2025 Bandar Penawar Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in April)

Desaru is a coastal gem in Malaysia that exudes charm. The beaches here are enchanting, with soft, golden sand and gentle waves lapping at the shore, creating a tranquil and pleasant atmosphere. Stroll along the beach, feel the sea breeze, and enjoy the beautiful sea view. You'll feel like you're in paradise. Desaru's natural scenery is also rich and diverse. The lush tropical rainforest is home to a variety of rare flora and fauna, allowing you to experience the wonders and beauty of nature. You can choose to hike through the rainforest and explore its mysteries, or take a boat tour of the river and enjoy the scenery on both sides. In addition to the natural scenery, Desaru also has a rich cultural heritage. There are many traditional Malay buildings and cultural customs here, giving you a strong sense of history. You can visit local museums and cultural centers to learn about the history and culture of Malaysia. In addition, Desaru also has a variety of food and entertainment activities. You can taste local specialties, such as Malay pastries and seafood, to satisfy your taste buds. At the same time, there are various water activities and theme parks here, allowing you to enjoy endless fun while on vacation. Desaru is a charming and vibrant place that will leave you with fond memories, whether you're on vacation or exploring.

Desaru Waterpark Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast 💫💫💫💫 🏊🏊🏊🏊🤽🤽🤽🤽 🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈 There are various slides and attractions here, including a separate children's water park 🛝🛝🛝. The beach chairs are free, the water is very clean and unpolluted, and there are many facilities provided. There are plenty of activities to do, the attractions are well managed, and the floors are all coated with non-slip material to prevent children from falling, which is great. 81930 Bandar Penawar, Johor, Malaysia

Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast is a popular water theme park located in Bandar Penawar. It is easily accessible from Singapore, just about a two-hour drive away. The waterpark features five themed zones with numerous attractions, including one of the largest wave pools in the region, the Tidal Wave Beach, and the relaxing Penawar River, a 350-meter-long lazy river. For thrill-seekers, there are multiple exciting slides like the Kraken’s Revenge, The Tempest, Wild Whirl, and Super Twister. Kids will enjoy the extensive "Kids Ahoy" area, which includes a massive water playground with 13 water slides and various water play equipment. There are also two different playgrounds suited for different age groups. #travelanywhere #malaysia #johor #desaru #beach #tripblazers #themepark #waterpark

#thailandtrip My stay at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas was nothing short of heavenly! This 5-star haven exceeded my expectations with its stunning ocean views, luxurious villas, and exceptional service. The private beach, infinity pool, and world-class amenities made me feel like royalty. The staff's warm hospitality and attention to detail made our stay truly unforgettable. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or quality time with loved ones, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas is the perfect haven. I left with a heart full of memories and a soul at peace. If you're looking for a slice of paradise, look no further – this resort is the epitome of luxury and serenity!

Desaru Coast, as an emerging holiday destination in Malaysia, is the perfect choice for a getaway! Desaru, located in the southeast corner of Johor state, in the Kota Tinggi district, is a seaside leisure resort area. It's just an hour's drive from Johor Bahru city center, and there's no need to take a boat to an island, the distance is very nice~ You won't know until you go, and you'll be truly surprised once you do! It's really stunning~ The environment is incredibly beautiful! Every moment captured on camera can be used as wallpaper, and you don't even need to add a filter, especially with those pristine, long stretches of sandy beach Savor an Italian espresso in the morning, listening to the sound of the waves, gazing out at the sea, and spending a truly meaningful vacation time~ The hotel is home to little monkeys, squirrels, and cats that can be seen everywhere Adjacent to a private golden beach, with clear water and clean sand, whether it's walking, building sandcastles, playing in the water, or just quietly staring at the sea, the vacation is comfortable and relaxed, enjoying a carefree private beach time. Besides the hotel and beach, there are many fun places nearby, such as farms, amusement parks, water parks, and so on

