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Your Guide to a Slow Day at Punggol Waterway Park
- History & Background
- Things to Know
- Rules and Restrictions
- How to Get to Punggol Waterway Park
- What to Do
- Cycle, jog, or go on a nature walk
- Greet the day on Sunrise Bridge
- Cross the Adventure Bridge
- Go kayaking or canoeing
- Frolic in the water play area
- Visit the heritage zone
- Have a picnic
- Work out at the fitness corner
What started as a simple afternoon walk turned into a delightful discovery of Punggol Waterway Park a few years back. It perfectly blends nature, recreation, and tranquillity, making it ideal for families, couples, and anyone seeking a scenic escape.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to make the most of your visit, from the best spots to catch the sunrise to the hidden gems you will want to take advantage of.
History & Background
Punggol Waterway Park is part of the Punggol New Town development and was officially opened in 2011. What makes its history notable is that it’s an entirely man-made feature, built as part of Singapore’s efforts to create a more eco-friendly and sustainable living environment.
The waterway itself, often referred to as the “Venice of Punggol,” was created by connecting the Punggol Reservoir to the Serangoon Reservoir, allowing water to flow between the two.
Things to Know
Location: Sentul Crescent
Contact: +6518004717300
Hours: Open 24 hours
Fees: Free entry
Pet friendly? Yes
Accessibility: Wide, paved pathways for wheelchairs and mobility devices, ramps, PWD-friendly restrooms
Amenities: Playgrounds, fitness corners, cycling and jogging paths, picnic spots, shelters and pavilions, restrooms, water stations, viewing platforms, bridges, car parks, bicycle rental stations
Rules and Restrictions
✔ Keep pets leashed
✔ Stay on designated jogging and bike paths
✖ No smoking
✖ No littering
✖ No open fires or BBQs
✖ No loud noises
✖ No fishing
How to Get to Punggol Waterway Park
Closest MRT: Take the North East Line (NEL) and alight at Punggol MRT Station (NE17/PTC). Head to the Punggol LRT (Loop) from the station and board the West Loop. Alight at the Damai LRT Station (PE7), the closest stop to the park. From there, it’s just a short walk to the park entrance.
Closest bus station: Take any of the following bus services: 84, 382G, or 382W, and alight at the nearest bus stop along Sentul Crescent, such as the “Waterway Park” bus stop (Bus Stop ID: 65261).
By car: The most convenient parking options are at Car Park A and Car Park B, both accessible from Sentul Crescent and near the main entrance.
What to Do
Cycle, jog, or go on a nature walk
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The park’s trails are well-maintained and spacious, making them perfect for cyclists and joggers. They wind through diverse landscapes, from lush greenery to serene watersides.
As you stroll along, you’ll encounter a variety of flora and fauna like lizards and birds. I’ve even come across a sign telling of a tapir sighting in the area! Now that’s something you don’t see in any old park anywhere, at any given time.
With the park’s multiple entry points and connecting bridges, you can also easily change your route and explore new areas each visit.
Greet the day on Sunrise Bridge
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One of the best ways to start your day at Punggol Waterway Park is by greeting the sunrise on Sunrise Bridge. This iconic spot offers stunning views as the first light of day breaks over the water, casting a golden glow across the park.
The bridge is elevated, providing a perfect vantage point to watch the sun slowly rise, filling the sky with beautiful hues. What can I say? Watching the sunrise there made me a morning person.
Cross the Adventure Bridge
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Crossing the Adventure Bridge at Punggol Waterway Park is a small thrill that adds a bit of excitement to your visit. This wobbly, suspension-style bridge is designed to give you a fun, slightly bouncy experience as you walk across it.
Suspended over the waterway, the bridge offers a bit of an adrenaline rush and a unique perspective of the park. It’s especially popular with kids who love the feeling of adventure it brings, but it’s equally enjoyable for adults looking to add a playful twist to their walk.
Go kayaking or canoeing
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Kayaking or canoeing at Punggol Waterway Park offers a refreshing way to experience the park from a different perspective. Gliding along the calm waterway, you can soak in the natural beauty of the park as you paddle at your own pace.
Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a beginner, the waterway is perfect for a peaceful yet engaging adventure on the water. I was a bit hesitant, as I had never done it before, but I quickly found it to be a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Frolic in the water play area
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Located near the recreation zone of the park, this area is designed for endless fun and laughter. It features a variety of interactive water jets, fountains, and shallow pools where children can splash around and cool off on a hot day.
I remember taking my niece and nephew to the water play area one particularly warm afternoon. Their eyes lit up as soon as they saw the fountains shooting up water, and they couldn’t wait to jump in!
Visit the heritage zone
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The heritage zone at Punggol Waterway Park is a charming area that pays homage to Punggol’s rich history as a former fishing village and rural settlement. In this zone, you can find old-style street lamps and heritage-inspired features that reflect the area’s past.
The paths are lined with native plants, evoking the rustic charm of old Punggol. There are also informative signs that provide historical insights, allowing visitors to appreciate the transformation of Punggol from a quiet village to a modern eco-town.
Have a picnic
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With numerous grassy spots and picnic tables scattered throughout the park, you can easily find a peaceful corner to lay out your picnic mat and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Packing a variety of snacks, drinks, and even some games or a good book will enhance your picnic, turning it into a delightful outdoor retreat. And remember, as always, clean up after your meal to keep the park pristine for everyone to enjoy.
Work out at the fitness corner
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The park’s fitness corners are well-equipped outdoor exercise areas designed to help visitors stay active. Each fitness corner is strategically placed along the park’s trails to incorporate a quick workout into your walking, jogging, or cycling route.
Scattered throughout the park, these fitness corners feature a range of equipment catering to different workout needs, including pull-up bars, sit-up benches, stationary bikes, and elliptical trainers.
