How to Go to Desaru from Singapore: 4 Easy Ways & Best Things To Do 

Traveloka Team
06 Aug 2024 - 6 min read

Desaru, located on the southeastern coast of Johor, Malaysia, is an absolute gem for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of Singapore. Just a stone's throw away, it's famous for its stunning beaches, lush golf courses, and the adventure-packed Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark.

If you're wondering how to go to Desaru from Singapore, it's a breeze – a short ferry ride or a scenic drive across the border- and you're there, ready to soak up some sun and relax. Perfect for a weekend getaway, Desaru offers a mix of relaxation and fun that's hard to beat.

This article will provide information about how to travel to Desaru from SG in 4 easy ways. Stay tuned!

4 Ways to Get to Desaru from Singapore

Getting to Desaru from Singapore with four convenient options is easier than you might think. Let's get deeper into each way:

1. Hire a Private Car

Fancy a road trip? Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Desaru at your own pace. You can blast your tunes, stop whenever you fancy a roadside coconut, and ditch the public transport schedules. Traveloka lets you choose between having a driver or hitting the open road yourself.

Prices start from SGD 164 a day, and that usually includes fuel, free pick-up in Singapore, and even the driver's meals if you go for that option.

Sounds pretty sweet, right? Well, there are a couple of things to consider. Firstly, you'll need to check with the rental company if you're allowed to take the car across the border into Malaysia. Also, remember you'll be driving in a foreign country, so brush up on Malaysian traffic regulations and be prepared for a different driving style.

On the flip side, you get the ultimate Desaru adventure! Explore hidden beaches, hit up local markets, and have the flexibility to make spontaneous detours. Just be sure to factor in petrol costs, tolls, and the daily rental fee.

Pros:

Flexibility: You're in charge! Explore whenever and wherever you please.
Freedom: Crank up the tunes, make spontaneous stops, and see Desaru your way.
Cost-effective (for groups): It can be cheaper than multiple individual fares, especially with Traveloka discounts.

Cons:

Driving in a foreign country: Unfamiliar roads and potentially different traffic rules.
Responsibility: You're responsible for the car and navigating unfamiliar territory.
Crossing the border: Check with the rental company beforehand if it's allowed.

2. Drive a Car

Driving to Desaru is probably the most convenient and flexible option if you like to travel at your own pace. The important thing you need to know is how long it is from Singapore to Desaru by car. The journey takes around 2.5 hours. To start, exit Singapore via the Woodlands crossing and enter Malaysia. From there, you’ll take the toll road Lebuhraya Senai-Desaru Ramp.

Make sure your petrol tank is full, as you don't want to run low on fuel mid-trip. Additionally, you’ll need a Touch 'n Go card for toll fees, which costs about SGD 15 in total, excluding petrol. Don’t forget to apply for a Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) at least five working days before your trip; this costs SGD 5.69.

Pros:

Flexibility: You can travel at your own pace, make stops along the way for food or sightseeing, and explore areas off the beaten path.
Convenience: Ideal for families or groups who might be carrying a lot of luggage or sports equipment like golf clubs.

Cons:

Preparation: Requires planning ahead with the VEP and ensuring you have the necessary toll cards.
Traffic: Border crossings can sometimes be congested, particularly during peak hours or holidays.

3. Ferry

For a more relaxed and scenic journey, the ferry is a fantastic option. The ferry departs from Tanah Merah at 8:30 AM and returns from Desaru at 5:30 PM. For those of you wondering how long the ferry from Desaru to Singapore is, it takes around 1.5 hours (without the immigration process).

It operates only on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays. The ferry ride takes about 1.5 hours and costs SGD 70 one way or SGD 108 for a round trip.

Upon arrival, there's a free shuttle bus to popular destinations like Westin Desaru and Hard Rock Hotel.

Pros:

Scenic: It offers beautiful views and a relaxing journey, which is perfect if you want to start your vacation as soon as you step on board.
No Driving Stress: No need to worry about navigating roads or dealing with traffic.

Cons:

Schedule: Limited to specific days and times, which might not align perfectly with your plans.
Cost: Slightly more expensive than driving, especially for families or groups.

4. Taxi

For those who prefer a hassle-free, door-to-door service, taking a taxi can be very convenient, though it comes at a higher cost. But how much is a taxi from Singapore to Desaru? Some factors can affect it. Depending on the type of car, the cost ranges from SGD 300 to SGD 380 for a round trip.

Pros:

Comfort: Enjoy the journey in a comfortable, air-conditioned car without the stress of driving.
Convenience: Direct service from your Singapore home to your Desaru accommodation.

Cons:

Expensive: This is the most costly option, which can add up, especially for solo travellers.
Limited Flexibility: While convenient, you don't have the same freedom to explore independently compared to having your own car.

Best Things to Do in Desaru

You could say that Desaru is a hidden gem that could be an amazing destination for a quick escape from your daily intenseness. Here are three awesome things to do in Desaru to make memories!

1. Hit the Slides at Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast

Buckle up for thrills at this epic waterpark. Experience the thrill of the ocean at Desaru Waterpark's Tidal Wave Pool, where you can bodyboard and ride waves reaching up to 3 metres high. Get your adrenaline pumping on the region's first water coaster, a thrilling ride full of twists, turns, tunnels, and drops.

You can also relax in a private cabana, surrounded by the charming atmosphere of a traditional Malaysian fishing village. The park offers a wide variety of zones to discover, from exhilarating water slides and relaxing lazy rivers to a fun surf simulator and an exciting shipwreck-themed play area.

Planning ahead? You can grab your tickets on Traveloka for just SGD 40.24 – a bargain!

2. Explore the Great Outdoors

Desaru isn't all about sun loungers (although there are plenty of those, too!). The Lebam River is surrounded by mangrove forests, which makes for a pretty cool kayaking experience. As you paddle along, you might even spot some amazing wildlife! Herons, kingfishers, maybe even some otters if you're lucky.

Usually, you'll get picked up from your hotel in Desaru and taken to the river. There, you'll hop on a boat that takes you and your kayak further upstream. Once you're in a good spot, you'll set off on your kayaking adventure! The guides are knowledgeable about the area, so they can tell you all about the plants and animals you see.

3. Unwind on Desaru Beach

No trip to the coast is complete without sinking your toes into the sand. Desaru Beach is a stunner, with crystal-clear waters and plenty of space to relax, soak up the sun, and build sandcastles (or impress your mates with your sand sculpting skills!).

So, is Desaru worth visiting? Pack your bag to experience it yourself!

So, how about that Desaru getaway? We've covered how to get to Desaru from Singapore. For fun things to do, there's the epic Adventure Waterpark (tickets are even cheaper on Traveloka!), exploring the outdoors, or simply chilling on the gorgeous Desaru Beach.

Tempted? Traveloka is your one-stop shop for booking transport, accommodations in desaru, and even attraction tickets for Desaru. So open the app, plan your Malaysian adventure and get ready for fun in the sun!

Have other destinations in mind? take advantage of the Singapore Airline Exclusive Promo for discounted fares and a comfortable journey to Desaru! Save even more with flash sale!

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