Seafood Market in Singapore: Ultimate Guide for Fresh Seafood Lovers

SEO Accom (Global)
14 Oct 2025 - 9 min read
Asian couple tourist backpacker enjoying and eating street food in night market with crowd of people at Yaowarat road, Bangkok, Thailand

Singapore has always been a paradise for foodies, and when it comes to seafood, the Lion City truly shines. Known for its bustling seafood markets, modern wet markets, and world-class seafood restaurants, the city offers travellers and locals the chance to enjoy the freshest catches from the region. Whether you want to shop like a local at a fish market Singapore style or indulge in live seafood prepared right in front of you, there are endless options.

From the iconic chilli crab and barbecued stingray to premium lobsters and oysters, the seafood market in Singapore is more than just a shopping spot; it’s a cultural journey that blends tradition, freshness, and community.

Why Visit Seafood Markets in Singapore?

Fried oily cooked shrims and calamari at the night seafood cuisine street downtown market, Xian, Shaanxi province, China

Fried oily cooked shrims and calamari at the night seafood cuisine street downtown market

Visiting a seafood market in Singapore isn’t just about buying fish; it’s about stepping into an authentic part of local culture. These markets open early in the morning, when fishermen and suppliers bring in their freshest catches of the day, from juicy crabs and prawns to clams, mussels, and a wide variety of fish. 

One of the biggest draws is affordability. Instead of paying premium prices at upscale restaurants, you can often buy seafood here at wholesale rates, perfect for families who love cooking at home or adventurous travellers eager to try grilling their own seafood at a nearby hawker centre. But even if you don’t plan to buy, the experience itself is memorable. 

For that reason, Singapore’s seafood markets are worth a visit. They combine the best of fresh produce, cultural immersion, and affordable dining, making them a unique and flavourful part of the city’s daily life.

Famous Seafood Markets in Singapore

Hand holding a paper container filled with mussels and seafood, with food trucks and people in the background

Hand holding a paper container filled with mussels and seafood

Several markets across Singapore are famous for seafood. Here are some of the best seafood market in Singapore for foodies:

Jurong Fishery Port

One of the largest wholesale markets, Jurong Fishery Port, supplies seafood to much of Singapore. Today, access is mainly limited to licensed traders, but it still plays a vital role in distributing seafood across Singapore. It remains an important landmark in the country’s seafood supply chain.

Senoko Fishery Port

Located in the north of Singapore, Senoko is another wholesale giant. Here, the action starts before dawn, with restaurants and distributors buying crabs, prawns, and fish in bulk. While not a tourist attraction, it’s a behind-the-scenes hub that shows the scale of Singapore’s seafood trade.

Tekka Market (Little India)

For travelers, Tekka Market offers a true taste of local life. This vibrant wet market is packed with stalls selling live crabs, shellfish, and fresh fish. The atmosphere is colorful and lively, with the added bonus of nearby hawker stalls where you can have your seafood cooked immediately. It’s both a market and a dining adventure in one place.

Bukit Timah Fish Market

Smaller and more community-focused, this market is a convenient stop for families in central Singapore. While it doesn’t have the scale of Jurong or Tekka, it offers a solid variety of fresh seafood alongside meats and vegetables. It’s perfect for everyday shopping without the rush of larger wholesale markets.

Together, these markets highlight the diversity of Singapore’s seafood scene—ranging from massive wholesale ports that fuel the island’s supply to lively neighborhood markets where locals shop daily.

Fresh Seafood to Try in Singapore Markets

Variety of raw seafood and chicken skewers including crab legs and shrimp, Thai style street food.

Variety of raw seafood and chicken skewers including crab legs and shrimp.

