Desaru Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and naturally scenic destination of Desaru, Malaysia with our comprehensive travel guide. Find information on places to visit, activities, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Desaru

Located in the southeastern state of Johor in Malaysia, Desaru is a popular destination for tourists seeking cultural experiences, natural wonders, and outdoor adventures. Known for its pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and rich history, Desaru offers something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will be discussing the top attractions Desaru has to offer, how to get there, where to stay, what to eat, and when to visit.

List of Places to Visit in Desaru

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

For history buffs, Desaru offers several museums and historical landmarks which help to showcase Malaysia’s rich culture. A must-visit for history enthusiasts is Fort Biru, a 19th-century fortress built by the Sultan of Johor to defend against the Portuguese. Other important cultural sites include the Sultan Abu Bakar Museum and the Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum.

Natural Attractions of Desaru: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Those seeking outdoor experiences will find Desaru to be an incredibly satisfying destination. Tourists can witness nature at its best at Desaru Beach, Tanjung Balau Beach, or Talam Dam, which also offers beautiful views. The Firefly Valley Leisure Park provides a unique experience of firefly sightings and night-time boat rides. Animal lovers can visit the Ostrich Farm and Crocodile Farm for a fun-filled day outing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Desaru

A trip to Desaru isn’t complete without exploring the hiking/biking trails of Bukit Ramun. The mountain offers awe-inspiring views of the sea, a beautiful trail to take a walk or hike, and opportunities for photography. For those seeking a more intense adventure, try out the night jungle trekking option.

Best Things to Do in Desaru: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking/biking trails, Desaru offers a plethora of activities and tours for visitors. From jet-skiing and parasailing to jungle camping and ATV adventures, there is never a dull moment. The Desaru Fruit Farm offers visitors a chance to tour the area’s farms and learn how to make local fruit jams. Visitors can also enjoy a visit to Desaru Ostrich Farm, Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark, Selat Pelandok Mangrove Eco-Educational Park, and many other exciting destinations.

Week-Long Itinerary for Desaru

Here is a suggestion for a week-long itinerary to experience the best of Desaru:

  • Day 1: Visit the Ostrich Farm and Crocodile Farm in the morning and spend the afternoon at Desaru Beach.
  • Day 2: Kick off the day with some outdoor adventure at D’Resort Go Camping, then head over to Tanjung Balau Beach to catch the amazing sunset.
  • Day 3: Take the full-day Bukit Ramun hiking/biking trail. Finish the day off with a bonfire dinner at the beach.
  • Day 4: Visit the Firefly Valley Leisure Park at night.
  • Day 5: Spend the day at Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark, followed by a relaxing evening at one of the nearby hotels.
  • Day 6: Learn about local culture and visit the Sultan Abu Bakar Museum and Fort Biru.
  • Day 7: Visit the Desaru Fruit Farm or Selat Pelandok Mangrove Eco-Educational Park in the morning before leaving Desaru.

Food and Drink Scene of Desaru

Must-Try Dishes

Desaru’s cuisine is a unique blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian flavors. Some of the must-try dishes include Nasi Goreng, Assam Laksa, Satay, Hokkien Mee, and Apam Balik.

Local Beverages

Teh Tarik and Kopi Tarik are popular beverages in Desaru, traditionally served in small cups. These drinks are sweet, creamy, and hot, often made using local tea or coffee.

Where to Stay in Desaru: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The waterfront hotels and resorts in Desaru provide visitors with comfortable accommodations while offering scenic views of the ocean. Options include the Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, Sand & Sandals Resorts, and Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, the Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa or the Desaru Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort could be good options.

What to Buy in Desaru: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Travelers can find plenty of souvenirs and local products in Desaru. Visitors to this region can look out for handmade kites or coconut-based products like candy, oil, and cosmetics, which are available in local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Desaru

Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country, and Desaru is no exception. It is important for visitors to be respectful of the local culture and dress modestly while visiting cultural landmarks and sites.

Best Time to Visit Desaru

The best time to visit Desaru is during the dry season, which runs from March to October. This period provides the perfect climate for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Desaru

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take part in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports.
  • Try the local cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Consume tap water.
  • Leave your belongings unattended.
  • Disrespect the local culture or indulge in vices that are prohibited by law.

Safety and Health

Safety in Desaru

Desaru is a generally safe place to visit. However, visitors should always be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded places. Also, when participating in water sports, remember to follow directions and guidelines.

Health in Desaru

Apart from wearing sunscreen and taking necessary precautions to avoid the sun, travelers should ensure they have the necessary vaccinations and medicines before visiting Desaru. Always carry insect repellent, drinking water, and necessary medications.

Getting to Desaru: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Desaru

The nearest airport to Desaru is the Senai International Airport, which is a little over an hour’s drive away.

Bus Stations Near Desaru

Desaru can be reached by public transportation from nearby towns and cities in Malaysia. Bus stations like Johor Bahru Larkin Bus Terminal or Kota Tinggi Bus Terminal offer plenty of services connecting to Desaru.

Other Options

Visitors can opt for a taxi or car rental to commute within Desaru or to nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Desaru

Desaru can easily be navigated on foot. However, if you’re planning on exploring the nearby towns and cities of Malaysia, it is recommended that you rent a car or hire a taxi.

Where to Go Next from Desaru: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nearby destinations from Desaru include Singapore (about two hours away), Kota Tinggi (40 minutes away), and Mersing Jetty (2 hours away), which provides transit to the famous island of Tioman.

Conclusion

Desaru is an exciting destination in Malaysia that offers a mix of cultural, outdoor, and adventurous experiences. With its beautiful beaches, diverse wildlife, and rich history, Desaru is the perfect place to explore on a short vacation. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and head on to beautiful Desaru!

Desaru Beach Desaru Beach Penawar Bus and Taxi Terminal Penawar Bus and Taxi Terminal Tanjung Balau Fishermen Museum Tanjung Balau Fishermen Museum Desaru Fruit Farm Desaru Fruit Farm Tanjung Balau Food Court Tanjung Balau Food Court Bandar Penawar Tourist Information Centre Bandar Penawar Tourist Information Centre