2-Day Mersing Itinerary: An Overlooked Getaway in Johor

Tucked away on Johor’s east coast, Mersing is often seen as a mere transit point for island-hoppers heading to Pulau Tioman or Rawa. But pause for just a moment longer, and you’ll find a coastal town with quiet charm, fresh seafood, and beaches worth basking on. 

This 2-day Mersing itinerary is perfect for those looking for a new fuss-free escape from Singapore.

Also read: How to Spend 24 Hours in Kota Tinggi, Johor: A 1-Day Itinerary 

Getting to Mersing from Singapore

The journey from Singapore to Mersing typically takes around 3.5 to 4.5 hours by road. There are a few ways to get there:

1. By Coach: Several operators, such as KKKL Express and Transtar Travel, offer direct coaches from Singapore (Bugis, Golden Mile, or Katong V) to Mersing. These are comfortable and affordable, and they often stop near the jetty or town centre.
2. By Car: Driving is convenient if you’re planning to explore surrounding areas like Air Papan or Tanjung Resang. The drive to Mersing from the JB checkpoint is around 2 to 2.5 hours.
3. By Private Transfer: Ideal for families or groups, some services offer door-to-door rides with flexible timings.

An important note: If you’re planning to take a ferry to an island from Mersing, ferry timings are tide-dependent, so it’s best to check and plan around them in advance.

Also read: The Best 3-Day Malaysia Road Trips for the June Holidays Beyond Johor Bahru

Day 1: Coastal town charm and island adventures

Travel to Mersing and check-in (8am–12pm)

Leave Singapore early, around 8am, whether by car or coach. You’ll arrive in Mersing by late morning, in time for a midday meal. 

Check into a conveniently located guesthouse or hotel near the jetty. Options include Mersing Hotel for budget stays or Timotel Hotel for something slightly more comfortable.

Lunch at Mersing Seafood Restaurant (12pm–1pm)

Kick things off with a proper meal at Mersing Seafood Restaurant. The curry fish head is a house favourite, but you can also try fried rice with otak-otak or butter prawns for something lighter yet satisfying.

Stroll through Mersing Town (1pm–2pm)

Work off lunch with a walk around the town centre. Stop by the Mersing Esplanade to see fishing boats along the river. Then pop into the Mersing Museum,a small but insightful space showcasing the area’s maritime roots and royal links. 

End your walk at Masjid Jamek Mersing, perched on a small hill with its distinct blue dome and pleasant town views.

Island-hopping to Pulau Rawa or Pulau Tengah (2pm–6.30pm)

From Mersing Jetty, catch a pre-arranged boat to nearby islands like Pulau Rawa or Pulau Tengah. Rawa is known for its powdery beaches and snorkelling-friendly waters, while Tengah offers a quieter, boutique resort vibe. 

Pulau Rawa

Often described as the “Maldives of Johor”, Pulau Rawa is a small but stunning private island known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and vibrant coral reefs just off the shore. You can snorkel straight from the beach and see clownfish, parrotfish, and coral gardens without needing to venture far.

There’s also a fun blue slide attached to Rawa Island Resort, which sends you splashing right into the sea. The vibe here is laid-back yet lively, perfect for couples or small groups looking for a classic tropical escape.

Also read: Destination Dupes: Places in Malaysia that Look Like Other Countries

Pulau Tengah

Pulau Tengah offers a more peaceful and secluded island experience. Once famous for being Malaysia’s first offshore refugee camp for Vietnamese boat people, the island is now home to a sustainably run eco-resort and a sanctuary for nesting turtles during certain seasons.

Unlike Rawa, Pulau Tengah feels less commercial and more attuned to nature, making it a lovely choice for solo travellers or couples seeking calm, clear waters and an eco-conscious setting.

The surrounding reefs are great for snorkelling, especially near the southern end, and you may even spot reef sharks or rays if you’re lucky. The island is also a designated marine park, so marine life is relatively well protected.

Dinner at Syed Ali Mamak Restaurant (6.30pm–8pm)

For a hearty dinner, head to Syed Ali Mamak Restaurant, a local favourite known for its generous portions and comforting Malaysian-Indian fare. 

