A Guide to 7 Heart-Racing Adventures for a Thrill-Seeker in Johor Bahru (JB)

Tired of the usual shopping sprees and café hopping every time you visit Johor Bahru? As a thrill-seeker myself, I can relate. If you’re craving some serious adrenaline rushes instead, you’re in the right place! Here’s your definitive guide to seven heart-racing experiences.

Also read: 5 Outdoor Activities in Johor Bahru (JB) for Singaporeans to Try

Skyscape at Menara JLand: Sky-high thrills

Imagine stepping out onto a glass-floored sky bridge suspended 149 metres above JB city. Skyscape is not just about height, it’s a multi-sensory adventure. As you cross the sky bridge, LED light tunnels swirl and pulse with vibrant colours, creating an immersive futuristic atmosphere that heightens your senses. Whether you’re a thrill seeker eager to conquer heights or someone who simply loves visual spectacles, Skyscape delivers a stunningly unique adrenaline kick! 

Getting there: Skyscape is conveniently located in central JB, a quick 10-minute walk from JB Sentral is all it takes to get there!

Cost: Tickets are priced at RM38 for non malaysian adults, with a compulsory purchase of cover shoes at RM2 as well. This comes to a total of RM40 (~S$12.10)!  

Waterpark thrills at Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast

If you’re up for a day trip, Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast delivers proper water-based thrills. Adrenaline junkies can take on the Kraken’s Revenge, a water coaster that sends you hurtling through twists and drops. The wave pool, one of the largest in Southeast Asia, is also good fun if you’re feeling brave enough to wade out into the deeper end. Locker rentals and food courts are available, making it easy to spend a day here.

Getting there: Desaru is roughly 1.5 to 2 hours from JB Sentral. There is a public shuttle bus available, and alternative options include driving or even a ferry from Singapore. This is definitely a lengthier ride, so it’s a perfect option if you have time for a day trip!

Cost: Tickets are priced at RM120 (~S$36.30) for non-Malaysian adults. 

Fly high parasailing at Desaru Beach

For those who dream of flying, parasailing at Desaru Beach offers an unrivalled mix of peace and exhilaration. This activity lets you glide gracefully above the sea with panoramic views of the coastline below. Launch points are usually near resorts like Lotus Desaru, with trained staff on hand and all safety gear provided. Whether soaring solo or tandem, parasailing here is a perfect blend of breathtaking views and adrenaline that is surely on any thrill-seeker’s bucket list. I know it’s on mine!

Getting there: Similar to before, options include planning for the buses that depart from JB Sentral to Desaru, driving or taking a ferry. 

Cost: Prices range from around RM200 (~S$60.50) to RM280 (~S$84.60) depending on whether you fly solo or tandem, and the length of the flight.

Also read: 5 Johor Resorts Less Than 2 Hours from Singapore

Experience stand-up paddleboarding at Pasir Gudang

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) may look peaceful, but it’s an unexpected workout and a subtle test of your balance and endurance. As you glide over the calm waters of Pasir Gudang, each paddle stroke propels you forward, while the challenge of staying upright keeps your core muscles engaged. Coastal Paddle offers lessons for beginners, as well as night paddling sessions featuring glowing boards, a surreal and magical way to experience JB’s waters. 

Getting there: It takes about 30–40 minutes by car from JB city centre to reach this unique experience!

Cost: Prices hover at around RM70 (~S$21.20). Night paddles may cost slightly more.

Race your heart out at Plentong Karting Circuit

For speed junkies craving pure adrenaline, Plentong Karting Circuit is the place to be. This isn’t just any go-kart track, it’s Malaysia’s longest, winding through 1.4 kilometres of tight corners and high-speed straights designed to push your reflexes and control to their limits. The sensation of gripping the steering wheel as you accelerate out of bends, the roar of the engine vibrating beneath you, and the challenge of overtaking competitors all combine into a heart-pumping experience.

Getting there: Just a 30 minute drive from JB city centre.

Cost: Prices start from RM35 (~S$10.60) for a 10 minute session on weekdays, and RM40 (~S$12.10) on weekends.

Laser Battle Johor: Futuristic laser tag mayhem

Step into a neon-lit battlefield at Laser Battle Johor, where laser tag battles take on a whole new level of excitement. Equipped with high-tech laser guns and sensor vests, you’ll dodge behind obstacles and strategise with your team in fast-paced games that will get your adrenaline pumping and competitive spirit soaring. Here, you are immersed into fast-paced, team-based combat scenarios that demand sharp reflexes and tactical thinking. It’s not just a game, but a full-body experience that gets your blood racing from start to finish.

Getting there: Located on Level 4 of Johor Bahru City Square, just across the road from JB Sentral!

Cost: RM35 (~S$10.60) to RM45 (~S$13.60) per person, depending on how long you want to spend there.

Horror-themed escape rooms for the brave

If you’re searching for thrills with a spooky twist, Lost in JB’s horror-themed escape room is the ultimate test of nerves and wits. As soon as you step inside, a chilling atmosphere envelops you: eerie sounds, dim lighting, and unsettling visuals set the stage for a suspenseful experience. The adrenaline comes not just from the challenges you face but the constant tension of being hunted by unseen horrors. This one’s a little too spooky for me, but will definitely be a blast for horror fans (and those who want to watch friends like me being scared…)

Getting there: This spooky fun activity is a 20–25 minute drive from JB Sentral.

Cost: Prices range from RM60 (~S$18.15) to RM70 (~S$21.20) per person, and vary according to the theme you choose.

Your next adventure awaits in JB

Johor Bahru is fast becoming a hotspot for thrill seekers craving variety, from aerial escapades to muddy off-road races, and mind-bending puzzles to watery wild rides. Whether you’re flying high, racing fast, or escaping the supernatural, JB offers a heart-pounding experience for every kind of adventurer.