The Malaysian fishing village in Johor, Desaru Coast, is known for majestic sandy beaches, luxurious hotels and turquoise waters. Luckily, holidaymakers can take a new 90 minute ferry ride from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal – making it an idyllic location for a quick day trip or weekend vacation from Singapore. Below, we’ve listed the 11 best things to do for the ultimate weekend in Desaru Coast.
1. Step back in time at a fishing village
A hidden gem in Desaru Coast is Tanjung Balau Fishing Village. The popular site features a beautiful beach, an interesting fisherman museum where you can learn about the location, art galleries, and a host of delicious seafood offerings. It’s the perfect place for a quiet stroll and to pass a few hours.
📍Tanjung Balau, 81930 Kota Tinggi, Johor, Malaysia
2. Make a splash at the waterpark
Adventure Waterpark in Desaru Coast features more than 20 adrenaline-pumping slides, rides like the Swinging Ship and attractions for people of all ages to enjoy. Allegedly It’s one of the world’s biggest waterparks in Desaru Coast, where visitors can look forward to a huge wave pool and one-of-a-kind water coaster. Excellent for making memories with your group. Tickets begin at MYR 110 ($33.61).
📍82200 Bandar Penawar, Johor, Malaysia
3. Say hello to hundreds of ostriches
Get up close and personal with more than 200 ostriches at the unique Desaru Ostrich Farm. Learn about ostrich species, feed the animals and be treated to supervised ostrich rides. From cute baby chicks roaming around to adult ostriches hilariously staring you down…it’s an interesting experience to say the least in Desaru Coast.
📍Jalan Telok Ramunia, Kampung Changi, 81600 Pengerang, Johor, Malaysia
4. Book a luxurious staycation
Desaru is full of stunning hotels and resorts to book depending on your budget. For instance, the Anantara Desaru Coast Resort exhibits a beachside infinity pool, private villas with their own pool, resembling a Bali escape, and lots of family-friendly activities.
Alternatively, those wanting a little more privacy can opt for the likes of The Westin or the One&Only which boasts its own beach club and seaside dining, offering the perfect place to relax with an exceptional views of the South China Sea. While the Hard Rock Hotel is a vibrant place to enjoy a boogie, cocktails and a buzzing atmosphere.
📍Various Locations
5. Have a picnic on the beach
Make your getaway even more dreamy by having a picnic on the idyllic Desaru Beach which faces the South China Sea. The long beach is ideal for having fun with family or friends, playing beach games, watching a sunset or sunrise or just topping up your tan in a tranquil location.
📍Bandar Penawar, Malaysia
6. Get educated at a fruit farm
Why not take a guided tour at the award-winning Desaru Fruit Farm? It’s the perfect place to learn about the history of Malaysian fruit on a 180 acres of fruit orchard, visit a petting zoo and get educated about bees. Plus, there’s tour packages offering quad bike rides and options to add lunch or dinner.
📍92, 82200, Johor, Malaysia
7. Indulge on a seafood feast
Desaru Coast is, after all, the home of the greatest fishing culture. So there’s a range of restaurants serving a scrumptious feasts of seafood – which may be the best you’ll ever taste in your life. Local seafood favourites include Nelayan Seafood By The Coast, Desaru Seafood Corner and Jade Garden Seafood Corner, to name a few.
📍Various Locations
8. Admire majestic fireflies
Meet hundreds of fireflies on an enchanting firefly river cruise. Situated along the Kota Tinggi Johor River, it’s a well-worth-it 40 minute drive for a magical experience under the stars. After the cruise, guests usually send beautiful lanterns into the sky. A totally romantic setting if you ask us! Book via Kotta Tinggi Firefly Park.
📍Jalan Kota Tinggi, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor, Malaysia
9. Play golf
Golf is a popular activity in Desaru. Particularly, The Els Club golf courses, designed by champion golfers, are popular with locals. Opt to play at either 27-hole Ocean Course, against the backdrop of the pristine beach and ocean, or else take on the green Valley Course. Definitely, a golfing adventure is unmissable on your trip.
📍Desaru Coast, Johor, Malaysia
10. Hop on a river cruise
Explore Desaru by hopping on a river cruise with tour operator, JungleWalla. Meander down the Lebam River by boat or kayak, passing through the lush Mangrove Forest, and stopping in places like the Desaru Fruit Farm Shop. Plus, you’ll see plenty of wildlife and even a unique floating restaurant on your journey.
📍Lebam River, Johor, Malaysia
11. Hang out at Ember Beach Club
One & Only Hotel’s luxurious new Ember Beach Club exhibits action-packed entertainment. Think thrilling watersports and outdoor movie screenings in a beachside destination. Plus, there’s private cabanas and daybeds available to rent, as well as world-class cuisine by Michelin-starred Chef Andrew Walsh, and live music by talented DJs. Certainly, one of the best things to do in Desaru Coast this season.
📍One&Only Desaru Coast Persiaran Damai, Desaru Coast Bandar Penawar, Johor, Malaysia
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