Rise and shine! Head over to East Coast Park, Marina Barrage and other scenic destinations to capture Instagram-worthy photos of the early Golden Hour.
While most of us prefer catching the sunset as we care too much for our beauty sleep, watching the sunrise is something you must try at least once in your lifetime. Plus there’s so much more you can do in the mornings like go on a nature hike or having breakfast like a champion or squeeze in time for a swim. Time to change our habits!
Marina Bay, Singapore
Aside from being Singapore’s swankiest district with glitzy shopping malls such as The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands and world-class attractions like Gardens by the Bay and The Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay is also a great vicinity to capture the enthralling sunrise as it shines across the Marina Bay skyline. Located adjacent to the Central Business District, you can grab an early morning jogging session to see the sunrise before heading to work.
Marina Bay, Singapore
Marina Barrage
Marina Barrage is not only great for kite flying; this waterfront venue is also a good place to catch the sunrise in Singapore. The reflection of the morning hues of sun on the reservoir proves to be a picture-perfect moment; the catch: it is not that accessible by public transport, especially early in the morning!
Marina Barrage, 8 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018951
Changi Boardwalk
It may be far out in the East but on the bright side, there’s all the food in the area when you’re done sun-watching. Photography: Tham WyeKheungSince the sun rises from the East, Changi Boardwalk is probably one of the best places in Singapore to catch the sunrise! Located near the Changi coast, you get to enjoy the morning breeze while waiting for the sun to make its fabulous morning appearance. From the Changi Ferry Terminal, walk along the boardwalk until you’ve spotted a small hut; that’s the spot for the morning spectacular!
Changi Boardwalk, 51 Lorong Bekukong, Changi, East Singapore 499172
Pasir Ris Park
There’s plenty to do at this charming and tranquil park – from pony rides and water sports to cycling, inline skating and barbecue. What’s more? You can also see the sun gracefully emerging into the dark morning sky over here. Enter the six-hectare mangrove forest at the park via the boardwalks, walk until you arrive at the three-storey high Bird Watching Tower, and then make your way to the top for the best view ever!
Pasir Ris Park, Pasir Ris Central, Singapore 510534
East Coast Park
Ask any regular sunrise spotters and they’ll point you to East Coast Park. With the beach and ships adding to the charm, it’s highly likely you’ll get pretty, scenic photographs of the sunrise. Do an early morning jog along the park or a crack of dawn cycling session to get there on time for the sunrise!
East Coast Park, East Coast Park Service Rd, Singapore 449876
Yishun Dam
You may or may not want to join the couples heading here for an outdoor date experience at sunset, but heading here to catch the sunrise is always a good idea. Make your way down to this dam, located at the northern part of Singapore for a beautiful start to the day. (Heads up: the best way to get here is by car.)
Yishun Dam, Yishun Avenue 1, Singapore 769130
Mount Faber Park
Another great spot to see the sunrise? Mount Faber. Catch the Singapore city skyline gradually appearing across the horizon as it gets brighter at the top of the hill.
Mount Faber Park, Junction of Kampong Bahru Road and, Telok Blangah Rd, Singapore 099448
Punggol Waterway Park
Even though the famous Instagram tree has ceased to exist, you can still capture the beautiful sunrise at Punggol Waterway Park. Just remember to go all the way to the Sunrise Bridge to get the best view of the sunrise. Don’t say we didn’t tell ya!
Punggol Waterway Park, Sentul Crescent Road, Singapore 822313
Lower Seletar Reservoir Park
Imagine the sun juxtaposed against the turquoise waters: Lower Seletar Reservoir Park is indeed an awesome place to spot the sunrise in Singapore. Plant yourself on a bench along the edge of the reservoir: the great view will make the 5am wake up call worth it. You can also walk over to the jetties for another great sunrise viewing spot.
Lower Seletar Reservoir Park, Yishun Avenue 1, Singapore 769139
Sembawang Park
A mix of industrial-grunge and idyllic seaside vibes can be found on this beach. Marvel at the cranes and constructions in the distance for an edgy sunrise, or settle for the postcard-perfect coconut tree-by-the-beach sunrise – whatever floats your boat.
Sembawang Park, Sembawang Road
Coney Island
This 50-hectare park is home to more than 80 species of feathered creatures, making it perfect for a day of bird-watching. Otherwise, take a hike around the park on a bicycle or on foot. While cycling on the main path, look out for signs that’ll direct you to five beach areas. While these areas don’t offer pristine shores and azure waters, they will provide a nice seaside break after sweating it out on the bikes. And if you head there early enough, you might just be able to catch the glorious sunrise.
Coney Island, Punggol Promenade Nature Walk, Singapore 829325
Pulau Ubin
Be adventurous and jump on a boat to Pulau Ubin to catch the sunrise! The first boat leaves at 5.30am which leaves you plenty of time (it only takes about 10 minutes to Pulau Ubin) to settle down at a nice spot and catch the first ray of light.
Pulau Ubin
Woodlands Waterfront Park
All the way up in the north of Singapore lies an underrated park that not only boasts glorious views of the sunrise but also panoramic views of Straits of Johor. Popular among the people in the neighbourhood, Woodlands Waterfront Park offers a few trails, from running to cycling tracks so you can squeeze in some exercise before you soak in the spectacular sunrise.
Woodlands Waterfront Park, Admiralty Rd W, Singapore 759956
Merlion Park
Many photography enthusiasts gather here every morning for that shot of the iconic, futuristic Singapore skyline bathed in the morning light – it’s a sport, chasing the sunrise. Take a selfie with the Merlion here while you’re at it.
Merlion Park, 1 Fullerton Rd, Singapore 049213
Kranji Reservoir
A favourite amongst sunrise photographers in Singapore, Kranji Reservoir is peaceful and secluded enough to feel like you’re not in Singapore. Sure, you probably have to get up super early to come here, but venture here for a tranquil morning and the amazing photos you’ll get of the sunrise are definite keepers.
Kranji Reservoir Park, 30 Kranji Way, Singapore 739440
Gardens by the Bay
It’s always better to get up high for the best sunrise views. So head to this park early (it opens at 5am), and wait for the sunrise and lovely views of the Supertrees and domes framed by the sunlight, and the reflections they make on the Dragonfly Lake – it’s worth it.
Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953