Review: Capella Singapore (Best Luxury Hotel in Singapore)

Wednesday newsletters always feature a hotel or flight review.

I recently enjoyed a wonderful holiday in Singapore. You can read my trip reports here:

Review: Capella Singapore Hotel (today)

Capella Singapore is one of those rare resorts that feels like a proper tropical escape yet sits barely 10–15 minutes from downtown Singapore. Tucked into 30 acres of rainforest on Sentosa Island, the property blends grand 19th-century colonial buildings with sleek contemporary design. Inspired by Tanah Merah – Malay for “red earth” – the resort’s 112 guestrooms, suites, villas, and manors were crafted by renowned interior designer Jaya Ibrahim. Guests can enjoy three swimming pools, sunbathe amid lush greenery, indulge in treatments at the award-winning Auriga Spa, or savor refined dining at Cassia (Chinese cuisine) and The Knolls (Mediterranean flavors). Bob’s Bar is ideal for sunset cocktails, while the Living Room offers a sophisticated setting for Afternoon Tea. In June 2018, the resort gained worldwide attention as the site of the historic Trump–Kim summit.

Capella Singapore features in my list of the top 10 best luxury hotels in Singapore.

Have you ever stayed at Capella Singapore? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

In this review (more info and photos below my YouTube video):

PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• Capella Singapore sits at 1 The Knolls on the tranquil, leafy side of Sentosa Island, surrounded by lush rainforest and overlooking the South China Sea. Although it feels like a secluded jungle retreat, the resort is conveniently close to major attractions: Palawan Beach is only a short stroll away (with direct access through a private gate), while Universal Studios Singapore and Resorts World Sentosa can be reached in just 10–15 minutes either on foot or via the complimentary shuttle service. Despite this proximity, the resort remains blissfully removed from theme-park crowds, offering a peaceful escape. A welcome perk is complimentary entry to Sentosa Island, making it easy to explore nearby beach clubs, nature walks, and island attractions without hassle. For guests wanting to venture into the city, downtown Singapore (including Marina Bay and Orchard Road) is only about 15–20 minutes away by car or taxi, allowing you to enjoy the urban energy before returning to the quiet sanctuary of Sentosa.

• The heart of Capella Singapore is formed by two beautifully restored Tanah Merah colonial bungalows dating back to the 1880s, originally built as officers’ quarters for the British Royal Artillery. These heritage buildings once overlooked key maritime routes and played a quiet but strategic role during Singapore’s colonial era. After decades of disuse and weathering in Sentosa’s tropical climate, the structures were meticulously restored and integrated into a new resort masterplan that opened in 2009. Led by Pontiac Land in collaboration with the acclaimed architectural firm Foster + Partners, the restoration process went far beyond cosmetic work; artisans were brought in to preserve original architectural details, from timber beams to plasterwork, ensuring the buildings retained their historic soul. The old wing, which houses the lobby, The Living Room lounge, and parts of the dining venues, retains its high ceilings, shuttered windows, and wide verandahs, giving you that unmistakable “grand colonial mansion” ambience.

• One of Capella Singapore’s most distinctive architectural features is its curving red-brick wing, often referred to as the “new wing.” Designed by Foster + Partners, this sweeping, organic structure contrasts beautifully with the heritage buildings. Its warm terracotta tone and fluid silhouette echo the rainforest’s natural contours, almost appearing to rise from the landscape itself. The design is not merely aesthetic—its curvature is intentional, creating a sense of privacy as each room subtly fans out along the arc. This gentle angle allows most rooms and suites to enjoy unobstructed views of the South China Sea, while the recessed balconies act as shaded outdoor living areas that extend the interior seamlessly into nature. Between the old colonial bungalows and the modern wing lies a beautifully landscaped courtyard that acts as a quiet transition space where history and contemporary design meet. It’s one of the resort’s most atmospheric areas, especially in the early morning or at dusk when the light filters through the trees.

