Coney Island
North East
Coney Island, also known as Pulau Serangoon, is a 133-hectare island located off the northeastern coast of Singapore near Punggol. The island features a diverse range of habitats including coastal forests, grasslands, and mangroves, making it an important natural sanctuary managed by Singapore's National Parks Board. Historically, the island was once owned by entrepreneurs Aw Boon Haw and Aw Boon Par before being sold in 1950 with the intention to develop a resort inspired by New York's Coney Island. Land reclamation expanded the island significantly from 32 hectares to 133 hectares over several decades, with plans to develop residential and recreational areas. However, much of the island remains a nature park, opened to the public in 2015, offering a 2-kilometer beach and a 2.4-kilometer trail that is part of Singapore's park connector network. The park is popular for activities such as jet skiing, camping, and wildlife observation, including sightings of free-ranging Brahman cows. Despite its recreational use, visitors are encouraged to preserve the island's natural environment as littering has been a concern.
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Tip: The best time to visit Coney Island Park is during the cooler morning hours to enjoy peaceful walks along the 2.4 km trail and the 2 km beach. Visitors should consider purchasing admission or passes in advance if available and take advantage of any discounts for seniors or families. As the park is a natural habitat, it is recommended to bring insect repellent and sufficient water, and to avoid leaving litter to help preserve the environment. Access to the island is via two bridges connecting it to the mainland, so plan your visit accordingly for transport and parking.
Interesting facts
- •Coney Island was once owned by the famous Aw Boon Haw and Aw Boon Par, known for their Tiger Balm brand.
- •The island was expanded from 32 hectares to 133 hectares through land reclamation between 1975 and the 1990s.
- •A free-ranging Brahman cow was sighted on the island during its first year as a public park.
- •The island was proposed as the main venue for the 23rd World Scout Jamboree, although the bid was unsuccessful.
- •The park features a 2 km beach and a 2.4 km trail that connects to Singapore's park connector network.
History
Originally known as Pulau Serangoon, the island was owned by the Aw brothers before being sold in 1950 to an Indian businessman aiming to develop a resort modeled after New York's Coney Island.
Extensive land reclamation began in 1975, increasing its size from 32 to 133 hectares by the 1990s.
Plans for residential and recreational development were outlined in Singapore's Master Plan, but much of the land was preserved as parkland.
Coney Island Park officially opened in 2015, marking a shift from development to conservation and public recreation.
Place Guide
Coney Island Park Trail
A 2.4 km long nature trail that traverses coastal forests, grasslands, and mangroves, offering visitors opportunities to observe diverse wildlife and enjoy tranquil natural surroundings.
Coney Island Beach
A 2 km stretch of natural beach ideal for walking, bird watching, and relaxing by the sea. The beach is part of the park and showcases Singapore’s coastal ecosystem.
