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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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:
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.
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.
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.
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 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:
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.
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:
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:
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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
9.0/10
Marina Bay
S$10
S$8
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:
Getting around Singapore is simple, and most seafood markets are well connected by public transport. Here are the best ways to reach them:
Tanjong Pagar
Go City: Singapore Explorer Pass
10.0/10
Tanjong Pagar
S$94
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.
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.
Tue, 11 Nov 2025
AirAsia Indonesia
Jakarta (CGK) to Singapore (SIN)
Start from S$45.71
Wed, 29 Oct 2025
Scoot
Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Singapore (SIN)
Start from S$67.21
Wed, 5 Nov 2025
Scoot
Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Singapore (SIN)
Start from S$27.46
To enjoy a smooth and authentic seafood market experience in Singapore, here are some useful tips:
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.
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seafood
singapore