Between phenomenal Sentosa attractions, an abundance of nature as well as beautiful beaches and wonderful places to stay, you might wonder where to start on Sentosa. Wonder no longer. Our essential guide to everything, from resorts and hotels to the best family restaurants, guides you effortlessly to the most unforgettable experience of Sentosa.
Fabulous resorts close to Sentosa attractions
Sentosa now has more than 19 hotels and resorts, many of which are incredibly family-friendly. Here are just three offering everything from generous packages and spacious family rooms to stunning locations close to Sentosa attractions and even right on beautiful Siloso Beach.
Find Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa on Siloso Beach
Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa is a unique Sentosa resort. In fact we can take that a step further. It’s also unique in Singapore, as it’s the only beachfront resort to feature both balcony and terrace rooms with unbroken views over palm tree lined Siloso Beach. Waking up to sand and sea is the best start to the day. However, that’s far from all that makes Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa such a favourite with families.
Why families love this Sentosa resort
- There are rooms and suites at Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa for every size and shape of family. We particularly like the ground floor Family Garden Room, not least for its walk-through patio and generous space. You’re also minutes from swimming pools, the garden and kids club which is ideal with younger children. Plus, thanks to an additional sofa bed, the room sleeps up to two adults and four kids.
- As well as indulgent Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La, the resort also features a free-form swimming pool and outdoor jacuzzi.
- Speaking of indulgent, this Sentosa resort doesn’t seem to have a limit when it comes to kids. Not only do young guests have their very own pool, it comes with no fewer than three animal-themed water slides and a fun splash pad.
- The Cool Zone for kids includes fully supervised Toots Club for 5 to 12 year olds and Mini Toots Club, which welcomes kids aged four and under, along with a parent or guardian.
- If you get the feeling Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa has a soft spot for families, a quick look at its Family Packages confirms that. Both Rasa Family Fun and Sentosa Family Adventure are designed with you in mind. So kids can look forward to sweet touches like Fun Packs on arrival. And each package includes access to a range of Sentosa attractions to add to the pleasure of staying at this wonderful Sentosa resort.
Village Hotel Sentosa understands kids perfectly
Village Hotel Sentosa understands children perfectly. We know this, because they let them check in for their whole family at the Village Important Kids (V.I.K) Concierge Counter, which kids love, of course. You might think it would be hard to match that great start to your stay, but this hotel only gets better.
Why families choose Village Hotel Sentosa
- The hotel’s family rooms are made up of two connected rooms so families have more space, plus two bathrooms. So getting ready in the morning is quicker, leaving more time to enjoy all the nearby Sentosa attractions.
- All family rooms come with a Kids’ Pack which includes child-friendly toiletries, a bathrobe for 3 to 6 year olds or a Rubik’s cube for 7 to 12 year olds.
- If you need baby equipment like a cot or bathtub, you only have to ask.
- The hotel’s two-level pool deck has no fewer than four themed pools.
- The Adventure Pool is the largest of all and comes with social pods and its own play lawn.
- The Lazy River lets kids glide through a green paradise inspired by the Amazonian Rainforest.
- Younger kids will love the Children’s Play Pool with its shallow end, water features and fun slides.
- The hotel pools are fully supervised so parents can relax a little at the lovely Pamukkale Pool: another Instagram-ready spot on Sentosa.
Equarius Hotel, on the edge of the rainforest
Nature is one of the biggest Sentosa attractions, and few hotels are more in tune with that than Equarius Hotel. Set on the fringe of the island’s tropical rainforest, it’s a peaceful haven that lets you make the most of Sentosa’s fun side, but also allows you to escape into a tranquil space at the end of the day.
Why Equarius Hotel is the perfect family getaway
- A setting on the edge of the tropical rainforest surrounds guests with the sights and sounds of nature every second of their stay.
- Families have the choice of five different Deluxe rooms and suites, featuring balconies with expansive forest or sea views.
- Guests in Deluxe Pool Rooms and Suites have exclusive use of the swimming pool which is directly accessed from their room or suite.
- All rooms and suites feature spacious bathrooms with double vanity areas.
- A guest shuttle service runs every 10 minutes from the hotel to key Sentosa attractions.
- If you drive to Sentosa, Equarius Hotel also offers a complimentary valet parking service.
Discover all new Sentosa attractions for families
New and thrilling Sentosa attractions make every visit a fresh experience for families, here are some of the latest additions to the island’s fun line-up.
