Pulau Aur is a small and pristine island situated 65 km off Mersing jetty.
Home to numerous unique sea creatures and coral reefs, Pulau Aur is perfect for scuba-diving and snorkelling.
It is set on a scenic landscape fringed with lush tropical rainforests.
No roads, few shops and traditional village retain the simplicity of the island.
The most significant luxury on Pulau Aur would be the beautiful nature offered by the island itself.
Why Stay In Pulau Aur?
Pulau Aur was appointed as Marine Park in 1994. Later in 2003, the island was nominated as National Park due to the rich presence of mangrove swamps and rainforests.
The island is famous for its top-rated scuba-diving sites surround the island. Many divers are familiar with Pulau Aur since the island was nominated as Marine Park.
The crystal-clear water allows divers to discover the underwater world teeming with unlimited marine life clearly.
There are over 20 diving spot around Pulau Aur. The most famous spots include Rayners Rock, Turtle Bay and Pinnacles with depth ranging from 7m to 67m and visibility ranging from 15m to 25m.
Napoleon Wrasse, Angel Fish, Barracuda, Bat Fish and Moray Eel are few examples of fishes that can be discovered here.
With a farther distance than other diving locations off east coast of Johor, it offers a deeper sea for scuba-diving. It is believed that Pulau Aur is likely to develop to international diving sites in Malaysia.
How To Get To Pulau Aur
All the scheduled ferries heading to Pulau Aur leave from Mersing Jetty. So, one has to arrive at Mersing jetty before departing for Pulau Aur.
From Singapore, go to Golden Mile Complex to board One Travel coach leaving at 6.30am. The journey takes 3 hours and you need to bring you luggage down to clear the customs twice. Much hassle but this is the cheapest ride to jetty. One way ticket costs SGD35.
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What To Do In Pulau Aur
Most tourists travel to Pulau Aur for one reason – scuba-diving and snorkelling. These are the most significant activities on Pulau Aur and subsequently, it becomes the must-do activities on Pulau Aur.
Photo credits: udive.com.my
Plan a visit to the main village in Pulau Aur, Kampung Telik Berhala by boat. The village comes with a school, grocery store, police station and jetty. The main occupation in the village is fisherman. You’ll be exposed to the lifestyles of locals.
There are other small villages at the back of the island which can be can be accessed through a long trek. The well-maintained trek ensures a safe journey and the journey takes approximately one hour.
Go for island hopping. A package tour is often offered by the resort. Or else, arrange a boat ride to nearby islands with boatman at the jetty. Nearby islands include Pulau Dayang, Pulau Pemanggil and Pulau Lang.
The island is also perfect for angling activities. The local fishermen would be delighted to share their experiences in fishing with fishing enthusiasts.
Where To Stay In Pulau Aur
Pulau Aur boasts 2 simple yet comfortable resorts that serve toothsome local and western dishes. These resorts have all you need in daily lives and they attend all the needs of guests to ensure enjoyment. The resorts on the island are:
1. Sebukang Bay Resort
Situated in Kampung Teluk Sebungkang, Sebukang Bay Resort offers a perfect escapade for visitors. As there is no WiFi connection on the island, the guests can totally indulge in the wonders of nature.
Standard rooms, quad rooms and family rooms are the accommodations here. All the rooms come with an attached bathroom and fans.
During the durian season, hiking to Durian Ochard is offered by the resort. The guests can set a campfire and enjoy BBQ at night. The most fascinating activity would be snorkelling and all the snorkelling gears are provided.
Address: Teluk Sebukang, Pulau Aur, 86800 Mersing, Johor Darul Takzim, Malaysia
GPS Coordinates: 2°45’37.83″N, 104°50’33.95″E
Contact:
+6019 – 739 1284 / +6017 – 674 6586 (Rumiza)
+6019 – 730 0815 (Rumizi)
+6019 – 739 6698 (Ruhil)
2. Bluewater Holidays Resort
Bluewater Holidays Resort is near to local village and the island’s jetty. The resort offers a 3D2N package that includes snorkelling, island hopping, jungle trekking, fishing, 3 meals per day and boat transfer.
