Sentosa Island, Singapore
The island of Sentosa in Singapore was once a British military base. It is now home to the single most popular cluster of attractions in the world. This island, with less than 5 square kilometers of land area, has numerous activities to amuse people of all ages and taste.
The Sentosa Island was earlier known as Pulau Blakang Mati (‘island at the back of death’ in Malay), in reference to the frequent fatal disease outbreaks on the island. It used to be a refuge for pirates in the 19th century before the British used the island as a military fortress. Once the British pulled out their troops in 1968, the Pulau Blakang Mati was transformed into a leisure destination and renamed Sentosa (‘isle of peace and tranquillity’).
A day on Sentosa Island is an ideal getaway from the urban sprawl of Singapore. With a multitude of thrilling amusement park rides, dense green spaces, serene beaches, spa resorts and laid back bars; you'll never run short of things to do on Sentosa Island. You could be ziplining over the island and taking a leisurely walk amongst the marine creatures, all in a day at the Sentosa Island. Here's our curation of the top 20 Sentosa Attractions that you must squeeze into your itinerary.
Top 20 Sentosa Attractions
Outdoor | Family friendly | Popular Choice
1. Universal Studios
The wonderful world of Universal Studios announced its arrival to Southeast Asia with this gigantic theme park. The Universal Studios park features seven themed zones that house 24 rides and attractions. The theme park provides wholesome family fun. The kids may enjoy meeting Elmo, or the minions, while you may be out enjoying a rollercoaster or shopping your heart out. There are enough places to quench your thirst and satiate your hunger as well. You will need to have at least an entire day to enjoy Universal Studios.
Indoor | Kid-friendly | Popular Choice
2. S.E.A. Aquarium
The S.E.A. Aquarium is known to hold over 1000 species of marine animals. Some of these animals are also being conserved by the facility, apart from giving the visitors a chance to observe them. Sharks and dolphins garner the most attention. However, the coral reef tanks are equally fascinating. The S.E.A. Aquarium is one of the most popular nature-based attractions in Singapore.
Outdoor | Family friendly | Adventurous
3. Adventure Cove Waterpark
Sentosa Island has a number of attractions that are made for people of all ages. The Adventure Cove Waterpark is one of those. If you are a thrill seeker, the water park will present you with the opportunity to ride one of its water slide or the wave pool. If you are in for a relaxing experience, you could spend a laidback time at the lazy river, or just relax at the cabanas. All in all, a day at the Adventure Cove Waterpark translates to an all-around exciting experience.
Outdoor | Kid-friendly | Budget friendly
4. Wings of Time
Wings of Time is a show that teaches you about friendship and affection. It teaches you about courage and its rewards. As you take your seat overlooking the majestic ocean, the variegated bird Shahbaz takes a flight to set off on a journey back home. Accompanying the bird, are Rachel and Felix, who have their own destinies to fulfill. You are absorbed by the ambitious storyline that unfolds with the employment of water, fire, and laser effects. This is an ancient story told in the most modern of ways.
Outdoor | Family friendly | Popular Choice
5. Singapore Cable Car
Singapore Cable Car is one of the most often recommended attractions if you are visiting Sentosa with your family. The Sentosa line of the Singapore Cable Car service affords you a breathtaking view of mountains, vegetation, and the blue ocean beyond them. The Sentosa line also has three stops, which means you can use this attraction itself to get to other places of interest at Sentosa. As you enjoy the ride, do not forget to look down for a preview of some of the most enthralling Sentosa activities.
Indoor | Kid-friendly | Budget friendly
6. Trick Eye Museum
This is one of the very few museums in the world that will encourage you to touch and get a feel of its belongings as much as you want. You could take photos too. The Trick Eye Museum is an optical art establishment that utilizes state-of-the-art technology to reveal a fun side of its offerings. Posing with its display pieces will give you quirky photos. In recent times, the museum has incorporated augmented reality in some of its exhibits to provide the next level of immersive experience.
Indoor | Kid-friendly | Adventurous
7. iFly Singapore
Skydiving is a rage among thrill seekers. It ranks quite high up the adrenaline chart, as well as the cost chart. iFly Singapore gives you a chance to experience a 9000 feet fall at a marginal charge. With its patented technology at the helm, iFly Singapore simulates the gravitational phenomenon experienced during free fall. The degree of safety makes it a safe bet even for jittery flyers. Its range of airspeed and large diffuser area lets you execute skydiving formations and make the experience as authentic as possible.