When you step into a fish market in Singapore, you’ll be amazed by the sheer variety of seafood available. From iconic local favourites to seasonal surprises, there’s something for every taste. Here are some must-try picks:

Chilli Crab: No trip to Singapore is complete without trying this national dish. Markets often sell live crabs that are later transformed into the famous sweet, spicy, and savoury chilli crab loved by locals and tourists alike.
Barbecued Stingray: A hawker centre classic, stingray is grilled to perfection and topped with sambal chilli paste, giving it a smoky and spicy kick. Many markets keep stingrays fresh in ice or tanks, ready for grilling.
Tiger Prawns: Known for their large size and juicy texture, tiger prawns are excellent for grilling, stir-frying, or adding to noodle dishes. They’re a staple in both local kitchens and hawker fare.
Clams & Mussels: Fresh clams and mussels are popular choices for seafood soups, hotpots, and stir-fries. Their mild flavour makes them versatile, whether steamed with garlic or cooked in a spicy broth.
Lobsters: Live lobsters are commonly seen in market tanks, waiting to be chosen by buyers. Whether steamed, grilled, or cooked in rich sauces, they’re a luxury option that markets still make surprisingly accessible.
Seasonal Specials: Depending on the catch of the day, you might also find oysters, squid, or rarer shellfish that add variety to the seafood scene. These seasonal finds make each market visit a little different.

How to Buy at Singapore Seafood Markets

Shopping at a seafood market in Singapore is more than just a grocery run – it’s an experience that combines freshness, local culture, and a bit of adventure. To make the most of it, here are some helpful tips:

Best Time to Go 

The freshest catches usually arrive in the early morning, between 5–7 AM. This is when you’ll see the markets at their busiest, with restaurants, hawkers, and home cooks all rushing to secure the best seafood. Visiting at this time ensures you get the widest choice and top quality.

How Seafood is Sold 

Different stalls may use different methods. Some sell by weight, while others price items per piece, especially for larger seafood such as crabs or lobsters. Always check the pricing method beforehand to avoid surprises when it’s time to pay.

Bargaining Tips 

Haggling is not as common in Singapore as it is in some other countries, but in wet markets, a polite request for a small discount is sometimes possible, particularly if you’re buying in bulk. The key is to ask respectfully and with a smile.

Storage 

Most vendors will pack your seafood with ice to keep it fresh, but if you’re planning to buy in larger quantities or shop for several hours, it’s wise to bring your own cooler bag. This helps maintain freshness, especially in Singapore’s hot and humid climate.

Exploring a seafood market in Singapore gives you not only top-quality produce but also a glimpse into the daily rhythms of local life, an experience as rewarding as the food itself.

Live Seafood Experience

Singapore - 27 October 2019 : Live seafood at NTUC Finest at Vivocity

Live seafood at NTUC Finest at Vivocity

One of the most exciting parts of visiting a seafood market in Singapore is the live seafood experience. Instead of just buying pre-packed fish, you’ll often see large tanks filled with crabs, lobsters, prawns, and fish, all swimming about. This means you get to pick your seafood straight from the tank, guaranteeing top-notch freshness. Many stalls or nearby hawker centres will even cook your selection on the spot, turning your market visit into a dining adventure.

Here are some popular picks you’ll often see:

Live Crabs: The star of Singapore cuisine, perfect for iconic dishes such as chilli crab or black pepper crab. Choosing your crab live ensures you get the meatiest and freshest one.
Lobsters & Prawns: From juicy tiger prawns to full-sized lobsters, many restaurants will let you point directly to the one you want before serving it steamed, grilled, or stir-fried.
Fresh Fish: Groupers, sea bass, and other varieties are commonly sold live. This is especially popular for steamed fish dishes, where freshness makes all the difference.

The live seafood setup not only guarantees freshness but also gives you a behind-the-scenes glimpse of how locals shop for and enjoy their seafood – turning a simple purchase into a memorable cultural experience.

