While long weekends mean for the golden opportunity to (finally) sleep in and bum around in the comforts of home, we’re not sure your kids might not be on the same page about that. If you’re combatting the big dilemma of what to do during long weekends, we’ve put together a list of activities that will leave lasting memories for your family.
1. Go Camping at Lazarus Island
Tired of the urban landscape? Most working parents might relate to the monotony of seeing buildings and being stuck in traffic.
If you’re still thinking of what to do during long weekends, the adventurous families might be excited at the idea of doing a short overnight haul at Lazarus Island. While it might sound like an uncanny idea, you’d be surprised to find how many Singaporeans have paved the way before you!
While you’re there, you can expect to be doing many hands-on activities that train up the survival instincts of your younglings – outdoor cooking, sleeping in tents, trekking and chilling by the beach…
Before you set off, it’ll be helpful to read this page for elaborate details and tips. A quick summary – remember to book your ferry tickets, bring adequate toiletries, and apply for a temporary occupation license to set up your base legally at Lazarus. You can never be over-prepared for a trip as this!
2. Take a Quick Getaway to Desaru Islands
If roughing it out on an island doesn’t sound like it’s your family’s cup of tea, fret not. Here’s another sunny activity on the list of what you can do during long weekends.
Commencing the new Desaru ferry service from 7th July 2022, we can now take a direct trip to this coastal getaway in just 1.5 hours. Ferry services are conveniently located from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal and costs $118 for a return ticket.
Here, your kids can have a whale of a time at the Adventure Waterpark featuring more than 20 attractions, surf and chill at Wild Boat Bay, jump on a mangrove tour, and pick up some shells along the signature Desaru Coast Beach. To complete the elevated island experience, of course you can also choose from a slew of luxury hotels, resorts and villas to frolic in.
3. Go on an Overnight HK Junk Boat Staycation (with a Campfire Experience!)
A unique staycay experience from $1,750, this overnight junk boat offers 18 hours of water activities, an overnight stay, BBQ on-board and even a beach campfire! Greater news? This boat allows your furry friends to come on-board – perfect for the pawrents.
With a maximum capacity for 7 guests, the junk boat will take your family through St John’s Bay, Lazarus Island and Kusu Island. At each pitstop, you can choose to hop off the boat for a quick hike, stand-up paddle or even chomp down some marshies over a warm campfire. If you prefer staying onboard, remember to bring food as well to utilise the electric BBQ!
4. Start the Morning Fresh with an Intertidal Walk
Waking up before sunrise for an intertidal walk on the weekdays might sound like a nightmare. But it might sound like something refreshing to do during long weekends. If this sounds like something up your alley, we’d highly recommend a family adventure to zones with the likes of Changi Beach Park and Chek Jawa.
Here, your kids will be enthralled by sightings of starfishes, crabs, colourful anemones, sea cucumbers and many more fauna. If you prefer busting all out on a full-fledged intertidal experience, you can check out Klook or Seek Sophie to book an educational tour!
5. Experience Magical Mongolia
Up until September this year, Beyond Expedition is offering a 2 Day 1 Night Yurt getaway right smack here in our little red dot. From starting your own fire and experiencing outdoor cooking to making campfire memories under the starry skies, your family will enjoy this outskirt adventure under the shelter of a traditional Mongolian Yurt.
Best part? You don’t even have to plan anything! All you have to do is show up and have a good time.
6. Ride it Out with The Great Singapore Cycle
If you’re still contemplating what to do during long weekends and prefer setting out for something which requires minimal logistics or planning, here’s The Great Singapore Cycle!
Spanning over a total of 90km across the island’s Park Connectors which starts from Changi Airport’s Jurassic Mile and ends at Jurong Lake Gardens. If you have a good 7 hours to spare, take some time to cruise down the greenery as you ride through scenic and cultural landscapes such as East Coast Park, Kampong Lorong Buangkok and Sembawang Hot Spring Park.
Fret not if your family doesn’t own a bicycle – simply rent one from GoCycling and you’re good to go!
7. Quench Your Hunger Pangs At These Supper Spots
Though you might have to get the kids in bed by 9pm on the weekdays, having a long weekend means some rules can be bent a little. It is no secret that supper is a culture in itself here in Singapore.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stop the desperate churning of your tummy in the middle of the night, here’s a list of supper spots you can head to. Whether it is scissors cut rice, prata, bak chor mee, dim sum or even ice cream you are craving – we are sure this has got you covered. The younglings will be excited to go on this little food hunt with you after hours!
Armed with this list, hopefully you now have a better idea of what to do during long weekends! Whether it is out having a simple meal or adventuring with your family, what matters most is the quality time spent together. If you need more ideas, check out our previous article on the best parks in Singapore for kids. Happy holidays!