• Capella Singapore offers 113 rooms, suites, villas and manors, but if you can, book a villa – it’s where the resort truly shines. My villa felt like a secluded rainforest pavilion, set slightly away from the main building and accessed via winding paths or buggy. The layout revolved around indoor-outdoor living: sliding doors opened onto a generous stone terrace with sun loungers and a private plunge pool, perfectly screened by lush greenery for maximum privacy. Inside, the villa had a a separate living room that functions almost like a private lounge—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The bedroom featured a supremely comfortable Sealy Posturepedic bed and a BOSE sound system, while the spa-style bathroom offered a double vanity, indoor and outdoor showers, as well as an outdoor deep soaking tub. Thoughtful touches elevated the entire experience: complimentary in-room refreshments restocked daily, nightly turndown with small treats, and intuitive touch panels for lighting and blinds—all reinforcing the resort’s understated, effortless luxury.

• Capella Singapore’s three-tiered pool complex is one of the most photogenic in the city, often compared to a rainforest version of Bali’s hanging gardens. The free-form infinity pools cascade down the hillside, framed by mature trees, rustling palms, and dense foliage, with occasional glimpses of the South China Sea shimmering in the distance. Each tier has its own distinct atmosphere: the top pool is adults-only and wonderfully serene, the middle pool is family-friendly with a relaxed, playful feel, and the lower pool is designed as a dedicated lap pool for those who prefer a quiet, uninterrupted swim. Loungers are comfortably spaced to ensure privacy, and service strikes the perfect balance—attentive without hovering—with chilled water, refreshing face towels, or fruit skewers arriving just as the tropical heat peaks. Small touches like sunscreen stations, a discreet pool concierge, and the gentle soundtrack of the surrounding rainforest enhance the sense of escape.

• Capella Singapore’s Auriga Spa is often ranked among Asia’s best hotel spas, and it more than justifies its reputation, offering a sanctuary that feels completely removed from the bustle of city life. The spa’s philosophy draws inspiration from the phases of the moon, resulting in a treatment menu that evolves with the lunar cycles and emphasises natural, organic ingredients designed to harmonize body and mind. The facilities are equally impressive: a vitality pool, herbal steam room, ice fountain, experiential showers, and serene relaxation lounges, all cocooned in warm woods, soft curves, and soothing ambient lighting that create an immediate sense of calm. My treatment combined a personalized massage, hot stones, and gentle stretches, delivered with remarkable intuition and care by the therapist, leaving every muscle deeply relaxed. Adjacent to the spa, the fully equipped gym offers cardio and strength-training equipment, allowing guests to maintain their fitness routines in a tranquil, verdant setting.

• Capella Singapore punches above its size with a remarkably strong and varied dining lineup:
  • Cassia, designed by André Fu, is the resort’s signature Cantonese restaurant, where refined dim sum is served at lunch alongside artfully plated seafood and succulent roast dishes at dinner, all presented in an elegant, contemporary setting that still feels warm and inviting.
  • Fiamma, created by Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco, delivers soulful Italian cuisine in a cozy, home-style atmosphere, with wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and generous sharing plates that highlight seasonal ingredients and bold flavors.
  • For lighter bites and sunset moments, Bob’s Bar offers breezy views of the resort’s pools and the South China Sea, alongside a carefully curated, rum-forward cocktail menu and inventive tropical concoctions.
  • The Living Room, exclusive to hotel guests, serves complimentary refreshments throughout the day and hosts an elegant afternoon tea for all guests, featuring delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and freshly brewed teas, reinforcing the feeling of staying in a private, elegant estate where every culinary need is thoughtfully catered to.
  • Located next to The Living Room, the Pineapple Room provides a more intimate experience, with décor and charm inspired by Sentosa’s pineapple-plantation heritage, making it perfect for leisurely evenings over classic cocktails.

• Capella’s historical significance reached global prominence in 2018 when it became the venue for the landmark summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. For several days, the resort transformed into one of the most secure locations on the planet, with airspace restrictions, extensive perimeter security, and discreet staff coordination ensuring that every detail went smoothly. The world watched closely as the colonial bungalows and modern wings provided the backdrop to a moment of high-stakes diplomacy, combining heritage charm with contemporary elegance. Today, a discreet plaque near the main building quietly commemorates the summit, while staff members still recall the extraordinary preparation, the arrival of global media teams, and the unprecedented attention the resort received, elevating Capella Singapore’s profile on the world stage

