Due to the high demand for Desaru trip, especially during the Singapore and Malaysia school holidays, families are more keen for a day trip to JB or 2D1N JB trip vacation to enjoy in Johor.
Many of us may think that the hottest Johor attraction would be Legoland Malaysia and JB downtown Area.
BUT, according to my survey, DESARU would be the next hottest place of interest in Johor. You may ask “WHY”.
Because a lot of parents would consider bringing their children to have an “ECO” trip or “Rural” trip. This is the reason why there are so many ECO farms begin established recently.
Now, let me list down some PLACE OF INTEREST of Desaru.
Extra –> Kota Tinggi Waterfalls (not recommended for a day trip)
I know most of you may refer to the google map to check which route is the most convenient and shortest path to reach your destination especially when you’re only planning for a DAY TRIP in Johor. You have to plan well before taking a day trip in Desaru.
Desaru Fruit Farm Map
If you are only looking for a DESARU DAY TRIP, I personally think that you can visit all the places that I have listed above.
I will go through one by one starting with the most important place of interest and how to get around in Desaru.
Based on the Desaru map above, you can see that the first destination on Desaru would be “Desaru Fruit Farm“.
If you are coming from Singapore, you will reach around 11:30am – 12:00pm. (If you depart at 8:00am in the morning)
Basically, you need at least 2 to 3 hours to walk around the Desaru Fruit Farm. The tour guide will guide you through all the journey in Desaru Fruit Farm.
Once you’re done touring the fruit farm, they will provide you a variety of fruit for lunch. Don’t miss them! All the fruit are plucked from their farm.
Entrance ticket is priced at around RM25/pax, please note that there is no accommodation provided at Desaru Fruit Farm. Therefore, you need to find the nearest accommodation if you take the 2D1N package.
For Desaru package details please visit here: desarufruitfarm.com
***Please note that Desaru Fruit Farm also provides ATV ride and Paint Ball game (If you plan for a Desaru one day trip, then you wouldn’t have enough time to visit Desaru Ostrich Farm and Sungai Rengit)
After having your stomach filled with fruit (Must Try!), you can consider going to the crocodile farm at Teluk Sengat.
One hour is sufficient to spend in Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm.
Or you can skip the crocodile farm and go to Sungai Rengit area. It is a small town in Kota Tinggi district.
In Sungai Rengit area, you can first visit the Desaru Ostrich Farm. The journey from Desaru Fruit Farm to Sungai Rengit area is about 45 minutes to 1 hour drive.
Desaru Ostrich Farm hosted more than 250++ ostrich and it is the largest ostrich farm in Malaysia.
I personally recommend Desaru Ostrich Farm rather than crocodile farm as it is more fun and excited to play with these long-necked creatures.
Your kids may like this farm very much because they will get the opportunity to feed these ostriches with corn kernels or a bunch of vegetables.
Besides that, you get the chance to touch and stand on the biggest egg in the world. Moreover, you can stand beside the ostriches and take photos together. It is definitely enjoyable and good experience with these ostriches.
But it is still worth to go to crocodile farm. At least your kids know how a real crocodile looks like. 🙂
Note: 1 to 2 hours is enough in ostrich farm.
You may refer to the images below to see what you can expect when you reach there.
After that, you can spend your evening for a delectable dinner at the top Desaru food restaurant. There are 3 options for your choice.
1. Nelayan Seafood By The Coast
2. Jade Garden Seafood Restaurant
3. Restaurant Super Lobster
After you’ve eaten your dinner, you can choose to head back to Singapore, or you can request the driver to stop over at the Desaru Beach to have fun with your family member.
I think this is a great plan for those who look for only a DAY Trip in Desaru area. After dinner at about 7:00pm or 8:00pm, you may need at least 3 hours drive to reach Singapore.
Plan for the 2nd day if you would like to have 2D1N Trip. (Desaru Waterpark)
If you are going to have 2D1N Trip, then you can directly stay in Hard Rock Hotel Desaru or Lotus Desaru Beach Resort after having your dinner at Sungai Rengit.
On the second day, you can have a breakfast in the hotel and then check out from the resort and head to Desaru Waterpark for more water activities!!!
The really cool thing staying at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru is the private access to Desaru Waterpark.