Hunt the Explorers of Sentosa
Go on a hunt to find the four Explorers of Sentosa on Palawan Beach. Created by international recycling artist, Thomas Dambo, out of upcycled materials, these giants might echo Sentosa’s commitment to sustainability, but they’re a lot of fun too. Follow the flower trail and see for yourself.
Catch carnival spirit at Central Beach Bazaar
Another new addition, Central Beach Bazaar promises a day-to-night carnival vibe and it does not disappoint. Expect a very beachy experience and some wonder in the mix courtesy of Sentosa Musical Fountain, which transforms into the magical Wings of Time show at night.
See the tallest fountain in Southeast Asia
Another Central Beach Bazaar attraction, Sentosa SkyJet is the tallest fountain in Southeast Asia. At 80 metres high, it’s an iconic sight, particularly in the evening when 24 LED lights make its impressive column of water even more spectacular. Although if you want the very best view, spend $5 on International Food Street and you can see Sentosa SkyJet from the Wings of Time viewing gallery.
Enter the secret world of Trickeye Singapore
Download the free XR Museum app and explore the hidden world of Trickeye Singapore Using a combination of 3D optical illusions and interactive AR technology, this incredible museum lets you do anything from slaying dragons to gazing at fireworks. So it’s up to you, chill or thrill. Only one thing is for sure, your kids won’t want to leave.
Have a Gogreen Eco Adventure @ St John Island
Did you know you can camp on the Southern Islands? If your kids love that idea wait until they hear about the bicycles and kick scooters available, along with camping equipment, from Gogreen. Ferries leave for St John Island from Sentosa Jetty @ Cove and Gogreen Eco Adventure is just five minutes’ walk from St John Island pier.
Fly super-high on SkyHelix Sentosa
The highest open-air panoramic ride in Singapore, SkyHelix Sentosa is beyond thrilling. Each gondola gently rotates as it climbs up to 79m above sea level. The 360° view is astonishing and you can see all the way from Sentosa to Keppel Bay and the Southern Islands. Climb high at night for an equally dazzling, but completely different, experience.
Sentosa Nature Discovery
Thrill a minute Sentosa has a quieter side to discover too and it’s just as amazing. Follow the Sentosa Nature Discovery trail to explore the island’s eight different natural environments, spot wildlife and maybe even catch a glimpse of the rare Magpie Robin. Don’t miss the new Geology Gallery where kids can learn how Singapore and Sentosa were first formed.
Feel the enchantment of Magical Shores
Multi-sensory Magical Shores transforms Siloso Beach into a wonderland after dark. It’s a vivid light and sound spectacle that incorporates every bit of nature from sand to sea to lush greenery and it will leave you breathless with amazement. Just don’t be too caught up to capture it, this is another Sentosa experience you’ll want to share.
Play the Nestopia way
Never heard of Nestopia? Once kids try this incredible outdoor space with its 17 play sections, giant nests and amazing views, you may never hear about much else. It’s all about climbing, crawling, challenging obstacle courses and having the best time: everything you expect on Sentosa.
The most Instagrammable spot in Singapore
If you don’t believe us, catch the Beach Shuttle for Palawan Beach and head over the rope bridge to the “Southernmost Point of Continental Asia”. Then climb up the watchtower and spy on passing ships as they sail the South China Sea. Just don’t forget to capture the moment.
Top Sentosa attractions families already love
Some of the best Sentosa attractions aren’t new, but they just keep getting better and better.
- Feel like a Haunted Mine Ride or an Extreme Log Ride? Any chance you’d like to shoot it out in Desperados or Journey2: The Mysterious Island. Well you’re in the right place because all those adventures are part of Sentosa 4D AdventureLand and they’re as real as it gets – without being really real.
- HydroDash is the super-splashy inflatable waterpark that’s just right for younger kids. No hard edges, lots of water to play in and plenty of bouncing in between: all the things little ones love best.
- Resorts World Sentosa’s S.E.A. Aquarium is beautifully designed, but kids will probably be more interested in the 100,000-plus marine creatures who live here. Although they might appreciate the design a bit more when they discover how close it gets them to sharks, jellyfish, sting rays and other underwater legends.
- Always make time for Madame Tussauds Singapore on Sentosa, it’s one of the best in the world and the only one with a boat ride, multi-sensory “Spirit of Singapore”. Don’t miss the sensational Marvel Universe 4D movie experience. And starry eyed kids will definitely want a part in the Ultimate Film Star Experience.
