Desaru Beach | Johor Bahru

Desaru Beach is a renowned coastal destination located in the southeastern part of Johor, Malaysia. It is known for its stunning sandy beaches, clear waters, and relaxing atmosphere, making it one of the most popular beach resorts in the region. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or a place for water sports and family activities, Desaru Beach offers a variety of experiences for both locals and tourists.

Overview and Location

Location: Desaru Beach is located along the Desaru Coast, in the Kota Tinggi District, Johor, Malaysia. It lies approximately 90 kilometers east of Johor Bahru, the capital of Johor state. The beach is accessible by car via the Senai-Desaru Expressway, which makes it a convenient destination for a weekend getaway from the city.

Proximity to Major Cities:

• Johor Bahru (90 km, 1.5-hour drive)
• Singapore (approximately 1 hour by ferry or around 1.5 hours by car via the Tuas or Woodlands checkpoints)

Features of Desaru Beach

Pristine Beaches: Desaru Beach is famous for its long stretches of golden sandy shores. The beach is relatively less crowded compared to other coastal destinations in Malaysia, making it a great place for visitors looking for a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. The gentle waves and clean water make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and simply enjoying the natural beauty of the coastline.

Clear Waters: The clear blue waters of Desaru Beach are ideal for swimming and water activities. The beach is not only a great place to relax but also offers opportunities for visitors to engage in various recreational water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, and banana boat rides.

Desaru Coast: The larger Desaru Coast area includes several luxury resorts, hotels, and tourism facilities. Desaru Coast is a growing tourist destination with a variety of leisure options, including golf courses, shopping malls, and dining experiences that cater to both locals and international visitors. Some of the popular resorts include:

• The Westin Desaru Coast Resort
• Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas
• Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast

Natural Beauty:

• The area is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, including palm trees and other tropical plants that contribute to the serene and picturesque atmosphere of the beach.
• The beach is part of the Desaru Coast eco-tourism area, which also includes attractions like the Desaru Fruit Farm, Desaru Firefly Valley, and Desaru Ostrich Farm. These attractions allow visitors to enjoy both natural and agricultural experiences.

Water Sports and Activities:

• Desaru Beach is known for its water sports offerings. Visitors can enjoy activities like windsurfing, snorkeling, and fishing. The gentle waves also make it a suitable spot for beginners looking to learn water sports.
• The area has several water parks and activity centers offering boat tours, jet ski rentals, and other recreational activities for adventure seekers.

Family-Friendly Destination:

• Desaru Beach is a popular destination for families, as it provides a wide variety of activities for children and adults alike. There are playgrounds, swimming pools, and picnic areas at the resorts, making it a perfect place for a family day out.
• The Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark is a must-visit attraction within the region. It features several exciting water slides and attractions suitable for all ages.

Popular Attractions Near Desaru Beach

Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark:

• This large waterpark features a range of water attractions, including wave pools, lazy rivers, and water slides. It is a fun place for families and children to enjoy an exciting day filled with water-based entertainment.

Desaru Fruit Farm:

• Located nearby, the Desaru Fruit Farm offers a chance to explore the agricultural side of Desaru. Visitors can take a guided tour of the farm, which features a variety of tropical fruits such as durian, mangosteen, and papaya. The farm also has an animal farm, making it a great destination for families.

Desaru Ostrich Farm:

• The Desaru Ostrich Farm is another family-friendly attraction, where visitors can learn about ostriches and other animals. The farm allows visitors to feed and interact with ostriches and also offers ostrich products like eggs and meat for sale.

Tanjung Balau Fishermen Museum:

• The Tanjung Balau Fishermen Museum provides insight into the traditional fishing culture of the region. The museum showcases artifacts related to fishing, maritime history, and local heritage.

Firefly Valley:

• The Desaru Firefly Valley is a unique natural attraction where visitors can experience boat rides through the mangrove swamps to witness the magical sight of fireflies lighting up the trees. This is a great evening activity for nature lovers.

Golf Courses:

• Desaru is home to several world-class golf courses, such as the Desaru Coast Championship Golf Course, designed by Ernie Els. Golf enthusiasts will enjoy the scenic views and well-maintained courses.

Dining and Shopping

Desaru Beach offers a variety of dining options, ranging from casual beachside eateries to more upscale restaurants at the luxury resorts. Local seafood, especially grilled fish, prawns, and crabs, is a highlight of the culinary experience.

The Desaru Coast area also has shopping outlets where visitors can purchase local handicrafts, souvenirs, and beachwear. Many of the luxury resorts have their own shops offering branded products and souvenirs.

Accommodation

Desaru Beach and the surrounding Desaru Coast area offer a wide range of accommodation options catering to different budgets and preferences:

• Luxury Resorts: For those looking for a high-end stay, the area boasts several luxury resorts with private beaches, pools, and spa services.
• Mid-Range Hotels: There are also more affordable hotels and boutique resorts suitable for families and solo travelers.
• Budget Accommodation: Budget-friendly lodgings and guesthouses are available for those looking for basic yet comfortable stays.

Getting to Desaru Beach

By Car: The most convenient way to reach Desaru Beach is by car. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to drive from Johor Bahru to Desaru Beach via the Senai-Desaru Expressway. For those coming from Singapore, it is about an hour’s drive from the Tuas Checkpoint.

By Ferry: There are also ferry services from Changi Ferry Terminal in Singapore to Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal, providing an easy and scenic route to the beach.

Conclusion

Desaru Beach is a fantastic beach destination in Malaysia, offering natural beauty, water sports, family-friendly attractions, and relaxation. Whether you're seeking adventure in the water, enjoying the tropical surroundings, or relaxing by the beach, Desaru provides a memorable experience for visitors. It's an excellent spot for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, with a range of activities and accommodations to suit all types of travelers.