image credit: Nirian/Getty ImagesWhether you’re a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast, conservationist or simply a seeker of comfort, an uninterrupted getaway at a luxury island resort is something that everyone craves. Malaysia is undoubtedly one of the best and most affordable options for nature-friendly luxury resorts, especially those located on its many mesmerising islands.
Some of these island and beach resorts in Malaysia have gone the extra mile to provide the utmost luxury without disturbing the ecological balance. Additionally, they offer activities that educate and make you more aware of the environment. After all, what is better than a luxury getaway where you bring home more knowledge?
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While some island resorts in Malaysia are perfect for couples, others are kid-friendly. Confused about which one to pick for a tranquil holiday over the next long weekend? We’ve got you covered.
12 best island resorts in Malaysia for your next luxury vacation
The Danna, Langkawi
Image credit: The Danna
Sitting pretty at the doorstep of some of Langkawi’s major attractions — the SkyBridge, Seven Wells Waterfall, and the Oriental Village, the Danna is a majestic addition to the city’s prime beachfront. Blending colonial architecture with contemporary minimalism, the 125-room luxury property works its whimsical magic, on a canvas of creams, beiges, and other neutral palettes. The vast central courtyard is embellished with landscaped greenery and fish ponds, thus contributing to a feeling of tranquillity. The soaring ceilings add to the ambience while its three-tier pool — the largest infinity pool on the island — keeps you happily cocooned in vacation mode. Relaxing cabanas, slouchy chairs, and beanbags line the sea-facing al-fresco space.
The Danna’s main restaurant, Planter’s, serves excellent Mediterranean, European-inspired, and local cuisine which can be enjoyed both indoors or on the terrace. The rooms come with dark wood interiors and a largely natural colour scheme. There’s also an outdoor hot tub and a children’s pool. Inside, you’ll also find a spa with nine treatment rooms, a fitness room, a games room with billiards, snooker, and board games, as well as a library.
Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysian Borneo
Image credit: The Shangri-La
An embodiment of the brand’s signature aesthetic with its white marble, heavy wooden furniture and contemporary art, Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort finds itself rebelliously jutting out into its own peninsula in the Borneo region of Malaysia. The resort is divided into two sections for guests to enjoy: Rooms in the Kinabalu Wing face either the sea or mountains; while those in the Tanjung Wing face only the sea. The facilities at this Shangri-La property extend beyond the regular secluded beach and manorial central block. Think sunrise yoga, kayaking lessons, and the extremely fun, coconut bowling.
Attendees can choose from a variety of gastronomic experiences available within the premise. Shang Palace, the resort’s Chinese eatery, and Peppino’s, the Italian alternative, offer formal dining, while the lively cooking stations of Café TATU are more casual. The most enjoyable, however, is Coco Joe’s: a zany, al fresco restaurant serving grills, huge mains, cocktails, and unhindered sea views.
Image credit: The Marriott
Unparalleled luxury takes a new form with the St. Regis’s Langkawi property. Nestled on the beachside island town of Kuah, the massive architectural marvel impresses with its Middle Eastern-inspired white walls and wooden arches. Inside, the decor of The Mansion feels reminiscent of a cool European city hotel with high ceilings, white lounges, and local art. The main highlight, however, is the Kayu Puti: a wooden beach house built over the ocean, and designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley. International antiques, seashells, and throne-like chairs with peacock feathers are found inside, with the structure serving as a prime spot for sunset cocktails.
The resort’s Pantai Grill offers wood-fired cooking on the sand, offering delicacies like steaks and snapper, ceviche, and tacos. Kayu Puti’s innovative Asian-inspired cuisine, especially signature seafood dishes such as the parmesan-crusted grouper are audience favourites. Breakfast at L’Orangerie has everything from croissants and champagne to Chinese dumplings, with Moroccan and Middle Eastern dishes on the menu, such as shakshuka.
Image credit: The Four Seasons
Cleverly tucked away within a UNESCO World Geopark — Southeast Asia’s first, Langkawi’s Four Seasons Resort is an enigmatic space sandwiched between lush thickets of landscaped greenery, limestone rock formations, and powder-white sands of their own private beach. Spread amidst 48 acres of land, the luxury property is lined with mangroves, winding rivers, and ancient limestone caves for guests to discover. Be it the beachfront or forest-facing rooms, the resort is an eclectic mix of Moorish-inspired architecture and traditional Malay-style pavilions. The expansive wood-beamed ceilings and revived teak floors with bold accents of blues and teals enliven the space, creating an island-side oasis for luxury lovers.
The sprawling Geo Spa is perhaps the most innovative facility on the property, allowing guests to indulge in a range of treatments, such as the Marine Flora Immersion ritual, which is said to revitalise the lymphatic and immune systems. After concluding a relaxing spa session, one can enjoy tropical cocktails and fusion snacks by the Rhu Bar, a Middle Eastern-inspired lounge and home to the best sunset-viewing spot at the Four Seasons.