Enjoy the spacious room and cool design while staying at Hard Rock Desaru, walking distance to beach but the pools over here is slightly small compared to the others, however, i do enjoyed with the variety of food during breakfast, like the design where they decorated with different music instruments, unique experience as located quite a distance from jB city!

sharing with you all the weekend stay in One Bed Room Villa at Anantara Desaru Coast. villa:- 2 floor private pool villa , spacious living hall direct access to the pool. room at the second floor with spacious toilet and full amenities . mini bar:- mini bar inside Villa is free of charge, remember to consume it during your stay. daily replenish. private pool:- huge private pool right outside the living pool best place to chill. food:- had dinner in sea fire salt restaurant - good quality of food. swimming pool:- 1 infinity pool next to the beach & 1 instagramable lagoon pool . best weekend getaway when you are in singapore or Johor. you won’t regret. #tripmoments #freehotelstay #weekendgetaways

it was great weekend getaways in Hard Rock hotel desaru coast. it’s attached to adventure waterpark desaru coast where you can just walk to waterpark with multiple entry. we booked a double bed room with 2 queen size bed allowed you to stay up to 2 adults & 2 kids. that’s just nice for family. we got upgrade to rock loyalty room with the lounge facility . there is a coffee machine and bottle for you to refill the water using the special pipe inside the washroom. we hops to adventure waterpark on the next day we have lots of fun inside the waterpark. you can request a towel to bring into waterpark and returned back to hotel once you done. the breakfast & elephant & butterfly restaurant was great! one more tips! request a buggy to head over to Westin hotel for the beach therapy . we had enjoyed our weekend getaway here #weekendgetaways

Can’t believe that Johor has the luxury hotel that’s look like Bali in Desaru Coast! From the facilities to the room & amenities all are tip top. If you would like to spend for a luxury travel and saving on the flight ticket , you may choose this hotel ##awesomepic #mymymemories Getting There - anantara desaru coast Attractions - kid club, infinity pool, beautiful beach , spacious and luxury room Hotels - ANANTARA DESARU COAST Food & Restaurants - GOOD FOOD

Address - it’s easy to reach at this hotel via highway Senai - Desaru Expressway. The location is at Persiaran Pantai, Desaru Coast. Can’t be wrong. 😉 Ambiance/Facilities - Once me enter the resort, they offer exclusive yet very welcoming. Check-in was very easy. Their facilities was good. Pool was stunningly design. The beach was nice and clean. Friendly staff. Highlights - honestly me would choose the third floor, it would be more visible. Everything about my room is awesome! I love to come back soon! Avg. Price - 1000++ Rating - 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 #myMYmemories #travel #awesomepic

Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas is located in front of a part of Desaru Beach which has a total length of 17-kilometers facing the South China Sea. Accommodation consists of regular rooms, villas and residences overlooking the wide stretch of beach. The overall decor of this resort, although contemporary, is still loaded with traditional Malay nuances, with views overlooking the garden, lagoon and sea. The interior is decorated with indigenous local fabrics such as woven textiles, the famous Malaysian woven elements, as well as traditional craft silhouettes. #anantara #anantaradesaru #desaru #desarubeach #desaruvacay #lagoonvilla

#wecreate Lotus Seaview Beach Resort is blessed with an enchanting location that immerses guests in the beauty of nature. The resort's idyllic setting amidst lush greenery, white sandy beaches, and clear waters creates a sense of tranquility and serenity. Whether lounging on the beach or strolling along the shore, guests can indulge in the picturesque views and bask in the soothing sounds of the ocean waves. Guests can unwind on private balconies, or simply enjoy the plush bedding. Address: Lot 1272, Tanjung Punggai, Sungai Renggit, 81620 Pengerang, Johor Ambiance/Facilities: 7/10 Rating: 3.5/5

No trip to Desaru is complete without visiting Hard Rock Desaru Resort and take pic with its iconic guitar 🎸 Located an hour away from the hustle and bustle of the Johor Bahru city centre, this family friendly resort, is a perfect place to chill and have fun! With direct access to Adventure Water Park, and an awesome kids club, I can see why this place is a popular choice for families with young kids. A live band at night and light projected onto the building facade surely lives up the night atmosphere. Things to note: A valid ticket is required to enter and guests may purchase directly from the Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast, with direct walking access available for in-house guests. 📍Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast #tripblazers #urbanexplorer #mytripvlog #desaru #hardrockdesarucoast

