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These 7 water spots are the most beautiful in S'pore. No contest.
Do any others come to mind for you?
I think that Singapore’s lakes and reservoirs are one of our country’s best features.
Like a multi-hyphenate, they play many roles—oases in the tropical heat, drainage nodes that prevent flooding during the monsoon season, catchment areas that help collect water for our daily needs. Talk about multi-tasking!
If you’re in need of a picturesque escape, look no further. Here are the best spots to soak in the views and snap some IG-worthy photos.
1. Alkaff Lake – a blend of beauty and functionality
Smack in the middle of the Bidadari estate, Alkaff Lake isn’t just a pretty face—it’s Singapore’s first multi-functional drainage infrastructure of its kind. By holding excess rainwater during heavy storms, it helps keep nearby streets flood-free while doubling as a serene sanctuary for nearby residents.
Fun fact: The lake is inspired by the historic Alkaff Lake Gardens, Singapore’s first Japanese garden, built by Syed Shaik Abdul Rahman Alkaff. A little nod to the past while keeping things fresh and modern.
What to do:
- Enjoy a morning stroll with your significant other along the walking trail, complete with stunning sunrise views.
- Check out the educational panels that explain the multi-functional uses of this lake—a fun and educational activity for the whole family
- Find the footpath leading to the viewing deck for a gorgeous photo spot where you can take a group shot with your walking kakis.
Best photo spot: Strike a pose at the nest-shaped viewing deck for a perfect frame-within-a-frame shot. The geometric design is a bonus for your aesthetic feed.
2. Upper Peirce Reservoir – tranquility in the heart of Singapore
Did you know that Upper Peirce Reservoir was built in the 1970s as part of Singapore’s efforts to expand water catchment areas?
This lush reservoir is nestled within the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, offering a tranquil escape from city life while playing a key role in our nation’s water supply.
What to do:
- Pack a picnic for the family and soak in the tranquil vibes (just don’t share your snacks with the resident monkeys).
- Keep an eye out for the Asian Glossy Starling and White-throated Kingfisher if you’re into birdwatching.
- Stroll along the scenic trails or hop on a bike for a breezy ride with your kids
Best photo spot: Get as close as possible to the water’s edge to take advantage of the pristine, mirrored surface for your photos. Visit at sunrise to get that shimmering golden hue that comes straight out of a fairytale.
3. Singapore River – from polluted to pristine
Via URA
The Singapore River wasn't always this gram-worthy. Once infamous for its, um, “unique aroma”, the Singapore River underwent a massive 10-year cleanup (1977-1987) and is now a vibrant waterfront destination - a real glow-up and a proud moment in Singapore’s water story.
If you’re curious about how bad it really was, the History Gallery at the National Museum of Singapore and the Singapore Sustainability Gallery have a scent exhibit that recreates the old smell. (Spoiler: It was not great.)
What to do:
- Hop on a bike and ride from Alexandra Canal to Clarke Quay and Marina Barrage. You’ll see how our waterways connect and flow from canal to river to reservoir.
- Get your little ones to count the number of bridges that span the Singapore River, from Tanglin to Marina Bay (clue: you’ll need two pairs of hands) and see how many they can name!
- Admire historic and modern landmarks from a bumboat on the Singapore River Cruise.
Best photo spot: Snap a shot of Boat Quay’s colourful shophouses against the backdrop of sleek skyscrapers—a perfect old-meets-new contrast.
4. Marina Barrage – a cityscape masterpiece
This architectural marvel turned Marina Bay into a reservoir located in the beating heart of Singapore’s bustling city centre, transforming it from a tidal basin to a freshwater reservoir.
Marina Barrage serves multiple functions – from supplementing our water supply and helping to prevent floods upstream to being regarded as one of the most scenic chill-out spots in town – it can certainly do it all!
What to do:
- Kite-flying is a popular activity among families on the Green Roof. Let your kids run free with their kites while you lounge and take in the skyline.
- Rent a kayak to explore Marina Bay on water. Rent a kayak at PAssion WaVe @ Marina Bay to see Marina Barrage from a different perspective – right on the waters of Marina Reservoir.
Best photo spot: The Green Roof at sunset. Marina Bay Sands and the city skyline in one panoramic shot? Perfect.
5. MacRitchie Reservoir – where history meets nature
MacRitchie is the OG—built in the 1860s as Singapore's first reservoir.
Over 150 years later, it's still doing double duty: serving our water needs and satisfying weekend wanderlust.
Whether you’re into hiking, canoeing, or just vibing with the scenery, this place has something for everyone.
What to do:
- Cross the TreeTop Walk suspension bridge for an aerial view of the lush canopy.
- Rent a kayak and get a unique perspective from the water.
- Hike the diverse selection of hiking trails and pretend you’re in an episode of "Planet Earth".
Best photo spot: Golden-hour shots at the floating pontoon near the Paddle Lodge? Yes, please.
6. Jurong Lake – where nature and water thrive
Beyond being a reservoir, Jurong Lake houses Singapore's largest constructed wetland - an innovative feature that helps maintain water quality while creating a natural haven for wildlife.
What to do:
- Wander through the picturesque Jurong Lake Gardens.
- Relax in the therapeutic garden, because self-care is important.
- Go for a leisurely jog or bike ride along the boardwalks.
Best photo spot: Sunset at Rasau Walk is pure magic—think glowing water, dreamy reflections, and peak serenity.
7. Geylang River – a charming nod to our heritage
Once a utilitarian concrete canal, this stretch of Geylang River between Dunman Road and Guillemard Road now boasts thoughtful design touches—stylised stilts and posts— that reflect Singapore’s kelong heritage. A little nostalgia with a modern twist.
What to do:
- Take a slow walk along the riverbanks and enjoy the peaceful vibes.
- Grab a coffee at a nearby café and people-watch.
Best photo spot: The kelong-inspired shelters make for an artsy, heritage-rich snapshot. Bonus points if you capture their reflection in the water.
How does water make your moments count?
From expanding water catchment areas to the transformative cleanup of the Singapore River and the groundbreaking Marina Barrage, Singapore has made incredible strides in its water journey over the last six decades.
Today, water flows through every moment of our lives, from the morning's first sip to evening strolls along our stunning waterways, from the comfort of our homes to the vibrancy of our community spaces.
Take part in PUB’s photo challenge to share how water makes your everyday moments, experiences and passions count.
Share your photo on your public Facebook or Instagram page with a caption sharing what inspired you to capture the moment.
Don’t forget to include the hashtags #OurWaterMoments and #OurWaterSG60.
You can stand to win S$100 in vouchers and exclusive PUB merchandise. The contest ends on Apr. 13.
All images courtesy of PUB unless otherwise stated. Thanks to this branded content by PUB, this writer is planning to hike at MacRitchie Reservoir with his friends this weekend.