Dreaming about a luxury stay surrounded by islands while in a rainforest? Ambong-Ambong Rainforest Retreat is your place to be. Its exotic villas are based around a sustainable and tropical-chic theme, complete with private pools and endless sunrise and sunset views.
You can spend a relaxing session at its spa, which provides healing based on the seven chakras by using “traditions of the Malaysian indigenous tribes,” or indulge in the heritage-filled cooking and dining experiences by savouring delectable Malay dishes.
Taking things to another level is their UNESCO Geopark Experiences, wherein you can go on an informative and interesting tour through the mangrove forests.
Known as Permata Kedah by locals, Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands and can be reached in many ways from Singapore. The fastest option to reach the tranquil island is by direct flight, which takes around 1.5 hours. However, other methods such as train, bus or ferry can also take you there.
Batu-Batu Resort – located on Tengah Island – is well known for blending nature conservation with luxury.
Described as “an unspoilt island retreat with an ecological ethos and conviction that tourism can support biodiversity and local communities,” Batu-Batu Resort has 20 one-bedroom and two two-bedroom villas that are designed to showcase traditional Malaysian architecture. These luxurious abodes come with balconies overlooking the tranquil sea or the jungles and are fitted with glass doors so you’ll enjoy infinite views of nature from the comfort of your plush, cosy bed. If you’re bringing children, some rooms come with little enclosures that house bunk beds too.
Apart from relaxing in the lap of nature, you can partake in their conservation activities and contribute to the environment as well. The main restaurant offers a 270-degree view of the natural surroundings and scrumptious seafood options, which are all made fresh with locally sourced ingredients. Their fresh grilled snapper in banana leaf is especially popular and is prepared using authentic Malaysian-style chilli paste. A bakery is also on hand to provide an array of desserts for those with an insatiable sweet tooth.
Johor can be reached by road from Singapore in under two hours if traffic conditions are favourable, so expect to get there in no time at all.
Besides offering mesmerising views of the sea and rainforests to guests staying in its villas, Gaya Island Resort has a special property called the Spa Village. Here, the ethos is “It’s not just a place, it’s a philosophy,” so expect healing therapies that involve authentic local ingredients. Its unique scrubs and practices bring ancient traditions alive while establishing a balance between the body and soul.
Other than the spa, there is an array of experiences to choose from; set out on an intriguing marine expedition or go on nature trails amid the exquisite flora and fauna through mangroves, or spot the red giant flying squirrels. You can also visit their Marine Centre to know more about endangered marine life, turtle rescue, and coral reef restoration.
After an informative day out, you can choose to dine at either Fisherman’s Cove for seafood-themed dishes, or Omakase, a two-storey Japanese restaurant that’s perched on a hillside with a stunning view of Malohom Bay and Mount Kinabalu. Arrange a special private dinner for your special someone by the sea if you’re celebrating a special occasion too.
To reach this haven located at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park in Kota Kinabalu, you can take a direct flight that’s approximately two hours and 35 minutes.
Image: Courtesy Japamala Resort by Samadhi, Tioman Island
Based on rustic-luxe design philosophy, their villas — or ‘Sarangs’, as called by them — speak of the wilderness, amidst which they are built. As they have been cautious enough to not disrupt the ecological balance by preserving the surrounding trees or rocks, each villa is uniquely different.
Their various ‘chalets’ and ‘Sarangs’ include Treetop Chalets, Seacliff Chalets, Beach Sarang, Luxe Treetop Sarang, Jungle Luxe Sarang, Hillside Sarang, Seaview Sarang and Penghulu’s House, each with its own charm and view.
If you wish to explore the marine wilderness, you can try scuba diving, especially at night for a thrilling adventure. Boat excursions and jungle trekking options are also available. Want to soak in the romance while you’re here? Head to the romantic sunset viewpoint with your special someone for some alone time.
The resort arranges personal transfers between Mersing Jetty, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. It takes around two hours from Mersing Jetty via a public ferry and nearly four hours by flight from Kuala Lumpur. However, buses take longer — around eight to nine hours.
Located within the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park is this breathtaking island resort, wherein you can get one of the best marine life experiences. The island gets its name ‘Rawa’ from the informal Malay word for white dove.
You can stay in the spacious rooms categorised as Hillside Deluxe, Beachview/Beachfront Chalet, Waterfront Bungalow and Frangipani Villa, depending on your choice of aesthetics. Each has a gorgeous view of lush jungles, turquoise waters, or silver sand.
