Sentosa Island

Sentosa is a small island just off Singapore’s southern coast, given over almost entirely to leisure. Along its southern shore, Siloso, Palawan and Tanjong beaches have soft sand, shady palms and calm, sheltered water, and a little suspension bridge at Palawan Beach leads out to a wooded islet with lookout towers.

Getting there is part of the fun. Most visitors cross on the Singapore Cable Car from Mount Faber or the Sentosa Express monorail from VivoCity, and shuttle buses and beach trams link the sights once you arrive.

Combine a beach afternoon with one of the island’s attractions, such as the Skyline Luge, the aquarium or an adventure park, then stay for the evening show on Siloso Beach. Pack sunscreen and a change of clothes; the sea here is for paddling and gentle swimming rather than snorkelling.