Chek Jawa Wetlands Singapore 2026: Complete Guide to Pulau Ubin’s Hidden Coastal Gem

Chek Jawa Wetlands is a 100-hectare coastal nature reserve located on the eastern tip of Pulau Ubin, showcasing six distinct ecosystems: rocky beach, sandy beach, seagrass lagoon, coral rubble, mangrove forest, and coastal forest. This Singapore coastal ecosystem serves as a critical habitat for over 100 bird species and numerous marine creatures, making it essential for conservation efforts and environmental education.

• Daily: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
• Last entry: 4:30 PM
• Best visited during low tide (check tide schedules online)
• First weekend of every month for ecosystem maintenance

Getting to this Pulau Ubin nature reserve requires a short ferry ride and a cycling journey:

Step 1: Take the MRT to Tanah Merah Station, then the bus service 2 to Changi Point Ferry Terminal

Step 2: Board the bumboat to Pulau Ubin (SGD 4 one-way, departs when 12 passengers board)

Step 3: Rent a bicycle at Pulau Ubin jetty (SGD 10-15/day)

Step 4: Cycle 2.5 km (15-20 minutes) to Chek Jawa Wetlands entrance

Explore the Chek Jawa Boardwalk Trail: The 1.1-km Chek Jawa boardwalk winds through coastal habitats, offering elevated views of mangrove ecosystems without disturbing wildlife. The wheelchair-accessible pathway provides perfect vantage points for photography and bird watching.

Climb the Jejawi Observation Tower: Climb the 20-meter observation tower for panoramic views spanning the coastal forest canopy, Johor Strait, and surrounding wetlands. Ideal for spotting migratory birds during peak seasons (September-March).

Discover the Intertidal Zone at Low Tide:

At low tide, explore fascinating intertidal zones teeming with marine biodiversity. Observe fiddler crabs, mudskippers, sea anemones, starfish, and colourful corals in natural tide pools. Time your visit 2-3 hours before/after low tide for optimal wildlife viewing.

Walk Through the Mangrove Forest:

Navigate through Singapore's preserved mangrove forest, home to unique flora including rare Bakau Kurap trees. Watch for monitor lizards, hornbills, and kingfishers in their natural coastal habitat.

Learn at the Chek Jawa Visitor Centre (House No. 1):

Visit the Chek Jawa Wetlands Visitor Centre (House No. 1), featuring interactive exhibits on ecosystem conservation, coastal biodiversity, and sustainable environmental practices. Educational programs are available for school groups and families.

• Birds: White-bellied sea eagles, collared kingfishers, Pacific reef herons
• Marine life: Blue-spotted fantail rays, knobbly sea stars, cushion stars
• Crustaceans: Fiddler crabs, hermit crabs, horseshoe crabs
• Reptiles: Monitor lizards, banded water snakes

Best Time for Wildlife: Early morning (8:30-10:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM)

• Optimal Season: February to October (drier months)
• Tide Dependent: Check low tide schedules; best marine life viewing occurs during spring tides
• Avoid: First weekend of each month (closed for maintenance)
• Peak Season: March-April and September-November for migratory bird spotting

• Wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and sun protection
• Bring water, insect repellent (sand flies are common), binoculars, camera
• Don't touch marine creatures or vegetation (conservation area)
• Stay on Paths protects fragile ecosystems by using designated boardwalks
• Tide Apps: download the Singapore tide prediction apps before visiting

Combine your Chek Jawa Wetlands visit with other Pulau Ubin attractions, including Ketam Mountain Bike Park, Puaka Hill, and traditional kampong villages. Plan a full-day Singapore eco-tourism adventure exploring the island's rustic charm.

Chek Jawa Wetlands Singapore offers an unparalleled glimpse into Singapore's natural heritage and coastal biodiversity. This free-entry nature reserve combines accessible boardwalk trails, diverse wildlife encounters, and educational experiences perfect for families, photographers, and eco-conscious travellers. Plan your visit during low tide for optimal marine life exploration, and don't miss the observation tower's breathtaking panoramic views. Book your Singapore holiday package with Pickyourtrail to include this remarkable wetland ecosystem in your itinerary. Experience sustainable tourism at its finest while supporting conservation efforts at one of Southeast Asia's most pristine coastal sanctuaries. Customise your next Singapore tour packages with Pickyourtrail for a hassle-free experience.