• Staying at Capella Singapore is also an introduction to the wider Capella Hotels & Resorts brand, consistently recognized as one of the world’s best luxury hotel groups. Capella properties are renowned for their intuitive, anticipatory service, destination-driven design, and a deeply personal style of hospitality anchored by the personal-assistant concept, ensuring that every guest’s stay feels effortless and bespoke. In Singapore, this philosophy comes to life in a resort that balances local authenticity with contemporary elegance: the heritage Tanah Merah colonial buildings are thoughtfully preserved, while Asian-inspired interiors, natural materials, and serene landscaping create a sense of place that is unmistakably Southeast Asian. At the same time, modern amenities, innovative design, and world-class dining ensure a quietly sophisticated experience that meets the expectations of discerning international travelers.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

• Capella Singapore’s Auriga Spa is exceptional, but its popularity means that booking treatments during peak periods can be challenging. Guests hoping for same-day appointments or specific time slots may need to plan well in advance, which can be slightly inconvenient for those who prefer spontaneous spa experiences.

• Capella Singapore focuses on tranquil luxury, which means evening entertainment and nightlife are minimal. Guests seeking lively bars, music events, or late-night social activities will need to venture offsite to Sentosa or downtown Singapore, as the resort maintains a calm and serene atmosphere after dark.

• While the resort’s location on Sentosa Island provides a tranquil escape, it is somewhat removed from downtown Singapore. For travelers whose priority is being within walking distance of shopping, dining, and urban attractions, the 15–20 minute drive into the city can feel like a minor inconvenience. Relying on taxis or shuttle services adds an extra layer of planning for those wishing to explore Singapore frequently during their stay.

• Capella Singapore is undeniably Singapore’s most luxurious property, and the rates reflect that. Even standard rooms are priced at a premium compared to many other high-end hotels in the city, making it less accessible for travelers on a mid-range budget. While the quality of service, design, and facilities is exceptional, guests seeking a more economical option or looking for frequent city-hopping convenience might find the pricing prohibitive.

• While Capella Singapore sits along the coastline of Sentosa and offers direct access to Palawan Beach via a private gate, it is not a true beach resort. The beach itself is public, relatively small, and not as pristine as some of the region’s more secluded shorelines, with several ships often anchored in the bay. Guests looking for expansive, private, or picture-perfect beach settings may find the waterfront experience limited compared to other tropical resorts, making Capella more of a luxury resort retreat than a full-fledged beachfront escape.

• It’s almost inevitable to compare Capella Singapore to Raffles Singapore, the city’s only other true luxury hotel. Raffles is an iconic urban property located in the heart of downtown Singapore, offering easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, along with its historic charm and legendary service. By contrast, Capella feels more like an urban resort, tucked away on Sentosa Island and designed as a secluded sanctuary amid lush greenery. While Raffles excels at delivering a classic, city-center luxury experience, Capella emphasizes privacy, tranquility, and immersive resort-style living—making the two properties distinct in both atmosphere and appeal.

MY VERDICT

• Layout: 9/10
• Design: 9/10
• Pool: 9/10
• Rooms: 9/10
• Food: 9/10
• Breakfast: 9/10
• Spa: 9/10
• Service: 9/10
• Wow factor: 9/10
• Value for money: 9/10
• Overall experience: exceptional – 9/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

• Save money: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Capella Singapore through Virtuoso:
  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
  • Daily buffet breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom
  • A complimentary set menu dinner at the Knolls or Cassia for up to two people, once during stay (excluding alcohol, taxes and gratuities)
  • Early check-in / late check-out, subject to availability
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

• Save money: read here my tips for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel like Capella Singapore (and/or receive many free perks).

• Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit Singapore is generally from February to April, when the weather is relatively drier and more comfortable compared to other months. Although Singapore has a tropical climate year-round, this period usually offers more sunshine and fewer heavy showers, making outdoor activities and sightseeing easier. The rainy season, especially from November to January, can bring frequent downpours and cloudier days, while June to September may occasionally experience haze from regional forest fires. Despite this, Singapore remains a good destination at any time, as its attractions, transportation, and food scene are well suited for all weather conditions. Ultimately, the ideal time depends on whether you prefer clearer skies, local festivals, or simply the convenience of traveling during a quieter period.

HOW TO GET THERE

PHOTOS

Below is a selection of my photos from Capella Singapore. To view additional images, including breakfast and dinner at the various restaurants, click here.

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