Singapore Attractions

Island

Kusu Island

Kusu Island is sacred to both the Muslims and Taoists. There is a legend attached to the Malay shrine and Chinese temple that is on the island. It is said that a giant turtle had transformed itself into a large rock, in order to save two shipwrecked sailors - one was Malay and the other Chinese. Taoists make annual pilgrimages to the Tua Pekong Temple during the 9th lunar month, while Muslims visit the Kramat Kusu, which is a Malay shrine. Stunning views of the mainland can be seen from Kusu's beaches and its hilltops. The warm waters of the lagoon are ideal for swimming.

Getting there: Take a ferry from the World Trade Centre.

Pulau Ubin

Shaped like a boomerang, Pulau Ubin is an island off the northeastern coast of Singapore. An island covered with low hills, it is currently being developed into a nature park complete with trails, shelters, camping sites, chalets, and other basic amenities. Works will be fully completed by the year 2000. Much of its natural environment will be preserved and visitors can still experience the rustic village atmosphere encompassing granite quarries, coconut and rubber plantations, mangrove swamps, fish and prawn farms, and traditional fishing kelongs or huts. Pulau Ubin also has a natural haven of plants, birds, and insects found in its mangrove and forest areas. This island is a great place for mountain biking, hiking, and camping.

Getting there: Take SBS Bus 2 from Tanah Merah MRT Station to Changi Point. Then take a bumboat from the Changi Jetty.

Sister Islands

These tiny southern islands offer a quiet respite from the big city with their laid-back ambience, sandy beaches, and inviting waters. They are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving although the currents are quite strong. Recommended only for experienced divers.

Getting there : Hire a water taxi (S$50 per hour) from Jardine Steps or Clifford Pier. Regular ferry services are not available.

St John's Island

A former penal settlement, this large hilly island has been transformed into a tranquil resort. It has shaded walking paths, swimming lagoons, beaches, picnic grounds, trekking routes, camping sites, holiday bungalows, and soccer fields. A perfect place for weekend getaways.

Getting there : Take a ferry from the World Trade Centre.

Sentosa Island

Sentosa is a wonderful "playground" for people of all ages. It offers nature, history, recreation, and fantasy in an entertaining yet educational way. It was the winner of the 9th Tourism Award 1994 - Leisure Attraction of the Year. There are many different activities available for anyone.

For sun and sea lovers :

• Sentosa's Siloso Beach, Central Beach, and Tanjong Beach offer sun-worshippers a variety of water sports such as pedal carting, canoeing, and surf boarding among others.
• Catch the resident pig-tailed macaques harvesting ripe coconuts from the trees along the beach.
• Hop onto beach trains that run along the beaches.
• Camp sites and youth hostels are available for those who wish to stay on Sentosa Island.
• Try out the wild water rides at Fantasy Island, a water adventure with white water river rapids. A tropical paradise for all.

Sentosa Island

For fun and entertainment :

• The Underwater World is one of Asia's largest oceanarium. There are 2,500 marine creatures from 250 species. There are also several other attractions that are not under water, such as the Turtle Pool and the Touch Pool, which offers visitors a chance to touch starfishes and sea cucumbers.
• The Musical Fountain presents an intriguing ballet of light, laser, color, and music. At night, the Merlion "awakens" in a breathtaking sight and sound show incorporating the dancing fountains.
• Asia Village features ethnic food, arts and crafts, and architecture of Singapore, as well as a fun park with entertaining rides for children.
• Experience an "active" volcano at Volcano Land, complete with earth tremors and hissing steam.
• Make your way up the 37-meter high Merlion for a magnificent panoramic view of Sentosa Island.
• The Lost Civilization or Ruined City features landscaped gardens with lots of surprises for children.
• Cinemania presents a three-dimensional entertainment with state-of-the-art sight and sound.
• Nature lovers will appreciate the Nature Walk or Dragon Trail, which meanders through a tropical secondary rainforest. They lead to a number of vantage points that offers scenic views from the summit of Mount Imbiah.
• Butterfly Park is home to 2,500 butterflies from over 50 species while the Insect Kingdom Museum features giant millipedes, tarantulas, rhino-beetles, and many more.
• Sentosa's Orchid Gardens presents Singapore's national flower in all its glory with its manicured gardens, fresh orchid blooms and Japanese teahouse.
• Golfers can enjoy the challenging Tanjong and Serapong Courses at the Sentosa Golf Club. Singapore's only miniature golf park is also located on Sentosa Island. The Sijori Wonder Golf will satisfy any avid family golfer.
• The Bermuda Triangle Beach Club boasts a live band, which plays Mediterranean and Reggae music.
• The Sunset Bay is a popular hangout for expatriates. It offers a place to relax, play beach volleyball, and soak in the atmosphere.
• The Pink Flamingo is a Miami-style beach pub that offers lively music and a totally relaxing ambience. It is a perfect place to chill-out and the pub is also equipped with a pool table.

Museums and Singapore's history :

• Built in the 1880's, Fort Siloso is a building of bunkers, cannons, and underground passages. It was the last bastion of the British forces during the Japanese invasion of Singapore. Fort Siloso was the winner of the 10th Tourism Awards 1995 - Small Leisure Attraction of the Year.
• Begin an exciting voyage of discovery of Singapore's maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum.
• The Images of Singapore depict life in early Singapore, the surrender of the Japanese at the close of World War II, and local festivals.

Sentosa also offers a gastronomic experience. Different restaurants and fast food centers are placed all over the island. Public buses, ferry services, and cable cars are also available.