Labrador Nature Reserve contains the only rocky sea-cliff on the main island of Singapore
that is accessible to the public for recreation, education and scientific research. Labrador was
originally gazetted as a nature reserve under the old Nature Reserves Ordinance. More recently, the 10 ha
coastal secondary vegetation and the rocky shore have been gazetted as a Nature Reserve since 1 January
2002. Labrador Nature Reserve has a rich variety of flora and fauna that will delight nature lovers. More
than 50 kinds of birds, including the Blue-crowned Hanging Parrot, the Rufous Woodpecker and Abbott's
Babbler, have been seen here. Tree species like Symplocos adenophylla, Eugenia grandis (Sea Apple),
Rhodamnia cinerea (Silverback), Ixonanthes reticulate can be seen here. Many of the trees are rare, and of
special interest is the monocotyledonous tree, Dracaena maingayi, estimated to be more than 80 years old. Some
11 species of butterflies have also been recorded here. Birds, spiders and thousands of insects, some too small
to be seen, all have their functions in keeping the rich forest a self-perpetuating habitat. Fronting the 30m
high cliff sides, the 300 metre Labrador beach is extremely rich in marine flora and fauna. Plants such as
the sea-grapes, sea-fan and red algae provide food for the fauna at the beach. The animals exploit the
environment created by an exposed rocky shore, with some sheltered muddy zones, and show many adaptations
to feeding on mud, burrowing, swimming, self-defence and display. Besides its rich biodiversity, this
headland played a significant role in the history of Singapore during World War II. Remnants of the past like
the war relics, tunnels and a fort enable visitors to have an interactive learning experience of the
military history of the British rule during that era. Students, especially, will benefit from the
educational value of these war relics that are now surrounded by natural forest. The military installations
were built on the highest points, now inside the Nature Reserve, overlooking the Park below.
The Park
Labrador Park is an oasis
of tranquility and natural wonder. The park offers a picturesque view of the sea. A Staircase built
on the edge of the secondary
forest will offer a prime view of the cliff side vegetation coupled with a panoramic view of the sea. It is
not uncommon to hear songs sung by a variety of bird species, including the Oriental Magpie-robin and
Black-naped Oriole. While you are taking a leisurely stroll along one of the nature trails, you can spot
squirrels scurrying up trees. Raptors like the Brahminy Kite, Oriental Honey-Buzzard and Black Baza soar
in the sky above while Monitor lizards sun along the footpath. Even the Southern Pied Hornbill has been
sighted occasionally. Walk along the Promenade to the soothing sound of the waves and watch cruise ships
sail past Sentosa Island. A recently refurnished jetty will take the visitor into the sea to enjoy a
breathtaking view of the sunset. If fishing is your cup of tea, join the regular group of anglers at the
sea walk along the promenade. .
Labrador Park is one of the parks in Singapore that will give the first time visitor a truly unique
experience and it will entice you for a repeat visit.
Guided tours of the war tunnels are now conducted daily from 10am - 7pm. (Last guided tour is at 6pm. Call 6339 6833 for more information.)
Getting there
:
Service Parks 408 plies between HarbourFront Interchange and Labrador
Park on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays from 11 am to 9 pm.
The service departs the interchange every 30 minutes.
Notice 1: For school or group visits to the beach, please submit your
application to NParks two weeks in advance via fax at 67621383
Notice 2: The jetty and beach will be closed from 15 October 2007 to 31 January 2008 for upgrading works. Please contact our 24-hr helpline at 1800-471 7300 if you have further feedback or queries.
