Kakak Ponz, AKA the pontianak.
Next to the former village’s seawall is a short flight of stairs which leads to Sembawang Beach, just beyond the main entrance of Sembawang Park. This stretch may not be as large as other beaches in Singapore, but it’s on the quiet side and a good place to plonk down to enjoy the sights and sounds of the water.
Walk along the beach and you’ll see Sembawang Jetty up ahead which is great for fishing. Connecting the jetty is a flight of stairs up a small hill which leads to Beaulieu House.
This neoclassical residence-turned-military quarters is now a restaurant with scenic views and a nostalgic ambience.
They serve a variety of cuisine like Western and Asian, and is Halal certified as well. The Lamb Shank Rendang ($28) and Mongolian Sauce Diced Pork ($18) are some of the chef’s top picks, reflecting the Western and Asian influences that impact Beaulieu House.
Beaulieu House review: “Had a great birthday celebration here! The seafood was fresh and really delicious, and the overall atmosphere was nice and relaxed. What stood out most was the staff were super friendly, helpful, and made us feel very welcome. They were attentive without being overbearing and helped make the celebration extra enjoyable.” – Ranjini Shree via Google
– South –
3. Marina South Promenade
Hidden coastal gem
Image credit: Meng Fai Yip via Google Maps
Marina South Promenade is a stretch of breakwaters along the Southern bank of Singapore, located alongside Marina South Pier. Part of the reason why this may not be a frequently visited place is the fact that it’s shrouded by a treeline, making it difficult to see from the road.
Although there are no actual shelters there, there are plenty of trees that offer shade from the sun.
One of the lesser-developed parts of Singapore’s coast, you won’t find anything more than a sign that marks the promenade’s location.
It’s also one of the few places on our island where you can sit on the edge of the breakwater to admire the sights of ships and boats travelling in and out of the area. As far as settling in a natural paradise unmarred by manmade developments, this hidden gem is tough to beat.
– East –
4. NSRCC Sea Sports Centre
Swanky seaside restaurants
Image adapted from: Google Street View
The National Service Resort Country Club (NSRCC) Sea Sports Centre located along the Changi coastline is not just a place of water sports, but has different dining options as well. Although the Sea Sports Centre’s activities are mainly for members of the NSRCC, the area remains open to non-members, so feel free to swing by for great food and seaside views.
Image adapted from: Stella Seaside Lounge
One of the eateries is Stella Seaside Lounge, which has beach club vibes with its outdoor seating area and puts you right at the edge of the ocean. The sheltered alfresco area is a pet-friendly zone where you and your furkid can sit back for some R&R. Just take note that pets aren’t allowed on the main deck area.
Image adapted from: @stellaseasidelounge via Instagram
Their signature cocktails – like the Sunset Daiquiri ($24) – are a must-try and the Bonito Butter Garlic Prawns ($24) are an excellent option when it comes to finger foods to share.
Image credit: @zhengzichar via Instagram
Another dining option in the area is Zheng Zi Char, if you’re craving something with a more local flavour. Their Steamed Seafood Trio in Thai Sauce ($28) and Sweet and Sour Pork ($15) are some good picks from a wide variety of offerings.
Stella Seaside Lounge review: “If you love the sea, this is a cool place to relax and chill. Prices are on the high side but the quality of the food makes up for the price paid. We had the burger, fish and chips and shared the chicken wings. Staff is attentive and polite. Do make reservations cos even on a Wednesday evening, it was pretty packed with customers.” – Princess Mania via Google
5. Changi Point Coastal Walk
Scenic hiking trail
Just down the road from the NSRCC after an 18-minute drive is the Changi Point Coastal Walk. This 2.2km hiking trail has 6 different sections that trace the Changi shoreline, with multiple stops and lookout points that give you an unblocked view beyond the coast.
The starting point of the boardwalk is tucked away to the left of Changi Ferry Terminal, the only pier that has boat rides to and fro the island of Pulau Ubin. From this point, the trail begins with Creek Walk, the first open stretch of a platform that has views of both Ubin and Changi Beach Park.
After a 5-minute walk, you’ll reach the first of 4 lookout points that is directly behind Changi Golf Club. This lookout point is a prime spot for fishing or taking photos, since it’s close enough to both the pier and Changi Airport, and you’ll get to see both boats and planes coming and going.
Walking further down the path, you can expect to see more Hawaii-esque scenes with open air pathways along Beach Walk which is flanked by palm trees. You can also spot anchored yachts out in the sea from the Sailing Point Walk.
– West –
6. Tuas Lamp Post 1
Renowned landmark for cyclists
Image credit: @wheelygoodtimes via Instagram
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a place that is more ulu than Lamp Post 1 at Tuas South Boulevard. Over the years, this once-insignificant lamp post has become somewhat of a cultural landmark for cyclists who have made it their mission to undergo a pseudo-pilgrimage to the far West.
And this all started when a group of 60 cyclists from the Love Cycling SG Facebook group made a journey to Tuas and began the trend, pasting the inaugural “Pedal Until Shiok” sticker on the lamp post.
Initially used to mark the end of a cycling route, this now famous spot is one of the rare places where “legal vandalism” is allowed. This unprecedented exception made by former Transport Minister Ong Ye Kung himself in early 2021 was welcomed by cyclists, who have since been triumphantly marking the lamp post.
Over time, the aim shifted from simply marking the post to getting a sticker as high as possible. Those who manage to paste their sticker above the rest earn bragging rights, which has led to some using roadside barriers as platforms to stand on or even bringing their own ladders.
And despite its remote location, it’s still a revered spot for riders and it’s certainly one of the most unique places in Singapore, which makes the long journey there worth every minute – whether you’re venturing there on 2 wheels or 4.
Tuas Lamp Post 1 on Google Maps
7. Raffles Marina Lighthouse
IG-worthy landmark & views of JB
Image credit: Vincent Teo via Google Maps
The 12m-high Raffles Marina Lighthouse is another icon in the West that is definitely worth checking out if you’re into beautiful sunsets.
Looking like something straight out of a Hollywood blockbuster, this privately owned and maintained landmark – or seamark – is located right at the tip of the Raffles Marina Club. As a nifty bonus, from the outer perimeter of the pier, you can enjoy a good view of the Tuas Causeway and bustling JB.
While the place may be scenic and beautiful, picnics and any informal dining are unfortunately not allowed along the pier. But you can grab a nice meal at the Marina Bistro before heading down to see the lighthouse during a romantic evening out.
To find out more about photoshoot permissions and even a fishing staycation, read our Raffles Marina Lighthouse guide.
Explore the ulu side of Singapore
Maybe you haven’t decided which side is best after hopping on this road trip, but one thing’s for certain – there isn’t a single boring side in Singapore. Next time you feel like exploring, hit up your friends for a trip to the ends of our island.
Check out more unique spots in Singapore:
- Most ulu places in Singapore
- Guide to 195 Pearl’s Hill Terrace
- Post service at the southernmost point
Photography by Ian Sim and Afiqah Amir.
Article originally published on 14th Oct 2022 by Brendan Yee. Last updated by Andrea Chandra Putri on 20th May 2026.