Sentosa Island

What are the most recommended things to do in Sentosa Island?

Sentosa Island offers a variety of attractions including Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and the iconic Sentosa Merlion. Visitors can also enjoy the pristine beaches, visit the Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom, or relax at the luxurious resorts and spas.


Introducing Sentosa Island

Sentosa Island, an island south of Singapore, was once a British naval base and is now Singapore's most renowned maritime resort, boasting the title of Singapore's first integrated entertainment city. Beyond its tropical beauty, the island boasts theme parks, cultural centers, award-winning spas, a deep-water yacht marina at Sentosa Cove, and luxurious private residences. It's accessible from the city center in minutes by cable car, ferry, car, or via the Sentosa Boardwalk.

Climate and best time to travel

All seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

one day;

The British fortress Siloso Fort, the Maritime Museum, Siloso Beach and Palawan Beach, etc.

Tickets

Island entrance fee: SGD 4 for MRT (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)

Free admission: Children under 3 years old can enter the island for free

Attraction opening hours

All day

07:00-00:00 the next day (MRT)


Most Popular FAQs for Sentosa Island

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Sentosa Island was originally a British military base, and was transformed into a recreational island in the 1970s. Today, it is one of Singapore’s top tourist destinations, known for its luxurious resorts, vibrant attractions, and beautiful beaches.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Sentosa Island is located just south of mainland Singapore. It is accessible by taxi, bus, or the Sentosa Express monorail from VivoCity. You can also take a scenic walk across the Sentosa Boardwalk or use the cable car for a more scenic route.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Sentosa Island is open 24 hours, but most attractions operate from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and the midday heat.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance to Sentosa Island is free, but there are separate fees for individual attractions like Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, and the Adventure Cove Waterpark. Tickets can be bought online via the Sentosa website or onsite at the ticket counters.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It’s recommended to book tickets for popular attractions like Universal Studios Singapore in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends. Booking 1-2 days ahead is usually sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore Sentosa Island fully, including a few major attractions, a day is recommended. If you want to visit all major attractions, including Universal Studios and the beaches, plan for 2-3 days.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see attractions include Universal Studios Singapore, the S.E.A. Aquarium, Adventure Cove Waterpark, Sentosa's beaches, and the Sentosa Merlion. Don’t miss the scenic Sentosa Cable Car ride for panoramic views.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for most major attractions, and audio guides are available in English, Mandarin, and several other languages. You can book these tours online or at the Visitor Centre.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Best photography spots include the Merlion statue, the scenic views from the Sentosa Cable Car, the beaches at sunset, and the panoramic views from the SkyPark at Marina Bay Sands, visible from the island.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended route is to start with a visit to Universal Studios Singapore in the morning, followed by a visit to the S.E.A. Aquarium. In the afternoon, relax at the beach, and finish your day with a visit to the Merlion or a sunset ride on the cable car.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes, Sentosa offers evening light shows like the Wings of Time, a spectacular water and light show at Siloso Beach. Some attractions, like the beaches and resorts, are also open late.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Sentosa can be crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays in the morning or late afternoon, especially outside peak tourist seasons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Sentosa Island has ample facilities including toilets, food courts, restaurants, cafes, water fountains, and rest areas. Shops selling souvenirs, beachwear, and snacks are scattered around the island.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yes, Sentosa is wheelchair accessible, and most attractions have provisions for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. The island also has wheelchair rental available at the Visitor Centre.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is accepted, credit cards and mobile payments (Apple Pay, PayNow, etc.) are widely accepted across Sentosa, making payments convenient for most visitors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Sentosa has a wide variety of dining options, including fine dining at restaurants like The Cliff, casual eateries like the Beach Station Food Court, and many beachside cafes along Siloso Beach.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are many restaurants offering vegetarian, vegan, and halal options, including at the Palawan Beach Food Court and at several resorts around the island.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby accommodations include luxury hotels like Resorts World Sentosa, Capella Singapore, and Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa. There are also mid-range options like the Siloso Beach Resort.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include VivoCity Mall (a large shopping mall), Mount Faber, and the Harbourfront Centre. You can also combine a visit to Sentosa with a trip to nearby beaches or the nearby Southern Ridges.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are many souvenir shops across the island selling items like Sentosa-branded merchandise, mini Merlion statues, and tropical-themed souvenirs like keychains and t-shirts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Sentosa, you can take the Sentosa Express monorail, a taxi, or the MRT from VivoCity to continue your journey around Singapore. The Sentosa Boardwalk is also a scenic route for walking back to the mainland.