Outdoor | Family friendly | Budget-friendly
8. Sentosa Merlion
The Merlion is a Singapore icon. It is known as the guardian of the nation’s prosperity. The mythical creature is part lion and part fish. The lion stands for the rediscovery of Singa (lion) Pura (land) by Prince Sang Nila Utama, while the fish represents the fishing village of Temasek. The attraction not only provides visual grandeur but also gives you a generous dose of the historical background of Singapore. If you dig around, you will find out more about this 37-meter tall gentle giant.
Outdoor | Adventurous | Popular Choice
9. AJ Hackett Singapore
AJ Hackett is famous worldwide for its foray into the adrenaline-pumping entertainment business. At AJ Hackett Singapore, you can catch one of the best sunsets in entire Singapore from its 40-meter high see-through skywalk. If you want to go to the next level, you may choose to leap from the 50 meters high Bungy Tower. Alternatively, you may also opt for the Giant Swing that takes you to your personal limit with randomly changing motion.
Outdoor | Kid-friendly | Adventurous
10. Skyline Luge Sentosa
Skyline Luge in Sentosa allows you to ride along a downhill track on a unique vehicle. This is safe for people of all ages. If you are looking a little more thrill, you could have your pick from a number of themed tracks. The total track length at Skyline Luge is 2.6 kilometers. If you want a laid back experience, hop on the Skyride which gives you an aerial view of the South China Sea and Singapore. This ride is quite romantic at night and serves as a perfect getaway from the tumult of the park.
Indoor | Family Friendly | Popular Choice
11. Madame Tussauds Singapore
Madame Tussauds is famous for its hyper-realistic wax statues of celebrities. At Sentosa, you get to experience the magic of Madame Tussauds without making a trip halfway across the world. From Hollywood stars to sporting icons, Madame Tussauds has everyone waiting to meet you. Additionally, there are interactive activities and virtual reality racing games for the entire family to enjoy. Madame Tussauds is another one of the must-visit spots at Sentosa.
Outdoor | Budget-friendly | Popular Choice
12. Fort Siloso
Fort Siloso stands as a testament to Singapore’s immense significance in the 19th century. The British empire built 12 gun batteries, out of which only Fort Siloso could be restored to almost its former glory. A lot of the original defensive structures and tunnels remain for the scrutiny of the visitors. You can explore the structure from the skywalk, or take a closer look in the Heritage Trail or the Gun Trail. Alternatively, let an immersive show called the Surrender Chamber transport you to the glory days of Fort Siloso.
Outdoor | Family friendly | Adventurous
13. Mega Adventure Park
Mega Adventure Park does justice to its name with the activities offered by them. The most popular of their offerings is the MegaZip, which is the steepest in South East Asia. You travel down the zipline at a speed of over 60 kilometers per hour. You may also go for MegaClimb, set at a height of up to 15 meters from the ground. MegaWall and MegaJump are two other activities offered at the Mega Adventure Park that can be enjoyed by friends and family alike.
Indoor | Kid-friendly | Adventurous
14. Headrock VR
Headrock VR is one of the newest kids on the Sentosa Island. Headrock VR stands out in all of Asia as the first virtual reality theme park. There a total of 11 thrilling attractions to choose from. Since you will be experiencing everything in VR, there is no limit to the adventure. You will be fully immersed in the hyperreal media adventure that will subject you to adrenaline-pumping scenarios and will compel you to give it another go.
Outdoor | Adventurous | Popular Choice
15. Wave House Sentosa
Although the island is blessed with an abundance of aquatic wealth all around it, the one thing that Singapore lacked is the waves that attract surfers to various coastal destinations. Wave House has brought the waves to Singapore with its exclusive Double Flowrider that allows visitors of any skill level to enjoy surfing. The Flowbarrel on the the other hand is for more advanced surfing with constant barrelling waves.
Outdoor | Kid-friendly | Adventurous
16. Gogreen Segway Eco Adventure
Gogreen Segway Eco Adventure is one of its kind Eco Adventure in Asia. The Segway is a futuristic mobility device, which you will be taught to operate before setting off on the tour. You will head to the Siloso Beach for this adventure. On board the Segway, you will explore the wonderful sights of the island shores. You can choose between a 30-minute tour of one beach or a 60-minute tour of all three beaches.
