Sentosa Island: Beaches, Thrills & Wings of Time | Singapore Purple Travel Guide

Today is dedicated to relaxation and leisure on the island of Sentosa, finishing the day with the fantastic Wings of Time show. Sentosa offers a perfect blend of tropical beaches and world-class attractions, providing a serene escape from the high-energy city center.

Here at Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides, we promote self-guided walking tours.
But we realize that not everybody likes to walk by themselves in a foreign city. So, just in case that you rather go with ab guide: NO PROBLEM! Please see the GuruWalk and Viator tours below.

1. Morning and Afternoon: Island Life on Sentosa Island

Harbourfront Mall and VivoCity Mall

Harbourfront Mall (map, reviews, website)
VivoCity Mall (map, reviews, website)

The HarbourFront area serves as the dynamic gateway to the south, where the city’s maritime history meets world-class retail. Directly above the MRT interchange, you will find VivoCity, the largest shopping mall in the nation and an architectural marvel designed by Toyo Ito. Its sprawling waterfront promenade and rooftop Sky Park offer the perfect transition into island life. Adjoining it is HarbourFront Centre, a vibrant hub for regional travelers where you can witness the bustling energy of the international cruise and ferry terminals. Whether you are exploring the high-tech entertainment of the "Big Three" malls or preparing for a ferry journey to the nearby islands, our Singapore Purple Travel Guide ensures you navigate this massive lifestyle precinct with ease on your self-guided tour.

Check out our guide to the these malls and how to get to Sentosa Island.

Sentosa Island

(map, reviews)

Known as the premier island resort getaway in the nation, Sentosa Island is a transformed tropical paradise that offers an escape from the urban hustle. Originally a military fortress, it now serves as a world-class leisure destination where you can find everything from golden sandy beaches and luxury spas to high-octane theme parks and the award-winning Wings of Time show. Whether you arrive via the scenic Sentosa Boardwalk or the elevated Sentosa Express, this island provides a seamless blend of natural beauty and modern entertainment. This Singapore Purple Travel Guide offers the perfect self-guided itinerary to help you navigate the island's free shuttles and hidden viewpoints so that you can maximize your relaxation.

[Access the full Sentosa Island guide in our Singapore Purple Travel Guide to plan your perfect day of sun, surf, and island attractions.

Palawan Beach and Palawan Island

(map, reviews)

Known as the 'family-friendly' beach, Palawan features a famous suspension bridge that leads to a small islet often called the Southernmost Point of Continental Asia. While the geography is debated, the charm is not. Climb the wooden viewing towers on the island for a breathtaking panoramic view of the South China Sea and the many ships anchored on the horizon.

Discover the best spots for a chilled drink and the best photo angles on Palawan Island in our full guide.

Tanjong Beach

(map, reviews)

This is the most secluded and tranquil of the three beaches, making it a sanctuary for those who want to escape the crowds. It is the perfect place to read a book or enjoy a quiet swim in the lagoon. In the late afternoon, the area shifts into an upscale lounge vibe, centered around the stylish Tanjong Beach Club.

Learn how to secure the best sunbeds and explore the 'quiet side' of Sentosa in the Singapore Purple Travel Guide.

Siloso Beach

(map, reviews)

Siloso is the most energetic and bustling stretch of sand on the island. It is the hub for outdoor activities, beach volleyball, and themed bars. As the venue for many major attractions and the nightly light show, Siloso is where the action happens.

See our guide to the most exciting beach bars and activities available at Siloso Beach.

2. Evening: Wings of Time Show

Wings of Time Show

(map, reviews)

Conclude your night at the Siloso Beach area, located right next to the Beach Station, for the Wings of Time performance.

• The Experience: This is an award-winning multi-sensory show set against the open sea. It uses massive water jets, lasers, fire effects, and a moving musical score to tell a story of courage and friendship. The pyrotechnics reflecting off the dark water make for a truly memorable finale to your trip.
• Timing and Tickets: There are usually two shows nightly (typically at 7:40 PM and 8:40 PM). It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance. While you can buy them at the booth in front of the theater, the show often sells out. If you choose to buy on-site, get there early—ideally right when the ticket booth opens.
• Self-Discovery Tip: Arrive at the theater at least 15 to 20 minutes early. This will give you enough time to find your seat and enjoy the sunset over the horizon before the performance begins.

Read our full Wings of Time guide for seating tips and the best ways to book your tickets.

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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

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