Birdwatching is an entertaining hobby that offers a unique blend of relaxation and excitement, making it enjoyable for people of all ages. In Singapore, particularly, this activity has gained popularity due to the country’s rich biodiversity and well-preserved natural habitats. The country’s strategic location along migratory routes attracts a wide variety of bird species, providing birdwatchers or birders with the opportunity to observe rare and exotic birds. Additionally, Singapore’s numerous parks and nature reserves offer accessible and scenic spots for birdwatching. If you are looking for a fun activity to do with your family members, partner, or pals, you should consider birdwatching in one of these spots.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just looking for a peaceful escape, Singapore offers some incredible birdwatching spots perfect for any nature-loving girl. So, grab your binoculars, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to explore Singapore’s best birdwatching destinations that are ideal for a solo escape or a fun outing with friends!

Note: This list is strictly not in order.

1. Bird Paradise

Bird Paradise Birdwatching Singapore
Image Credit: Bird Paradise

Bird Paradise is a part of the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, which is a stunning aviary that opened in May 2023. Spanning 17 hectares, it replaced the iconic Jurong Bird Park and features over 3,500 birds from 400 species. Here, visitors can explore eight expansive walk-through aviaries, each designed to mimic natural habitats, offering an immersive experience with vibrant birdlife. The highlights of this place include the Ocean Network Express Penguin Cove, one of the world’s largest simulated Antarctic exhibits, and the Hong Leong Foundation Crimson Wetlands, which showcases brilliantly coloured birds amidst lush vegetation. Overall, Bird Paradise is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and families, as it provides educational and engaging encounters with some of the world’s most fascinating bird species.

Customer Reviews

Hung Cheau Ho
Bird Paradise is wonderfully wheelchair and pram-friendly, making it accessible to everyone. The park features a stunning variety of birds, each unique and beautiful. It offers a highly educational experience for all ages, with exciting opportunities for close encounters with the birds. I was amazed by the sheer number of birds—likely over a thousand—that I encountered during my visit. The park is also very well-maintained, adding to the overall enjoyment. Bird Paradise truly is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife!

Akhil Koshy
A great place to visit even if you are not a bird lover. There are so many varieties of birds from various species. They also come really close to you which is quite amazing. The whole place is temperature controlled which is good for the birds but since water is being sprayed continuously the humidity is quite high so you keep sweating more on a sunny day. The Predators on Wings show was really good. The way they trained the Predatory birds like eagles is quite mind blowing. There is also a penguin Cove in the vicinity which is really cool. Overall a great place to visit.

Trevor Cherry
Great place to visit. We expected our visit to last 2 hours, but ended up spending 6 hours walking around the vast themed areas. It was fascinating to see the birds close up, especially in the open areas where they could fly freely. I would highly recommend a visit to Bird Paradise for both young and old.

Website:https://www.mandai.com/en/bird-paradise.html
Contact:
Location:20 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729825
Opening Hours:9 AM – 6 PM Daily

2. Kingfisher Wetlands Wildlife Lookout

Kingfisher Wetlands Wildlife Lookout Birdwatching Guide In Singapore
Image Credit: Kingfisher Wetlands Wildlife Lookout

Another great place for birdwatching in Singapore is the Kingfisher Wetlands Wildlife Lookout. Located in Gardens by the Bay, this 15,000 square metre sanctuary is home to a diverse array of bird species, including the rare Lesser Whistling Duck and the Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker. The lookout deck here provides an excellent vantage point to observe these birds in their natural habitat, amidst lush vegetation and tranquil waters. With over 200 native mangrove trees and a variety of microhabitats, the wetlands support a thriving ecosystem that attracts both migratory and resident birds. Whether you are an avid birdwatcher or a casual nature enthusiast, the Kingfisher Wetlands offers a unique and enriching birdwatching experience for you and your loved ones.

Customer Reviews

Vincent Lee
Tucked behind Satay by the Bay and often given a missed just because it does not appear to be as “fancy” as the Supertree, Kingfisher Wetlands Trail has its own charm. Enjoy the diverse ecosystems as you listen out for native and migratory birds. It’s less crowded and a great space to truly enjoy nature. You will also catch glimpses of modern Singapore (ie. metallic bird sculptures and the iconic Marina Bay Sands) through the lush greenery of this wonderful space.

Ginny Toh
Came by to check out the new Kingfisher Wetland. Beautiful!! Love how one of the shelter is made. It looks like a huge palm leaf. Lots of different birds to look out for. There are even QR codes available on the signages that u can scan to listen to the sounds the birds make.

Dominic and Grace In Love
Beautiful park to bring the family and kids! Lots of flora and fauna to view, open spaces to stroll, and a variety of birds to lookout for. There are also a number of waterfalls and lush greenery, which are very peaceful and serene, and it makes it a good place to chill and relax. Several Instagram worthy spots to take as well. If going by car, best to park at Satay by the Bay Carpark.

