Sentosa Guides

Sentosa at a glance

Sentosa is a small resort island just off Singapore's south coast. A road bridge, a boardwalk, a monorail and a cable car link it to the main island. There are plenty of things to do on Sentosa, from theme parks and beaches to forest paths and an old fort. It makes an easy day trip, and many families stay a night or two.

Plan your day around one big attraction, then add a beach or a short walk. Our Sentosa Island Day Out page has a simple plan.

Top things to do on Sentosa

Theme parks and big attractions

Universal Studios Singapore is a film-themed park with rides and shows. Allow a full day. Book tickets online and arrive early on weekends and school holidays.

• Mega Adventure Park has a long zipline down towards the beach, plus rope courses.
• Madame Tussauds Singapore is a wax museum with life-size figures of famous people.
• Wings of Time is an evening show with water, lights and music by the sea.

For more ideas, see our Theme Parks & Zoos topic.

Beaches

Sentosa has three main beaches along its southern shore. Siloso Beach is the liveliest, with beach sports and beach clubs. Palawan Beach suits families, with calm water and a rope bridge to a small islet. Tanjong Beach is usually the quietest of the three.

The beaches are free. Swim only where it is allowed, and follow the flags and signs. Our Islands & Beaches topic has more coastal ideas.

History and nature

Fort Siloso is a restored coastal fort with old guns and tunnels. It tells the story of Singapore's defence in the Second World War, and entry is free. Forest paths also cross the middle of the island, with shade and sea views.

How to get to Sentosa

Most routes start near HarbourFront MRT station and the VivoCity mall.

• Walk along the Sentosa Boardwalk from VivoCity. It is the cheapest way in and an easy, flat walk.
• Sentosa Express is a monorail from VivoCity to the main areas of the island.
• The cable car runs from Mount Faber and HarbourFront, with views over the port. See Singapore Cable Car. Mount Faber Park, a hill park with city views, sits at the mainland end.
• Taxis and cars can drive over the bridge. Vehicles pay an entry charge.

Once on the island, free buses link the main areas. Routes and charges change, so check the official Sentosa website before you go.

Food and drink on the island

Sentosa has everything from food courts to fine dining. Prices tend to be higher than in the city. Some visitors eat a cheaper meal at VivoCity before crossing over.

• Osia Steak and Seafood Grill serves Western grills and seafood.
• Skirt is a steakhouse.
• Hashida Singapore serves Japanese food.
• Coastes is a casual spot for Western food.

Beach clubs serve food and drinks by the sand. The legal drinking age in Singapore is 18. If you choose to drink, do so responsibly and drink plenty of water in the heat. See all Restaurants in Sentosa.

Staying on Sentosa

A night on the island lets you enjoy the beaches early and late, when it is cooler and calmer. Hotels range from family resorts to quiet luxury retreats.

• Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa, Singapore is a resort by Siloso Beach.
• Capella Singapore and Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa are five-star resorts.
• The Barracks Hotel Sentosa is a boutique resort.

Browse our Sentosa Resorts topic or the full list of Resorts in Singapore.

Tips to save money and time

• Walk in on the boardwalk instead of taking a taxi.
• Buy attraction tickets online ahead. Bundles can cost less than single tickets.
• Use the free island buses to hop between beaches.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat and water, as the beaches have little shade.
• Avoid weekends and school holidays if you can, when queues are longer.

Travelling with children? Read Things to Do With Kids in Singapore: 12 Family Ideas.

FAQs about Sentosa

Is it free to enter Sentosa?

Walking in on the Sentosa Boardwalk is the cheapest way in. The monorail, cable car and vehicles charge a fee. The beaches are free, but most attractions need a ticket.

How many days do you need on Sentosa?

One full day covers a theme park, or a beach plus one or two smaller sights. Two days let you see Universal Studios and still relax by the sea.

Which Sentosa beach is best for families?

Palawan Beach is a popular family choice. The water is usually calm, and a rope bridge leads to a small islet.

Can you visit Sentosa in the evening?

Yes. The island is pleasant after sunset, and Wings of Time runs in the evening. Check the last monorail and bus times before you go.