One of Singapore’s most popular resort destinations with over 25 million visitors each year, Sentosa Island has undergone significant changes over the last 30 years. In the past, it was a quiet getaway known mainly for its beaches and family activities. Today, however, it’s a destination with beautiful luxury hotels, high-end dining options, modern attractions, and nature escapes, all within minutes of the city.
The island now balances leisure, culture, and adventure, integrated into one giant resort. Attracting travelers seeking both relaxation and memorable experiences, Sentosa has become more than just a family-friendly getaway, but has now become a global destination that houses thrilling attractions, exciting activities to experience, and a world of luxury for the discerning traveler.
Let’s rediscover the thrilling offerings of Sentosa with everything to do and see on your next Singapore holiday.
Tourist Attractions
Photo: Sentosa
Sentosa has something for almost everyone: history, nature, cultural experiences, and high-energy attractions.
1. Resorts World Sentosa
Resorts World Sentosa is one of the island’s main draws. It includes Universal Studios Singapore, a theme park and one of the must-see places in Singapore with rides, live shows, and themed areas. Families and thrill-seekers can spend a whole day here.
The Singapore Oceanarium, located here, is one of the largest in the world. Visitors can view thousands of marine animals, from small reef fish to large rays and sharks. The massive viewing panels make it an immersive experience, and there are interactive exhibits for those interested in marine conservation.
2. Nature Parks
Sentosa also offers quieter spaces. Sentosa Nature Discovery has walking trails, gardens, and wildlife viewing. It’s a good place for a slow morning away from the crowds.
The Fort Siloso Skywalk is an 11-storey-high treetop bridge with panoramic views of the island and the Singapore Strait. It leads to Fort Siloso, a restored coastal fort and the country’s only preserved fort open to the public. Inside, visitors can see old tunnels, gun displays, and exhibits about Singapore’s wartime history.
3. Historical Sites
Sentosa is not just about modern attractions, it also features historical sites for culture buffs. Guided tours are offered for those interested in heritage and culture, taking you through historical landmarks and public art installations that the usual visitors often overlook. These guides include fascinating stories about the island’s historical transformation from being a military base in Asia to a booming and thriving resort destination.
4. Island Hopping
Sentosa is not exactly known for being a tropical destination with islands ready to explore, but you might be surprised. Island hopping is a popular day activity, where yacht charters and private cruises are offered on Sentosa Cove, visiting nearby islands such as Kusu, the southern islands, Lazarus, and St. Johns. Each of these island destinations provides a different experience, where sunset cruises, snorkeling stops, and diving on board are just some of the experiences you can have while on and off board.
For travelers who wish to have a more exclusive and private island hopping experience, private yachts are your best bet for the most comfortable and luxurious way to hop from one island to another from Sentose Cove.
Beaches
Photo: World Beach Guide
Sentosa isn’t just about artificial attractions; it also features beautiful beaches for sunbathing, swimming, and a host of water sports activities. There are three beaches in Sentosa: Palawan, Siloso, and Tanjong.
1. Palawan
Palawan Beach is known for its calm waters, making it the best beach for families. There’s also a suspension bridge leading to a small islet that’s considered the southernmost point of continental Asia accessible to the public.
2. Siloso
Siloso Beach is active and lively, lined with bars, restaurants, and shops. Beach volleyball and water sports are popular here, and it’s often the site of events and concerts. For those looking for more fun and people watching, Siloso Beach is the place to be.
3. Tanjong
For a quieter beach, Tanjong is the most relaxed. It attracts couples and groups seeking a more tranquil setting. Weekdays are exceptionally peaceful, while weekends may see beach clubs hosting DJ sets.
Places to Stay in Sentosa
Photo: Sentosa
Planning on escaping to Sentosa for a few days? Here are the best places to stay:
1. Capella Singapore
Capella is a well-known choice for privacy and elegance. The property is spread across restored colonial buildings and modern villas, perfect for those who want to be in a historical setting or exclusive enclave and for pet lovers who are looking for a nice place to stay. Guests also have access to Auriga Spa, which offers treatments inspired by natural and lunar cycles, and Cassia, a fine dining restaurant serving refined Chinese cuisine. For a pop culture note, Taylor Swift reportedly stayed in this resort.
Related article: 7 Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Asia
2. W Singapore Sentosa Cove
The W Singapore is bold and modern, located right by the marina at Sentosa Cove. It features the Away Spa, which offers a range of treatments in a colorful, contemporary setting, and the famed Skirt Restaurant, which focuses on premium meats and seafood grilled over wood fire.
3. Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa
The best place to find the beach within steps from your accommodation, Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa is a beachfront resort offering direct access to Siloso Beach. It’s family-friendly and has the Chi Spa, which draws on Asian healing traditions for its treatments. Guests can enjoy sea views, swimming pools, and a range of activities without leaving the property.
4. Equarius Ocean Suites
Part of Resorts World Sentosa, the suites in this resort offer something rare: underwater views of the Singapore Oceanarium from your bedroom. Each suite is two levels, with the upper floor above ground and the lower floor facing the aquarium’s marine life through large windows.
5. Siloso Beach Resort
Sentosa offers more than just modern resorts. It also provides a more eco-conscious stay at the Siloso Beach Resort, which focuses on sustainability. It uses solar panels, has a spring water swimming pool, and is surrounded by native plants, making it one of the few beachfront eco-friendly resorts in Singapore.
Must-Do Experiences
Photo: Sentosa
1. Cable Car Sky Dining
One of the most iconic experiences in Sentosa, it offers a private meal inside a cable car cabin that travels between Mount Faber and Sentosa. The ride offers views of the harbor, city skyline, and island lights at night, making it one of the most romantic experiences on the island resort. Menus range from local dishes to international cuisine.
2. Maduro Bar
For those looking for a night out, Maduro is a jazz lounge that offers live performances in an intimate setting. It’s a relaxed but refined spot for music lovers and is also recognised as one of Asia’s notable jazz clubs. The programming changes regularly, so it’s worth checking ahead if you have a favorite style or performer.
In addition to these, Sentosa has a growing list of restaurants offering everything from seafood and international fine dining to casual beachfront cafes. Many resorts also have in-house dining worth trying, even if you’re not staying there.
Where Every Visit Feels New
Over the past 30 years, Sentosa has transformed from a quiet coastal escape into a destination that balances history, culture, and luxury. The island has preserved its historical and resort destination identity, evolving from a military fort with calm beaches to now featuring modern attractions, eco-friendly stays, and fine dining with a view.
For travelers seeking variety in one location, Sentosa offers the perfect blend of laid-back mornings and lively nights, all within the same island. Whether you come for the history, the beaches, or the luxury resorts, it’s a place that keeps finding new ways to be worth a return visit.
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Featured Image by Pelago