Outdoor | Kid-friendly | Popular Choice
17. Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom
The Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom is one of the most austere experiences that you can be a part of at Sentosa. The lush outdoor sanctuary for the butterflies is at once wondrous and calming. The entire area of the park goes beyond the visible. The recreated rainforest brings a multisensory delight t the visitors. Kids, in particular, will cherish a visit to the Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom and also go home with nuggets of precious knowledge.
Indoor | Budget-friendly | Popular Choice
18. Images of Singapore LIVE
Images of Singapore LIVE is an attraction that can be bundled with the Madame Tussauds. It reveals the rich history of the nation employing an interactive and theatrical experience. Live actors and special effects work in tandem to bring the history of Singapore to life right in front of you. The newly added boat ride adds another dimension to this wonderful experience.
Outdoor | Budget-friendly | Popular Choice
19. Beaches of Sentosa
Sentosa Island has three beaches of varied characteristic features. The most popular one is the Siloso beach. This beach is known for the activities that are available on and around it. You can have meals on some of the best restaurants in Sentosa located around this area. Palawan beach is for having relaxing family time. With playgrounds available for children, this is where you should head to if Siloso seems too busy for you. Tanjong beach is for having an even more secluded getaway from the tourist crowd. It has a beachside club with a bar and thatched shelters by the beach.
Indoor | Kid-friendly | Popular Choice
20. KidZania Singapore
If you are heading to Sentosa with a child, this is a must-visit. KidZania is a theme park in Singapore that is built keeping the likes and dislikes of children in mind. The park provides the children with real-life activities like flying a plane, performing surgery, cooking a meal, to name a few. Children can take part in role-play activities and even earn salaries in the KidZania currency. This is more than just a theme park. It teaches children values that are otherwise difficult to impart without first-hand experience.
Sentosa Attractions Map
Getting around Sentosa without a map can be quite a nightmare. Make sure you download this Sentosa Attractions Map and keep it handy on your phone.
Getting To Sentosa Island
There are different ways to reach Sentosa Island. Sentosa is just 10 minutes away from the Central Business District of Singapore.
Via the Sentosa Boardwalk
You can hop on the Sentosa Boardwalk from VivoCity Mall and with travelators that go on for kilometers, you can enjoy the view as you're transported to the island. Entry to the island via the Sentosa Boardwalk costs $1. Note, skates, skateboards and cycling are not permitted on the Boardwalk.
By Taxi
If you're planning to reach Sentosa via taxi, you'll be accessing the island via the Sentosa Gateway. For taxis, there is a fare of $2-$6, depending on date and time of entry. Note, this fee will be included in the total taxi fare and you do not have to pay it at the entrance.
By Car
For those driving to Sentosa, there is a cashless system which charges per car. There are 5 carparks on Sentosa Island and the fares are around $3-$5 for the first 4 hours and $1-$2 for each hour thereafter. You are required to pay the parking fee using cash or card at the Guest Services Center.
Sentosa Express Monorail
From Sentosa Station on Level 3 of the VivoCity Mall, you can purchase a Sentosa Pass for $4 which covers a round trip journey and entrance to the island as well unlimited use of the Sentosa Express around the island for the day. The Sentosa Express Monorail is open from 7 Am to 11:45 PM, departing at a frequency of 5-8 minutes. It has 4 stations - Waterfront Station, Imbiah Station, Beach Station and the Sentosa Express Station. You can hop on and hop off these stations as you please with the Sentosa Pass which makes traveling within the Island easy too.
Sentosa Cable Car
Taking the Sentosa Cable Car in undoubtedly the most picturesque way to get to the island, but also the most expensive. The cable cars depart from near the VivoCity Mall, so head up to Level 3 and make your way to the HarbourFront MRT station. From here, take Exit B and you'll reach Harbourfront Tower II where the boarding happens. It's best advised to purchase the cable car tickets online in advance to save time standing in queues. Despite being expensive, the cable car is one of the most popular ways to get to Sentosa, hence purchasing a round-trip ticket for the Sentosa Cable Car is highly recommended.
Getting Around in Sentosa
Sentosa is jam-packed with attractions and activities that will keep you hopping from one place to another all day. The transport system within the island has been set up keepig that in mind.