1. Desaru Waterpark (spend time: 6 to 8 hours)
2. Lunch inside waterpark
3. After Desaru Waterpark (heading back to Singapore)
If staying in Singapore for a weekend getaway no longer interests you, it’s time to head to Johor Bahru. The vibrant multicultural city that shares its borders with Singapore has evolved tremendously as a strong contender to the charming appeal of historic cities like Penang and Melaka.
Don’t get us wrong; JB is not just about the Johor Premium Outlets, Legoland or Hello Kitty Town. Beyond its commercial development lies a rustic charm that is unique to the state capital. Much of the attractions and history of Johor Bahru can be found in the southernmost part of JB, closest to the Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine Complex (CQI) and DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel JB. One of the most important areas to visit is Jalan Trus where you will see the multicultural nature of Johor Bahru that the street epitomises. Visit the Johor Chinese Ancient Temple, Gurdwara Sikh Temple and the Arulmigu Rajamariamman Devasthanam Temple which are all located along the same road. With all the key attractions being in Johor Bahru City, park yourself strategically here to enjoy the best of old and new JB.
Things to do in Johor Bahru
Stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru
Image Credit: DoubleTree by Hilton JB
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Johor Bahru is one of the first premium hotels to open in JB in 2014. It is only an 11-minute walk away from JB Sentral train station, making it a great choice for travellers who want to be within the city centre and for visitors from across the Causeway. The four-star property boasts a majestic grand lobby with The Food Store on the side selling hot beverages, juices, small bites and some souvenirs. Also on the ground floor is Makan Kitchen where you can find an eclectic mix of local cuisines prepared in live and interactive kitchens. This all-day dining is the best place to enjoy Johor’s famous kacang pool and roti arab (a bean and beef mince stew also known as foul medammas, served with toasted thick white toast with ghee).
Spend your evening at the poolside area outside Tosca, the hotel’s Italian Trattoria. Enjoy the stunning views overlooking the Straits of Johor with a glass of white wine and freshly-made pizzas if you’re feeling peckish before dinner. If you’re in the mood to dine in, start at the cheese room for an assortment of cheeses including a fondue version served alongside nuts, dried fruits and crackers.
Image Credit: DoubleTree by Hilton JB
There are 333 guestrooms including 22 apartment-style suites for larger families and groups. The rooms are designed in a contemporary style decked in warm neutral hues as well as a luxuriously comfortable bed to boot. Upon check-in, you’ll be welcomed with a warm chocolate chip cookie with your name on it – a tradition at all DoubleTree hotels.
Head over to the Heritage Zone
Image Credit: Tailim
Go ahead and ask any local how they entertain visitors and the answer will centre around food. There are plenty of small restaurants and hipster cafes around the Chinese Heritage Area (Jalan Tan Hiok Nee) offering everything from coffee and cakes to a plethora of street food.
Also nearby is Restoran Hua Mui where you can find the best Hainanese chicken chop JB has to offer. Leave some space for the famous banana cake from the century-old Hiap Joo Bakeryand freshly-made bread and pastries from Salahuddin Bakery. While you’re at it, buy some extras as gifts or for snacking on the way home.
Image Credit: Tailim
Traditionalists will enjoy local Chinese and Malay food at 56-year-old Restoran Kin Hua with its selection of mee rebus, nasi lemak, roti bakar, Yong tau foo and more. A must-try at this halal restaurant is the hand-pulled Hainanese coffee, made by the second-generation Kopitiam owner.
Hop over to Drums Café for a good mix of Malaysian food like laksa, nasi lemak, chicken rice and Nyonya desserts. The interiors are decorated with drums hanging from the ceiling and a feature wall made of drumsticks. If you’re lucky, you’ll meet the owner, Tan Chai Puan who is the co-founder of 24 Festive Drums, which is now recognised as a Malaysian National Cultural Heritage. Learn everything about this art form and check out the different drums on display – there are also occasional live drum performances in the café.
If you have some spare time, walk around Jalan Tan Hiok Nee to check out some artsy clothing stores including Bev C where you can find pieces from select local designer brands such as Biji-Biji, Cassey Gan and KOZO/JTNC by Justin Chew, Jimmy Lim and Anaya. The space doubles up as a quaint cafe as well.
