Just 15 minutes from Singapore`s business district lies the resort island of Sentosa—the perfect escape from the city bustle. But it wasn`t always this way. In the 19th century, it was a rocky, hilly island with mangrove-lined shores, known as Pulau Blakang Mati, where the British built forts to protect the harbour.
Today, all that remains of its military past is the restored Fort Siloso, now a fascinating museum. Where former fortifications, mangrove swamps, and muddy shores once stood, the pristine beaches of Palawan, Siloso, and Tanjong now stretch out.
Era of the Forts: Pirates, Gunpowder, and Cannonballs
In the 19th century, Sentosa, then bearing the grim name Pulau Blakang Mati ("Island of Death from Behind," likely due to malaria or pirate skirmishes), was far from a resort. It was a strategic key to defending Singapore`s harbour.
Military Garrison: From the late 19th to early 20th century, the British turned the island into an impregnable bastion. Powerful coastal forts were built here: Fort Siloso, Fort Serapong, and Fort Connaught. Their mission was to repel any naval attack from the south.
Fort Siloso: The largest of them, Fort Siloso (from "siloso," meaning forest), was armed with powerful guns. It never fired at enemy ships, but during World War II, it became the site of fierce fighting with Japanese troops who captured Singapore. Later, during the occupation, the fort was turned into a prisoner-of-war camp.
After Singapore gained independence, the island became redundant. It remained a deserted military zone until the government conceived a new purpose for it.
The Metamorphosis: How the "Island of Death" Became an "Island of Joy"
In 1972, a fateful decision was made: to transform Pulau Blakang Mati into a tourist paradise. The island was given a new, beautiful name—Sentosa (meaning "peace and tranquillity")—and grand-scale work began. In the 1970s, before major development started, Sentosa`s area was approximately 3.5 km². Today, the island`s area is about 5 km². Sand and soil for land reclamation were primarily taken from the seabed of nearby straits. These new territories allowed for the construction of giant resorts (like Resorts World Sentosa), golf courses, yacht marinas, and spacious parking areas.
Creating Infrastructure: Bridges and roads were built, and in 1974, one of the world`s most scenic cable car lines was launched, connecting the island to the mainland. This mode of transport is not just convenient but also offers breathtaking panoramas of the port, skyscrapers, and Sentosa`s greenery.
The Rebirth of the Beaches: The magnificent sandy beaches—Palawan, Siloso, and Tanjong—were created artificially. The island was literally "clothed" in palm groves, gardens, and amusement parks.
Parks and Attractions
Universal Studios Singapore: The island`s main star. This is a city within a city with Hollywood sets, roller coasters that journey through Jurassic Park, and meet-and-greets with characters from beloved films.
S.E.A. Aquarium: One of the world`s largest aquariums. A walk here is a journey into the deep sea, where rays, sharks, and countless schools of tropical fish glide past behind giant acrylic panels.
Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom: A tropical paradise where thousands of butterflies flutter freely around visitors, creating a magical atmosphere.
Sentosa`s Three Main Beaches
Siloso Beach: The most lively and "youthful." Music plays, bars are open, and a party atmosphere prevails. Ideal for water sports enthusiasts and those looking to socialize.
Palawan Beach: The most "adventurous." It`s famous for its suspension bridge leading to a tiny islet—Cape Sarang Pontian—which is considered the southernmost point of continental Asia. A great viewing tower in the shape of a sail is also located here. A perfect spot for families and romantic photoshoots.
Tanjong Beach: The most secluded and upscale. Surrounded by luxury resorts, it offers a tranquil atmosphere, sun loungers, and fine dining restaurants.
An Important Note on Swimming
Sentosa is an island in one of the world`s busiest ports. The water in the lagoons is artificially treated and maintained, but it cannot rival the crystal clarity of remote tropical atolls. After heavy rains or due to currents, the water can sometimes become murky.
Swimming here is perfectly safe and pleasant, especially in the designated zones, but don`t expect the azure transparency of the Maldives. This is a place to lounge on the pristine white sand and enjoy the ocean view, not for scuba diving.
