A Guide Tanjong Rimau, Singapore’s Best-Kept Secret Beach
Tanjong Rimau is one of Singapore’s best-kept secrets—one I’m going to spill in today’s guide. It’s a pocket of wild beauty tucked away on Sentosa’s western shores.
With its vibrant tidal pools, hidden caves, and untouched mangroves, it’s a must-visit for adventurers craving a slice of nature off the beaten track.
Exploring this gem responsibly is key, as access is only possible through guided tours designed to protect its delicate ecosystem.
History and Background
Tanjong Rimau is a quiet, untouched beach tucked at Sentosa’s Siloso Headland, offering a rare glimpse of Singapore’s natural coastline. It’s a key part of Singapore’s marine conservation efforts, preserving biodiversity and promoting eco-friendly exploration.
As one of Singapore’s last coastal cliffs, this hidden gem is a haven for crabs, corals, and seagrasses thriving in its intertidal zone. As such, no walk-ins are permitted to protect the biodiversity.
To visit Tanjong Rimau, you can register for the Siloso Headland Intertidal Programme through Sentosa’s official website. This guided tour offers insights into the area’s unique marine life and geological features.
Things to Know
Location: Western tip of Sentosa, near Siloso Headland
Fees: Tours and entry are free but require prior registration, often through a ballot system due to limited slots
Best times to visit: During low tide for access to caves and marine life, ideally in Singapore’s drier months from February to April
Accessibility: Rock, uneven terrain could be difficult for the mobility-challenged; children aged 7 and above can enjoy the guided tours
Pet-friendly? No
Rules and restrictions:
✔ Leave no trace
✔ Registered access only
✔ Wear proper footwear (non-slip or aqua shoes)
✖ No pets
✖ No littering
✖ No handling of marine and wildlife
✖ No vandalism
✖ No food and drinks
How to Get There
The guided tours’ meeting point is near Siloso Beach Station or the Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort. Please note that motorcycles are not permitted on Sentosa.
By MRT and bus: Take the MRT to HarbourFront Station (NE1/CC29). From there, head to VivoCity and board the Sentosa Express to Beach Station.
At Beach Station, transfer to the Sentosa Bus or Beach Shuttle heading towards Siloso Beach, stopping near Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort.
By car: Enter Sentosa via the Sentosa Gateway; follow signs to Siloso Point. Present your tour reservation at the Sentosa gantry for admission.
Parking is available at Beach Station and Imbiah car parks, with rates of S$1.20 per hour from 7 AM to 5 PM, and S$2.40 per entry after 5 PM.
Things to Do
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Tanjong Rimau’s hidden caves are accessible only at low tide, revealing a world of rugged beauty and a connection to Singapore’s coastal history. As you step carefully along the shoreline, you’ll find tidal pools brimming with crabs, stonefish, and vibrant corals.
Remember to tread lightly, follow your guide’s instructions, and respect the marine life. Your adventure can leave memories without leaving a mark.
Spot natural tidal pools
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The natural tidal pools at Tanjong Rimau are alive with crabs, corals, seagrasses, and even the elusive stonefish, offering a rare chance to witness marine life thriving in its natural habitat.
Our two-hour guided tour involved walking on uneven terrain and wading through knee-deep water, so come prepared with sturdy shoes and eco-friendly sunscreen.
Discover mangrove patches
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Nestled along the shoreline, Tanjong Rimau’s pockets of mangroves are a thriving ecosystem, home to mudskippers, mangrove crabs, and unique plant species that play a key role in coastal protection.
Look for these mangroves near the rocky areas as you explore during the guided tour. Expect to see intricate root systems and lively activity around the water’s edge.
Wander along rugged trails
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Now here’s the point when I started wondering “Am I still in Singapore?”
Wandering along Tanjong Rimau’s rugged trails felt like venturing into a forgotten corner of Singapore. The paths wove through rocky shores and lush greenery, offering stunning views of the coastline and a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle.
You’ll find these trails near Siloso Headland, best explored during the guided tour for safe access. Expect uneven terrain and breathtaking photo opportunities, and come prepared with sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure to enjoy this hidden gem truly.
Join heritage walks
Sentosa is more than just beaches and attractions; it’s a place steeped in history. The Sentosa Heritage Trail takes you through 30 fascinating sites, from Fort Siloso to Fort Serapong, showcasing its journey from a military base to the vibrant destination we know today.
I once joined the Coastal Trail from Fort Siloso to Tanjong Rimau, which blends scenic views with rich history. There are also SentoSights Tours offering unique heritage experiences like games and night walks. Fun and informative!
Stay for a stunning sunset
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Staying for a sunset at Tanjong Rimau is the perfect way to end your adventure. As the sun dips below the horizon, the rugged shoreline and calm waters glow in vibrant hues, creating a serene and unforgettable scene.
I usually head to the rocky edges near Siloso Headland for the best vantage point.