Top Things to Do in Desaru, Malaysia

This small Malaysian town near Singapore is home to a picturesque white beach!

The coastal destination of Desaru has established a reputation as a paradise for city dwellers and tourists in need of a recharge. Roughly two hours by road from Singapore in light traffic, it can also be reached by direct ferry from Tanah Merah on selected days. This district has some surprises that stretch beyond the opulent resorts which line the serene coastline. Read on to find out more.

Also read: 17 Amazing Beach Destinations in Malaysia

Stroll along Desaru’ white sandy beaches

Desaru is, far and away, a destination for nature lovers. This jewel of Johor is a tranquil getaway for many nearby Singaporeans, as well as being a hot spot for Malaysian locals.

Its sandy coastline faces the South China Sea, with conditions changing according to the season and weather. The original description of the water as “jellyfish-free” should not be retained, as jellyfish can be present. Follow any warning signs, swim only in designated areas and supervise children closely.

Image credit: ckhee94

Get up close with Desaru’s pre-historic beasts

Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm is home to more than 1,000 crocodiles, although the original claim that some are more than 130 years old cannot be reliably confirmed. Opened in 1979, it remains one of Peninsular Malaysia’s larger crocodile farms.

This is the perfect educational experience if you’re obsessed with dinosaurs or simply intrigued by these reptilian brutes. The farm is around 35 to 45 minutes by road from the main Desaru resort area, depending on where you are staying. It currently opens daily from 9am to 6pm, but confirm the hours before travelling.

Splash and slide at the Desaru Waterpark

There are more than 20 rides and slides to choose from at the family-friendly Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast, ranging from the region’s first water coaster to the more leisurely Penawar River.

If rides aren’t your thing, relax beside the large Tidal Wave Beach wave pool or find somewhere to sit while the rest of your group explores the attractions. to sit while the rest of your group

The park generally opens from 10am to 6pm and closes on Tuesdays, except during selected Malaysian public holidays and school holidays. Check the operating calendar before booking your trip.

Visit the biggest ostrich farm in Malaysia

If you’ve ever had an interest in ostriches, then Desaru Ostrich Farm should be on your list of places to visit.

Now also promoted as Desaru Ostrich Farm – Bio Desaru, the farm continues to offer visitors an educational look at ostrich behaviour, eggs, breeding and care. Depending on the current programme, guests may also be able to feed the birds under staff supervision.

Rather than riding the ostriches, focus on observing and learning about them while following the instructions around their enclosures. Current online listings provide conflicting information about the farm’s opening hours, so contact the attraction before making the journey.

Savour the catch of the day at the Tanjung Balau Fishing Village and Museum

Seafood lovers will be delighted by the assortment of fresh marine cuisine on offer at the Tanjung Balau Fishing Village.

Apart from tantalising dishes, Muzium Nelayan Tanjung Balau is also worth a visit, as it showcases the storied past of this quaint fishing village.

The museum’s main building explores the traditions, equipment and everyday lives of Malaysian fishing communities. Its other permanent sections include the Geological Gallery, Desaru Shipwreck Gallery and Marine Safety and Communications Gallery, along with displays of traditional boats.

Admission currently costs RM2 for adults and RM1 for children. The museum opens daily but closes for a midday break, with slightly different hours on Fridays and weekends. Check the latest schedule before visiting.

For an active nature alternative closer to Desaru, join a guided Beachlife and Tidepool Discovery walk. Scheduled around low tide, the experience introduces visitors to the coastal ecosystem and the small marine creatures that emerge as the water recedes.

Dates and starting times change according to the tide table, so advance booking is required. Follow the naturalist’s instructions and avoid removing shells, animals or other living organisms from the shore.

Pluck some fruit and feed the fish

Desaru Fruit Farm offers more than the name suggests, with guided tours through its tropical orchards and stops at an agricultural gallery, fish pond, vegetable and herb garden.

Selected packages may also include the petting zoo, an educational beekeeping talk, raw honey tasting, seasonal fruit sampling, meals or an ATV experience. The inclusions vary between packages, so check what is covered before booking rather than assuming that every activity comes with general admission.

Get lost in the lush greenery of this award-winning farm and, when you’re done, get in on feeding time at the koi fishpond.

Also read: Top Places to Eat In Desaru to Make the Drive There Worthwhile

All aboard the Firefly cruise

While you’re at the Fruit Farm, you may want to ask about its Bujang Boat Firefly Cruise, a short evening ride that can be included in selected Desaru packages.

Another option is a naturalist-led after-dark cruise along the Lebam River, where visitors can learn about the surrounding mangrove habitat while looking for fireflies among the riverside trees.

Firefly Valley Leisure Park is a separate attraction closer to Kota Tinggi and should not be described as part of the same Desaru Fruit Farm or Bujang River experience. Confirm the jetty, transport arrangements and cruise duration when booking.

Much like living, breathing fairy lights, the mangrove forest comes alive at night with the soft, flickering glow of the resident fireflies.

Avoid flash photography, bright lights and loud noises, all of which can interfere with the experience and disturb the insects.

As these attractions are spread across Desaru and the wider Kota Tinggi district, travelling by car, taxi or a pre-arranged tour is generally the easiest way to combine several stops.

Image credit: jhecking