Singapore’s moniker of ‘Garden City’ is certainly well-deserved, given the lush pockets of greenery that flourish in this metropolis. Its perennially sunny weather makes taking in the great outdoors an evergreen idea – and what better to do in the sun than enjoy a picnic? Here are suggestions of where to head to for a breezy, delicious day out with loved ones, along with where you might score picnic supplies and takeaway-friendly food.
Botanic Gardens
Kicking off this list of local picnic spots is the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the first and only tropical botanic garden on the UNESCO’s World Heritage list. Established in 1822, the park has since flourished and remains a popular tourist attraction. There are plenty of great spots for picnicking, but one of the best is the sloping field in front of Symphony Lake. With plenty of shaded spots and regular concerts and performances, it’s ideal for a day out with the family.
If you’re picnicking at Botanic Gardens, getting a picnic basket couldn’t be easier. Bee’s Knees at The Garage offers a ready-made ‘Picnic Buzzket’ that can be ordered online three days in advance. It includes gourmet treats like fries, rice bowls, salads, pizzas and refreshing summer coolers to beat the heat. The Garage is located within the gardens, right next to the Cluny Park Gate entrance.
Palawan Beach
The golden sands and invigorating sea breeze at Palawan Beach make it a lovely gathering spot. While it can get a little crowded on weekends, head down on a weekday and you’ll find plenty of room to lay down a mat and soak in the rays while grazing on your favourite picnic bites.
The host of restaurants and convenience stores nearby offer takeaway options, but for a truly elevated selection of picnic food, grab a picnic box from Le Faubourg, a café that’s 10 minutes’ walk from Palawan Beach. Their convenient picnic sets are meant for two to share and include a selection of savoury croissants, mini sweet crepes, drinks, dips and optional Champagne, cider or rosé.
Kallang Riverside Park
Tranquil and replete with waterfront views, Kallang Riverside Park is another great option for a picnic in Singapore. This park is home to a watersports centre where you can rent kayaks and canoes, but those who’d rather take it easy can set up by the water’s edge and watch the adrenaline junkies take to the waves instead.
If you’re picnicking with the family, skip the prep work and order a Family Graze Kit from Lush Platters. The kit can be delivered to your doorstep and serves four adults. It includes a cheese platter, salad and mains such as marinated chicken thighs and fresh Tasmanian salmon. You’ll also get sides like garlic and herb bread or a roasted potato salad. Note that a two-day advance notice is required.
Marina Barrage
Aside from being an integral source of Singapore’s water supply, the Marina Barrage is also one of the best places to take in the iconic Singapore skyline. Here you’ll find a gently sloping grass patch that extends from the entrance of the barrage upwards across its rooftop. Thanks to its elevated location and unobstructed surroundings, it’s ideal for kite-flying and catching the sunset.
For a fuss-free picnic basket option, you can opt to order a basket curated to your tastes, from The Shake Affinity. This includes wines, cheeses, pastries, cocktails and more. As each of their picnic baskets is completely customised, you’ll have to email them directly to order. Advance notice is recommended.
Jurong Lake Gardens
Jurong Lake Gardens offers a little bit of everything. Before your picnic, take the kids to Forest Ramble, an activity area inspired by the freshwater swamp habitat of the park. There’s also Clusia Cove, a water-themed playground that features a sandy beach with an artificial wave pool that mimics tidal patterns. Nature lovers can explore the park’s unique grassland and swamp habitats and watch the park’s resident birdlife, while the grassland area is a great spot to set up your picnic.
For food, prepare beforehand and grab a takeaway meal from Fusion Spoon, located on the side of the park that faces Yuan Ching Road. Here you’ll have a mix of local specialties to choose from including nasi lemak and other picnic-friendly dishes like sandwiches.
Fort Canning
Once the site of 14th century kings and the seat of power for the local British garrison pre-independence, Fort Canning Park is perhaps the most historical picnic destination on this list. The park itself offers many shaded spots for a picnic. The Fort Canning Green, a sloping spot of grass in front of Fort Canning Centre is the most popular. The park is also home to the annual Festival at The Fort as well as outdoor yoga and art classes. For news on upcoming events, the Eventbrite has a helpful schedule here.
The park’s central location between the Orchard Road stretch and the CBD means you’ve got plenty of options for picnic food. At shopping mall Plaza Singapura just five minutes away, supermarket CS Fresh offers an upmarket selection of groceries including artisanal loafs as well as a stellar charcuterie and cheese selection.
East Coast Park
Last but not least, there’s the popular East Coast Park. Measuring over 15 kilometres, it’s easy to find a quiet area by the beach. While the park has several car parks and drop-off points, the most fun way to explore and find a picnic spot is by bike, which can be rented throughout the park. Set up near the shore and you can also enjoy spectacular sunset views across the Singapore Strait.
For food, plan beforehand and order picnic-friendly fare from Da Paolo Gastronomia. The bistro offers home delivery for their conveniently prepackaged meals like lasagnes and cold salads, along with pizzas and pastries. Orders must be made two days in advance, before noon.
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