Their spa is also not just about a relaxing massage or a rejuvenating plunge. Here, infinite views of the South China Sea and a living tree inside the spa area bring the outdoors within, immersing you in a wave of tranquillity.
To explore the local marine life, choose from one of their many diving options. A scuba diving course is also on hand should you wish to pick up the sport, and you can do so at their PADI Five-Star Scuba Diving Instructor Development Center.
When it comes time to eat and drink, enjoy a lavish spread from the various international and local cuisines and fresh tropical fruit that are offered at their buffet restaurant.
Set around 5km from the west coast of Malaysia on a private island is the Pangkor Laut Resort, along the Malacca Straits.
The stunning property has seven villa and suite categories to choose from — Garden Villa, Hill Villa, Beach Villa, Sea Villa, Spa Villa, Suria and Purnama Suite and Pavarotti Suite.
Named after the famous tenor Luciano Pavarotti, the latter was named after it was rumoured that the artist fell in love with Pangkor Laut. This two-bedroom suite has everything you’ll need for a comfortable and luxurious vacation, and besides majestic rooms and views of the sea and rainforests, also promises a huge open-air bathing space.
With seven different dining options, this island resort takes the gastronomic experience to another level. One of its restaurants, Uncle Lim’s Kitchen, is recommended for Nyonya and Hock Chew Chinese-style home cooking. It is named after the chef who has been associated with the resort since the day it was established. Don’t miss dining at their Royal Bay Beach Club on the terrace either, which offers infinity pool views and exotic Asian dishes to feast upon.
Pangkor Laut can be reached by Kuala Lumpur International Airport, and the resort provides car transfers to their office on Marina Island, Pangkor and a speedboat ride from there to the resort. From Singapore, fly either via Firefly or Malindo Air to the Sultan Azlan Shah Airport in Ipoh, and then hop on a 90-minute private car or taxi transfer to Pangkor Laut Resort’s office at Marina Island Pangkor, followed by a speedboat transfer to Pangkor Laut Resort.
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Gem Island Resort & Spa, Terengganu
Image: Courtesy Gem Island Resort, Terengganu
Whether you are travelling solo, with your family, a special someone, or a group of friends, you can customise your package with the various offers provided by this beautiful island resort. For those who are fond of a perfectly organised trip, the Uniquely Tailored Experience option will help you tailor your stay sightseeing options, and meals according to your preference.
Besides Premiere Villas and Water Villas, Gem Island Resort & Spa’s two-storey Hideaway Suites and Hideaway Villas can prove to be one of the cosiest options, especially since they’re swathed by local fauna.
Their restaurant, which sits along the coastline, offers delectable Asian and Western cuisines and some of the finest wines.
Located at the Pulau Gemia islands in the town of Marang, the resort can be reached from Marang Jetty, which is accessible from Singapore by bus via a 10-hour drive. If you opt for a flight, it takes around 30 minutes from the Kuala Terengganu Airport.
Image: Courtesy Rebak Island Resort & Marina, Langkawi
Nestled amid rich greens on a private island is this resort by Vivanta, where each of its suites exudes rich Malaysian culture and architecture with timber finishing and spacious balconies overlooking the sea or the forests.
Here, the island resort offers various activities and entertainment options, including archery classes, cooking classes, darts, karaoke, water sports, kids’ club, themed dinners and temporary art galleries, making it a beautiful place to tickle the artist or the adventure seeker in you? Additionally, while you unwind, your little ones are taken care of as they provide babysitting services on request.
The island resort in Malaysia also features exotic restaurants and bars serving delicious Asian and continental dishes, with the Strait’s Grill providing some freshly caught seafood for discerning gourmands. With three bars on the site, you can decide whether to try their selected wines or refreshing cocktails.
To get to Langkawi Airport from Singapore, take a direct flight via AirAsia or Scoot. Langkawi Airport is around 8km from the Cenang Port Jetty, which is nearly seven minutes by boat from the resort.
This story first appeared here.
(Main and featured image credit: Nirian/Getty Images)
All packed up to go for a dive or you’ve always wanted to get a diving license but doesn’t know where to go?
Tioman Island is the next destination in your to-dive list!
Listed as one of the most beautiful islands in the world, it is best known for its famous scuba diving spots filled with sponges, sea corals and shipwrecks.
Here, we’ve provided the complete guide to diving in Tioman Island that you definitely do not want to miss.
Pack your bags and get ready to dive!
Tioman Diving Season
So, now you know one of the best islands to dive but do you know the suitable season for a dive?
Tioman Island, like the rest of Malaysia is a tropical country with low humidity, hot weather and occasional rainfall throughout the rest of the year. It is best to ensure the right season to dive.
1. November till February
Monsoon Season.
It brings strong waves and unusually high tides during those time.
Diving is not allowed.
2. March till October
Dry Season
The warm water in the seas brings out the richness of the marine life.