Choose from classics like roti canai with dhal, nasi briyani with ayam masak merah, or a piping hot plate of maggi goreng topped with a fried egg. Wash it down with a refreshing teh ais limau or a thick milo dinosaur. It’s casual, fast, and full of flavour, the perfect way to refuel.

Stargazing by the coast (8pm-90pm)

Yes, you can stargaze here! Take a short boat ride to Pulau Mawar for stargazing under dark, clear skies. This location offers minimal light pollution and even stunning views of the Milky Way on moonless nights; pictured above is the Milky Way over the arch of “Heaven’s Gate” in Pulau Mawar.

If you choose to go here, it’s important to arrange your boat transfer in advance and confirm the return schedule to ensure a timely trip back to Mersing town. This peaceful evening activity is a perfect way to unwind and experience Mersing’s natural beauty away from the city lights.

Day 2: Sunrise, beaches and forest trails

Sunrise at Pantai Air Papan and Fish Market Visit (6.30am–8.30m)

To catch the sunrise, start early with a drive to Pantai Air Papan, just 15 minutes from Mersing town. It’s the ideal spot for a sunrise beach walk. Nature lovers, don’t miss this!

Nearby, head to Pasar Nelayan Teluk Buih, a traditional fish market where you can watch fishermen unload their morning catch. It’s a vibrant peek into the town’s daily life.

Local breakfast in town (8.30am–9.30am)

Return to town for breakfast at Selera Pantai Timur, a roadside eatery popular with locals. Grab a plate of mee bandung or nasi lemak bungkus, paired with a strong local kopi to recharge for the day. 

Gunung Arong hike or Tanjung Resang beach time (9.30am–2pm)

Nature lovers can take on the Gunung Arong Recreational Forest trail, starting from a trailhead near Kampung Tanjung Resang. It’s a relatively short jungle hike (about 1.5 to 2 hours round-trip) and rewards you with sweeping sea views from the top. 

Also read: Gunung Arong: Your Best Hiking Experience in Mersing, Johor

If you’re after a more laid-back morning, head directly to Tanjung Resang itself instead. This quiet coastal area is ideal for paddleboarding, lounging by the beach, or reading under the shade of coconut palms.

Lunch at Warung Makan Mak Long (2pm-3.30pm)

Refuel with lunch at Warung Makan Mak Long, an affordable roadside stall near Tanjung Resang that’s known for comforting local dishes like ayam masak merah, mee rebus, and fried rice.

Optional island trip to Pulau Besar or Pulau Tinggi (3.30pm–5.30pm)

If you’ve still got energy (and have arranged it in advance), squeeze in another island escape. 

Pulau Besar

Pulau Besar is the closer option, just a short ride from Mersing. The island is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a beachside coconut. The shallow waters are ideal for novice snorkellers, and the surrounding coral reefs support small schools of tropical fish.

Pulau Tinggi

A bit further out, Pulau Tinggi is larger and more rugged, suited for those craving a bit more adventure. The island’s lush interior hides jungle trails, streams, and even a waterfall, rare for islands in this region. 

While a short hike might be ambitious on a tight schedule, you can still enjoy the coastal views, quieter beaches, and the sense of being somewhere truly off the beaten path.

Shop at Mersing Harbour Centre (5.30pm–6.30pm)

Back on the mainland, make a stop at the Mersing Harbour Centre. It’s a good place to pick up souvenirs like dried seafood, handmade crafts, or traditional kueh for the road home.

Final dinner at Restoran Nasi Dagang Warisan Kita (6.30pm–8pm)

End your Mersing experience with a hearty dinner at Restoran Nasi Dagang Warisan Kita. Their signature rice dishes with gulai ikan tongkol (tuna curry) or ayam percik are rich, flavourful, and a nod to the East Coast culinary heritage.

Return Journey to Singapore (8pm onwards)

After dinner, begin your journey back to Singapore. Expect to arrive home by late evening, comfortably tired and satisfied from your coastal retreat.

A refreshing break without the crowds

Mersing might not have the buzz of Malaysia’s bigger beach towns, but that’s exactly its charm. With scenic islands just offshore, serene beaches nearby, and enough town character to keep things interesting, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and soak in the little moments.