The resort features 20 chalet rooms with private bathrooms. Their staffs are friendly to all their guests. White sandy beach and stunning water are just a few steps from the resort.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Pulau Aur
April to June would be the best months to visit Pulau Aur. In between these months, scuba-diving and snorkelling are favourable as the sea is calm and safe.
Avoid visiting Pulau Aur during monsoon season (November to March) as strong winds are blown from South China Sea. The villagers can only repair and maintain their fishing equipment and fishing nets within this period of time.
Travel Tips
All the equipment can be rent at the dive centre.
Money changers are available on the island.
Meals are included in travel package.
Boat departure depends on arrival time of coach. Most of them leave in the midnight.
When talking about Johor attractions, you must include Pulau Tioman!
In 1970, Pulau Tioman is proud of being chosen by well-known Time Magazine as one of the most beautiful islands around the world.
The island was founded by Chinese and Arab traders thousand years ago and now it has been developed to the major tourist destinations in Malaysia.
It is surrounded by calm and crystal clear water, but what can you do in Pulau Tioman?
Pulau Island is suitable for thrilling water sports such as scuba diving, windsurfing, water skiing, and snorkelling.
People often choose Pulau Tioman as their short weekend getaways and even honeymoon destination!
And in today’s post, I’m going to share all about Pulau Tioman as state below:
How To Go To Pulau Tioman
From Mersing jetty, Bluewater Express Tioman & CataFerry offers ferry services to
Kg. Salang
Kg. Genting
Kg. Tekek
Kg. Juara
kg. Mukut
Kg. Paya
in Pulau Tioman. Visitors can seek local boat transfer if they plan to go to other villages.
Public bus and private car services can bring you to Mersing Jetty directly from Singapore. Taking the bus is cheaper and there are only 2 to 3 bus operators offer this route services.
10 Best Things To Do In Pulau Tioman
Immerse yourself in this tropical wonderland once you step onto Pulau Tioman. Join any of the scuba diving courses around to explore the ocean.
You can also get a diving license after joining the training courses. Go snorkelling near the shore or a deeper water area. Alternatively, participate in the fishing trips available.
Visit Turtle Hatchery in Juara Village to gain insights into our environment. Go jungle trekking and head off to the Asah Waterfall to get closer to nature.
If possible, bring a telescope for stargazing at night. Once you feel tired, just relax and watch the sunset at any of the beaches.
Beaches in Pulau Tioman are elegant and peaceful. The soothing atmosphere in Paya Beach Tioman is ideal for complete relaxation. You may take pleasure in their spas for massages and treatments to refresh your minds.
Food enthusiasts should go to Salang Beach Tioman as restaurants around offer exquisite taste of local and international cuisines as well as wonderful sea views.
Juara Beach Tioman is a peaceful and quiet beach where exhilarating water sports can be enjoyed to the fullest. For nature lovers, spend the time to visit the turtle sanctuary around.
As one of the must-go beaches in Pulau Tioman, Monkey Beach Tioman offers various activities and delicious food where you can find lots of tourists around.
The tropical rainforest nearby adds magical charm to Melina Beach Tioman. It welcomes everyone to explore the diversity of wildlife and marine life here.
Best Restaurants On Pulau Tioman
Restaurants in Pulau Tioman are proud of serving diversity of delightful cuisine. Raise your expectations at the Hijau Restaurant that presents Indian food in a unique way.
If you wish to drink beers, enjoy your meals at Santai Bistro where Malay and western cuisines are served. The island boasts an ABCD Restaurant offering barbecued meals including seafood BBQ.
3 Best Diving Courses In Tioman For Scuba Diving Lovers
1. Tioman Dive Center
Either you’re first-timers or experienced divers, Tioman Dive Center caters to your need by offering courses ranging from beginners to professional one. Guided by PADI certified instructors, safety of students is always their main priority.
The center is situated in Salang village of the island. They charge their diving packages according to a number of dives. Prices increase with increasing number of dives.
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2. Tioman Dive Buddy
Tioman Dive Buddy is located a great distance from Genting Jetty. Nevertheless, its serene environment attracts those who prefer a quiet yet private place.
