When you’re planning a trip to Malaysia, we might suggest you stop by in Johor–and by Johor we mean specifically Desaru. You’ll find Desaru sitting along the east coast of Johor. There are so many interesting things to do in Desaru. Visiting the waterparks, doing nature based activities, and staying in one of the luxurious beachfront resorts.

The easiest and simplest way to get yourself to Desaru Coast is by car. You can rent a car in Johor Bahru and drive up for a 71 kilometres trip, it’ll only take an approximate 55 minutes drive. Or if you don’t want to drive your way to Desaru, you can always choose public transportations such as by bus or a taxi. Approximately it will cost you around S$60 to s$80, depending on the day of travel and timing.

Here we’re going to guide you to the best things to do in Desaru. Prepare to extend your planned trip and enjoy your time there. Here we go!

Desaru Coast might be the most suitable destination for those who already craved the ambience of the beach. Pamper your getaway to one of the best in town’s 5 stars resort, where you can accompany yourself with the beach, 24/7. Waking up to the breeze of the ocean and reaching the maximum level of relaxation by the coast. We’re confident enough that this could be one of the best things to do in Desaru.

Yes, the first thing to do in Desaru is to fit yourself into the best resort. Spending time in Desaru might take up a big portion of your energy. You don’t want to waste your time there feeling sore and tired. Charge your body and mind for every minute of your rest so you can keep up for the rest of the things to do in Desaru.

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Here is a mini list of our suggestion about the best resort to stay in Desaru:

To decide the things to do in Desaru that suit your interest might be easy, but to choose a hotel or a villa might not be, as there are high possibilities that you will love all of them. The first recommended resort in Desaru is Anantara Desaru Coast Resort and Villa. Here, you will experience the ultimate luxury of Desaru.

Price Starts From S$ 489.92

Location: Persiaran Pantai, Desaru Coast, Bandar Penawar, Desaru Beachfront, Desaru, Kota Tinggi, Johor, Malaysia, 81930

This seaside resort is divided into rooms, beach villas, and beach residences. 4 types of rooms are available, and our favorite is the Deluxe Sea View Corner Room because of the larger and clearer view. The villa options would be suitable for people that love intimate places, as they have a private plunge pool. It is also great for small families.

On the other hand, beach residences are great for larger families or groups of friends. Other than the private infinity pool, you will also love the direct access to the beach!

Desaru is indeed a heaven for luxurious hotels and resorts. The next recommendation is One&Only Desaru Coast, the place that will make you enjoy the most of the tropical beach weather.

Price Starts From S$ 1,020.32

Location: Persiaran Damai, Desaru, Desaru, Kota Tinggi, Johor, Malaysia, 81930

You can pick the accommodation according to the view you prefer. You can pick the Rainforest Suites if you love to see the lush greenery from your own private pool. Or, if you are a sea lover, pick the Ocean Suites that overlooks the South China Sea. Even better, some of the Ocean Suites are only steps away from the beach sand.

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This sanctuary will bring peace to you, supported by all wellness facilities they have, such as the massage or the beauty treatment from the Chenot Spa.

The last one would be the Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast. Well, it has no resort ambience but it doesn’t mean that it can’t embrace the beauty of Desaru. The hotel is “music-infused”, which means that music is one of the things you can enjoy here. They even have the underwater sound system!

Price Starts From S$ 229.90

Location: Jalan Pantai 3, Desaru Coast, Bandar Penawar , Desaru, Kota Tinggi, Johor, Malaysia, 81930

You can choose the rooms and suites with a nice view and suit it with your needs. If you stay with kids, this hotel is a great choice as they have plenty of rooms that can accommodate up to 4 people. The Studio Suite has a bunk bed, which will be fun for the kids. The Studio Suite Gold, Duplex even has an in-room plunge pool, a kids-friendly facility that you will absolutely enjoy.

Choose one of the resorts above, or you can simply search for your own choice in Traveloka. Don’t forget to check for hotel promotion in Singapore that you can use for an accommodation outside of the country.

A family trip would be more fun if you spend at least half a day at a waterpark. Worry not, in Desaru Coast you can always have your fun and thrill at Adventure Waterpark–our next thing to do in Desaru.

Setting up the background of traditional Malaysian fishing villages, Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast is home to the first ever water coaster in the region and one of the biggest wave pools in the world that measures nearly three acres and is filled with over four million gallons of water. We might guarantee you that this is one of the best things to do in Desaru.

Price Starts from S$ 20.61

Location: Persiaran Pantai, Desaru Coast, 81930 Bandar Penawar, Johor, Malaysia

The family-friendly Adventure Waterpark features more than 20 wet and dry rides, slides, and attractions. Divided in 5 zones, you will find Penawar Falls, Penawar River, Shipwreck Reef, Tidal Wave Beach, and Kids Ahoy. In each zone you will be met by plenty of fun and thrilling rides, slides, and attractions to conquer.

The Swinging Ships is one of the most favoured rides in Penawar Falls, mild enough for the youngsters yet fun and thrilling enough for all ages. The Swinging Ships has a replica ship that will arches up to 180 degrees in both directions. Or you can visit Surf Wall in Penawar Falls, A very safe surfing simulator that has a high-adrenaline trigger where a surf beginner can catch and ride artificial waves.

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Kraken’s Revenge is the ride for those who are willing to experience the maximum adrenaline, a combination of roller coaster and splashing flume that takes thrill seekers up to 30 metres before spinning into a 360 degree horizontal loop. But if you’re only keen on safer rides for your children, you can always visit the Kids Ahoy and enjoy the Scallywags and the Starfish Splash.

It is too crazy for your coastal town trip if you’re not going to visit the beach, as it is one of the important things to do in Desaru. Desaru Beach is one of the famous spots for the locals and tourists, and it is considered as one of the best beaches in and around Johor. This white sandy beach with beautiful corals could bring every tourist tranquility and serenity in mind and their body.

Desaru Beach could be one of the spots that is suitable for any age. There are many activities available for all ages of people. It has a nice environment for you to have a picnic with your family, or even have a camping session. With the hygiene and not-too-crowded vibe, you will certainly have the best time there.

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Enjoy yourself in a deckchair, read your favourite book, or listen to your best playlist. If you prefer more energetic activities, you can get yourself some exciting stuff like rowing canoes, swimming, sea-dive or even surf the waves.

If you’re already craving about what to eat in Desaru. Here’s some guide for your belly; go to The Desaru Fishing Village. Walk it off and explore the nearby fishing villages along the coast. The most popular of all fishing villages here is the Tanjung Balau Fishing Village, where you can enjoy your moment by flying kites on the beach, walk along the rocky shore at low tide, catch and capture the sunset, or if you’re eager enough to learn the history, you can visit the fishermen museum and the local art gallery.

Due to its coastal town nature and close distance to the fishing villages, Desaru is a great destination for those who love seafoods. And you'll get to feast on affordable, fresh seafood dishes while you're there. We suggest you drive out to the nearby fishing village of Sungai Rengit where you can enjoy a satisfying and exciting meal at one of its few seafood restaurants!

Well, now you might not have the patience to wait for the next holiday or public holiday in Singapore, so you can do all the things to do in Desaru! To make the most of your time in Desaru, don’t forget to plan the itinerary carefully and prepare the best budget as well.