Image Credit: Bevcaffe
Travellers can also head over to the Chinese Heritage Museum (it’s only a minute’s walk from the Chinese Heritage Area) to learn about the history of the Chinese community in Johor. Before leaving, pick up a map to help guide you as you walk around the heritage zone.
Night scene and bar hopping
Image Credit: T15
JB’s night scene doesn’t only comprise KTVs and late-night food stalls. Check out some of the latest speakeasy bars in JB for a drink or two – some of their concoctions rival the best ones you find in KL.
Image Credit: T 15
Head over to Haiiro Usagi in Taman Maju Jaya; it’s just 10 minutes away from DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel JB. Observe closely when you’re nearby because this bar has no signage. The interiors are minimalistic with catchy neon lights accentuating different parts of the bar. Enjoy a good selection of wines and cocktails with its dumplings and Japanese skewers.
Image Credit: T 15
If you’re thinking of a second round, hop over toT15 Bar(a 5-minute drive). You’ll be able to find an extensive selection of spirits from Japanese whiskies to limited edition gins – have them neat or in your favourite cocktails. Have a go at the Kinmen kaoliang four-ways – a type of baijiu that is served in four interesting ways; with lemon, warm water, plum and also neat.
DoubleTree by Hilton JB is just 10 minutes away from the Causeway checkpoint and 30 minutes from Senai International Airport by car. It’s best to have a car to drive yourself around the city; otherwise Grab is just a click away.
Hero Image Credit: Courtesy of Shutterstock; Feature Image Credit: Booking.comThis story first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Singapore.
Did you know that Tioman Island and its archipelago form a very large marine park that homes to amazing array of beautiful aquatic life?
Sounds amazing? I’m here to tell you that island offers even more than that for a perfect island getaway!
The best part is, almost all resorts and hotels on the island come with exceptional snorkelling trip, diving and jungle trekking to bring you closer to nature.
But due to the monsoon season which falls between November and March every year, some resorts are closed within the period.
So, do check for the availability while planning your trip.
Now, let’s move on discover the best resort and hotel on Tioman Island!
13 Best Tioman Resort & Hotel
1. Japamala Resort by Samadhi
Japamala Resort boasts 13 rooms hidden amidst the lush tropical rainforest. They blend with nature so perfectly.
Whether you enjoy staying in treetop chalets, sea cliff chalets or penghulu’s house with beach at doorstep, this resort offers you all of them!
Besides, all rooms meticulously designed just to offer you urban comfort at its finest!
Hillside room requires stairclimbing. Not suitable for elderly.
Jungle sarang rooms are quieter and easier to access.
Bring enough cash as no ATM provided on the island.
Japamala provides speedboat to the resort.
There isn’t any place to eat within walking distance.
Feel free to borrow movies disc from the counter or borrow books from library.
Extra bed can only be put in Jungle Luxe Sarang category and above.
2. 1511 Coconut Grove
Located at the east of Juara Village, 1511 Coconut Grove serves tops the list of accommodations in the village.
The traditional architecture chalets are set against the unspoiled paradise and many guests are amazed by how quaint and clean the chalets were. Best of all, they are only a few steps away from the stunning beach!
Rooms that are near to the counter bar have stronger Wi-Fi.
For quieter rooms, take the rooms away from the bar.
Free breakfast is provided.
PayPal is accepted here.
3. Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort Tioman Island
Featuring outstanding villas ranging from sea views, garden views to rainforest views, this boutique Tioman island resort offers private beach where rich marine life is just a few feet away!
With tranquillity and serenity of the island, you can even enjoy the nature ambience and discover the amazing underwater sights at ease.
During the stay, always remember to drop by the nearby village, Tekek for duty free shopping!
Price Starting From: RM730 @ SGD$221 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort Tioman Island Highlight:
Infinity pool
Family villa
Dive centre
Penawaa Restaurant
Bar / Longue
Sarang Spa
Free Wi-Fi
Games room
Good To Know:
Rainforest villa offers a quieter environment. But the Wi-Fi signal is weaker here.
Rooms at the front have a better sea view.
If you don’t want to walk so much, go for rooms closer to the lobby.