Website:https://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/kingfisherwetlands
Contact:6420 6848
Location:Gardens By the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953
Opening Hours:5 AM – 2 AM Daily

3. Kebun Baru Birdsinging Club

Kebun Baru Birdsinging Club Birdwatching Guide SG
Image Credit: Kebun Baru Birdsinging Club

Kebun Baru Birdsinging Club is considered a haven for many bird enthusiasts. They are among the best of Singapore’s birdwatching guides, offering a comprehensive experience that highlights the best times and spots to observe a variety of songbirds, including zebra doves and white-rumped shamas. The guides here always emphasise the importance of early morning visits, especially on weekends, to witness the birds in full song as they are raised on tall poles. Volunteers and seasoned bird keepers also provide insights into bird behaviour and the cultural significance of bird singing in Singapore. Overall, Kebun Baru Birdsinging Club is perfect for both novice birdwatchers and seasoned enthusiasts looking to deepen their appreciation of avian melodies in a serene, community-driven environment.

Customer Reviews

Bon Appetite
The Birdsinging Club is a unique place with the serendipitous bird sounds welcoming you. I spotted 417 poles but being Monday saw about 50 or so poles with bird cages hoisted. This is a place not many locals also know about. I am not commenting on the merits or demerits of caged birds being hoisted on poles as this is someone’s livelihood.

Yohanes Kusika
If you’re into singing bird i think the place is just for you. I used to have lots of singing birds back then and i think the place is just incredibly big and nice and can stay for a long time here just to hear the birds singing.

Athanasius Koh
A unique area set in the middle of the heartlands, the Kebun Baru Birdsinging Club is a feast for the senses with beautifully-coloured birds to see and merry chirps to listen to. Even when the cages are not hung up atop the many poles, it remains an impressive sight to see the many poles positioned neatly next to each other. For pet owners, specialised pet bird shops are also close by.

Website:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100045129982102
Contact:8182 2943
Location:Block 159 Ang Mo Kio Ave 5, Singapore 560159
Opening Hours:6 AM – 5 PM Daily

4. Hampstead Wetlands Park

Hampstead Wetlands Park Birdwatching In Singapore
Image Credit: Hampstead Wetlands Park

Hampstead Wetlands Park is another favourite spot for birdwatchers in Singapore. This 3-hectare park features diverse habitats, including wetlands, grasslands, and secondary forests, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching. The highlight here is the Water Lily Lake, where visitors can spot a variety of waterbirds, such as bee-eaters, egrets, and kingfishers. Early mornings are the best time to visit this place, as birds are most active then. Lucky birdwatchers might even catch a glimpse of the elusive buffy fish owl. The park’s serene environment, free from tall buildings, offers a peaceful retreat for both birds and nature enthusiasts. When coming to Hampstead Wetlands Park, however, be sure to bring your binoculars and camera to capture the stunning bird diversity of the park.

Customer Reviews

Pamela Aw Yong
Birdwatching place! Went there with my family for a walk then chanced on a large group of birdwatchers. All quiet calm and peaceful. Saw a hornbill’s nest and a hornbill parent feeding its baby! How cool!

Jonavan Lee
Beautiful park with a few scenic photo spots. Not a very big park but it has a iconic pond with lots of greenery. Many birdwatchers flock here with their huge cameras to capture the birds. This park has a nice trail so you can walk/jog around the whole area. Very little parking space there but we were lucky to get a slot. As always, go during the sunrise or sunset hours to get the best sky colours for a great photo session. Head to the cafés nearby after your hike – Summerhouse, wheeler’s yard, seok seng bicycle cafe, etc.

Lim Sturxy
Love the tranquility of this place. A pair of owls lived here back then! Great place for birdwatching.

Website:https://beta.nparks.gov.sg/visit/parks/park-detail/hampstead-wetlands-park
Contact:
Location:1 Baker St, Singapore 799977
Opening Hours:24 Hours Daily

5. Singapore Botanic Gardens

Singapore Botanic Gardens Birdwatching Guide
Image Credit: Singapore Botanic Gardens

The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is perfect for nature-based activities, such as birdwatching. With over 200 species recorded, it offers a rich birdwatching experience amidst lush tropical flora. Early mornings are ideal for spotting vibrant species like the Blue-tailed Bee-eater and the Lesser Whistling-Duck. The gardens’ diverse habitats, including the Swan Lake and Rainforest, essentially attract a variety of birds, making it a prime location for both novice and seasoned birders. There are also regular birdwatching events and guided tours here, which enhance the overall experience, providing insights into the avian life that thrives in the place. Whether you are a local or a visitor, you will surely love the Singapore Botanic Gardens for being the most memorable Singapore birdwatching guide.

