Maybe you’re thinking about taking a vacation, but still aren’t sure if you want to hop on a plane and spend hours in an enclosed space with hundreds of strangers. If you’re more inclined to take a road trip closer, perhaps the Desaru Coast should be on your list.
If you’re not already familiar with the place, the region was recently named the World’s Greatest Place for 2021 by Time Magazine, the only destination in Malaysia to make the list last year. Plus, if you’re driving there from Kuala Lumpur, it’s only a four-hour drive, and Johor Bahru is less than 1.5 hours away, so there’s no reason why you shouldn’t make a trip there.
Now, you’re here to relax and get away from it all, but if you’re the type of person who needs to pack a lot into your itinerary to feel like you’ve had a ‘full’ holiday, the Desaru Coast region has it all There are activities and attractions to suit everyone’s needs.
For example, Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark has five different areas for the whole family to enjoy. It’s also home to wet and dry play facilities, including Southeast Asia’s largest wave pool. Those looking to revel in nature’s bounty can head to Desaru Fruit Farm, where more than 120 species of tropical fruits are grown. The award-winning property spans over 100 acres, and guests can enjoy everything from orchard tours to ATV rides in the area.
Are there golfers around you? The Els Club Desaru Coast’s two world-class golf courses, designed by four-time major champions Ernie Els and Vijay Singh, have a total of 45 holes. Of course, no trip to Desaru Coast is complete without a visit to Desaru Beach. The white-sand beach stretches for more than 25 kilometers, surrounded by breezy palm trees and casuarinas.
If the itinerary for a day trip seems like too much, you’d be right. That’s why we’ve taken the liberty of listing a few of our favorite hotels and resorts around the area for your next long weekend getaway.
(Credit of lead and featured image: One&Only Desaru Coast)
This story first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Singapore
Where to stay in Desaru Coast:
1One&Only Desaru Coast
One&Only Desaru Coast is the luxury resort brand’s first property in Southeast Asia, featuring 42 junior suites, two spacious two-bedroom deluxe suites and an exclusive four-bedroom Villa One. No matter where you stay, you won’t miss a thing: all suites face either the calm ocean or the verdant rainforest, and come with their own private plunge pools. As well as five restaurants and bars to dine at, guests can take a swim in the stunning 27-meter infinity pool (that’s plenty of IG shots), or unwind at the spa.
2Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas
Until One & Only opens in 2020, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas is one of the only luxury destinations for travelers to the region. The area boasts 108 airy rooms with wrap-around balconies, as well as stand-alone villas with private plunge pools if you’re looking for something a little more exclusive. After check-in, take a hot dip in the infinity pool, then relax at a traditional Malay spa, followed by a romantic beachside dinner.
3The Westin Desaru Coast Resort
Sleep well, eat well, feel good. These values will define your stay at The Westin Desaru Coast Resort. The signature Heavenly Bed in every room here is a big draw when choosing to stay here, but it’s the shimmering coastal vistas of the Ocean View rooms that are the real draw. After a heavy meal at any of the five restaurants, you can work out in the well-equipped 24-hour gym.
4Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast
When you book the Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, you know you’re in for some musical fun. The colorful interiors and friendly service are just the tip of the iceberg: the hotel is also adjacent to one of the world’s largest water parks, overlooking a giant wave pool and man-made beach.