Inform the resort of your arrival to ensure getting on the speedboat.
Alcohol is not allowed at the restaurant.
Free water is available here.
There is a jungle walk at the back of the resort where great wildlife can be seen. But the steps are quite steep and lots of mosquitoes around.
4. Minang Cove Resort & Spa
Nestled between lush rainforest, Minang Cove Resort & Spa boasts 2 elegant villas and 12 deluxe chalets where the rooms offer you balcony overlook the stunning sea views.
This is truly a perfect place for an island escapade with loved ones. The warm hospitality provided will surely make you feel at home.
They even have various exciting activities right on their doorstep!
Price Starting From: RM953 @ SGD$289 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Minang Cove Resort & Spa Highlight:
Airport transportation
Restaurant (local & western cuisine)
Bar
Sun Deck
Spa
Tour Boat
Library
Jungle trekking (to waterfall &Mukut village)
Snorkelling
Diving
Campfire on the beach
Good To Know:
Take the beachfront villa located right at the shoreline if you enjoy falling asleep with the sound of the waves very much.
Superior rooms require guests to climb a lot of steps.
Lunch must be ordered before 2 pm. Sometimes it might collide with the return of the dive.
The resort offers buffet dinner with a different theme each day.
No Wi-Fi is provided here.
Wildlife like monkeys and squirrels are normal sight here.
5. The Barat Tioman Beach Resort
Where to stay in Tioman Island?
Well, this charm of The Barat Tioman Beach Resort lies in their air-conditioned comfort rooms along the unspoiled golden sandy beach amidst the beautiful Juara Village.
There are 56 spacious rooms in total and all are well-equipped with modern amenities.
Price Starting From: RM310 @ SGD$94 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
The Barat Tioman Beach Resort Highlight:
Beachfront Barat Restaurant (Asian & Western cuisines)
Inform the resort staff prior to avoid missing the ferry or boat to the resort.
Wi-Fi is quite weak due to remote location.
There is no room service, lifts, concierge and buffet breakfast provided.
Beach towels are available upon request.
You can locate your room using the resort map provided.
Hilltop Seaview Villa is located up on a hill. It is quieter and offers a breathtaking sea view.
In-house movies can be enjoyed in the room. You can request for it upon check-in.
Bottled water is provided.
6. Impian Inn
Established in 1985, Impian Inn offers 20 chalets including 1 family room, 10 standard rooms, 8 deluxe rooms and 1 attap room. With the calming atmosphere, this is an ideal place for a natural rustic getaway where you can have some quiet moments.
Price Starting From: RM191 @ SGD$58 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Impian Inn Highlight:
Diving centre
Meeting room/seminar room
Snorkelling gears
BBQ facilities
Jungle trekking
Canoeing
Badminton court
Fishing
Restaurant
Airport transfer
Good To Know:
Food in the resort is slightly expensive but surely worth it.
Monkeys will sometimes disturb the rooms near to the beach.
Avoid staying in chalets located near the road. Sounds of a motorcycle passing by are very noisy.
Remember to bring insect repellents.
Snorkelling trip is a must here. The underwater coral garden is lively and beautiful.
7. Tioman Dive Resort
Tioman Dive Resort is a small yet cosy resort operated by B&J Diving Centre is located in northerm part of Tioman Island.
This Tioman hotel offers professional and quality scuba diving courses to all divers.
Only 11 rooms are available here. Be quick before fully booked!
Price Starting From: RM240 @ SGD$73 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Tioman Dive Resort Highlight:
Currency exchange
Bar
Diving
Snorkelling
Water sports
Good To Know:
A great resort for those who enjoy scuba diving very much.
Request for upper floor rooms for more breeze. They are quieter too.
No lift is provided. Stay on ground floor if you have heavy luggage.
Rooms near to the dive shop have a stronger Wi-Fi signal.
The resort does not serve food but there are many restaurants within walking distance.
The pool is built to teach scuba diving, not for swimmers.
8. Berjaya Tioman Resort
Indulge in a wonderful holiday with Berjaya Tioman Resort! Whether you are looking for adrenaline or relaxation, this 4-star Tioman island resort got all covered. Their attentive and caring service will surely leave you a pleasant stay.
