Singapore’s essential beaches

Sitting 85 miles north of the Equator, the island nation of Singapore has a tropical climate that brings beach days year-round.

Thanks to the city-state’s diminutive size and urban character, Singapore’s beachy shores are sometimes overlooked, and those in transit to world-class beach destinations in Thailand and Indonesia tend to flock just to Singapore headliners like Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Zoo. With a charm of their own, however, Singapore’s strands are definitely worth a visit. You’ll find everything from man-made stretches of white powder sand with oil tankers lurking in the distance, to secluded spots on one of Singapore’s smaller islands.

These are the best beach beaches in Singapore.

Get the party going at Tanjong Beach, Sentosa

Located just off Singapore’s southern coast, Sentosa Island is home to three of Singapore’s best beaches, all three on reclaimed land created with sand brought in from Indonesia and Malaysia.

If you’re seeking swaying palm trees and tropical vibes, Tanjong is where it’s at. With its sheltered waters, this big stretch of beach is a favorite for families and dog owners alike. The crowning glory is Tanjong Beach Club, which serves up delicious bites with tropical beats. On weekends, the venue gets ever livelier as the day wears on.

Enjoy a secluded swim at Lazarus Beach, Lazarus Island

Eight small islands make up the “Southern Islands of Singapore,” including Lazarus Island. Due to its relative inaccessibility, Lazarus Beach is one of the nicest in Singapore. To get to the island, take a scheduled ferry from Marina South Pier to St John’s Island; Lazarus is joined to St. John’s via a 100m (328ft) paved causeway. Alternatively, go the decadent route and hire a private yacht, many of which you’ll spot anchored in the lagoon on weekends.

One of Singapore’s best-kept secrets, this beach is one you may have all to yourself on weekdays. Note there are no stores on the island, which means you need to bring your own provisions.

Zip in to lie out at Siloso Beach, Sentosa

Singapore has many beaches, but only one beachfront resort: the luxurious Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa. While anyone can access Siloso Beach, the Shangri-La has roped off the western stretch exclusively for its guests. Here, you’ll find a lovely lagoon equipped with water-sports equipment and beach activities. If you’re looking for an adventurous way to arrive, check out the MegaAdventure’s MegaZip, a 450m(1475ft)-long zip line. You’ll take a thrilling ride from the forest of Mt Imbiah and land on Siloso Beach.

A short walk from the hotel is Trapizza, an excellent spot for Italian fare. Next door is Nestopia, a unique open-air play space with netted obstacle courses and giant slides – great for kids, as well as the young at heart.

Talk a walk off the beaten track on Punggol Beach and Coney Island

In the north of Singapore within waving distance of Malaysia, you’ll find Punggol Beach. This important historical site, where the Sook Ching Massacre of 1942 took place, is today a relatively deserted beach, made all the more mesmerizing by the black boulders strewn across the sand. We recommend combining a visit to Punggol with a trip to Coney Island: hire a bike near Punggol Jetty to cycle 15 minutes to the 100-hectare (247-acre) national park, where bike trails and secluded beaches abound.

If you've worked up an appetite, head to Punggol Settlement, a nearby collection of restaurants and bars, including the delicious House of Seafood.

Bring the family to Palawan Beach, Sentosa

This calm stretch of water sits between Sentosa’s Siloso and Tanjong beaches. Kids will love Palawan, especially its access HydroDash. This floating aqua park welcomes those ages five and up; we recommend reserving in advance if you’re visiting on the weekend.

Elsewhere on Palawan, geography buffs may be intrigued by the suspension bridge which leads you to the “Southernmost point of Continental Asia,” from which two viewing towers offer endless views out toward South China Sea. For eats, head to chic FOC Sentosa, a Barcelona-inspired restaurant where you can enjoy paella and tapas overlooking the lagoon.

Catch a dazzling sunrise at Changi Beach

Changi Beach forms one of the oldest coastal developments in Singapore. With its location on the far east of the island, this is the perfect spot to catch a sunrise.

A less popular counterpart to nearby East Coast Beach, this natural beach has a shoreline that extends from Changi Point to Changi Ferry Terminal. Since it’s located just in front of Changi Airport, aviation enthusiasts will love the vantage points for plane spotting. Alternatively, those seeking a scenic stroll can head to the boardwalk at the western end of Changi Point.

Changi Village is an excellent spot for hawker fare. Fans of craft beer will want to head to Little Island Brewery Co.

Go windsurfing, wakeboarding, inline skating and more at East Coach Beach

Stretching over 15km (9 miles), East Coast Park hosts man-made beaches built on reclaimed land. This is an active beach, with sunseekers engaging in wakeboarding, windsurfing, cycling and other pursuits on land and the water. You’ll find many rental shops hiring out everything from tandem bikes to pedal go-karts.

Since East Coast Park is hugely popular with the locals, expect some crowded spots on weekends. If you dream of waking up and having the beach to yourself, there are camping and glamping sites here, too (luxurious Bell tents come equipped with queen beds and fans).

Many eating options dot the park, from chili crab at Jumbo Seafood to salads at PS Cafe. The best option? Local fare at East Coast Lagoon Food Village, where you can devour satay and cereal prawns, washed down with Tiger Beer.

Slow down with a day trip to Pulau Ubin

A 15-minute boat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal will bring you to the island sanctuary of Pulau Ubin, a perfect escape from the busy city. Hire a bicycle and set off at your own pace to explore the 1020-hectare (2520-acre) island and Singapore’s last remaining village. You can also explore Chek Jawa Wetlands, one of Singapore’s richest ecosystems. Check out the tide table in advance so you can plan to arrive at low tide and admire the sea life.

Mamam Beach is currently the only official beach open on this island; it’s also a popular campsite with basic facilities. Ubin town is home to a handful of casual restaurants, including Season Live Seafood.