#myperfectstaycation Suitable & prefer to family day & group function. The room was spacious, the BBQ was so near to the room, the check in and check out were only per person, the sea was so clean. They also have swimming pool. The sea view is vast, vacation and leisure. Everything was superb. 5 stars for this place. Super nice place, will plan to book a room for my next local vacation. 📍Location: Tanjung Sepang Beach Resort, Bandar Penawar, Kota Tinggi, Johor. #myperfectstaycation #tripblazers #awesomepic

📍Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas An unforgettable getaway as we move away from the city centre to a secluded resort by the coast. The resort is wonderful and chilling setting, it is surrounded by trees and away from the road. It was quiet and peaceful and it has a private beach for the guests, the sand is smooth and sea water is clean. At night, we can even see the stars in the clear sky. The resort has bicycles around for guests to use, a small futsal field to play and even beach volleyball to have fun! #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #johor

It’s time of the year where couples do things they usually don’t do, to express how much they love each other~ And this year, the man made a lot more effort (than past 2 years) to celebrate this day with me! Highlight of the trip was the stay in Hard Rock Hotel @ Desaru! The booking comes with: 1) A night stay 2) 2 complimentary mocktail drinks, which can be redeemed at the lobby lounge before 7pm 3) Complimentary breakfast for 2 pax 4) Complimentary parking 5) 2 Adventure Waterpark tickets during your stay The room was clean and lovely, with a nice balcony. After settling in, we went for a swim at the pool. When we were back in the room, I was surprised by the lovely setup in the room! The man booked their Valentine’s Day in-room dining package and was secretly arranging with the staff for setup and service! Great effort and service by the staff! And kudos to the man who planned all these! PS: we did not manage to go for the Adventure Waterpark due to heavy rain

The most versatile hotel I've ever been to... The staff was friendly and always smile even when its late at night and the energy there were pufff...hype!!!

#johorbahrutrip I recently stayed at Bayu Galau Beach Resort in Desaru and had such a wonderful experience. The location is absolutely stunning — just steps away from a clean, peaceful beach with breathtaking sunsets. The resort has a cozy, laid-back vibe, perfect for anyone looking to escape the city rush. The room was comfortable, clean, and well-equipped, with a nice balcony view of the ocean. The staff were friendly, helpful, and made check-in smooth and welcoming. I also enjoyed the local food options nearby — plenty of seafood and local delicacies! Overall, Bayu Galau Beach Resort offers great value for money, a fantastic location, and a relaxing atmosphere. I would definitely recommend it for couples, families, or solo travelers looking for a quiet beach retreat in Desaru. Can’t wait to come back again!

#johorbahrutrip My stay at One&Only Desaru was a rejuvenating nature retreat. Surrounded by lush greenery and the serene coastline, the experience was both peaceful and invigorating. The spacious villas offered unmatched comfort, while the natural beauty of Desaru provided a perfect backdrop for relaxation. I enjoyed activities like nature walks and spa treatments, truly disconnecting from the hustle of daily life in this tranquil haven. A perfect escape!