Seafood Restaurants Linked to Markets

One of the best things about Singapore’s seafood culture is the close link between markets and restaurants. Many eateries get their ingredients directly from fishery ports or wet markets, which means you can taste seafood at its freshest – often on the same day it was caught. Some even let you choose your seafood live before it is cooked. Here are some popular options:

New Ubin Seafood: A local favourite that puts a modern spin on Singapore-style seafood. Apart from classics like chilli crab, you’ll find creative dishes such as crab with fried rice or butter prawns with curry leaves, all made with market-fresh ingredients.
Palm Beach Seafood: Famous for its signature Singapore chilli crab, prepared with live crabs sourced straight from the tanks. Its prime location by the Esplanade also makes it a great spot for dining with skyline views.
Long Beach Seafood: One of the pioneers of the black pepper crab in Singapore, this restaurant is well-known for its extensive range of live seafood tanks, allowing diners to pick their lobster, crab, or fish before it is cooked to order.
Hawker Centres: For a more casual and authentic experience, markets such as Tekka Centre and Newton Food Centre allow you to buy fresh seafood and have it cooked at nearby hawker stalls. It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy premium seafood without the restaurant markup.

Prices at Singapore Seafood Markets

Stir Fried Crab with Curry Powder - Seafood Style

Stir Fried Crab with Curry Powder - Seafood Style

Seafood in Singapore can range from very affordable to quite expensive, depending on what you buy and where you shop. Prices also change with the season, for example, crabs and lobsters may cost more during festive periods like Chinese New Year. Here’s a simple guide to give you an idea:

Crabs: Usually around SGD $20–$50 per kg, depending on the type (mud crabs are cheaper, while Sri Lankan crabs cost more). Bigger crabs are always priced higher.
Lobsters: Expect to pay SGD $50–$100+ per kg. Large live lobsters from Australia or Boston are on the pricier side, while smaller tropical lobsters cost less.
Prawns: Prices are more wallet-friendly, from SGD $15–$30 per kg. Tiger prawns and sea prawns are popular for grilling and stir-fries.
Fish: One of the most affordable options, ranging from SGD $8–$25 per kg. Everyday choices like mackerel or snapper are cheaper, while premium fish like grouper cost more.

If you buy directly from wholesale markets, prices are usually much lower, but sellers may only give discounts if you buy in bulk. At retail-friendly stalls, you can buy smaller portions without any problem, just make sure to ask how the seafood is priced (per kg or per piece) before ordering.

Halal and Family-Friendly Seafood Options

Many seafood markets in Singapore have stalls catering to Muslim families, offering halal-certified seafood. Tekka Market and Geylang Serai Market are popular spots for halal seafood shopping, with many families heading there for both fresh seafood and cooked meals.

Nearby Attractions Around Seafood Markets

Visiting a seafood market in Singapore doesn’t have to be just about food – you can easily combine it with sightseeing or cultural experiences nearby. Here are some ideas:

Tekka Market (Little India) 

After browsing the seafood stalls, take a walk through colourful Little India, stop by the stunning Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, and enjoy authentic Indian cuisine at nearby restaurants or hawker stalls. It’s a great mix of culture, shopping, and food.

Jurong Area (Jurong Fishery Port) 

If you’re in the west, combine your seafood run with a visit to Jurong Bird Park (famous for its large aviaries) or a peaceful stroll at the Chinese Garden, known for its pagodas, stone bridges, and landscaped gardens.

Bukit Timah Fish Market 

This market is conveniently close to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, one of Singapore’s best spots for hiking. After seafood shopping, you can enjoy a walk through lush rainforest trails and even climb Bukit Timah Hill, the island’s highest natural point.

Marina Bay

Gardens by the Bay

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Marina Bay

S$10

S$8

Where to Stay Near Seafood Markets in Singapore

If you’d like to stay close to seafood markets for easy access, there are plenty of hotel options ranging from budget to mid-range and even resort-style stays. Here are some good picks:

Tekka Market Area (Little India / Farrer Park)

One Farrer Hotel: One Farrer Hotel is a modern 5-star hotel located right above Farrer Park MRT station, making it very convenient for travellers to get around Singapore.
Hilton Garden Inn Serangoon: Located in the heart of Little India, this hotel is within walking distance of Tekka Market, colourful temples, and plenty of food options.

