If you are looking for an interesting place to hang out during your weekend but do not want to travel far…
Wondering where to go?
There are plenty of places waiting for you to explore in JB and most importantly its just near to JB Sentral!
We have concluded a few TOP PICKS from the locals, that is the MUST visit place for travelers.
1. Skyscape Johor Bahru
34th floor height of stunning sky view located at Jalan Wong Ah Fook. It is just 5 minutes walking distance from JB Sentral where it attracts a lot of tourists and locals.
Skyscape is located at the top of Menara JLand building, so do not be surprised if you meet white collars entering this building.
Credit: Skyscape JB
The ticket included 2 hours of viewing tour and their LED Tunnel and VR games. Great spot for photographer for scenery shooting and KOL for their Instagram posting.
For professional photographer, there are 2 pro telescopes that can be use up to 75x magnification to satisfy your close-up viewing
Notes:
Sky bridge has several time entries per day to avoid overwhelming capacity
Last Entry on 4pm
Each visitor required to purchase shoe cover for RM1/pair
2. Cafe Hunting At Jalan Dhoby & Jalan Tan Hiok Nee
Various types of cuisine and design of café for you to enjoy your daily posting feed and café craving!
Strongly recommend for café hopping tour if you are coming in a group of youngsters!
There are a lot of cafés near JB Sentral where social media KOL can get amazing photos for their posting and feed!
3. Flowers In The Window
Looking for a place to chill and rest? Check out this cafe, stylish vibe and reasonable pricing!
Wide types of food to choose, from main course to dessert, from western cuisine to chinese cuisine
4. Jimylicious Cheesecake & Cafe
Cheese lover would highly recommend to visit here! Enjoy your hightea or take some KOL pictures at their photo spot
5. Ah Ma Teochew Kuih
Kuih lover would definitely know about this shop! Various of traditional kuih you can get from here!
6. Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory
Singaporean must be very familiar with this bakery, long queue but worth the waiting time!
Credit: Sunway Hotel
7. Pasar Karat
Night market that operates until late night as late as 2am. Best spot for a night cat to hangout!
Cafés street operate in the daytime, but the street will be TRANSFORM into full of street stalls when the night falls.
The whole street is closed for this night market, you can look for good steals and a lot of types of clothes, antiques, jewellery, accessories, shoes from price RM5-RM50.
Do train your bargain skill here at Pasar Karat, as most of the stalls are open for bargain to a lower pricing.
There are also food stalls here but most of them are small bites and snacks. Visit Pasar Karat after your dinner and leave some space for bites.
8. Zoo Johor
Oldest zoo in Malaysia that was built back in 1928, where you can find more than 100 species of animals here.
Great spot for your family along with children to have a short weekend vacation here.
Introduce your children with different animals which include tiger, lion, elephants, hippo. camels, giraffes, more and more.
Perfect real-time experience for their learning.
There are also other activities here such as animal close-up photo shooting and also a mini lake for boating.
9. Istana Besar Tour
Istana Besar is now operating as a museum named Royal Abu Bakar Museum.
It mainly showcases the collection of antiques and historical items of the Royal Family.
Fit yourself into the atmosphere of the Malay and Western agriculture styles, and enjoy the historical building which was once the home of the Sultan of Johor.
10. Heritage Tour at Dhoby Street and Tan Hiok Nee Street
Historical lovers may know these streets as the centre of The Old Town in JB.
Streets are filled with many heritage designs of buildings and unique design structures.
Visitors can spend their day by enjoying the mixture of cultural buildings, vintage vibe or photo shooting of the arts of JB Old Town.
Recommend to visit at weekends as there will be less vehicles on the street. Remember to bring along your umbrella to prepare for the unpredictable weather.
Remarks: Recommended to visit at daytime as the street will be blocked and transform into PASAR KARAT at night.
11. Shopping Mall Craving
People that love indoor activities would lose themselves at the nearest shopping right after JB Sentral.
City Square Mall and Komtar JBCC are just 2 minutes away from JB Sentral.
Visitors can basically find everything in the malls from food, beverage, daily essential stuff, clothes, boutique or any needs that you are looking for.
You can even have a short relaxing massage treatment in the mall before you start your day trip.
Who says that you cannot gain happiness from shopping!
12. Istana Bukit Serene
If you are looking for any landmark in JB, you shall visit to JB Landamrk Istana Bukit Serene.
People usually come at evening to take pic along with the sunset view.
Have a short walking here also romantic for couples
13. Johor Bahru Ancient Chinese Temple
One of the oldest chinese temple you can visit in JB.
Big potted plants and big tubs are positioned around the walls as you go along the exterior gardens.
This is a popular location for tourists to stop and snap pictures.
But.. What If You Don’t Want To Take Train?
Not everyone want to take train and sometimes you just want to sit back, relax and enjoy your trip and have someone else do all the stressful navigating.
If you are looking for a little more excitement to fill your weekend getaways from Singapore, we have the perfect suggestion for you – Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark (aka Desaru Waterpark)!
Visit Desaru Waterpark is one of the things to do in Desaru because this water park has something for everyone!
With the Kampung-themed environment, it features 13 rides and attractions and some could make your adrenaline rush to a whole new level.