#johorbahrutrip Amerald Resort Hotel Desaru as a peaceful, relaxing retreat, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet seaside getaway. Tucked slightly away from the main Desaru Coast attractions, the resort offers spacious rooms, a serene beach, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it popular with couples, families, and small groups. Spacious and Comfortable Rooms: Guests frequently praise the large, clean rooms, often mentioning the comfortable beds, private balconies, and lovely sea or garden views. Quiet Private Beach: The secluded beach is one of the biggest highlights. Visitors love how uncrowded and peaceful it feels compared to the busier beaches along Desaru, perfect for sunsets, strolls, and quiet moments. Relaxed, Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families enjoy the kid-friendly pool and open spaces where children can play. It’s considered a calm, safe place for a family break without too much noise or chaos. Affordable Rates: Guests often mention that the resort offers good value for money, especially considering the size of the rooms and the beachfront location. Friendly Service: Staff are generally described as helpful and welcoming, adding to the relaxed, homey feel of the resort. Minor Areas for Improvement: Some guests note that the resort could use some updates or maintenance in certain areas (like the bathrooms or exterior), and that the variety of dining options is limited compared to larger resorts. Why Guests Love It: Amerald Resort Hotel Desaru is appreciated for its tranquil charm—offering a more secluded, intimate alternative to the larger, flashier resorts nearby. It’s ideal for travelers who want to unwind by the sea, enjoy space and quiet, and recharge away from the tourist crowds. It’s especially recommended for families, couples, and anyone seeking an affordable, restful beach escape with a touch of nature and privacy.

#johorbahrutrip Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast as energetic, family-friendly, and stylish, with a fun atmosphere that stays true to the Hard Rock brand. Located near the beach and major attractions like Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast, the hotel is a popular choice for families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a vibrant getaway. Highlights for this hotel: Unique Rock ’n’ Roll Vibe: The hotel’s musical theme, from the memorabilia displays to the rock-inspired room decor, earns lots of love. Guests say it feels fun, youthful, and lively without being overwhelming. Comfortable and Stylish Rooms: Visitors praise the clean, spacious rooms, with special mentions for the comfortable beds, nice balconies, and quality amenities. Some even highlight the option to borrow a guitar or record player for the room—pure Hard Rock style! Family-Friendly Amenities: Families appreciate the kids’ club, pool with water slides, and direct access to Adventure Waterpark. Parents often say it’s a stress-free vacation spot for kids and adults alike. Delicious Food and Drinks: The buffet breakfast and onsite restaurants receive positive feedback for offering varied, tasty menus, from local delights to Western favorites. The bars also get good reviews for their cocktails and evening vibe. Energetic, Friendly Staff: Many guests note the staff’s friendly, upbeat attitude, which fits perfectly with the hotel’s theme of fun and hospitality. Minor Areas for Improvement: Some guests mention that check-in can be slow during peak periods, and a few feel that prices at the restaurants and bars are on the higher side. Why Guests Love It: At Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, every stay feels like a mini celebration. Guests love the blend of music, luxury, and family fun all in one vibrant package. Whether you’re chilling by the pool, rocking out in your room, or enjoying a live show, this hotel brings energy, style, and comfort together effortlessly. It’s especially recommended for families, music lovers, and travelers looking for a lively, memorable beachside escape.

#johorbahrutrip #### **First Impressions** A **25km stretch of golden sand** on Johor’s east coast, Desaru Beach feels like Malaysia’s best-kept secret. As a solo traveller arriving at dawn, I had the entire shoreline to myself—just the sound of waves, swaying palms, and the occasional eagle soaring overhead. No beach clubs, no crowds... just pure, unfiltered coastal bliss. --- ### **Why Solo Travellers Will Love It** ✔ **Digital Detox Paradise** – Weak phone signal = forced relaxation (bring a book!) ✔ **Safe & Serene** – Locals are friendly but mind their own business ✔ **Budget-Friendly** – Free beach access, cheap coconut drinks (RM5) from roadside stalls ✔ **Epic Sunrises** – One of few places in Malaysia where the sun **rises over the ocean** #### **Reality Checks** ⚠️ **Not Instagram-Perfect** – Some plastic debris (monsoon brings trash from the sea) ⚠️ **Limited Facilities** – Only 1 proper toilet near Desaru Fruit Farm (15-min walk) ⚠️ **Transport Hassle** – No Grab after 7PM; rent a car or negotiate with taxi drivers --- ### **Solo Travel Hacks** **🌅 Best Time:** 6-9AM (cool air, fishermen heading out, magical light) **📸 Photo Spots:** - The iconic **Lonely Tree** (northern end) - **Fishing boats** painted in rainbow colors - **Tide pools** at low tide **🍽️ Eat Local:** - *Sotong Kangkung* at Warung Mak Jah (10-min drive) - Fresh coconuts from beachside vendors **🚗 Getting There:** - From JB: 1.5hr drive via Senai-Desaru Expressway - From Singapore: 2hrs (including ferry from Changi to Pengerang) --- ### **Nearby Adventures** 1. **Desaru Ostrich Farm** – Ride an ostrich (yes, really!) 2. **Firefly Valley** – Magical boat rides at dusk (30-min drive) 3. **Tanjung Balau Beach** – Even quieter alternative --- ### **Verdict: 4.3/5** **Perfect for:** Solo travellers craving quiet beach days, sunrise chasers, and road trip lovers **Skip if:** You want vibrant nightlife or crystal-clear waters **Pro Tip:** Pack a hammock! String it between casuarina trees for the ultimate chill spot. *"I came for a day trip and stayed for three nights—that’s the magic of Desaru."*