Possible to dive
3. Mid March till May and September till Mid October
Below is the map of the common dive sites around Tioman Island. This will give you some information of the whereabouts of the dive site and help to plan your trip effortlessly.
5 Best Dive Sites Around Tioman
Do you yearn to be surrounded by beautiful coral reefs and a wide variety of fish?
With so many dive sites for divers to choose from, catering to each interest; from macro diving to wreck explorations for advanced divers- you’ll be spoilt for choice! Do not miss out the best activities to do in Tioman Island!
So, you’re not sure which dive sites you should explore? Here’s what you must not miss with 5 best dive sites in Tioman, just for you!
No divers should ever miss this because it has the most impressive reefs in the area.
It is home to an abundance of beautiful hard corals, soft corals, sea fans, sea sponges and small critters attracting thousands of fishes that macro divers will fall in love.
2. Renggis Island
One of the top famous dive site and it can get really crowded. A magnificent array of beautiful corals hard and soft- surround the reefs, in a symbiotic relationship with the aquatic life (moray eel, angel fish, puffer fish and sting ray).
Also, you may spot some sea turtles and black tip reef sharks. This site is usually used for training dives and night dives due to its rather low depths.
3. Chebeh Island
Another one of the fantastic dive site, suitable for all levels of divers, the formation of rocks and underwater scenery will leave you in awe.
Home to a school of barracudas and trevallies and some sightings of manta ray and whale shark during the migration season (around April and October).
Image credit: travelblog.expedia.com.my
4. Labas Island
This site has many wondrous caverns around, thus depicting a piece of Swiss cheese- like a maze, one can swim through the deep trough or glide along with the dense corals.
As you go deeper into the site, you may spot turtles, sharks and angel fish.
5. Sawadee Wrecks
A former Malaysian Navy Warship was sunken in 2012 to create an artificial reef alongside two old fishing vessels (Sawadee Wreck), home to families of lionfish, pufferfish and also a tiny octopus.
This dive site is more suited for advanced and leisure divers, where the large openings allow divers to enter and explore the wreck from the stern to bow.
So, remember this best dive sites so you won’t miss any of the spectacular views underwater.
4 Best Dive Centre In Tioman
Are you eager to jump into the sea now after getting to know the beautiful dive sites?
Wait… you’ll need scuba tanks, scuba mask, a diving suit and a license! Where to get all this stuff, you may ask?
Here it is, the 4 best dive center that provides all your necessary diving equipment that is readily available- hassle-free!
1. Amigo Dive Centre Juara Tioman
The only 5 star PADI dive center located at the east side of Tioman Island.
Price Starting From: You can check the prices on official Facebook page. You may contact them directly to get a better price list.
Dive Centre Highlights:
The only dive operator on the east side of the island.
The less explored dive sites are suitable for macro divers.
The dive sites ranged from shore, rocky slope, sandy slope and submerged reef.
PADI Discover Scuba, a course for ‘Introduction to Scuba Diving’.
PADI Recreational Dive courses; Open Water, Advance Open Water, and Rescue Diver.
PADI Specialty courses; Altitude Diver, Night Diver, Underwater Photographer, Enriched Air Diver, Search and Recovery Diver
PADI Professional courses; Divemaster, Instructor Development, Rescue Diver, Master Instructor.
Has inbound and outbound dive tours
Provide snorkelling trips.
Amigo Dive Centre Juara Tioman
Location: Kediaman 1, Kampung Juara, Pulau Tioman, 86800 Mersing, Johor, Malaysia
Contact: +6014-612 2032
Email: [email protected] Facebook
2. B&J Dive Centre
The oldest dive centre in Tioman Island and provides technical wreck diving.
Provide dive course packages that include accommodation.
Provide a list of accommodation and able to assist in booking for you.
In Air Batang
Tioman Dive Resort (own accommodation)
Tioman House Bungalows
Cozy Inn
Fiqthya Chalets
In Salang Bay
Salang Pusaka Resort
Salang Indah Resort
-> Offer PADI courses, Children Scuba Diving, Fun Dive, Tec Diving Courses, PADI Professional Courses, and CCR Rebreather Course. -> Exploring the wrecks around Tioman Island in deep water between 55m and 69m depth.
HMS Repulse
HMS Prince of Wales
Submarine 016
Submarine KXVII
HMS Banka Minesweeper
MV Seven Skies Supertanker
Aur Tanker
B&J Dive Centre
Location: Kampung Air Batang (ABC) and Jeti Kampung Salang, Pulau Tioman, 86800 Mersing, Johor, Malaysia
Contact: +609-419 1218 (ABC) / +609-419 5555 (Salang)
Email: [email protected] Facebook
3. Tioman Dive Centre
A renowned diving centre that not only offers a full range of diving course but also leisure diving.