Price Starting From: RM590 @ SGD$179 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Berjaya Tioman Resort Highlight:
Snorkelling
Marine Park visitations
Fishing trip
Sunset cruise
Island Hopping
Boat excursions
Shahzan Ballroom (400 pax)
18-hole golf course
PADI Dive Centre
Tennis Court
Gymnasium
Ayura Spa
Swimming pool
Beach Bar
Meeting rooms
Restaurant
Good To Know:
This Tioman island resort provides free transfer service from jetty or airport.
Go to the lobby for free flow water.
If you don’t prefer eating buffet, there are lots of eateries around, which are within walking distance.
Bring along insect repellent.
Register yourself for snorkelling trip a night before to avoid fully booking.
Beachfront rooms are more expensive but the views are nicer.
9. Aguna Resort
Looking for a cheap and friendly place to stay in Tioman Island?
Aguna Resort should be your first choice! Set against the countryside of Genting Village, this budget hotel offers rustic yet beautiful chalets surrounded by natural beauty.
Price Starting From: RM178 @ SGD$54 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Aguna Resort Highlight:
Restaurant
BBQ Pits
Spa
Free Wi-Fi
Good To Know:
The resort is just a 10-minute walk from the jetty.
You can enjoy the freshest mango here as Aguna Resort is surrounded by mango tree.
Beautiful beach is within 5-minute walking distance. Wooden hammocks and tree trunks chairs around are best for watching the sunset.
The resort is near to Tioman Dive Buddy, a dive centre on the island.
You can rent kayak which is located along the beach.
Jungle trekking is not available here.
10. Sri Sentosa Chalet
With a 6-room bungalow and 12 simple yet comfortable chalets, Sri Sentosa Chalet is a family run homestay whereby the owner, Aishah is dedicated to serve you the best she can.
Besides serving authentic local cuisine, the chalet which is very near to beach and waterfall offers you a lot of fun and exciting activities!
Price Starting From: RM108 @ SGD$33 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Bring enough cash because no ATM machine on the island.
The chalet is located at Mukut Village. But the ferry will not bring you there. So remember to ask the owner to arrange private boat transportation for you.
Waterfall is only 20-minute walk.
Exploring village is very fun and exciting.
11. Beach Shack Chalet
Located at Juara Bay, Beach Shack Chalet is a great place for those who attracted to ocean, waves and surfing! With lively atmosphere and caring customer services, the owner guarantees you a memorable vacation while staying on budget. You may even make new friends here!
Price Starting From: RM172 @ SGD$52 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
Beach Shack Chalet Highlight:
Surfing lessons
Fishing trips
Snorkelling
Jungle tracking
Rock climbing
Kayaking
Scuba diving
Stand up Paddling
Restaurant
Bar / Lounge
Good To Know:
Free breakfast is provided.
Book early because there are only 11 rooms available.
Ask the staff to help with the transfer service to and from the harbor.
Hammock is provided in every room.
Books and board games are provided upon request.
All rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with a hot shower.
Wake up early to enjoy the wonderful sunrise.
12. Cheers Chalet
Cheers Chalet is a small operated chalet located at the jungle edge of Tekek Village. The rooms offered are ranged from single rooms, superior rooms to family room. Each room has elegant boutique design and well-equipped with amenities.
Price Starting From: RM60 @ SGD$20 (include hotel tax & service fee)
Cheers Chalet Highlight:
Convenience store
Laundry service
Free Wi-Fi
Bicycle / Motorbike rental
Garden
Hiking
Fishing
Snorkelling
BBQ facilities
Good To Know:
Choose rooms at the end for less road noise.
Single rooms come with a shared bathroom with no hot shower. Quite uncomfortable for some people.
Some of the chalets overlook the rainforest, with no sea views.
Beach is within short walking distance.
Kayak can be rent right in from of the chalet.
No free breakfast is provided.
Insect spray and mosquito coils are provided.
13. X Rector Minsu
X Rector Minsu is one of the newest Tioman Island accommodations. The hosts, Liang and Michael are very nice and enthusiastic to serve every guest.
The snorkelling trip arranged by them are awesome whereby many guests said they would very likely to return in the future.
Price Starting From: RM1220 @ SGD$370 (exclude hotel tax & service fee)
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