Besides, this water park is family-friendly where even toddlers can take part and enjoy themselves in some of the play areas.
We’ve also added the transport option for you in case you are worried about how to get to Desaru Waterpark.
Let’s check out the charm of this exciting Desaru Water Park!
13 Things To Do In Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark
Set across 21 acres of land, Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark (also known as Desaru waterpark) consists of both dry and wet rides which are best for thrill-seekers to get their heartbeat racing high.
However, for younger children, there is a restriction on some rides where you need to achieve the minimum height requirement in order to enjoy.
But don’t worry as the water park has play areas for kids too. Scroll down to see the 13 things to do in Desaru Water Theme Park & attractions inside this amazing Desaru waterpark!
Catch a wave and swim at one of the world’s biggest wave pools which hold over 4 million gallons of water.
The wave is generated regularly and it’s best if you sit inside a tube. If you are getting tired, you can always take a rest at the seating areas provided at the shoreline.
Children below 122cm must be accompanied by at least an adult.
1.2 Beachside Cabanas
The 170m long shoreline of the Tidal Wave Beach lies plenty of Beachside Cabanas for guests to sit back and relax.
This is also a place for parents to relax while watching over their children playing or swimming at the wave pool.
2. Family Rides Activities (Height: Min 122cm)
2.1 Wild Whirl
At Wild Whirl, ride on a raft of 2 and hurtle down the steep channel at high speed.
After shooting into the giant bowl, you will be glued against the wall, experience several turns and finally drop into the centre chute. A splash pool will be awaiting you at the exit.
Enjoy several twists and turns on a tube while cruising down the slides.
In the middle of the ride, expect a drop into a tunnel which will have you oscillating back and forth then end up splashing into the water.
Also read:
Minimum height requirement: 122cm
2.3 The Tempest
Raft down the slide and get ready to be propelled to high-energy funnels that will have you screaming in the air.
Then, experience an unexpected 24-foot drop before it sends you down into the tunnel to experience a splashdown.
Minimum height requirement: 122cm
2.4 Riptide
Sweep at the fastest speed and at the steepest angles at Riptide.
The raft of 4 will first travel downhill into the very first twister that will have you sliding back and forth then followed by the second and third twister. Along the ride, you may feel an unparalleled feeling of free falling.
Minimum height requirement: 122cm
3. Family Rides Activities (Height: Min 110cm)
3.1 Kraken’s Revenge
The only roller coaster ride in this water park – Kraken’s Revenge is ready to deliver you thrilling fun!
Sitting in a rolling boat, the ride will have you spinning and swooping through a 360-degree horizontal loop then followed by a 27m plunge down and splash into the pool of water. In overall, the speed is up to 70km per hour.
Swinging Ship aka Pirate Ship is everyone’s all-time favourite ride. It is the only one ride in this water park where you will not end up getting wet.
This exciting swing ship which swings back and forth will reach an angle of 180 degrees on either side – offering great fun for all ages.
Minimum height requirement: 110cm.
4. Family Rides Activities (Height: Child Below 122cm)
4.1 Penawar River
Grab a tube and float the afternoon away at Penawar River. It serves as a 350m long lazy river that set amidst the lush greenery of riverside fishing village and riverbank.
Here, you can find 4 exciting water slides which are The Tempest, Riptide, Super Twister and Wild Whirl.
Children below 122cm must be accompanied by at least an adult.
4.2 Penawar Falls
The giant Penawar Falls consists of 3 separate waterfalls cascading down the rising cliffs into the big pond below. This place is great for taking pictures as it is truly a sight to behold!
4.3 Penawar River Huts
Take a rest and have some private moments at the Penawar River Huts which spread across the Penawar River. Here, cabanas are available for rental.
These private seating areas are sure to recharge your energy before hopping for another splashing fun.
5. Solo Rides Activities (Height: Min 107cm)
5.1 Surf Wall
Make your way to the Surf Wall to experience surfing in a safe environment.
Suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers, you can enjoy catching and riding the artificial wave generated by the high-energy surf simulator.
Besides, this water play area is full of exciting water play equipment that will have them giggling and bursting into laughter. Truly a heaven on earth for younger guests!
Children below 122cm must be accompanied by at least an adult.
Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark Useful Tips
Please use Touch ‘n Go card to enter the car parking.
Small locker rental is RM20 & Large locker rental is RM40.
The water park is fully non-smoking and there is no smoking area provided as well.
You need to take off spectacles or sunglasses while playing the water slides. It’s best if you can wear contact lenses here.
There are restaurants inside the park but if you are on a budget, we recommend you to have your breakfast at other Desaru food restaurant in advance as the food price is quite expensive.
You cannot bring your own food and beverages inside. There will be security checks conducted on your bags.
Cabana is available for rental but on first come first serve basis.
All-day tickets and annual passes sold are non-refundable.
The water park provides no refunds for bad weather, attractions or rides closure for maintenance or any other circumstances.
The annual pass – Splash Pass is applicable to MyKad holder and foreigner. It must be redeemed within 3 months after the purchase date.
Besides, this annual pass is not valid on the first and second days of Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Chinese New Year. From 15th December to 31st December, it is not valid too.
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)