Price Starting From: You may direct contact them via contact below to get the exact price.
Dive Centre Highlights:
Offers a full range of diving courses.
Offers 20 spectacular dive sites for leisure diving.
PADI Bubblemaker designed for young children aged between 8-9 years old.
PADI Discover Scuba designed for beginner divers and to experience diving.
PADI Scuba Diver course, an alternative to Open Water Course if you’re short on time.
PADI Recreational Dive courses; Open Water, Advanced Open Water, and Rescue Diver.
PADI Professional courses; Divemaster
Provide a list of accommodation options but you will need to book them by yourself.
Swiss Cottage Resort
Cheers Chalet
Tioman Cabana
Coral Reef Resort
Babura SeaView Resort
Persona Island Resort
The Berjaya Resort
Tioman Dive Centre
Location: Kampung Salang, Pulau Tioman Island, 86800 Mersing, Johor, Malaysia
Contact: +6013-886 2978
Email: [email protected] Facebook
4. Bayu Dive Centre
A youthful dive centre that features a look at the Snake Eels (Ophichthidae) in their natural habitat.
Provides leisure dives that includes; shore, boat and night dive.
There’s a range of PADI courses to choose from: Discover Scuba, Open Water Scuba, Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver and Emergency First Response and last but not the least, Divemaster.
Get the chance to admire snake eels during one of the shore dives.
Offers course packages that includes accommodation so you don’t need the hassle to find on your own.
When you book one of the packages, it includes ferry return trip from either Tanjung Gemuk or Mersing Jetty to Kampung Genting Jetty (excludes Marine Park tax).
Bayu Dive Centre
Location: Genting Bayu Chalet, Kampung Genting, Pulau Tioman, 26800 Kuala Rompin, Malaysia
Contact: +6014-756 0092
Email: [email protected] Facebook
Tioman Diving Course Package
Do not know which diving course is suitable for you? PADI, the world’s largest recreational diving and dive training organization provide a wide range of courses from beginner to instructor level.
Here we have enlisted a few courses that cater to suit different requirements.
At the same time, PADI includes dive courses for those who wished to take a step further to become an instructor or work as a career.
The price of a divemaster course is range about MYR 3,500. You may contact the dive center directly for further inquiry on other professional dive courses.
PADI Professional Dive Courses:
PADI Master Scuba Diver
PADI Instructor Development Course
PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor
PADI Specialty Instructor
For the bold and adventurous, and ready to discover wrecks lying at the bottom of the sea. Here are some special diving courses for you.
Some courses require you to acquire certain skills and certificates.
For example, the Rescue Diver Course requires you to have the skillset and certificate in both; Advanced Open Water Diver and Emergency First Response.
You may contact the dive centre for further information on the type of course that interests you.
The island may be a stone throw away but you definitely can’t swim all the way there! Getting to the island itself still requires a ferry or a speedboat.
There are two jetties in Mersing that travels to Tioman Island; Tanjung Gemok Jetty and Mersing Jetty, but the journey from Singapore to the jetty has many different options which we’ve opted for your convenience.
1. Private Car From Singapore To Mersing Jetty
Hiring private car / taxi from Singapore to Mersing has been one of the best travelling options. Everything that may be inconvenient is well taken care of by the private car company. Your safety and comfort are guaranteed by them.
Advantage of Using Private Car Service:
Direct transfer services between Singapore and Mersing Jetty
Hassle-free, without the need to get down from the car at immigration
Pick-up at any preferred time, date & location in Singapore and drop-off at Mersing Jetty
Non-sharing rides
Experienced, friendly drivers & punctual and keep on track with customer’s schedule
Drivers familiar with local traffic conditions and alternative road
Vehicle thoroughly checked before travelling
Comfortable, spacious with ample legroom
No additional or hidden cost
Families travelling with younger children or elderly
Quick Links:
Types Of Private Car:
There’re many other private car companies offering the same transfer service. But what makes us, SGMYTAXI different from them?
We are the leading private car company and here are the benefits of riding with us.
SGMYTAXI Happy Customers:
SGMYTAXI private car is new and well maintained and has been receiving good feedback from customers’ experience.
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11:02 18 Feb 24
Service was quite good, both of drivers are friendly and helpful, definitely will contact again for next Malaysia trip
Pho La Minn
05:13 18 Feb 24
They were great! Hired a car to take 4 of us from our hotel in Singapore directly to the JB Sentral Train Station. Smooth as silk, including customs.
Paul Merwin
07:00 16 Feb 24
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How To Book Private Taxi/ Private Car:
WhatsApp us directly
Click here How To Book for the step-by-step booking procedures.
Hassle-free, flexible and convenient- what’s more to ask? So, hurry, make your booking with us!
