Who lives on Sentosa island?

Since it's the only place in Singapore where non-Singaporeans are allowed to buy landed property, residents are largely made up of foreigners and expatriates with a mix of families, couples and single professionals.



Sentosa Island, specifically the exclusive residential enclave of Sentosa Cove, is home to a diverse international community primarily composed of high-net-worth individuals, business moguls, and expatriate families. As of 2026, the resident population is estimated at over 5,000 people living in a mix of roughly 2,160 luxury homes, ranging from high-end condominiums to oceanfront villas. Sentosa Cove is uniquely famous for being the only place in Singapore where non-citizens (foreigners) are permitted to purchase landed property, such as standalone bungalows, subject to government approval. This has created a demographic where more than half of the residents are foreigners from countries like Australia, China, the UK, and India, alongside wealthy Singaporeans. The lifestyle is distinct from the mainland "HDB" living, featuring private yacht berths, a gated-community atmosphere, and proximity to upscale dining at Quayside Isle. Despite the island being a major tourist destination with Universal Studios and beaches, the residential zones are strictly private, offering a secluded, resort-like environment for its affluent inhabitants.

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Over the course of its remarkable history, Sentosa has transformed into a beloved island resort, best known for its tropical beaches, luxurious hotels and thrilling attractions. Whether you're looking for an adrenaline rush or a day of relaxing in the sun, Sentosa is bound to enchant and delight.

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Sentosa was known for savage pirates and a brutal prisoner of war camp before the Singapore government converted it into an upmarket vacation destination in the 1970s. Now 10 million people a year visit this island, which is less than a mile from the mainland and connected by rail and cable car.

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It is a pleasant walk with flora and scenic views of the bay and the cable car. There is no charge to walk the Boardwalk into Sentosa and it was worth doing. Coming back to Singapore from Sentosa I caught the Sentosa Monorail from Beach Station to VivoCity Station, again this is a free service.

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The water around Sentosa is clean enough for swimming, but don't expect it to be crystal clear. As Singapore is one of the world's busiest ports, there are dozens of cargo ships and tankers on the horizon.

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These beaches are artificial and cut off from the ocean by dykes, so you won't find too many waves! But what they do offer is the possibility to enjoy some sports, such as volleyball, football, cycling, skating and kayak. The beaches are well kitted out, with toilets, showers, lockers and even wireless internet.

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So much of what exists on Sentosa is new and shiny that it's understandable why the common “it was a manmade island” misconception keeps going around. Land reclamation may be the source of the confusion. Pulau Blakang Mati was about 280 hectares in size, and since 1972 Sentosa has grown to about 500 hectares.

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In 2014, there were 2,100 homes that range from high-rise condominiums to luxury bungalows with adjoining private berths for boats. As at June 2015, Sentosa Cove was home to a population of more than 5,000 people residing in 2,160 homes.

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