Sentosa Resort Guides

Is staying on Sentosa right for you?

Staying on Sentosa feels like a beach holiday, yet the city centre is a short drive away. The island sits just off Singapore's southern coast. It has sandy beaches, resort hotels, theme parks and green trails. For many visitors it is the most relaxing part of the trip. For others, it is too far from the sights they came to see.

Sentosa suits you if...

• You are travelling with children and want pools, beaches and theme parks close by.
• You want a slower pace after a long flight or a busy city stay.
• You plan a full day at Universal Studios Singapore.
• You are a couple looking for a quiet resort break.

A city hotel may suit you better if...

• You have only two or three days and want to see as much as possible.
• You want hawker centres and local neighbourhoods close to your door.
• You plan to use the MRT, Singapore's metro, many times a day.

Many visitors split their trip. They spend two or three nights on Sentosa and the rest in the city. Where to Stay in Singapore: Best Areas Compared covers the city side.

Choosing a resort on Sentosa

Beach and family resorts

Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa, Singapore sits by Siloso Beach and is popular with families. Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa is another resort choice on the island. Compare pools, room types and rates before you book.

Resorts World Sentosa

This large leisure complex holds several hotels, including Equarius Hotel (Resorts World Sentosa) and Hotel Michael (Resorts World Sentosa). Universal Studios Singapore is in the same complex. That makes these hotels handy for theme park days.

Quiet luxury

Capella Singapore mixes restored colonial buildings with tropical grounds. Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa is a 5-star resort with a spa. Both suit couples and anyone who wants calm over action.

Sentosa Cove

Sentosa Cove is the island's marina area, at its eastern end. W Singapore - Sentosa Cove has a modern, design-led style. It suits guests who enjoy waterfront walks by the marina.

Getting around when staying on Sentosa

Sentosa is linked to the main island at HarbourFront. You have several ways to cross.

• Sentosa Express: a monorail from VivoCity mall, next to HarbourFront MRT station, with stops across the island.
• Sentosa Boardwalk: a walkway over the water from VivoCity. It is an easy walk without heavy bags.
• Taxi or ride-hailing car: the simplest choice with luggage. Cars can drop you at your hotel door.
• Singapore Cable Car: a scenic ride from Mount Faber to the island. It is better for sightseeing than for daily travel.

On the island, buses and beach shuttles link the main areas. Check current routes, fares and any island entry charges before you travel, as these can change. See all Hotels in HarbourFront if you want to stay just across the water.

Things to do near your resort

• Beaches: Siloso, Palawan and Tanjong beaches line the southern shore. Palawan Beach is a favourite with families.
• History: Fort Siloso is a former coastal fort with tunnels and old gun positions.
• Evening show: Wings of Time is a night show by the sea, with water, light and sound.
• A full day out: Sentosa Island Day Out helps you plan a day on the island.

For meals, the island has resort restaurants and beach clubs. Browse Restaurants in Sentosa for ideas. For cheaper local food, head back across to the malls at HarbourFront, which have food courts.

FAQs about staying on Sentosa

How many nights should I stay on Sentosa?

Two or three nights is enough for most visitors. That gives you a theme park day, a beach day and time at the pool.

How long does it take to get from Sentosa to the city centre?

By taxi, it often takes around 15 to 25 minutes outside peak traffic. By public transport, take the monorail to HarbourFront and then the MRT.

Is there a fee to enter Sentosa?

Depending on how you arrive, a small island admission charge may be added to your fare. Walking across the boardwalk is usually the cheapest way in. Check current charges before you go.

Is Sentosa good for families?

Yes. Pools, beaches and theme parks are close together. Kid-Friendly Hotel Pools in Singapore: What to Look For helps you compare resort pools.