With their professional instructors, they pride themselves in offering the safest diving courses and some leisure dives. Besides diving courses, the dive centre provides a comprehensive service. They arrange accommodations, meals and even transport for their customers.
There are two diving schools under the management of B&J Diving Centre. One is them is Salang Bay School located in Salang Village and near to the main diving spots.
For those who prefer quiet places, head off to southern part of Tioman Island for another dive centre. Both of the diving schools offer all available PADI courses and they provide the best diving equipment.
Best Chalets In Pulau Tioman For A Relaxing Vacation
1. Beach Shack Chalet
Beach Shack Chalet is easily accessible and near to Turtle Sanctuary located in Juara Village. Budget travellers can consider here as they offer simple yet elegant chalet at extremely low room rates.
Offering taxi services and airport transfer, the staff aim at making guests feel themselves at home. They also provide a laundry service with additional charges.
Enjoy your meals at the restaurant or coffee shop around the chalet. Guests can also enjoy BBQ dinner as comprehensive BBQ facilities are provided.
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2. Juara Mutiara Resort Chalet
Strategically located right in the center of Juara Village, Juara Mutiara Resort Chalet requires only 20 minutes to arrive at the airport.
Featuring comfortable rooms ranging from twin rooms to quad rooms, all of them come with modern facilities and amenities. Cleaning services such as daily housekeeping and dry cleaning are offered here.
Besides participating in water sports, guests can also enjoy playing dart board and singing karaoke during their stay. Or, watch the latest movie at their TV area (shared lounge) with your dear ones.
3. Swiss Cottage Chalet Tioman
This is the leading cottage chalet in Pulau Tioman located near Tekek Village. The charm of Swiss Cottage Chalet is that they offer beachfront accommodations with fabulous sea views and this building blends perfectly into the nature of Tioman Island.
They offer different low-cost chalets that include terrace rooms, beachfront chalets, and beachfront bungalows. All these accommodations have beautiful furnishings to ensure a pleasant stay.
4. Bayu Tioman Beach
Nestled privately in Genting Village, Bayu Tioman Beach requires a 10-minute walk from jetty and you can take in the picturesque surrounding along the journey. All the chalets are made from timber so that it merges with nature.
The resort features a private beach where guests can enjoy sunbathing, fishing and water sports without disturbing by other visitors. After all day long activities, enjoy delicious meals at their restaurant that serves Malay, Chinese and Western cuisines.
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5. Bamboo Hill Tioman
All the Bamboo Hill Tioman is built in traditional Malay style by using varnished wood. The chalets offer a private veranda to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Inside, it comes with private bathroom, tea making facilities and attached mosquito net.
Featuring a library, guests can prefer reading books when the weather is bad for water sports. When you’re tired of reading and hungry, simply head off to their ABC’s and Nazri’s restaurant for delightful meals in a cosy ambiance.
Tioman Island Resort
Tioman Island boasts many elegant resorts that provide utmost comfort in nature. The most recommended resort with the most positive feedback is Berjaya Tioman Resort that offers outstanding customer services.
Located at the hilltop, Island Reef Resort offers wonderful views over the sea and the bay. For budget travelers, you can consider staying in Tioman Paya Resort, Juara Beach Resort, and Tioman Dive Resort.
For a cosy and warm environment, opt for Sun Beach Resort that offers rooms at reasonable prices. Melina Beach Resort and Japamala Resort offer private beach that suitable for those who seek for privacy and tranquillity.
Pulau Tioman is influenced by monsoon season that causes high tides. The season falls from October to February so avoid visiting Pulau Tioman these few months.
Pulau Tioman welcomes visitors from March to September and the best weather falls in June and July. Â
2 Routes For Ferry To Pulau Tioman
Option 1: Mersing To Pulau Tioman
Mersing offers cheap ferry ride to Pulau Tioman with the fare ranges from as low as RM50.
CataFerry and Bluewater Express Ferry offer the most reliable ferry to Tioman services.
The trip takes about 1.5 hours to 2 hours. There are at least three round trips per day but the schedules are all dependent on the tidal conditions.
Click the link below for the latest ferry schedule from Mersing Jetty to Pulau Tioman:
Are you seeking a serene spot to unwind or craving some retail therapy?