2. Bus From Singapore To Tioman Island (via Tanjung Gemok Jetty)
If you’re travelling on a budget, there are other options that don’t burn a hole in your pocket and are equally comfortable too.
Here, 3 operators that schedule coaches to Tanjung Gemok Jetty from Singapore.
We highly advise alighting at Tanjung Gemok Jetty because it has more stable ferry schedule compared to Mersing Jetty and they’re only 40 minutes apart.
The time taken to travel doesn’t differ much from self-driving and you should be able to arrive at your destination within 4 hours from Singapore.
No matter which bus/coach you pick, you’re advised to arrive at the bus/coach departure station at least 30 minutes before the departure time. Similarly, for return trip too!
Step 1: Take Bus From Singapore To Tanjung Gemok Jetty
2.1 KKKL Singapore
Singapore To Tanjung Gemok Jetty Bus Schedule & Ticket Price
Departure Location
Departure Time
Ticket Price
Kovan Hub 206
Daily 6:00am
SGD$39/pax
Bugis MRT Exit D
Daily 6:30am
SGD$39/pax
2.2 Diamond Coach Singapore
Singapore To Tanjung Gemok Jetty Bus Schedule & Ticket Price
Departure Location
Departure Time
Ticket Price
The Plaza Singapore
5:45am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
Novena Square Singapore
6:00am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
Serangoon Nex MRT Station Exit E
6:20am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
Woodlands Singapore
6:45am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
Step 2: Take Ferry From Tanjung Gemok Jetty To Tioman Island
Once you’ve arrived at Tanjung Gemok Jetty, you will need to take a ferry to Tioman Island.
Now only BlueWater ferry operator operate from Tanjung Gemok Jetty to Tioman Island.
Book your ticket in advance to avoid any frustration. You may book it online to secure your tickets. Check the Tioman ferry schedule to plan your itinerary and ensure you have a smooth journey.
3. Bus From Singapore To Tioman Island (via Mersing Jetty)
Another popular option for travellers to travel from Singapore to Mersing is by bus. These buses provide more timeslot, especially for those who prefer to travel at night.
The night schedule is suitable for those who wish to catch the first ferry the next morning, but you’ll need to stay one night in Mersing.
There are 2 operators that schedule buses to Mersing Jetty or Mersing Bus Terminal from Singapore.
Step 1: Take Bus From Singapore To Mersing Jetty
3.1 KKKL Singapore
Singapore To Mersing Jetty Bus Schedule & Ticket Price
Departure Location
Departure Time
Ticket Price
Kovan Hub 206
Daily 6:00am
SGD$39/pax
Bugis MRT Exit D
Daily 6:30am
SGD$39/pax
Katong V Mall
Daily 10:30pm
SGD$39/pax
Singapore To Mersing Bus Terminal Bus Schedule & Ticket Price
Departure Location
Departure Time
Ticket Price
Kovan Hub 206
Daily 10:00pm
SGD$39/pax
Katong V Mall
Daily 10:30pm
SGD$39/pax
Note: 6 mins walk to Mersing Jetty from Mersing Bus Terminal
3.2 Diamond Coach Singapore
Singapore To Mersing Jetty Bus Schedule & Ticket Price
Departure Location
Departure Time
Ticket Price
The Plaza Singapore
5:45am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
Novena Square Singapore
6:00am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
Serangoon Nex MRT Station Exit E
6:20am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
Woodlands Singapore
6:45am
Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
SGD$39/pax
With so many online booking sites, you can get yourself a preferred seat (aisle, window, single seat) and avoid any disappointment. You may book them in advance at the various sites; redbus, catchthatbus, myexpressbus, easybook and busonlineticket.
Step 2: Take Ferry From Mersing Jetty To Tioman Island
When you arrive at Mersing Jetty, you’ll come across a Bluewater Express ferry or Cataferry that will bring you to Tioman Island.
If you prefer to drive to Tanjung Gemok Jetty or Mersing Jetty yourself, the journey is pretty straight forward.
The time taken to travel from Singapore to the jetty takes an average 3.5- 4 hours, depending on the traffic conditions, time and season.
You can either drive your own car from Singapore or rent a car from Malaysia. Although, it can be strenuous to drive long hours and requires you to pay the parking fee and petrol, but driving is leisure (to some).
From Singapore, you’ll head over to Woodlands and cross the immigration. Once you’ve cross the border and entered Johor, use the EDL highway instead of Jalan Tebrau so as to avoid any traffic congestion.
From here on, look out for the direction that leads to Kota Tinggi and then to Mersing. Follow that direction and you’ll soon see the signs directing you to Tanjung Gemok. Once you’ve reached Tanjung Gemok, you’ll be able to find the signs leading you to the jetty.
After a few minutes, you’ll find an open space carpark at the jetty where you can park for MYR10 per day.
