Mandarin Oriental Desaru Coast is Just 90 Minutes From Singapore

Set between ancient rainforest and the South China Sea, Mandarin Oriental’s first resort in Southeast Asia brings private plunge pools, nature-led wellness and beachfront dining to Johor.

When you need a proper escape from Singapore but cannot face another crowded airport, Desaru Coast offers a tempting alternative. A 90-minute ferry ride from Tanah Merah takes you across to Johor, where rainforest, sea views and considerably slower days await.

The latest reason to make the journey is Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast. Set within 128 acres of rainforest along a 1.5km stretch of coastline, the resort feels impressively secluded despite being close enough for a weekend away.

Although the property is not entirely new, it entered a new chapter on 30 Jan 2026 when the former The Sirēya officially became Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast. Before that, the estate operated as One&Only Desaru Coast. It is now Mandarin Oriental’s first resort in Southeast Asia, pairing the group’s signature service with the property’s tropical-modernist architecture and natural setting.

Also read: 12 Best Things to Do Near Johor Bahru (JB) for Nature Lovers

A rainforest hideaway beside the South China Sea

Desaru may already be known for its family resorts and waterpark, but Mandarin Oriental occupies a quieter corner of the coast. The property sits apart from Desaru Coast’s main hotel cluster, surrounded by mature greenery and overlooking the South China Sea. Award-winning architect Kerry Hill designed the original resort as a collection of low-rise pavilions that sit gently within the landscape, rather than competing with it.

That sense of space is part of the appeal. Mornings begin with birdsong and the occasional rustle of monkeys in the trees, while evenings are soundtracked by waves meeting the rocky shoreline. It feels far removed from the city, even if Singapore is only a short journey away.

Every suite comes with its own plunge pool

There are just 44 suites across the estate, plus a separate four-bedroom pool villa for larger groups. That limited room count helps the resort retain an intimate atmosphere, even when families and couples are sharing the property.

Starting from a generous 105sqm, each suite includes a private plunge pool, outdoor courtyard and shaded veranda. Depending on the category, guests can wake up to rainforest, partial sea or direct oceanfront views. The layout makes the suites feel more like private tropical residences than conventional hotel rooms. Bedrooms and bathrooms are arranged around open-air spaces, while deep verandas provide somewhere to read, nap or simply listen to the forest without stepping into the midday sun.

For families or multigenerational groups, connecting configurations are also available. Those celebrating something bigger can opt for the four-bedroom villa, which offers more privacy and space close to the beach.

The spa has a 300-year-old banyan tree at its heart

The resort’s most striking feature may be its spa, which is built around an enormous banyan tree believed to be approximately 300 years old. Treatment rooms and wellness spaces surround the tree, creating a setting that feels far more connected to the landscape than the average hotel spa. Treatments draw on Malaysian ingredients and traditions, with rituals incorporating elements such as coconut, sea salt, algae, local herbs and spices. Modern skincare treatments by Augustinus Bader are also available.

Elsewhere, the 56-metre infinity pool stretches from the main resort towards the ocean, with part of it extending beneath the rainforest canopy. If swimming laps is your preferred way to reset, this may become your favourite corner of the property. There is also a 24-hour fitness centre, an indoor yoga studio, an open-air yoga pavilion and courts for tennis and padel.

There is plenty to do beyond lounging by the pool

You could happily spend an entire weekend moving between your suite, the spa and the pool. Still, the resort has enough scheduled activities to make staying active feel effortless. Guided nature walks introduce guests to the estate’s wildlife and geology. Dusky leaf monkeys, long-tailed macaques and oriental hornbills have all been spotted around the grounds, while resident specialists help guests understand the rainforest beyond its Instagram-worthy scenery.

Depending on the weekly programme, activities may also include batik painting, archery, terrarium workshops, cocktail-making classes, cycling, padel and Silat Melayu, a traditional Malaysian martial art. Many scheduled group activities are complimentary, although private classes and specialised experiences may come with an additional charge. Check the latest activity calendar when you arrive, as programmes can change throughout the year.

It works surprisingly well for families too

Despite its polished, peaceful atmosphere, Mandarin Oriental Desaru Coast is not designed exclusively for couples. The Kids Club combines indoor play spaces with nature-led activities, while the Creative Studio gives younger travellers somewhere to paint, make and experiment. Outside, the Pelagu Laut playground encourages climbing, movement and imaginative play.

Children can also join Junior Chef classes, Young Gardener sessions and Nature Detectives programmes. These experiences give parents time to enjoy the spa or pool while ensuring that younger guests are doing more than sitting in front of a screen. Connecting suites and family spa treatments make the resort particularly suitable for multigenerational holidays, especially when grandparents, parents and children want their own space without staying in separate corners of a large hotel.

Dining moves from Mediterranean flavours to a barbecue on the beach

There is little reason to leave the estate for meals, with several dining experiences covering everything from leisurely breakfasts to private dinners on the sand. Ambara is the resort’s all-day restaurant, combining Mediterranean cooking with ingredients sourced from Malaysia. Expect wood-fired breads, mezze, charcoal-grilled seafood and seasonal produce, including rainforest honey, tropical-fruit preserves and herbs from the chef’s garden. Breakfast is served from 7.30am to 10.30am, followed by lunch from noon and dinner from 6pm.

For something more casual, Essential serves salads, sandwiches, flatbreads, burgers, juices and cocktails beside the pool from 11am to 9pm. Dusky Monkey Bar is the place for afternoon tea, Straits-inspired snacks and cocktails accompanied by the sounds of the surrounding forest. It opens daily from 11am to 10pm.

The most memorable option, however, may be the private OFYR Dinner. Held beside the beach, the experience centres on seafood and premium cuts cooked over an open-fire grill beneath the night sky. It is available between 6pm and 10pm and requires at least 36 hours’ advance reservation.

Ember Beach Club is undergoing phased enhancements, with a refreshed beach-club concept planned for later in 2026. Its operating arrangements may change during this period, so check directly with the resort before building it into your itinerary.

How to get to Mandarin Oriental Desaru Coast from Singapore

The most relaxing route is the direct ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal. As of July 2026, the ferry operates from Thursday to Monday and takes approximately 90 minutes. BatamFast’s published schedule lists a 10.10am departure from Singapore and a 5.30pm return from Desaru Coast. The resort is another five-minute drive from the terminal, with private transfers available. Remember that the 90-minute estimate refers to sailing time only. You will still need to factor in check-in, immigration clearance and the transfer to the resort.

Driving is another option, particularly for families carrying more luggage. The resort estimates around two hours from Changi Airport, depending heavily on traffic and immigration queues at Woodlands or Tuas.

Travellers should note that the Johor Bahru-Singapore RTS Link is not yet in passenger service. It is currently targeted to begin operations by December 2026, so it should not be included in present-day travel plans.

Also read: A Guide to Mid Valley Southkey Mall for Singaporeans Going to Johor Bahru (JB)

Is Mandarin Oriental Desaru Coast worth the trip?

This is not the kind of resort you book simply as a base for exploring Johor. It is the destination. The draw lies in having space to yourself, whether that means floating in your private pool, joining an early-morning nature walk or lingering over dinner beside the sea. With only 44 suites, the experience feels markedly more private than Desaru’s larger resorts.

It is best suited to couples looking for a polished weekend retreat, families who want luxury without sacrificing child-friendly facilities, and multigenerational groups celebrating a special occasion. For Singapore travellers, its greatest advantage is simple: you can leave the city in the morning and be surrounded by rainforest before lunch, without boarding a plane.

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Photos courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Official Website.