Bukit Timah Fish Market Area

Park Avenue Rochester: Near Buona Vista MRT and Holland Village, perfect if you want both convenience and access to trendy dining spots.

Jurong & Senoko Fishery Port Areas

Genting Hotel Jurong: A family-friendly option with comfortable rooms, close to Jurong attractions like Chinese Garden and Science Centre Singapore.
Orchid Country Club: A resort-style hotel with spacious rooms, golf course views, and leisure facilities, located near Senoko Fishery Port.

How to Get to Seafood Markets in Singapore

Getting around Singapore is simple, and most seafood markets are well connected by public transport. Here are the best ways to reach them:

MRT (Train)

Tekka Market – Located right next to Little India MRT, just a short walk from the station.
Bukit Timah Market – Easily reached via Beauty World MRT, with the market just a few minutes away.
Jurong Area – Take the train to Jurong East MRT, then transfer to a bus to reach the fishery port or nearby wet markets.

Tanjong Pagar

Go City: Singapore Explorer Pass

10.0/10

Tanjong Pagar

S$94

Buses 

Neighbourhood wet markets are often surrounded by feeder bus routes, so they’re easy to reach even if you’re staying outside the city centre.

Taxi or Grab 

The most convenient choice, especially if you’re planning to buy seafood in bulk. Drivers are used to passengers carrying market bags or cooler boxes, so it’s a hassle-free option.

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Travel Tips for Visiting Singapore Seafood Markets

To enjoy a smooth and authentic seafood market experience in Singapore, here are some useful tips:

Bring Cash: While some modern markets and bigger stalls accept cards or mobile payments, many traditional vendors still prefer cash. Having small notes makes transactions quicker.
Arrive Early: The best catches arrive before sunrise, and by mid-morning the most popular items (like large crabs or premium fish) may already be sold out. Early shopping also means cooler weather and smaller crowds.
Bring a Cooler Bag: If you’re planning to continue sightseeing or head somewhere else after the market, a cooler bag with ice packs will keep your seafood fresh for hours.
Respect Local Etiquette: Market aisles can be narrow and busy, so avoid blocking walkways. Always queue when needed, and be polite when bargaining – a friendly smile goes a long way.

Conclusion

Exploring a seafood market in Singapore is more than just a shopping trip—it’s a culinary and cultural adventure. From the lively atmosphere of fish Singapore market stalls to the thrill of picking out live crabs and lobsters, these markets capture the essence of Singapore’s love for food.

So next time you’re in Singapore, skip the restaurants for a morning and experience the freshness, energy, and unbeatable deals of the city’s seafood markets. Now, it is the time for you to book your activities, flights, and hotels easily on Traveloka today.

Tags:

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In This Article

• Why Visit Seafood Markets in Singapore?
• Famous Seafood Markets in Singapore
• Jurong Fishery Port
• Senoko Fishery Port
• Tekka Market (Little India)
• Bukit Timah Fish Market
• Fresh Seafood to Try in Singapore Markets
• How to Buy at Singapore Seafood Markets
• Best Time to Go 
• How Seafood is Sold 
• Bargaining Tips 
• Storage 
• Live Seafood Experience
• Seafood Restaurants Linked to Markets
• Prices at Singapore Seafood Markets
• Halal and Family-Friendly Seafood Options
• Nearby Attractions Around Seafood Markets
• Tekka Market (Little India) 
• Jurong Area (Jurong Fishery Port) 
• Bukit Timah Fish Market 
• Where to Stay Near Seafood Markets in Singapore
• Tekka Market Area (Little India / Farrer Park)
• Bukit Timah Fish Market Area
• Jurong & Senoko Fishery Port Areas
• How to Get to Seafood Markets in Singapore
• MRT (Train)
• Buses 
• Taxi or Grab 
• Travel Tips for Visiting Singapore Seafood Markets
• Conclusion

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Jakarta (CGK) to Singapore (SIN)
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