The daily urban hustle might bring you down and so a beach escape for a much needed vitamin sea could recharge your mind, body, and soul. Surrounded by islands, Malaysian travelers are spoiled by many options. But if you’re looking for a private hidden gem to ensure a quiet and leisurely holiday by the beach, a trip to Rawa Island is the perfect answer for you. 

Located in the Straits of Johor, Rawa Island is just a short boat ride away from Mersing Harbour Centre. Ready to enjoy a luxurious beach stay and adventurous water sports, this article will be your perfect guide before visiting Rawa Island. 

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Rawa Island (Pulau Rawa) is a coral island located off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia in the Mersing District of Johor. It sits within the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park, a protected marine area that covers several island clusters off Johor.

Rawa Island is a private island which is accessible via a 20-to-30-minute private speedboat ride from Mersing mainland. Be sure to book a stay at the island’s resort to get picked up by the speedboat. Rawa Island is not open for public day trippers, entry requires a booking or stay at the island's resort.

With only two accommodations in the vicinity, Rawa Island can be a place to relax, contemplate, and the perfect healing getaway under the sun and sea breeze. 

Before planning a trip to Rawa Island, you better consider several things to ensure an enjoyable and fuss-free trip. Here’s a guide to visit Rawa Island:

Accessible via boat ride and focused on outdoor and water activities, plan your trip to Rawa Island during the dry and sunny season.

During March to October, Rawa Island experiences the best weather, with calm blue water, clear blue sky, and great visibility for diving. For sunbathing, hiking, and picnic by the beach, the weather is also perfect to enjoy with your loved ones. 

Expect the surge of crowds during the school holidays in June to August, so plan ahead and book in advance.

The peak wet season/monsoon season in Rawa Island where heavy, prolonged downpours are expected. Strong winds, rough seas, and frequent heavy rain might temper with boat and water sports schedules.

Rawa Island is getting more and more popular amongst Malaysian travelers as well as tourists from neighbouring country Singapore. Here are some ways to get to Rawa Island:

From KL or Johor Bahru, you can drive to get to Mersing Jetty, which takes about 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the traffic. There's overnight parking available near the pier.

Traveling by bus from Kuala Lumpur to Mersing Jetty takes about 5 hours. Depart from TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan) and drop off at the Mersing Bus Terminal or directly at Mersing Jetty,  which is a short 10-minute walk or brief local transfer apart. The tickets cost around RM 32 to RM 60. 

If you’re traveling with a group, take a private transfer/private charter car to get to Mersing Jetty for the most practical and door-to-door transportation options from KL or even Singapore.

After arriving in Mersing Harbour Centre, go to your respective resort's local office to register before departure. Board the designated speedboat for a 20–30 minute trip to the island. Book your stay and confirm the boat schedule ride in advance.

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There are two resorts to choose in Rawa Island, you can pick one of the 

Rawa Island Resort is the major resort in Rawa Island, offering villa style accommodation. From the Hillside Deluxe surrounded by the lush greeneries, Beachview/Beachfront Chalet, Frangipani Villa, and Water Villa to accommodate your luxurious stay at Rawa Island. 

Alang’s Rawa Resort offers a stay in one of 12 room boutique resorts directly situated by the beach and the waterfront of Rawa Island. Wake up and be greeted by the white sands, clear blue water, and deep blue clear sky to start your day. 

If you’re planning to extend your stay in Mersing before or after visiting Rawa Island, 

Hotel Seri Malaysia Mersing is a legendary hotel in Mersing. Offering an old style charm an affordable price to stay while in Mersing. Perfect for holidays with family, this hotel is equipped with a spacious Family Room and outdoor swimming pool with the rate starting from RM 116/night. 

MG Hotel Mersing is an affordable option for a stay in Mersing with perfect location near Mersing Bus Station and Masjid Jamek Bandar Mersing. This hotel is great for budget travelers and friends traveling together in Mersing. 

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When in Rawa Island, there are several activities to do to enjoy the most :

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving to enjoy the wide variety of marine species and beautiful corals in the Rawa Island surrounding sea. Even when you’re not an experienced divers/snorkeler, the certified instructors will help make your experience safe and memorable. 

Rent a canoe and enjoy a fun kayaking with friends or go solo to be immersed in the beautiful scenery and ocean breeze at Rawa Island. You can also try Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) by renting it at the hotel. 

Hike up the island’s hill to enjoy the panoramic views of the South China Sea, neighbouring islands, and the magical view during sunrise or sunset. So, bring along your trekking shoes besides your swimsuit. 

Pamper yourself and book a spa at the resort to wind down and be ready for a healing trip while on Rawa Island. From the simple foot massage, facial, to the relaxing Swedish Spa in Rawa Island Resort’s Spa can also be enjoyed as a couple. 

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Plug off and enjoy the quiet luxury of Rawa Island, where the hectic daily chores can be forgotten while indulging in the beautiful South China Sea and white sandy beach. Perfect for a weekend getaway, Rawa Island offers a Maldives holiday experience with a more affordable and easier access. 

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