7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Serangoon Gardens

Serangoon Gardens, a charming residential enclave in Singapore, is a haven for digital nomads who enjoy the blend of local charm and modern amenities. While the area offers a peaceful environment for productivity, the weekends are a perfect time for these remote workers to explore and unwind. Singapore's strategic location in Southeast Asia also makes it an ideal base for quick getaways. Here are seven weekend destinations, including some offbeat options, that are easily accessible from Serangoon Gardens.

Pulau Ubin

Pulau Ubin is a throwback to Singapore's rustic past and a stark contrast to the city's modernity. This small island northeast of the mainland is a great place for cycling, hiking, and exploring the rich biodiversity of the Chek Jawa Wetlands. With its kampung (village) atmosphere, Pulau Ubin offers a tranquil escape where you can enjoy the simple pleasures of nature and traditional village life.

How to Get There: Take a bus or taxi to Changi Point Ferry Terminal, then a short bumboat ride to Pulau Ubin. The journey from Serangoon Gardens to the ferry terminal typically takes around 30 minutes by car.

Travel Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the island's trails and visit the Jejawi Tower for a panoramic view of the area. Don't miss out on spotting the rich wildlife, including wild boars and exotic birds.

Where to Stay: Accommodation on Pulau Ubin is limited, but you can consider camping or staying in basic chalets for an authentic experience.

Where to Eat: Try the local seafood at one of the few simple eateries near the jetty. The fresh fish and chili crab are local favorites.

Bintan Island, Indonesia

Just a ferry ride away from Singapore, Bintan Island in Indonesia is a popular weekend getaway for those looking to enjoy beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and golf courses. The island's northern coast, known as Lagoi, is where most tourists head to for its well-developed tourist facilities and activities such as snorkeling, ATV rides, and mangrove tours.

How to Get There: Take a ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore to Bandar Bentan Telani in Bintan. The journey takes about an hour, and the terminal is approximately a 20-minute drive from Serangoon Gardens.

Travel Tip: Visit the Lantern Park in Lagoi Bay, especially enchanting during the evening when the lanterns are lit up, depicting mythical creatures and famous landmarks.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at The Sanchaya or Banyan Tree Bintan for luxurious accommodations with stunning sea views and excellent facilities.

Where to Eat: The Kelong Seafood Restaurant is renowned for its fresh seafood dishes, offering a dining experience on stilts over the water.

Haw Par Villa

For an unusual and offbeat destination, Haw Par Villa is an eclectic park filled with colorful dioramas and statues depicting scenes from Chinese mythology and folklore. It's a cultural and historical treasure trove that offers a surreal experience unlike any other. The park's highlight is the Ten Courts of Hell exhibit, which portrays the afterlife in vivid detail.

How to Get There: Haw Par Villa is easily accessible by MRT on the Circle Line, which is a short ride from Serangoon Gardens. Alternatively, a taxi or bus can get you there in about 20 minutes.

Travel Tip: Join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the stories and symbolism behind the park's statues and dioramas.

Where to Stay: There are no accommodations within Haw Par Villa, but nearby areas like Pasir Panjang offer various hotels and serviced apartments.

Where to Eat: Try the nearby Pasir Panjang Food Centre for a variety of local dishes, such as Hainanese chicken rice and char kway teow.

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Nature enthusiasts will love Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, a hidden gem teeming with rich biodiversity. This mangrove forest reserve is a peaceful retreat where you can observe a variety of bird species, monitor lizards, and even crocodiles. The reserve offers walking trails and hides for bird-watching, making it an ideal spot for a quiet and educational weekend.

How to Get There: The reserve is located in the northwest of Singapore and can be reached by bus or taxi from Serangoon Gardens, taking about 40 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit during the migratory season from September to March to spot shorebirds from as far as Siberia.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are not available within the reserve, but nearby towns like Woodlands have several hotel options.

Where to Eat: Enjoy local delights at the nearby Bollywood Veggies' Poison Ivy Bistro, known for its farm-to-table concept and organic dishes.

Kranji Countryside

The Kranji Countryside is an agricultural heartland that offers a different side of Singapore. Visit local farms, such as Hay Dairies Goat Farm and Bollywood Veggies, to learn about sustainable farming practices and enjoy fresh produce. The area also hosts the Kranji Farmers' Market periodically, where you can buy local products and artisanal goods.

How to Get There: The Kranji Countryside is best accessed by car or taxi from Serangoon Gardens, with the journey taking approximately 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit to coincide with the Kranji Farmers' Market for a more vibrant experience and to sample a wide range of local products.

Where to Stay: There are no hotels in the Kranji Countryside, but you can opt for a farm stay experience at D'Kranji Farm Resort.

Where to Eat: The Gardenasia Bistro offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a menu that features locally sourced ingredients.

St. John's Island and Lazarus Island

St. John's Island and Lazarus Island are part of Singapore's Southern Islands and are perfect for a quiet beach getaway. Lazarus Island is particularly known for its pristine, crescent-shaped beach and tranquil atmosphere. You can also explore the marine life with a snorkeling session or simply relax by the sea.

How to Get There: Take a ferry from Marina South Pier to St. John's Island, and then walk across the causeway to Lazarus Island. The pier is about a 20-minute drive from Serangoon Gardens.

Travel Tip: Bring your own food and drinks as there are no shops on the islands, and remember to leave no trace to preserve the islands' natural beauty.

Where to Stay: Overnight stays are not allowed on Lazarus Island, but you can book a stay at the holiday bungalows on St. John's Island in advance.

Where to Eat: Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, as dining options are limited on these tranquil islands.

Coney Island Park

Coney Island Park is an ecologically sustainable park that offers a peaceful escape with its lush greenery and diverse wildlife. It's a great spot for bird watching, cycling, and exploring the island's rustic terrain. The park is also home to a wide variety of habitats, including coastal forests, grasslands, and mangroves.

How to Get There: Coney Island Park is accessible via Punggol Promenade Nature Walk, which is a short drive or bus ride from Serangoon Gardens.

Travel Tip: Visit the park early in the morning to enjoy the serenity and increase your chances of spotting the resident wildlife, such as the Oriental Magpie-robin or the Baya Weaver.

Where to Stay: There are no accommodations on Coney Island, but nearby Punggol has several hotel options.

Where to Eat: After exploring the park, head to Punggol Settlement for a variety of dining options with sea views, such as House of Seafood for its famous chili crab.

Whether you're looking for a beach retreat, a cultural experience, or a nature adventure, these weekend getaways from Serangoon Gardens offer something for every digital nomad seeking to balance work and leisure.