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.
“Middle Island” is the literal meaning of Pulau Tengah.
The nature beauty and its unique history add to the charm of this island.
With approximately 16km from Mersing, this personally owned island is well-known for its white sandy beach and crystal clear water.
Nestling among the coconut trees, the only resort on the island, Batu-batu resort blends into the island perfectly.
With the serenity and tranquillity offered, Pulau Tengah is definitely an ideal tropical getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city lives.
Why stay in Pulau Tengah?
Pulau Tengah was once a popular refugee camp for Vietnamese. Due to the abundance of unique marine life and coral reefs all around the islands, Pulau Tengah and other small islands was nominated as Marine Park in 1985 after the camp was closed.
Western countries had recognized the beauty of Pulau Tengah. In 1997, a famous Swedish reality television programme, Expedition Robinson, shot its scenes in Pulau Tengah. This makes the island well-known even among international tourists.
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
Visitors get to see three different types of turtles living and breeding at the southern shore of Pulau Tengah. Those who visit the island between June and August have higher chances of watching turtles laying their eggs.
The resort on the island is ideal for perfect weekend getaways from Singapore for family vacations. By providing baby and children facilities, the resort aims at lessen the burdens of parents travelling with children. With well-trained and friendly staff, parents can leave their children at the play house and enjoy the life of two.
How to Get to Pulau Tengah
30 minutes boat ride from Mersing jetty will take you to Pulau Tengah. If you book your stay at Batu-batu resort, they will arrange a private speedboat transfer for you.
The resort also has a few scheduled speedboat transfer daily. It takes only 20 minutes to arrive at the island when the weather is good. Besides, you can also charter a boat at higher prices to get to Pulau Tengah.
For road transfers, visitors can either travel by bus or by private car.
There are a few bus companies provide direct coach transfer services from Singapore to Mersing which are One Travel & Tours and WTS Travel Singapore Flyer. The bus schedules and their pick-up point can be checked and booked online.
What to Do in Pulau Tengah
As there are lots of exciting activities offered by the island, you’ll never get bored while staying here. The activities include:
1. Scuba Diving at Pulau Tengah
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
Dive season on the island falls from 15th March to 15th November. The dive team is currently running many diving programmes for youth at different ages. Experienced dive instructors will teach and guide them at close hand.
Join a snorkel trip to discover the underwater world at Pulau Tengah. It’s an attracting experience to get up close with the reefs and sea creatures. Diving mask and fins can be rent from the resort.
Kindly speak to the staff to plan a visit to the beautiful neighbouring islands. The resort offers 2 boats for island hopping, one is 24 foot boat and the other is 32 foot boat.
4. Jungle trekking at Tengah Island
There are two treks offered to hikers, one is 3km that trek around the island (1 hour journey) and the other one is 1.5km that trek through the interior of island (30 minutes journey).
5. Canoeing at Tengah Island
Ride on a kayak and enjoy paddling against the current. It can be enjoyed alone or with a group of people. The kayak can be rent from the resort.
Time spent with your loved one is always worthy. Beach volleyball enables you to enjoy quality bonding times with them. Besides sharing the fun of game, the families can enhance their relationship among themselves.
Where to Stay in Pulau Tengah
1. Batu-Batu Resort
Batu Batu Resort is the only resort in Pulau Tengah. Set admist the coconut trees and white sandy beach, it is a family-friendly resort suitable for a fantastic family holiday.
The rustic furnishings offer a nature and warm ambience to guests. All the villas are built by local carpenters.
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
With a spacious pavilion overlooking the sea, the on-site restaurant offers a finest dining experience. It has a menu that change daily during lunch and dinner.
Normally, dishes served would be fresh seafood and delightful local dishes. To cater for little ones, children’s menu is available everyday.
Photo credits: batubatu.com.my
Snorkelling, diving, kayaking, swimming and hiking are the activities offered by resort. Take pleasure at their attap-roofed beach bar. It offers fresh juices as well as cocktails and wines. Otherwise, go to the spa. Their therapists will provide different treatments and massages to rejuvenate your body, mind and soul.
Pulau Tengah is not always available. There are a few months that are not suitable to travel. When planning a getaway to Pulau Tengah, avoid the annual monsoon season which falls from October to March especially during December to February.
Monsoon season leads to rough sea, high tides and strong winds. Hence, it is dangerous to go for water sports and even some beach activities.
To ensure your safety, travel in between April and September. Thanks to the calm water and sunny days within these months, you can fill your days with different interesting activities and you get to enjoy the island living to the fullest.
Travel Tips to Pulau Tengah
Need not to buy ferry tickets beforehand as resort will arrange boat transfer for you.
Bring your own bite creams and mosquito repellents even though the resort will provide.
Need not to bring the equipment for water sports as the resort will provide.
Seek for map and advice from staff at front desk beforehand if you wish to go for jungle trekking.
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)
