The best barbecue spots in Singapore for an outdoor cookout

However hot and humid Singapore gets, there's always a light breeze blowing at East Coast Beach. Popular with literally everyone, this 15-kilometre stretch is perfect for an early morning cycle, evening jog, or even a moment of quiet contemplation at Bedok Jetty. There are also over 80 barbecue pits across areas B to G to rent for your weekend cookout. Otherwise, set your picnic basket under the swaying coconut palms, Casuarinas, and Ketapangs which make for a relaxing seaside picnic.

Unlike East Coast Park, Changi Beach Park has a distinct kampong vibe. You’ll feel it the moment you sink your toes into the white sand. In fact, we daresay that this park is your best bet if you want to escape the weekend throngs. Rent bicycles for the family and hit the nearby Park Connectors, or book one of the 20 barbecue pits across the entire park – and since most people flock to East Coast Park, it’s relatively easier to score one here. Fishing is also allowed here (notable spots are the areas near Car Parks 1 to 6), so you can grill your own fresh catch.

Be one with nature at this beach-park-mangrove forest combo. Located by the stunning coastline, Pasir Ris Park features playgrounds and maze gardens where the kids can burn some energy, and barbecue pits where the adults can fire up the grill for some DIY munch. For a spot of wildlife, bird-watch from the three-story viewing tower, explore the six-hectare mangrove forest via the boardwalk, or go for a pony ride at Gallop Stable. Come sundown, the night sky makes a pretty sight for stars – and planes.

Swap the concrete jungle for the flora and fauna of Jurong Lake Gardens. The verdant gardens include Lakeside Garden, Chinese and Japanese Gardens and Garden Promenade, making this the largest wonderland dedicated to nature in the west. The grounds are specially landscaped and designed with play and learning areas in mind, making it perfect for all ages. Make the trip here a memorable one by booking one of the barbecue pits at the northside of Lakeside Gardens, which offers a 360-degree view of the gardens.

This northern park’s beachside locale is perfect for a weekend barbecue. While fishing is a popular pastime here, many can be seen crowding around barbecue pits and picnic tables peppered along the coast. Only seven barbecue pits are available to rent here. Also within its grounds, located at the end of the park, is the historic Beaulieu House, a neoclassical building with ornate finishing. Look out for a playground with a battleship-like structure – a nod to the park’s history as a former naval base.

One of the largest outdoor playgrounds in Singapore, West Coast Park sits on 50-hectares of land that includes a camping site, nine barbecue pits, a dog run, and a huge playground with eight sets of play areas – perfect for families. Its massive space is also popular among cyclists. The best spot for a tranquil escape, however, is at Area 3 which faces the sea. Head up the lookout deck for a closer view of the ships that dot the horizon.

Part of the Southern Ridges, the park contains the only rocky sea-cliff in Singapore, and offers a panoramic view of the sea and cliff side vegetation. It is not uncommon to hear songs of a variety of bird species, including the Oriental Magpie-robin and Black-naped Oriole. Remnants of World War II such as tunnels and a fort also provide an educational experience for visitors.