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 1.Desaru, Bayu Balau Beach Resort 💡 Tips

#earthdayjourney #travel #thingstodo During my visit to Desaru Beach, I took a peaceful walk along its golden sands, soaking in the beauty of the clear blue waters and lush greenery. As I strolled, I was pleasantly surprised to see how the local community has embraced sustainability. The beach was remarkably clean, with minimal litter and visible efforts to preserve the natural environment. What stood out to me were the eco-friendly initiatives, such as recycling bins placed along the beach and the use of sustainable materials in nearby establishments. It was heartening to know that both locals and visitors are playing a part in protecting this serene spot. My walk along Desaru Beach wasn’t just a moment of tranquility, but also a reminder of how simple actions can contribute to preserving the beauty of our planet.

Family friendly resort. There was a ‘small jungle’ built right next to the pathway towards the beach which is also beside the hotel. Perfect place for kids to play without getting lost 😂. The beach was clean. Foods vendor was friendly and offered to bring our foods to where my son was playing sand, as he refused to leave. Sand was beautiful and clean ! We had an amazing well spent weekend in here !#westindesaru #desarubeach

#johorbahrutrip The Dior Dioriviera Pop-Up and Café in Desaru Coast is a stunning blend of luxury and leisure. Set against the beautiful coastal backdrop, the pop-up offers an immersive experience into the world of Dior, showcasing exclusive merchandise and elegant designs. The café complements the shopping experience perfectly, serving a delightful selection of artisanal pastries and refreshing beverages. The décor is chic and Instagram-worthy, providing a perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, making sure guests feel pampered. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a stylish day out, the Dior Dioriviera Pop-Up and Café is a must-visit destination that beautifully encapsulates the essence of the brand.

Nestled along Malaysia’s southeastern coastline in Bandar Penawar, Johor, Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast offers a thrilling escape for families and adventure seekers alike. Just over an hour’s drive from Johor Bahru and approximately two and a half hours from Singapore, this expansive waterpark is a highlight of the Desaru Coast integrated resort.   Spanning over 100,000 square meters, the park boasts more than 20 wet and dry rides across five themed zones. One of its standout attractions is the Tidal Wave Beach, one of the largest wave pools in the world, covering nearly three acres and holding over four million gallons of water.   For adrenaline junkies, Kraken’s Revenge offers a unique experience as a combination roller coaster and flume ride, propelling riders through a 360-degree loop before a dramatic splashdown.  The park caters to visitors of all ages. Younger guests can enjoy areas like Scallywags and Starfish Splash, designed with kid-friendly water play features. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the Penawar River provides a gentle lazy river ride through lush landscapes.  When it’s time to refuel, the Kelong Eatery offers a variety of Asian and Western dishes, while other spots like Octo-Bites Café and Surf’s Up Juice Bar provide quick snacks and refreshments. The park also features amenities such as cabanas and shaded areas for relaxation.  Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding rides or a leisurely day by the water, Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast offers a memorable experience for all. #johorbahrutrip