Not just a destination for quality food and fashion, Singapore boasts an array of beaches that bring a bit of natural luxury to your days—and nights. From pristine waters that reflect the city’s streamline beauty, to lush escapes that will take you completely back to basics, there’s a beach in Singapore for all occasions.
Here, we take a look at the best of Singapore’s beaches—from the sandy shores of Sentosa to hidden beaches off the mainland—that you must fit into your next trip to Singapore.
Sentosa: Palawan Beach, Tanjong Beach and Siloso Beach
Imagine all the quintessential elements of an island paradise and Sentosa comes to mind. Home to three of Singapore’s most famous beaches (and many other attractions), you’ll easily swap the hustle and bustle of the city for cabana-style beach bars with the island being a stone’s throw away from the city.
If you’re after swaying palm trees, sparkling, calm water, and white sand underfoot, hit up Palawan Beach which is one of Singapore’s most visually iconic seaside destinations. Perfect for swimming and lounging, this beach also caters for those who want to stretch their legs and their imaginations. Take a wander across the rope bridge that will transport you to an inlet at the Southernmost Point of Continental Asia, and climb a watchtower to experience the breathtaking beachfront from above.
If you believe the word ‘beach’ should always be followed by ‘party’, we suggest walking a little further south on Sentosa to Tanjong Beach. During the day, Tanjong Beach offers relaxing vistas, shady palm trees and even some dog-spotting as the beach is a favourite for locals and their canine companions. Book a day bed or soak at the beachside pool at Tanjong Beach Club to get your tan on or wait till the sun goes down and let the DJ usher in the night while you put on your dancing shoes.
Your trip to Sentosa would not be complete if you did not step foot on Siloso Beach. With plenty of beach club options such as Ola, Coastes and Rumours offering mouth-watering cuisine along the waterfront, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Live music sets the tone at Siloso, earning its reputation as one of the most lively beaches, playing the soundtrack to endless activity options, from beach volleyball, canoeing, and even water jet-pack experiences. To really take in the stunning surroundings, jump on the 450m-long zipline at Mega Adventure that provides an unparalleled view of the water and coastline of the stunning Sentosa Island.
East Coast Park
Synonymous with beach sports and activities, East Coast Park is a 15 kilometre-stretch of golden sand peppered with a world-class Xtreme skateboarding park, bustling restaurants and bars, and smooth cycle paths. The perfect place to hole up for the entire day, you can pop on a pair of rollerblades and soak up the surroundings. Eat your way through hearty local dishes like satay and barbequed seafood at the East Coast Lagoon Food Village, and wrap the day up with a tranquil cocktail (or coconut) under the swaying coconut palm trees. If you're up for it, you can also ride all the way to Changi Beach.
Changi Beach
For those who like to visit the beach to get connected and move their body, Changi is an ideal destination. Located on Singapore’s east coast, this tropical beach offers an abundance of cycling and jogging trails along its 3.3km stretch. Hire a bike from GoCycling to explore the Changi Beach Park trails and take in the sea views, before cooling off in the water. If you’re looking to refuel, take a stroll to Changi Village Hawker Centre for some local delights and wash it down with some cocktails or beers on tap from Little Island Brewing Co. If you’re feeling even more adventurous, book a BBQ pit and BYO for a truly local experience.
Punggol Beach
If you’re already familiar with the usual beach spots in Singapore, jump on the MRT to Punggol station and hop on Bus 84 to Punggol Beach. This is one for photography fans and those looking for a moment of calm in the hustle and bustle, Punggol offers untouched beauty and respite from the crowds. Punggol beach’s most iconic feature is the abundance of rocks that pepper the shoreline in varying sizes and shapes. Head to the beach at sunrise or sunset to fully appreciate the beauty as the colours dance with the darkness of the rocks. While steeped in beauty, this beach is also rich in history. Recognised by the National Heritage Board as one of Singapore’s historical sites, plaques detail events from World War II and bring context to the significance of this North East destination.
Lazarus Island & St John’s Island
Get two for the price of one with these connected islands a short ferry trip from Marina South Pier. Arriving at St John’s Island, the first thing you’ll notice is the fresh air and vibrance of this lush, green Island. Before you head to Lazarus Island and jump in the inviting, clear water, check out the marine research centre on St John’s, filled with an impressive array of specimens from corals and sponges to fish. A leisurely walking path connects the two islands, with inviting panoramic views of the sea and flourishing islands. Be sure to pack a picnic with Singapore’s quality fare as the islands will take you right back to basics.
Kusu Island
From St John’s Island, continue on the ferry to Kusu Island which translates to ‘Tortoise Island’ in Chinese. This peaceful destination is rich with myth and folklore, and home to a sanctuary housing hundreds of tortoises. Kusu Island is for anyone wanting to take the day at a tortoise pace. As the small island doesn’t take more than ten minutes to walk from one side to the other, it’s all about taking your time to enjoy and slowing right down. Float in the crystal clear water of the lagoons and enjoy a fresh coconut on the beach. Alternatively, you may visit the local Chinese temple.
If you’re looking to kick back and unwind along a stretch of golden sand with a cocktail in hand, Singapore has relaxing beach vibes in spades. For more info on Singapore’s stunning beaches, head to Singapore Tourism.
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