Discover Hidden Gems of Singapore

You wanna explore Singapore but not in the usual way? I’ve got you covered. The popular spots, Marina Bay Sands, Orchard Road, and Gardens by the Bay, are cool, but exploring the unexplored is more than amazing. Singapore isn’t just the glamorous skyscrapers, fun-filled amusement parks, and innovative attractions, but also the quiet villages, charming hilltops, and coastal gems. The spots that show you the wildest and most authentic side of Singapore are also those that travellers have uncovered. Escape the crowds and visit the underrated hidden gems of Singapore, such as Pearl’s Hill City Park, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Everton Road Murals, Japanese Cemetery Park, and Seletar Fishing Village. I have specially curated a list of Singapore’s top 10 off-the-beaten-path spots for you.

Top 10 Hidden Places in Singapore

• Pearl’s Hill City Park
• Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
• Everton Road Murals
• Japanese Cemetery Park
• The Projector
• Jurong Eco Garden
• Seletar Fishing Village
• Hampstead Wetlands Park
• Johor Strait Lighthouse
• Gillman Barracks

Pearl’s Hill City Park

I stumbled upon Pearl’s Hill City Park during a walk from Outram Park MRT. It is a beautiful and huge oasis built around a reservoir, offering a lush green space that is tranquil right in the heart of the city. If you take a stroll through the park, you might spot beautiful birds and small animals. All it takes to unwind and relax is to spend some time in the park.

Best time to visit: November to February

Address: Chin Swee Road, Singapore 169879

Pro tip: Don’t forget to bring mosquito repellent.

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Exploring Sungei Buloh felt like stepping into an entirely different ecosystem. Isn’t walking amidst never-ending mangroves surrounded by the sounds of nature magical? The sanctuary is the side of Singapore you wouldn’t have witnessed before. Just raw, wild, and authentic, unlike any other. This spot is vast and covers almost 130 hectares with several mudskippers, herons, crocodiles, and even migratory birds. It is a must-visit spot among the offbeat places in Singapore.

Best time to visit: September to March

Address: 301 Neo Tiew Crescent, Singapore 718925

Pro tip: Wear proper walking shoes and bring binoculars for birdwatching.

Checkout: Ichiran Ramen in Singapore Food Festival

Everton Road Murals

This sleepy neighbourhood surprised me. It’s a quiet neighbourhood that has come alive with artistic walls and picturesque paintings. The outdoor gallery might not be extravagant, but it is the best place to witness paintings that depict the lifestyle of old Singapore. Everton Roads murals aren’t just art; they’re life itself. The uncommercialised spot is the perfect place to look at nostalgic scenes that are deeply moving.

Best time to visit: December to March

Address: Everton Road, Singapore 089375

Pro tip: Pair this visit with cafes nearby.

Japanese Cemetery Park

Walking through this park in spring is like entering a scene from Kyoto. The most underrated cemetery in Singapore, which is calm and picturesque, is the Japanese Cemetery Park. Ever been entranced by cherry blossoms? The enchanting effects of cherry blossoms are real. Walking through the park feels like entering the streets of Kyoto surrounded by pinkish beauty. The history speaks for itself through the stone lanterns, wooden torii gates, and ornate tombstones.

Best time to visit: March to April

Address: 22 Chuan Hoe Ave, Singapore 549854

Pro tip: Respect the sacred grounds and wear a modest outfit.

The Projector

The Projector is a date spot for cinema lovers and cultural buffs alike. (Solo dates count as well.) The grainy film, vintage couches, and craft beers remind you of an old-school theatre with a few modern features. It is safe to say it is a combination of retro vibes in a modern setting. The projector is not just for old classics but for anything from local documentaries to foreign classics.

Best time to visit: Year-round

Address: 6001 Beach Road, #05-00 Golden Mile Tower, Singapore 199589

Pro tip: Arrive early if you want to have the best seats.

Jurong Eco Garden

An ecological park with an urban twist, isn’t it fascinating? I visited this eco garden with friends, and it was truly magical. Jurong Eco Garden is unarguably one of the most beautiful hidden places in Singapore, with its extraordinary forest trails, wetlands, and breathtaking butterfly garden. If you are wondering who it is ideal for, it is for anyone from kids to adults and serves as a spot to relax, learn, and spend quality time with loved ones.

Best time to visit: October to February

Address: Cleantech Loop, Singapore 637143

Pro tip: Bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun and keep yourself hydrated.

Seletar Fishing Village

While plenty of places have been urbanised, Seletar fishing village hasn’t changed much, and it is a relic of the simple old times. A rowboat ride with a local fisherman named Ah Fatt introduced me to this tranquil village. The authentic experiences you can get at this spot are dreamy walks through mangroves, rides in a rowboat, and living in rustic huts. Watching a sunset is mesmerising, as the sky displays its splendour through the pink and golden hues.

Best time to visit: January to March

Address: End of Seletar North Link, Singapore

Pro tip: Wear sturdy shoes and try to explore nearby mangroves.

Hampstead Wetlands Park

As it is situated near the Seletar Aerospace Park, it has become a contrasting mix of nature and aviation. You don’t just hear the sounds of kingfishers but also the distant hum of planes, insects that aren’t in sight, and flowing water. Hampstead Wetlands Park is a peaceful spot that offers more than just a relaxing atmosphere.

Best time to visit: November to February

Address: 1 Baker St, Singapore 799977

Pro tip: Combine your visit with brunch at Wheeler’s Estate.

Johor Strait Lighthouse

The Johor Strait Lighthouse stands tall on the edge of Raffles Marina in Tuas, overlooking the border of Malaysia. You might not have heard about it, as it is one of the less crowded places in Singapore. The first time I came here, the sky turned peach and the water reflected every hue; it was one of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen. Access to the lighthouse is restricted, but you can view it from a distance with its surreal backdrop. 

Best time to visit: February to April

Address: 10 Tuas West Dr, Singapore 638404

Pro tip: You can’t enter the lighthouse, but walk the pier for stunning views.

Gillman Barracks

The colonial architecture and the green spaces make Gilman Barracks stand out. It used to be a British military camp, and now it’s a gorgeous art space that hosts multiple exhibitions. It is home not to one gallery but to several with international calibre. You must not miss out on a fascinating walk on the cobblestone streets and the aesthetic cafes like Creamier and Handlebar.

Best time to visit: September to November

Address: 9 Lock Road, Singapore 108937

Pro tip: Visit during gallery event nights.

I hope you’ve got a glimpse of the hidden world of Singapore, which is worth visiting for authentic experiences and a charming lifestyle. Singapore is full of surprises if you turn away from the crowds. Every one of the best hidden gems of Singapore mentioned above is unique and is sure to give you different perspectives of the country. If you are convinced to create your memories here, book your Singapore tour package, hop on the plane and experience what Singapore has to offer!