Adding Sentosa to your Singapore trip transforms a city vacation into a mix of excitement, relaxation, and cultural variety. The island’s proximity to the mainland allows travelers to fit it into any schedule, whether for a single day, a weekend escape, or a full stay.
The Express Day Trip
A day on Sentosa works well for travelers with tight schedules. Its accessibility from the mainland makes it easy to plan a full itinerary without wasting time in transit.
Getting There
- The Sentosa Express monorail from VivoCity Mall takes five minutes and costs SGD 4 for a round trip.
- The Singapore Cable Car provides aerial views at a higher cost.
- Public bus service 123 offers a low-cost option.
- Walking or cycling across the Sentosa Boardwalk is free.
- Taxis and ride-hailing services are available for convenience.
Suggested Itinerary
- Morning: Thrill-seekers can spend hours at Universal Studios Singapore. Families may choose Adventure Cove Waterpark or the Singapore Oceanarium for marine life encounters.
- Afternoon: Relax at Siloso Beach for lively energy, Palawan Beach for family-friendly activities, or Tanjong Beach for quiet sunbathing.
- Evening: Watch the Wings of Time light and water show to end the day.
The Overnight Escape
An overnight stay creates time for leisure, beachside dining, and early-morning tranquility.
- Luxury options: Capella Singapore and The Barracks Hotel Sentosa provide refined stays with historic charm.
- Family-friendly choices: Village Hotel Sentosa and Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa, Singapore offer kid-friendly amenities, with the latter being the only beachfront resort on the island.
- Budget option: Siloso Beach Resort, Sentosa is suited for cost-conscious travelers.
Two-Day Itinerary
- Day One
- Spend the day at Resorts World Sentosa, including the casino, shows, and entertainment venues.
- Enjoy dinner at a beachside restaurant or a lively beach club.
- Day Two
- Try the Skyline Luge Sentosa for a mix of speed and scenic views.
- Visit Fort Siloso for a glimpse of wartime history.
- Walk the Sentosa Nature Discovery trail for a touch of greenery.
Sentosa as a Singapore Base
Making Sentosa your base allows for a resort-style experience while staying connected to the city.
Multi-Day Plan
- Dedicate separate days to Universal Studios Singapore and the Singapore Oceanarium.
- Spend quiet afternoons on the beaches or enjoy water sports.
- Relax by the hotel pool for slow-paced mornings.
Accessing the Mainland
- Use the HarbourFront MRT station, connected to the Sentosa Express, for direct access to the city.
- Spend a day in cultural districts such as Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam.
- Reserve another day for Marina Bay, including Gardens by the Bay and the Marina Bay Sands Skypark.
Balancing City and Island Experiences
A well-structured itinerary provides a mix of city energy and island leisure. Dedicate your mornings to attractions and save beach or poolside relaxation for later hours. Alternate between mainland sightseeing and Sentosa-based activities to keep each day fresh.
Travelers who plan three to five days can enjoy the best of both locations without feeling rushed. Sentosa’s resort atmosphere contrasts beautifully with Singapore’s cultural and urban highlights, making it a seamless addition to any itinerary.
