How to spend a day out at Sentosa island

Regarded as Singapore's premier recreational hotspot, Sentosa Island is a family-friendly leisure hub for the masses. Home to some of the country's biggest theme parks and highlights, Sentosa Island is also a beach holiday destination in the Lion City. From experiencing the best attractions on the island to exploring lesser-known points of interest, here are some practical tips on how to spend a day out on Sentosa Island.

1. Timing the Visiting

Travellers and families who wish to make the most of their trip to Sentosa Island should ideally time their excursion to coincide with the best weather conditions. Although Singapore is considered a year-round holiday destination, the sunniest months of the year fall between October and December. This is also the official tourist season in the country and there's no better time to head to Sentosa than this period of the year. While Sentosa Island does experience inclement showers and rainy days throughout the year, timing your visit towards the end of the year maximizes the potential of being able to enjoy all the outdoor activities the island has to offer.

2. Getting to the Island

Visitors based at Park Hotel Alexandra or any other hotel near Harbourfront Singapore will find that hopping on a cable car from the HarbourFront tower is the easiest way to reach the island. Those who are based at hotels and resorts in the interior of the Lion City, on the other hand, can catch a ride on the Sentosa Express in the MRT railway network. Bus services are also available to those who prefer to take public transport to the island while taxi cabs also offer quick transfers for those who are willing to pay more. Those who take the cable car, however, enjoy the most scenic ride to the island as it affords spectacular views of the city, the island and the port throughout the journey.

3. Start with Universal Studios

As the first theme park of the US entertainment franchise outside of America, a visit to Universal Studios, Singapore is a must for all tourists heading to Sentosa. With vast enclosures dedicated to well-loved films, the likes of Madagascar, Transformers and The Mummy among its chief attractions, other points of interest in this 24-ride theme park include The Lost World, Ancient Egypt and Sesame Street in New York. Shopping arcades, restaurants and live entertainment shows are all part of the experience at Universal Studios, Singapore which is open from 10 am onwards.

4. Snap a Selfie with the Merlion

As one of the most iconic cultural symbols of the Lion City, the Merlion has been featured on countless travel brochures and postcards. The 37-meter tall sculpture is a historical remnant of when Sentosa Island was once the home of a seaport. Travellers can snap selfies with this larger than life statue of a mythical figure the backdrop and tour the park in which the icon is contained.

5. Discover the S.E.A

With more than 100,000 marine creatures occupying its confines, the SEA Aquarium is not only the largest aquarium in Singapore but the world. Divided into 10 zones, some of the biggest draws for visitors are the exhibits featuring hammerhead sharks, giant crabs, moral eels and manta rays. As a premier educational attraction, the aquarium also offers a number of interactive activities that allow visitors to learn more about the inhabitants of the enclave.

6. Hit the Beaches

Spending a day in Sentosa Island is an open invitation to frolic in the three beaches occupying the isle. Siloso Beach, Tanjong Beach and Palawan Beach are not only ideal for swimming and splashing around in the water but also for playing a game of beach volleyball or enjoying a seaside picnic.