Living in Singapore · Leisure & free time · 6 min
Beaches near Singapore: Sentosa and beyond
Sentosa is minutes away and Bintan an hour by ferry. What to expect from each beach and how to get there.
Updated Sep 24, 2026
Anyone arriving from Mexico expecting Caribbean- or Pacific-style beaches will be a little disappointed: the water around Singapore is not clear turquoise, due to shipping traffic and sedimentation. Even so, there are real options for a day of sun and sand without leaving the island.
Sentosa: the most touristy, the most complete
Siloso, Palawan and Tanjong are Sentosa's three main beaches, each with a different vibe: Siloso livelier and with bars, Palawan more family-friendly, Tanjong quieter. To get there, check the options on Getting to Sentosa, monorail, bus or on foot from VivoCity.
East Coast Park: the everyday one
A long stretch of beach and park right next to the city, popular for cycling, skating, or just a sunset picnic. East Coast Park is not for serious swimming, but the most convenient option for an evening after work.
Changi Beach: the local one
Less touristy than Sentosa, popular with Singaporean families for weekend camping or a barbecue. Changi Beach Park is close to the airport, so there is visible air traffic over the beach, part of the charm for some, a distraction for others.
For Caribbean-style water
For clearer water, the most common getaway is Bintan (Indonesia), with a ferry of about 60 minutes from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. Bintan Resort Ferries is one of the operators. Close enough for a long weekend. Malaysian islands like Tioman are also an option, though the journey is longer and varies by season and operator.
Before heading to any beach in Singapore
- Apply sunscreen ahead of time: midday sun burns fast even under cloud cover.
- Check the rain forecast: afternoon storms are common and arrive quickly.
- Most urban beaches do not have good waves for surfing; if that is what you are after, you need to leave Singapore.
- Bring cash or a card for cabana and lounger rentals on Sentosa. Not every vendor accepts every payment method.
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