If you’re a regular early riser, you’ve probably seen plenty of Instagram-worthy sunrises in your time – especially if you like to get out for an early morning walk or run. There’s just something about being up and about before everyone else that induces the sort of calm that only the predawn hush can inspire. Even if you’re not, it can still be worth dragging yourselves out of bed at least once when you’re on vacation, to watch a different part of the world gradually come to life around you – that’s if you’re not still up partying from the night before, of course!
Fortunately, in Singapore, the proximity to the equator means that the sun rises at a pretty consistent time throughout the year, generally between 6:45 and 7:15am, which is not too early. And with so much water, the colors and reflections make sunrises almost impossibly glorious – spectacular enough to make early-birds of even the most night-owlish of us. Depending on whether you prefer nature or cityscape backgrounds, you could head to:
- Marina Bay
- Mount Faber Peak
- Merlion Park
- The Chinese Garden
- Changi Boardwalk
- Pulau Ubin
Marina Bay
If you’re lucky enough to be staying at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, head up to the roof just before dawn and watch the sunrise from the gently lapping water of the Infinity Pool. Look down from the highest point in the city as the lights go out and are replaced by thousands of tiny glass reflections. If you’re not, head to the nearby Dragonfly and Kingfisher Lakes, where you’ll get a spectacular view of the hotel, Gardens by the Bay and Floral Fantasy from ground level. Enjoy a stroll around the lakes and see if you can spot any local residents hiding just below the surface of the water. Or if you want to find a spot that looks over the bay and the ocean, try the Marina Barrage, which is a reservoir and rooftop park popular with picnickers and kite flyers.
Mount Faber Park
If you like an early morning hike to get the blood pumping, then a trek up to Faber Peak, the west of the city center, is a pretty trail with a rewardingly good view at the end. You can start at the Harborfront Exit D and take the Marang Trail, which is only 800 meters to the top of the Point, or take the Henderson Waves Bridge, which is the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore and is designed to mimic the curves and twists of a wave. Once you’re at the top, stop to watch the sunrise over the city then take the Cable Car over to Sentosa Island, where you’ll find beaches, old forts, Madame Tussauds and Universal Studios.
Merlion Park
Merlion Park sits on the tip of the Marina with a prime view across the bay and to the east, making it an ideal spot for a sunrise snap. Catch the distinctive silhouette of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel and its reflection in the water and watch as the sun’s rays creep over the imposing Merlion statue, the half-lion half-fish symbol of the city. Fortunately, this spot is right in the city center, so you won’t have to factor in much travel time when you set your alarm – however you will find this is one of the most popular sunrise viewing places in the city, especially with photographers. If you’re after that winning image you’ll have to get there early – if not, find a comfortable place to sit and just sit and watch the scene unfold.
Chinese Garden
A hidden haven of tranquility, the Chinese Garden in Singapore is a 13.5-hectare manicured garden dotted with ponds, paths and pagodas. It’s open daily from 6am so you’ll have plenty of time to find a place to sit and meditate, or just walk gently around and listen as the birds herald the coming of the sun and water features burble gently in the background. If you look around, you’ll see clear water and white pagodas glowing in the sun’s early rays - could there be a more peaceful way to start the day? Well, only if you stop by the teahouse for a traditional Chinese brew, of course.
Changi Boardwalk
To the east of the city is Sungai Changi, a tidal creek that creates a natural coastal wetland full of the kind of wildlife that starts to come to life at dawn. Along that particular stretch of coast, and finishing at the river mouth, is the Changi Boardwalk, a 2.2km wooden trail that looks out over Singapore’s Islands and to Malaysia in the distance. Walk from west to east to get the full view of the sunrise and its colors reflected in the water, or find the shelter near the golf club and enjoy your breakfast while you watch. There are plenty of places nearby to grab a coffee afterwards, or walk back along the path in the daylight when you’ll have more chance of spotting a native skink or starfish.
Pulau Ubin
Just off the north-east coast of the city is the island of Pulau Ubin, home of Singapore’s last remaining traditional village and one of the best places in the city to catch the sunrise. This one takes a little effort, as you need to be up early enough to get the first ferry at 6am, but from there it’s only a ten-minute ride and a short walk to find a nice spot on the beach. Since you’re there you may as well spend some time exploring the island – one of the best ways to do this is in a kayak, since the water is so calm. Paddle through mangroves and around the village, and if you’re lucky you might spot a kingfisher or even an otter!
Get up and go with Go City
Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, there’s always plenty to see in Singapore! Make the most of your time with a Go City Explorer or All-Inclusive Pass, which gives you entrance to dozens of attractions all around the city. So grab a Singapore pass and save while you sightsee!
