Sentosa
Sentosa is a small island just south of Singapore, but it has a big reputation as Asia’s Favourite Playground. There are actually several islands close to Singapore such as Pulau Ubin which is great for biking, but Sentosa is the most accessible, and certainly the most developed. The island offers fun and adventurous attractions for all ages. There are restaurants, beach bars and shops, as well as beautiful, palm-lined white-sand beaches. So make sure you set aside at least a half day in your schedule for a Sentosa excursion - it's well worth it!
Sentosa has been developed into two main regions, each with its own special flavour.
The first is the island's western portion, open to all visitors. This region is home to Sentosa's most popular tourist attractions, restaurants and public beaches. Perhaps the biggest attraction of all is Asia's first Universal Studios theme park. Extending over 500 hectares, it is THE destination for those in search of fun and excitement. But there is so much more to discover such as the Underwater World and the Wave House for the more adventurous.
Read our travel article know more about the top attractions in Sentosa.
The second major region is the island's eastern side, site of Sentosa Cove. This is a more exclusive enclave, considered one of the world's most desirable addresses. Accessible only by private car or taxi (and, for the most part, only to its well-heeled residents) it offers tropical resort living, world-class golf courses and an exclusive yachting marina, with fine restaurants and a sophisticated lounge bar.
To reach Sentosa, you have several options:
Board the Sentosa Express, a light rail train from VivoCity Shopping Mall, and enjoy a smooth, four-minute ride across the bay to Sentosa. The train stops at Waterfront Station, Imbiah Station and Beach Station. From the Sentosa Express terminal on Sentosay, it's an easy stroll to nearby attractions.
Board the train in VivoCity at Lobby L, Level 3.
First train at 7:00 am; last train at 12:00 midnight.
Tickets are SGD 3 for the train (price includes island admission)
The Sentosa Boardwalk, featuring the only garden-themed boardwalk in Southeast Asia, runs parallel to Sentosa Bridge. From several points along the walkway, you can enjoy views of the bay, watch the arrival of cruise liners or admire the sunset. The boardwalk brings you directly to the Sentosa Visitor Centre; from here you can take a shuttle bus to a wide selection of island destinations.
Starts from VivoCity Shopping Mall
Tickets are 1 SGD for boardwalk passage (incl. island admission)
For the more adventurous, we suggest the cable car ride. You'll enoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of Sentosa and southern Singapore as you glide above the bay. Board the cable car at Mount Faber - or, to return to the main island, board at the Sentosa Cable Car Station.
A sunset cable-car ride back to Singapore makes a perfect ending to your day on Sentosa. When you've arrived back at Mount Faber, you'll be all ready to savour the dazzling evening view of Sentosa, then enjoy a sumptuous meal at a hillside restaurant.
Yet another option is to take a convenient taxi ride across the bridge; you'll arrive at the island's main
Information Centre - the perfect jumping-off point for your island explorations.
At convenient spots across the island, you can find maps to guide you in your visit. You'll also find helpful information booths in many areas. To plan your visit in advance, please read our travel article, as we describe more of Sentosa's points and places of interest. A detailed map of Sentosa can be found at www.sentosa.com.sg
Have fun!