Route: Singapore –> Woodlands Causeway –> Johor Bahru –> Kota Tinggi –> Mersing –> Tanjung Gemok –> Tanjung Gemok Jetty.
Always plan your diving trip few weeks before arriving in Tioman because the dive centres need to make all the necessary arrangements to appoint a dive master for you, hence planning everything beforehand is vital.
Enquire for more information, the friendly crew of each dive centres are always ready to assist. Speak to them over the phone or via email if you’re unsure which dive course you’re able to take.
It is better to book a full board package such as ready-made packages that include lodgings.
Some dive centres provide a list of accommodations that are within easy reach of the centre itself.
If you’re wearing glasses, it is best to have a special goggle with prescription lenses so you can have a clear vision of the underwater world. Unfortunately, not every dive centres in Tioman have it, hence is easier to purchase it at a dive shop in the mainland before heading to Tioman.
The availability of ATM are scarce and credit cards can only be used in certain areas. Instead, cash is widely used in the island, so make sure to prepare enough cash in MYR currency.
If you’re not used to the movement of the boats when it crashes into the waves- seasick- you can inform the dive instructor and they will provide some anti-motion sickness pills. However, please notify the instructor if you have any allergy.
Tioman is a duty-free zone where tobacco, alcohol and chocolates are much cheaper than mainland.
Because of its exclusive status as a private island, it can be an expensive place to stay.
But the pristine beaches are worth it!
So you should look into some Rawa Island Packages before you go!
Resorts on the island offer their own packages.
1. Rawa Island Resort & Hotel Package
Seeing that there are only 2 resorts on Rawa Island or Pulau Rawa, you’ll just have to make a choice between one or the other.
Neither resort is cheap to book though! But that’s what comes with the exclusivity of the island!
Note: You need to stay on Rawa Island for at least 2 nights! The resorts do not allow one day trip or one-night stays!
1.1 Rawa Island Resort
Rawa Island Resort (sometimes called Rawa Safari) sits on a hill and it takes 2 to 3 minutes to walk to the beach.
If you want beachfront accommodation with an exquisite vista of the ocean, go for their sea view rooms! Rooms are very clean and well-maintained.
As for amenities, you’ll find WiFi, cable television and tea/ coffee making facilities at the resort’s own restaurant and bar where you can get a beer too.
Rawa Island Resort Highlights:
Don’t forget to try the water slides in front of the resort when you’re here! They lead right into the sea!
A badminton court, table tennis, pool table and snooker, kayak rental are available at the resort
Buffet style meals will ensure you don’t get bored of the food!
Note: Even if you stay at Alang’s Rawa Resort, nobody will stop you from using the slides at Rawa Island Resort!
Image credits: rawaislandresort.com
1.2 Alang’s Rawa Resort
Popular among backpackers for its laid-back atmosphere and wide assortment of rooms and chalets, Alang’s Rawa Resort is no stranger to making guests feel at home!
You’ll have to forgo WiFi and TV completely here and just enjoy the carefree atmosphere of a simple island lifestyle instead!
Alang’s Rawa Resort Highlights:
Two specialities to try – Rawa Special Fish and Rawa Special (A somewhat potent cocktail)!
Hiking trail (Hilltop Walk) close to the resort that takes you to the top of the hill where you can see the sunrise (or sunset), South China Sea and neighbouring islands!
Weekend adult parties at the beach shack (kids are not allowed to stay at the resort during the weekends)
Beach volleyball, kayak rental, board games are available at this resort
Note: Hiking trails are Hilltop Walk and Island Walk. You can do both regardless of the resort you choose.
How To Book A Package At Alang’s Rawa Resort
You can only book rooms at Alang’s Rawa Resort through their packages on their website.
This is how they offer the best value to their guests.
Prices will be higher by ~RM100 if you book rooms on the weekends rather than on weekdays.
Children under 12 get 50% off the package while children under age 5 get everything for free except food (i.e. RM60+ charge for food/day).
Take note that groups with children under 16 are not allowed to book on Saturdays at Alang’s Rawa Resort since they have a strict adults-only policy on the weekends!
2. Rawa Island Package 2021
Both resorts have their own packages.
You may want to read through both and see which is more suitable for your travel group!
Prices, of course, vary on which room you choose and the size of your group.
They charge by person and the waterfront rooms obviously cost the most!
The packages do not, however, include the following:
Johor National Park Fee & Marine Park Fee
Tourism Tax (applicable to foreigners)
Rental fees for water activities (e.g. kayak, snorkeling, pedal boats, etc)
Note: And if you bring your own alcohol, you will be charged corkage fees!
2.1) 2D1N Rawa Island Package
There is no such package available for Rawa Island as both resorts require a minimum of 2 nights’ stay for any booking.