Buses Around Sentosa Island
There are 2 free bus services that can take you from one point to another in almost no time. In fact, it takes about 15 minutes to go from Tanjong beach to Fort Siloso, two points at the opposite extremities of the island.
Take the Tram/ Beach Train
There are 2 mini trains (tram-like buses) services in Sentosa. They are called the "beach train" as they mainly shuttle between the beaches. While one line operates between Siloso Beach and Beach Carpark, the other line shuttles between Palawan Beach and Tanjong Beach. There are 20 stops in total between the two lines and both trains operate from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily.
Segway It
Segways are a fun way to get about the island at your pace without tiring yourself out. You can check out the eco-friendly Go Green Segways and hire one for the day.
Cycle It
Some tourists prefer to rent bikes for transit. Keep a map of the island handy and you would find that most of the attractions are a few minutes’ walks away from each other.
Where to Eat in Sentosa
- Average Cost
- European Fusion Cuisine with Vegan option
- Located close to the Palawan beach and So Spa, The Garden is known for its healthy preparations and use of natural flavor.
- Average Cost
- Singaporean Cuisine with a Bar and Vegan option
- Located close to the Tanjong beach, Le Bar is known for its excellent service, authentic Singaporean dishes, and exquisite seating area.
- Low Cost
- Asian Cafe specialties with Fast Food
- Located in the vicinity of S.E.A. Aquarium, Toast Box is known for its affordable breakfast options and an extensive array of toasts.
- High Cost
- South American Steakhouse Cuisine with Gluten-free option
- Located at the Eastern part of the Sentosa Island, SKIRT offers great steaks and wines and has a remarkably plush seating area.
- High Cost
- European Cuisine with Gluten-free and Vegan option
- Located close to the Palawan beach, The Knolls offers an invigorating Mediterranean dining experience with a innovative menu.
Good to Know About Sentosa Island, Singapore
Ideal Time to be Spent at Sentosa Island
Depending on the number of attractions you intend to hit up, you can plan a trip to Sentosa for a day or maybe two days. For eg; Universal Studios itself can take up more than half a day! If you prefer exploring the island at a relaxed pace, I would suggest setting aside 2 days.
Daily Budget
It would be a good idea to buy passes like the Sentosa FUN Token Pass passes online to keep within your budget in Sentosa. If you are planning to spend a full day at Sentosa, anywhere between S$200 to S$250 (US$150 to US$190) should cover for one person.
Best Passes to Use in Sentosa
The Sentosa FUN Token Pass will help you minimize your spending while maximizing the amusement. The FUN Token Pass gives you tokens that can then be spent on almost all the Sentosa attractions. The initial purchase can be made for 50, 80, or 120 tokens. Every subsequent purchase can be made in blocks of 5 tokens.
Best Time to Visit Sentosa
Mid-January to early-March is the best time to visit Sentosa as the humidity still hasn’t peaked and the crowd is dwindling. It is advisable to reach Sentosa as early as possible to avoid standing in queues in the humind & hot weather.
Things to Avoid in Sentosa
- Avoid heading to Sentosa during the Formula 1 week. F1 brings its fanfare to Singapore, and some of it spills to Sentosa, making the attractions more crowded than usual. A considerable rise in hotel rates is also not uncommon in Singapore.
- Avoid buying single attraction passes and go for combo passes that allow you entry to two or more attractions. That way you can avoid standing in queues at each place and save a few bucks even!
Frequently Asked Questions About Sentosa Island
Is entry to Sentosa free?
Is Sentosa open 24 hours?
What are the top free attractions on Sentosa Island?
What are the best things to do in Sentosa at night?
What are the best things to do in Sentosa at night?
Final Thoughts
Singapore is a small nation. And Sentosa is a tiny island towards its south. However, do not let that fool you. If you wanted to check out every attraction and activity at Sentosa, it could take you well over two full days. Sentosa never colors its preference in favor of one particular age of people. It has a fun activity for everyone. Even if you aren’t looking to participate in any activities, lounging on one of its beaches is an attractive prospect. Singapore has many must-visit spots. Sentosa isn’t one to miss out either. It truly is, the state of fun.
More Singapore Guides
Now that you've read all about Sentosa and the best Sentosa attractions, here are a few more interesting guides to help you plan your Singapore vacation better
The post A Quick Guide To The Top 20 Sentosa Attractions You Cannot Miss appeared first on Headout Blog.
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