The glittering skyline of Singapore, paired with its endless array of nightlife options, makes the city a haven for night owls, party enthusiasts, and everyone in between. From swanky rooftop bars that offer panoramic views of the city to underground clubs where you can dance until dawn, Singapore is a nocturnal playground that’s brimming with excitement. Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to Singapore’s nightlife.
Clarke Quay & Boat Quay
These two riverfront quays are arguably the heartbeats of Singapore’s nightlife scene. Clarke Quay, with its vividly painted shop-houses, is bustling with bars, pubs, and clubs that cater to various musical tastes and crowd preferences. Zouk, one of Asia’s top clubs, made its name here before relocating. Boat Quay, while quieter, offers a more relaxed ambience, perfect for those who want to enjoy a drink by the river.
Rooftop Bars
1-Altitude: Standing at a towering height of 282 meters, it’s the highest alfresco bar in the world, providing an unrivaled view of the city.
CE LA VI: Located atop Marina Bay Sands, this iconic spot offers both an exquisite view of the cityscape and an impressive cocktail menu.
Kinki: This rooftop bar offers a unique urban vibe with street art decors and an excellent view of the Marina Bay area.
Beach Clubs
Sentosa Island is not just for daytime fun. As the sun sets, beach clubs like Tanjong Beach Club and Ola Beach Club come alive. With their beach parties and themed nights, they’re the ideal places to groove to music with sand between your toes.
Speakeasies & Cocktail Bars
Hidden bars and speakeasies are all the rage in Singapore. Some of the must-visit ones include:
Operation Dagger: Hidden beneath the streets of Chinatown, it’s known for its experimental cocktails.
The Secret Mermaid: This dive showcases spirits from craft distilleries in the US.
28 HongKong Street: An unassuming door leads to one of Asia’s best bars, serving classic cocktails with a twist.
Clubbing Spots
Zouk: Though it relocated from Clarke Quay to the Cannery, Zouk remains an iconic clubbing destination, frequently hosting international DJs.
Marquee: This mega-club at Marina Bay Sands offers a huge dance floor, an indoor Ferris wheel, and 3-story high slide.
Atlas: An art deco dream in the Parkview Square building, it’s not just a gin bar but an experience, reminiscent of Europe’s grand lobbies.
Live Music
For those who enjoy live music:
Timbre: A local favorite, it offers an array of bands playing anything from rock to pop.
Blu Jaz Cafe: Located in the historic Kampong Glam, it’s the go-to for jazz lovers.
The Crazy Elephant: This Clarke Quay classic serves up rock ‘n’ roll in an unpretentious setting.
Cultural Nightlife
For those looking for a touch of local flavor:
Haw Par Villa’s Ten Courts of Hell: Explore this theme park after dark to learn about Chinese mythology and folklore.
Night Markets: Roam the streets of Chinatown or Little India, where you can shop, eat, and immerse yourself in Singapore’s rich cultural tapestry.
Night Safaris
The Singapore Night Safari is a unique experience, being the world’s first nocturnal zoo. Here, you can witness over 2,500 animals from 130 species in their nighttime habitats.
Late-Night Eats
No night is complete without indulging in Singapore’s culinary delights. Areas like Geylang, Newton Circus, and Lau Pa Sat offer a plethora of hawker fare, from dim sum to satay, satisfying your late-night cravings.
Rules & Etiquette
While Singapore is a fun city, it’s essential to be aware of the rules. Drinking in public places from 10:30 pm to 7 am is prohibited unless it’s a licensed establishment. Also, smoking is limited to designated areas. Always drink responsibly and be mindful of your surroundings.
Singapore’s nightlife is diverse, rich, and ever-evolving, catering to a myriad of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy sophisticated cocktails, or indulge in late-night eats, Singapore has something for everyone. So, get your dancing shoes on, raise a toast, and immerse yourself in the vibrant, dynamic nightlife of this incredible city.
Karaoke Sessions
Karaoke is a beloved pastime in many parts of Asia, and Singapore is no exception.
Teo Heng KTV: A favorite for its budget-friendly prices, it offers a vast collection of songs in various languages.
Manekineko: A Japanese-origin karaoke chain, it stands out with its colorful interiors and inclusive song lists.
LGBTQ+ Nightlife
Singapore’s LGBTQ+ scene, although discreet, is lively and welcoming.
Taboo: Located in Chinatown, this is one of the city’s most popular gay bars, known for its dance floor and late-night parties.
Dorothy’s Bar: A vibrant spot in Trengganu Street, it offers themed nights and an inclusive atmosphere.
Themed Bars
For those looking for unique experiences:
DC Comics Super Heroes Cafe: Located at Marina Bay Sands, this is a haven for fans of the DC universe.
The Library: A secret bar that requires a password for entry, its theme changes regularly, keeping patrons intrigued.
Craft Breweries
Singapore’s craft beer scene has grown exponentially over the years.
Level33: Claiming to be the world’s highest urban craft brewery, it offers exceptional beer with an unbeatable view.
The Good Beer Company: Located in Chinatown Complex, it offers a curated selection of craft beers from around the world.
Wine Bars
For the wine aficionados:
Wine Connection: With multiple outlets across the city, it’s a favorite for its extensive wine selection and delectable tapas.
Binomio: This Spanish restaurant has a hidden wine bar, offering a curated selection of Spanish wines.
Comedy Clubs
For a dose of laughter:
The Merry Lion: Singapore’s only full-time comedy club, it hosts both local and international comedians.
Comedy Masala: A weekly show that’s become an institution in Singapore’s comedy scene.
After-hours Shopping
Mustafa Centre: Located in Little India, this 24/7 shopping center is perfect for those looking for retail therapy at odd hours.
Boat Parties
Experience the city from its waters:
Royal Albatross Sunset Sail: Sail the city’s southern waters while sipping on cocktails during sunset.
Cultural Performances
Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay often hosts late-night cultural performances, showcasing both local and international talents.
Wellness After Dark
If partying isn’t your scene, unwind with a late-night spa or massage session. Places like g.spa provide rejuvenating treatments even in the wee hours.
Singapore’s nightlife isn’t just about partying; it’s a blend of cultures, tastes, and experiences. From its pulsating beats echoing from mega-clubs to its serene late-night spa sessions, Singapore promises an unforgettable nocturnal adventure. Whether a resident or a traveler, there’s always something new to discover once the sun goes down in this dazzling city. So, embrace the night and let Singapore’s vibrant nightlife enchant you!
