8 of the best beaches in Singapore

Sitting 137km 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. From artificial stretches of white powder sand on Sentosa to secluded spots on one of the smaller islands, these are the best beach beaches in Singapore.

1. Tanjong Beach, Sentosa

Best for a classic beach-club experience

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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 delightful bites with tropical beats. On weekends, the venue gets ever livelier as the day wears on.

Planning tip: Most beach clubs require a minimum spend from customers to rent their facilities, especially during peak periods.

2. Lazarus Beach, Lazarus Island

Best beach for seclusion

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 paved causeway. Alternatively, go the decadent route and hire a private yacht, many of which you’ll spot anchored in the lagoon on weekends.

Planning tip: 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.

3. Siloso Beach, Sentosa

Best for its beachfront resort

Singapore has many beaches, but only one luxury beachfront resort: the Shangri-La 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 Mega Adventure’s MegaZip, a 450m-long zip line. You’ll take a thrilling ride from the forest of Mt Imbiah and land on Siloso Beach.

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Planning tip: 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.

4. Punggol Beach and Coney Island

Best beach for seclusion

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 national park, where bike trails and secluded beaches abound.

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

5. Palawan Beach, Sentosa

Best beach for families

This calm stretch of water sits between Sentosa’s Siloso and Tanjong beaches. Kids will love Palawan, especially HydroDash, a floating aqua park that welcomes those aged five and up. There's also mini-golf and an indoor racetrack.

Elsewhere on Palawan, geography buffs may be intrigued by the suspension bridge that leads to the “Southernmost point of Continental Asia,” from which two viewing towers offer endless views out toward South China Sea. It's a charming illusion – Palau Satumu where the Raffles Lighthouse sits is the southernmost point of Singapore.

Planning tip: For eats, head to chic FOC by the Beach, a Barcelona-inspired restaurant where you can enjoy paella and tapas overlooking the lagoon. If you prefer to bring food with you, there are picnic tables on Palawan Beach. Book in advance for Hydrodash if you’re visiting on the weekend.

6. Changi Beach

Best beach for sunrise and plane spotting

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.

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

7. East Coach Beach

Best beach for water and pedal sports

Stretching over 15km, East Coast Park hosts artificial 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.

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.

Planning tip: East Coast Park is hugely popular with the locals, so expect some crowded spots on weekends.

8. Pulau Ubin

Best for an island day trip

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 Singapore’s last remaining village and tour the beaches of this 1020-hectare island. Chek Jawa Wetlands, one of Singapore’s richest ecosystems, is a lovely stretch of coastline to explore. Check out the tide table in advance so you arrive at low tide and can admire the sea life.

Planning tip: Mamam Beach is a popular campsite with basic facilities. Ubin town is home to a handful of casual restaurants, including Season Live Seafood.