Sun and Surf: A Guide to Changi Beach Park
During World War II, Changi Beach Park saw the Sook Ching Massacre, with Japanese troops killing Chinese civilians. Today, it hosts markers and monuments preserving Singapore’s wartime history while offering a safe place for rest and recreation.
It’s also regarded as one of the best beaches in Singapore with its palm-fringed expanse, cycling paths, BBQ spots, and cafes.
If it’s your first visit, here’s a handy guide to the charms of Changi Beach Park.
Things to Know
Address: Nicoll Dr, Singapore 498991 (Google Maps)
Contact: +65 1800 4717300
Hours: Open 24 hours
Fee: Free admission
For barbecues, book one of 20 beachside barbecue pits (S$16 per day) in advance for scenic sea views while cooking and dining outdoors. Choose any available pit during booking.
For cyclists, hourly bike rental rates range from S$8 to S$20, depending on the bike type.
For parking, a S$2.40 fee applies for the first two hours.
Amenities: Toilets, showers, lockers, water coolers
Pet-friendly: Yes. Domesticated animals are allowed as long as they are kept on a leash and you clean up after them.
Parking: There are 7 car parks with different capacities for a variety of vehicles. Parking fees apply.
How long is Changi Beach?
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Changi Beach stretches for about 3.3 kilometres. Its sandy shores are perfect for strolls or relaxing moments by the sea.
The beach park, one of Singapore’s oldest coastal parks, maintains a ‘kampung’ atmosphere from the 1960s and ’70s. Upgraded in 2001 with S$4 million, it now boasts rustic charm and new facilities.
How to Get There
By bus: Changi Beach Park is accessible by Bus numbers 2, 29, 59, and 109 to Changi Village Bus Terminal. Next, follow Changi Point Coastal Walk to reach Changi Beach Park.
By train: To reach Changi Beach from across Singapore, take the MRT green line to Tanah Merah station, then transfer to Bus number 2 heading east.
By taxi/taxi alternative: Hail a taxi or ride share anywhere in Singapore, or pre-book through 6-DIAL-CAB at least 30 minutes before your trip.
By bike: Begin your journey at Changi Beach Car Park 7, accessible by car or taxi. Follow the 3.6-kilometre Changi Bay Park Connector which is marked by a prominent cycling bridge.
Best Time to Visit
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The best time to go to Changi Beach Park is typically during weekdays or early mornings on weekends to avoid crowds. Additionally, early evenings can offer beautiful sunset views.
It ultimately depends on your preference for activities and crowd tolerance. And it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast and plan your visit accordingly.
What to Do
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Chill in solitude at the beach
Does Changi Beach get crowded? Changi Beach can get popular, especially during weekends and public holidays, as it’s a great spot for picnics, barbecues, and recreational activities.
However, its expansive stretch of coastline usually provides enough space for visitors to find their secluded spot if they prefer. It typically doesn’t get as crowded as other beaches or parks in Singapore.
Swim in calm waters
Swimming is allowed at Changi Beach. It’s known for its relatively calm waters, making it suitable for leisurely dips.
But always exercise caution and be mindful of your surroundings. It’s important to note that the water may not always be suitable for swimming due to factors like tides, currents, and water quality.
Check local advisories and signs posted at the beach for any safety warnings before swimming. Avoid straying too far from the beach or shoreline due to proximity to the Changi ferry terminal.
Have picnics and BBQ parties
Changi Beach Park is ideal for weekend picnics, offering 15 shelters, pavilions, benches, and barbecue pits.
You might ask, “Can I put up a tent at Changi Beach?” Unfortunately, Changi Beach Park does not allow camping and you can’t pitch tents there.
Do some plane-spotting
Changi Beach visits are often accompanied by the roar of overhead planes from the nearby airport. Why not take the opportunity to enjoy plane spotting from aircraft coming and going to Changi Airport?
There’s a great vantage point from the Changi Coast Track. Carpark 4 and Carpark 5 offer the best views, especially with the setting sun as a backdrop.
Go fishing
Changi Beach is a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts due to its abundant fish species and convenient accessibility, with ample parking space. Look out for barracuda, snappers, groupers, threadfin salmon, catfish, angelfish, and mackerel.
But watch out because this beach is also famous for its large stingrays!
Jog or stroll at leisure
Enjoy a scenic 5-kilometre walk in Changi Beach Park with highlights including sunset views from the boardwalk, heritage kelong-like stilts (traditional offshore platforms built on stilts or piles), and various food stops.
The Changi Point Coastal Walk is perfect for runners, featuring scenic sections like Cliff, Beach, Creek, and Sailing Point Walks, all offering stunning seaside views.
There are designated pathways across the park for people to walk on and to protect the wildlife and natural environment. These paths don’t get crowded, though you can expect to meet or pass hikers, joggers, and people walking their dogs.
Admire and take pictures of the sunset
If you love capturing the golden hour, Changi Boardwalk offers prime sunrise and sunset views in Singapore.
It’s located near Changi Ferry Terminal and showcases some of the most breathtaking sunset vistas.
Check out the landmarks and historical monuments
Right away, you’ll see the island inscription at Changi Beach Park, which is a unique attraction in itself. It’s a sculpture of a hand pointing skyward and has become a favourite selfie spot.
A historical marker at Changi Coast Track near Carpark 2 commemorates the Sook Ching Massacre. Moreover, nearby are colonial-era buildings, which add to the historical ambience.