Customer Reviews

Black Rose
Lots of species of birds, really cool.

Beh PangYoke
Good place to do  birdwatching.  Orchids garden is a must visit,  there’s  a very beautiful an aircon green house.

KiraJY2
Amazing for naturists, bird watchers, animal lovers. Come here dor a great exercise but be surrounded by beautiful nature. Been here twice and both experiences were amazing!

Website:https://www.facebook.com/SingaporeBotanicGardens/
Contact:6471 7138
Location:1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569
Opening Hours:5 AM – 12 AM Daily

6. Kranji Marshes

Kranji Marshes Birdwatching SG
Image Credit: Kranji Marshes

Kranji Marshes is a birdwatcher’s paradise in Singapore, offering a serene escape into nature. This expansive freshwater marshland is home to over 170 species of birds, making it a top spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. Visitors here can explore various trails and observation hides to spot a diverse array of avian life, from the elusive Common Moorhen and White-breasted Waterhen to majestic raptors like the Black Baza and Japanese Sparrowhawk during migratory seasons. The place also has the so-called “Raptor Tower,” which provides panoramic views of the marshes, thereby enhancing the birdwatching experience. Overall, Kranji Marshes offers a tranquil setting for both birders and curious nature lovers to observe and appreciate Singapore’s rich birdlife.

Customer Reviews

Varun Deth
It’s a relatively short walk, but it is a beautiful one. Ornithologists and bird watchers can enjoy a lot here.. the lily ponds along the way are very attractive. Recommended for solo-couple-family walks. I enjoy solo walks often here.

Meep Baller
If you want to go to a nature park with basically no people but a great place to be, here is definitely the one you would want to go to, just be careful trying to go there without a car, especially on weekdays. Also good place for bird watching.

Jessica Yee
Great outdoors venue, for walks, and especially great for birdwatching. Lots of butterflies in the morning. Dragonflies too!  Not crowded as it is not so accessible as public transport is limited there.

Website:https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/kranji-marshes
Contact:6794 1401
Location:11 Neo Tiew Lane 2, Singapore 718814
Opening Hours:7 AM – 7 PM Daily

7. Springleaf Nature Park

Springleaf Nature Park Birdwatching Guide Singapore
Image Credit: Springleaf Nature Park

Completing this list of the best places for birdwatching in Singapore is the Springleaf Nature Park. It is a nature park that boasts over 80 species of resident and migratory birds. Nestled along Sungei Seletar, this relaxing and peaceful park offers a picturesque setting where birdwatchers can see vibrant species like the White-throated Kingfisher, Blue-tailed Bee-eater, and Long-tailed Parakeet. The park’s lush greenery and serene environment make it an ideal spot for observing these avian wonders in their natural habitat. Whether you are an avid birder or a casual nature enthusiast, Springleaf Nature Park can provide you with a delightful escape into nature, where the melodies of bird calls and the sight of colourful feathers create a truly enchanting experience.

Customer Reviews

Buren
Went there for a morning walk with my mom. A nice, quiet place with pretty view, located near Springleaf MRT with a short walk. A nice break from busy and crowded Singapore especially if you go in the morning.

S Law
5 minutes walk from Springleaf MRT station, this connecter is an unspoilt and serene water-side nature trail, which is great for walking, jogging and cycling. Sightings of rare birds. monitor lizards, snakes and otters are common. Connects to Lower Seletar reservoir park, which is another tranquil oasis. Do note Springleaf park connecter is not suitable for young children or picnics, and bring an umbrella as there’s not much shelter.

Gp Tan
A small little park that is super tranquil & great for birdwatching.   Importantly, springleaf mrt is newly opened & great for that trip if one is feeling lazy to walk & take the PCN route…it connects from Lower Seletar Reservoir park. Another important note, there is a great variety of food options nearby.  Super yummy.

Website:https://beta.nparks.gov.sg/visit/parks/park-detail/springleaf-nature-park
Contact:
Location:1230 Upper Thomson Rd, Singapore 787129
Opening Hours:24 Hours Daily

Conclusion

Birdwatching is undoubtedly a relaxing and enjoyable activity to do. The sense of discovery and connection with nature that birdwatching provides, combined with the community of enthusiastic birdwatchers, makes it a rewarding and popular pastime in Singapore and around the world. Fortunately, Singapore is home to some of the most amazing parks and nature reserves in the world, which offer you the opportunity to see different species of bird, including the rare ones. If you are now fully convinced to watch birds with your family, friends, partner, or even alone, do not hesitate to visit any of the parks and nature reserves mentioned in this article, as they are some of the best spots for birdwatching in Singapore. These spots will surely make you love birdwatching even more.