Singapore's Beach

Singapore has a lot to offer. I learn more about what this means every day.

On Saturday, I learned that one of the things it does not have to offer is a scenic beach. Well, that is, unless you're Ayn Rand and/or you happen to like the view of cargo ships and refineries in the background.

The beach I visited is located on Sentosa. It's the island just south of the main island and it's role in the life of Singapore is to be the local resort. It's actually quite pretty with lots of lush vegetation, walking & cycling paths, a couple of golf courses, restaurants and multiple family entertainment venues. One of these is a tropical luge run.

There was also background music in various places. I noticed the distinct sound of steel drums which made me ponder how a Caribbean-based music style had apparently become a universal emblem of beaches.

Assuming you didn't jump ship and swim, there are 3 ways to get to Sentosa. You can drive over the bridge, take a "swiss sky ride" aerial ride, or ride the monorail. I opted for the last one. The S$3 fare includes the option to ride the buses that run around the island.

Signage is in English and as illustrated to the left - Chinese. The pictures convey the advisories. The one at the bottom is hard to see, but that's a picture of a jellyfish. Now there's something that could ruin your whole day.

There were lots of activities going on early Saturday morning. There was a beach volleyball tournament that was in full swing. I also noticed with considerable interest a high trapeze set-up that was not yet open. The sign explained that it was available for children's birthday parties. Yes, there was a net and some spotting harnesses like you see at a place that trains gymnasts. By the way, a companion sign noted that Jules Leotard was the inventor of the trapeze. For real.

There was also a corporate team building activity featuring competitive sand castle building. In the photo at the bottom, you'll also notice the man-made islands that are intended to help improve the scenery for the many non-objectivist visitors.

Did I mention that many of the locals head to Thailand or Malaysia for their beach holidays?