School holidays are here, time for some family fun! Tired of the city and want a sun-kissed beach vacation, thrilling adventures and memories that will last a lifetime? Look no further than Desaru Coast, Malaysia's rising star in the world of family-friendly beach destinations.

Just a short drive from Singapore, the Desaru Coast promises a vacation that can be enjoyed by all members of the family, from sun-kissed toddlers, fun-loving teens, to parents who want to relax while listening to the waves.

Traveloka's guide to the Desaru Coast is packed with activities, attractions and insider tips to make your school holiday adventure a memorable one.

Desaru Coast is a seaside resort located in Johor, Malaysia. It is located about 90 kilometers from Singapore and can be reached by car, bus, or ferry. If you want to go by private car, the journey takes about 1.5 hours. If you prefer to use public transportation, you can use buses run by several companies with a travel time of 6 hours and transit at several stops.

However, the best way to visit the Desaru Coast from Singapore is by ferry. There is a ferry service that operates from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore to Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal. The journey takes about 45 minutes.

1. Playing on the beach, not to be missed!

Desaru Beach has a stunning coastline with golden sand and crystal clear waters. The region's main beach, Desaru Beach, is a paradise for families looking for relaxation and endless fun. Build sandcastles with the little ones, splash in the gentle waves, or relax on a sun lounger with a good book. Older kids can test their skills with water sports like kayaking, jet skiing or windsurfing.

You can also bring a picnic basket and enjoy a meal by the beach while watching the vibrant colors color the sky as the sun sets below the horizon.

2. Embrace the Thrill at Desaru Adventure Waterpark

Get ready for a full day of fun at Desaru Adventure Waterpark, the second largest water park in Southeast Asia. The waterpark consists of 5 zones with thrilling slides, a 350-meter-long lazy river, a wave pool, and a dedicated kids' area, guaranteeing entertainment for all ages.

Try Kraken's Revenge, a water coaster sending you plummeting 27 meters at a heart-pounding 70 km/hour. Relax on the winding waterways of the Penawar River, or let the little ones play in the children's play area with its colorful slides. Supported by well-equipped facilities, a variety of on-site restaurants and cafes, you can recharge your batteries and keep the fun going all day long.

3. Junglewalla, Become One with Nature

Looking for unforgettable family fun at Desaru Coast? Look no further than Junglewalla! Led by local experts, their tours offer exciting activities perfect for all ages. Explore the fascinating mangroves on a river cruise, learn about the local ecosystem, and even plant mangrove seedlings for a positive impact. It's a fantastic way to combine adventure, education, and environmental awareness – a recipe for lasting family memories.

4. Explore the Wonders of the Natural World

Beyond the beach, Desaru Beach offers a glimpse into Malaysia's rich biodiversity. Begin an educational journey with a visit to the Desaru Fruit Farm. Take a guided tour through the lush orchards, learn about exotic fruits and treat yourself to a delicious fruit tasting session. There are also ATV ridings at Desaru Fruit Farm, where you can have fun with your siblings by riding around the area.

For a more adventurous experience, head to Pengerang to visit the Desaru Mini Zoo. Here, your little ones can see and touch the various animals in this mini zoo. There are horses, goats, ducks, and so on. Your little ones will love exploring the zoo and interacting with the friendly animals. This is a great time for families to connect with nature and create unforgettable memories!

5. See a Magical Light at Night

Want to see a magical light show? Take a Desaru firefly tour! You'll be picked up from your hotel in the evening and taken on a scenic boat ride along the Bujang River. As night falls, witness the amazing firefly show that lights up the trees - a truly unforgettable experience!

6. Golfing at Els Club

While Desaru Coast offers fun for everyone, golfers won't want to miss The Els Club! This championship course, designed by legends Ernie Els and Vijay Singh, boasts stunning scenery with streams and valleys. The luxurious clubhouse offers a restaurant, top-notch golf shop, and even a special locker for Ernie Els with his memorabilia on display!

For non-golfers, the Westin Hotel organizes a beautiful running route around the course at sunrise. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the scenery, spot wildlife, and even see the famous waterside hole 3!

7. Staycation After a Day of Adventures

After a day packed with exploration and fun, unwind and relax at one of Desaru Coast's many family-friendly resorts. Choose from luxurious beachfront accommodations with stunning ocean views or spacious villas with private pools, perfect for splashing around with the kids. Most resorts offer kids' clubs with supervised activities, ensuring entertainment for your little ones while you enjoy some well-deserved relaxation by the pool.

Some recommendations on where to stay near Desaru Coast that you can find on Traveloka are:

With its stunning beaches, thrilling waterparks, and exciting activities, Desaru Coast promises a school holiday adventure that will leave your family with smiles from ear to ear. So pack your bags, book your flights and accommodation through Traveloka , and get ready to experience the magic of Desaru Coast! Book your flights and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season school holidays. Websites like Traveloka offer a user-friendly platform to compare hotel options and find the perfect fit for your family.