A fresh new look for Wings of Time
- Recently re-opened Wings of Time is more captivating than ever, plus you can get closer to the main stage now. Thanks to all-new technology the pyrotechnics are astonishing but produce 80% less smoke, so you can enjoy the show in complete comfort.
- The first of its kind in Southeast Asia Skyline Luge Singapore lets you zip down four separate trails with very different experiences. A hint of how exciting they are is found in names like Dragon, Expedition, Kupu Kupu and Jungle. Do kids dare? Of course they do. But if you want to take it even further, hop onto the Skyride: easily one of the most scenic Sentosa attractions.
- Mega Adventure is made for zipline lovers, although you’ll like it just as much if you enjoy bouncing or climbing. Take your pick from MegaZip: a 450m long zipline younger kids can ride in tandem with parents. Or try MegaClimb and ascend up to 15m to face down the ultimate high-ropes course challenge. Then there’s MegaBounce which lets kids make like acrobats on bungee assisted trampolines. Can’t decide? Do all three.
New places to refuel your hungry kids
Every parent knows the importance of keeping kids well fuelled. Fortunately hangry moments are easy to avoid at Sentosa, in fact there are so many food options you’ll probably find yourself just eating for fun. Fuel or fun of it, here are our favourite new places to keep kids well fed and happy.
Pull up at International Food Street
Who can resist cute food trucks? Nobody, is the correct answer which is why you should stop on International Food Street and take a snack break at one of the Kombi vans, food trucks and containers lined up here. Eight international cuisines are featured and it’s the perfect place to quell hunger before hitting the beach.
Feed your soul at Market Hall Sentosa
Close to Sentosa attractions like HeadRock VR and Trickeye Singapore, Market Hall is many concepts in one place with a single common thread: everything here is cooked with soul. And from authentic pizza and more-ish gelato to delicate fish and mighty steaks, you can taste the passion. Kids love the space, so stop by, even just for a long, cool drink.
Quayside Isle at Sentosa Cove
Sentosa Cove luxury waterfront precinct is very selective, so when you hear Quayside Isle is its first and only dining destination here, you know it’s special. A carefully curated mix of new restaurants and new dining concepts is just as interesting as it sounds. Definitely the place to indulge a little, but also very family friendly and a great location for kids to explore the marina after dinner.
Every family’s all-time foodie favourites
With so many great places to eat on Sentosa, you might not know where to start. Can we suggest a few of the places that always win families over with their amazing food and atmosphere.
- Trapizza is home to extraordinarily good thin-crust pizza, baked in custom-built ovens. The fact that it’s right next to Nestopia is very appealing too. But possibly the biggest draw for kids is a children’s menu that lets them create their own bento box and comes good on sweet treats like mega candy floss ice cream.
- Tables right on the edge of Siloso Beach makes Coastes a family favourite for obvious reasons. The menu mixes pasta, burgers and sandwiches with Asian classics, so everyone’s happy. Large parasols shade every table from the sun. Plus, kids can take a break from minding their manners to go play in the sand, any time.
- Bringing a hint of Hawaii to Sentosa, Ola Beach Club serves up cool drinks and even cooler eats on the edge of the lagoon. Splashing about in the pool with your kids is another Ola temptation. Alternatively you can just chill on a day bed. Or, if you’re up for something much more energetic, Ola also offers a range of water sports, including jetblading and stand-up paddleboarding.
- Good Old Days Food Court spreads over two levels just outside Beach Station. Level two is the place for local specialities like Nasi Briyani and stir-fried Hokkien Mee. Then on level one, you’ll find the Good Old Days Western Grill serving up succulent steaks and temptations such as mentaiko scallops. All delicious and very kid-friendly on both levels.
Thoughtful Sentosa ideas for easy family visits
Of course you visit Sentosa to relax and enjoy time together as a family. So making that as easy and fulfilling as possible plays a big part in Sentosa’s thinking.
- Breastfeeding mothers can book lactation pods at various locations on Sentosa, including Siloso and Palawan beaches. Pods can be pre-booked for 30 or 45 minutes using the Go!Mama app.
- More good news if you’re bringing baby to Sentosa, there’s a convenient diaper-changing room at Beach Station.
- Accessibility is another priority on Sentosa, so you’ll find most of the island – including buses and beach shuttles – is pram, wheelchair and personal mobility device accessible.