Why Expat Families Will Love Pasir Ris: The Hidden Gem of Singapore's East

By OFS

June 2025


When expat families think of living in Singapore, areas like Orchard, River Valley, Holland Village, and Bukit Timah often come to mind. But for those seeking a quieter, more relaxed side of the city, the East of Singapore, particularly Pasir Ris, offers a refreshing alternative. 

A Coastal Escape Within the City

Unlike the bustling city center full of crowds and malls, Pasir Ris is nestled along Singapore’s northeastern coast with scenic beaches, open green spaces, and a more laid-back atmosphere. Pasir Ris Park, one of Singapore’s largest coastal parks, is perfect for families who love outdoor adventures. The park is known for its mangrove boardwalk and tree-lined paths where residents can take a walk, go for a run, or cycle. Families can also go for a picnic or a swim at Pasir Ris Beach.

If your kids love water play, Wild Wild Wet at Downtown East is one of Singapore’s biggest water parks, a fun destination for weekend family outings.

A Family-Friendly Neighborhood with Great Amenities

Pasir Ris is designed with families in mind. The area has plenty of parks, playgrounds, and recreational centers. Just nearby the Pasir Ris MRT station and the Pasir Ris Bus Interchange, there is Pasir Ris Mall and Whitesands Mall with abundant dining, shopping, and entertainment options for residents.

For expat families considering schooling options, the East is home to Overseas Family School, a top-tier international school. 

Overseas Family School enjoys a prime location just a five-minute walk from Pasir Ris Beach. From its windows, students and staff can see sweeping views of the sea, a rare and refreshing feature that sets it apart from other international schools in Singapore.

The school often holds field trips to the beach for its students, such as during this Pre-Kindergarten amazing adventure to Pasir Ris Beach as they explore one of their IEYC units, ‘Ocean Treasures’, where the children and their families went on a fun ‘Treasure Hunt’, looking for hidden beach gems and drawing sea creatures on the sand.

During another time, the Pre-K students also had a Family & Friend picnic at Pasir Ris Park, where the students had fun with parachutes, nature-inspired craft projects, and plenty of songs and dances at the park! 

Additionally, OFS also offers a Sailing Enrichment program, where students can sign up for sailing lessons and training as an extracurricular activity. With the school’s very own sailboats, the students are taught by professional instructors on how to sail.

See the following reel for more information: https://www.instagram.com/p/C4hMLfCvu9U/ 

A Refreshing Alternative for Expat Families

For expat families who appreciate spacious living, a quieter neighbourhood, nature-filled weekends, and easy access to Singapore’s coastline, Pasir Ris is a compelling option. Whether you’re looking for a place to live or simply want to explore a different side of Singapore, the East is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Keen to learn more about Overseas Family School and what our campus has to offer? Check out our official website at ofs.edu.sg and reach out to our admissions team for a school tour!

OFS Admissions Director

Joyce Chee

admissions@ofs.edu.sg | +65 6738 0211

Overseas Family School, Block A, Level 6

https://www.ofs.edu.sg/

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