2.2) 3D2N Rawa Island Package
A 3D2N package is perfect if you can only afford to take leave from work for just a day and go on a weekend!
It gives you up to 2 half-days and 1 full day to chill at Rawa Island!
This is the standard package offered at Alang’s Rawa Resort which includes:
2 nights’ worth of accommodation
Boat transfers to and from Rawa Island from Mersing Jetty
All meals starting with your first dinner until the last lunch on the day you leave.
Package excludes:
Cost of all drinks
Johor National Park Fee & Marine Park Fee
For Rawa Island Resort, you can book a 3-day or 4-day full board snorkeling package.
The term full board means that accommodation and meals are included, as well as a 2-way boat transfer from Mersing Jetty to the resort!
As a bonus, you get a welcome drink thrown into the package too!
2.3) 4D3N Rawa Island Package
If you have an extra day to spare in paradise, then the 4 days, 3 nights package is just what you need!
For Alang’s Rawa Resort, you’ll have to contact them directly if you want to stay for longer than 3 days!
While at Rawa Island Resort, this package is almost identical to the previous one but with an extra night’s worth of accommodation and another day’s worth of meals (3 per day).
3. Rawa Island Activities Package
You definitely need to pay close attention to this particular section if you plan to go to Rawa Island!
There are certain activities that are not allowed in the waters surrounding Rawa Island since it’s part of the Marine Park.
3.1 Rawa Island Diving Package
While you can’t book a diving package or course directly from any of the 2 resorts on Rawa Island, you can only book through the PADI Five Star Scuba Diving Instructor Development Center (Orca Scuba Rawa) on the island!
Orca Scuba Rawa offers diving courses from beginners up to professional Master Scuba Diving Trainer (MSTD). Families and children are welcome too! They have instructors for ‘open water’ or ocean diving or open scuba diving as well.
The location of the dive center is at the northern end of the beach which makes for excellent shore dives not far from the main reef or the resorts.
3.2 Rawa Island Snorkeling Package
Neither resort on Rawa Island has packages that include a snorkeling trip away from Rawa Island. However, you can rent snorkeling gear from the resort and snorkel off the beach!
Alang’s Rawa Resort provides free snorkelling gears for guests as long as you return the gear in their original condition but the gear availability is not guaranteed.
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Cost to rent snorkeling gear at Rawa Island Resort:
Snorkeling Mask & Snorkel at RM 9/hour or RM 25/day
Snorkeling – Fin at RM 9/hour or RM 25/day
Snorkeling Set at RM 17/hour or RM 40/day
Life Jacket at RM 9/day
Rash Guard at RM 30/day
Pool Noodle at RM 8/day
Mind that you stick to the western side of the beach to do so since the eastern side is very rocky. The coral reef stretches from the northern to the southern end of the beach about ~100ft or less from the shore.
Note: Be alert of jellyfish!
3.3 Rawa Island Kayaking & Pedal Boat Package
There are no packages for Rawa Island that include kayaking as one of the activities but:
Rawa Island Resort does have kayaks and pedal boats for rent:
Kayak (Single) at RM 28/hour
Kayak (Double) at RM 38/hour
Pedal Boat at RM 30/hour
3.4 Rawa Island Fishing Package
As one of the 13 islands in the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park which is under the protection of the Malaysian Department of Marine Parks, Fishing is strictly prohibited anywhere in the waters surrounding Rawa Island.
This is why there are no fishing packages available from any of the resorts.
4. Rawa Island Package From Singapore
If you’re starting your journey from Singapore to Rawa Island, there are Rawa Island packages from GoIslands that include the boat transfer from Mersing Jetty to Rawa Island.
4.1 Private Car Service From Singapore To Mersing Jetty
We don’t blame you if you don’t feel up to the task of driving 2.5 hours (or more) to Mersing Jetty!
For starters, the road is probably one that you have never been on before.
And then there’s the hassle of going through immigration, paying for toll, petrol and parking fees and having to drive back again!
Step 1: Private Car Service From Singapore/Johor Bahru To Mersing Jetty
Refer to the above information for more details.
Step 2: Boat Transfer From Mersing Jetty To Rawa Island
Boat tickets are included in the resort packages as both resorts offer speedboat services to ferry their guests from Mersing Jetty to Rawa Island.
All you have to do is select a slot that suits you!
You should note that the Johor National Park Fee and Marine Park Fee are not included in the package. So you will have to pay these at Mersing Harbour Center which is walking distance from Mersing Jetty.
Conclusion
There are not many Rawa Island packages so that keep things simple and easy!
It’s just a matter of choosing the resort and arranging transport (either bus or private car) from Singapore or Johor Bahru to Mersing Jetty so you can take the boat service provided by the resorts to Rawa Island!