Or perhaps a retreat from the hustle and bustle, immersing yourself in the embrace of nature?
Look no further than Malaysia, a nation brimming with diverse cultural experiences, breathtaking natural wonders, and an array of religious sites such as mosques, temples, and churches.
Indulge in delectable cuisine, explore thrilling theme parks, and delve into fascinating histories—all within this captivating country.
Just a short journey across the Singapore-Johor Causeway awaits Johor, one of Malaysia’s vibrant states.
Embark on your adventure from there, discovering the myriad attractions Malaysia has to offer.
What are you waiting for? Dive into the allure of Malaysia’s renowned tourist destinations and start packing your bags now!
Top 10 Malaysia Tourist Attractions
1. Johor Attraction
Situated at the southern tip of Peninsular Malaysia, Johor shares its border with Singapore across the Johor Straits.
Renowned as one of Malaysia’s premier tourist destinations, Johor boasts an abundance of attractions.
While many visitors hail from Singapore, there’s a steady increase in arrivals from China, India, Indonesia, and beyond each year.
Among its highlights is the vibrant city center of Johor Bahru, replete with a plethora of renowned malls offering exceptional shopping experiences, exquisite dining options, and renowned theme parks, LEGOLAND Malaysia.
You will also find many other attractions, including, but not limited to:
2. Melaka Attraction
Every year, a large number of people travel to Melaka for holiday, business or corporate trip, family trip and so on.
Melaka is a UNESCO World Heritage Site from 2008. This is a site rich in history owing to the periods when the city was under the Dutch, Portuguese and British rule.
Explore the rich cultural tapestry of Melaka by visiting iconic sites like the Baba and Nyonya Peranakan Museum, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, Dutch Square, Jonker Night Market, A Famosa Fort, Christ Church Melaka, Dutch Heritage Trail, and Stadthuys, among many others.
And when it comes to culinary delights, Melaka doesn’t disappoint. Indulge in a gastronomic adventure with local delicacies such as satay celup, refreshing coconut milkshakes, flavorful chicken rice balls, and the intricate flavors of Nyonya cuisine.
3. Cameron Highlands Attraction
As Malaysia is a hot and humid country almost all through the year, Cameron Highlands is a welcome relief to those who want a much cooler environment.
The temperate climate of the region fosters the growth of succulent strawberries, drawing numerous tourists to the vibrant strawberry farms.
Moreover, don’t miss the enchanting Lavender farm and the breathtaking vistas of the BOH tea farm, which never fail to captivate visitors.
For those seeking adventure, the area boasts thrilling theme parks, lush forests to explore, and a plethora of accommodations, ensuring an unforgettable mountain resort experience.
4. Kuala Lumpur Attraction
Kuala Lumpur (KL), the bustling capital of Malaysia, serves as both the country’s commercial hub and a premier tourist destination, particularly beloved by business travelers.
Here, you’ll discover a wealth of upscale dining options, world-renowned shopping malls, and thrilling attractions such as Sunway Lagoon and Berjaya Times Square Theme Park.
For accommodation, KL offers a plethora of top-tier options boasting exceptional amenities, including renowned establishments like the Shangri-La Hotel, St. Regis Hotel, Mandarin Hotel, The Westin Hotel KL, and many others.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Central Market, where bustling stalls showcase unique apparel, exquisite traditional handicrafts, and tantalizing street food.
As the sun sets, venture into the lively nightlife scene of Bukit Bintang or TREC KL, renowned districts pulsating with clubs and pubs.
And let’s not overlook the iconic landmarks that define Kuala Lumpur’s skyline—the awe-inspiring Petronas Twin Towers, the majestic KL Tower, and the cultural enclaves of Chinatown and Little India. Don’t miss out on exploring the rich tapestry of attractions, including the National Museum and numerous other captivating sights that adorn the bustling city. With so much to see and do, Kuala Lumpur promises an unforgettable adventure at every turn.
5. Taman Negara National Park
Considered as an ancient national park in Malaysia, the Taman Negara National Park is favoured by many nature-loving and adventurous tourists.
Immerse yourself in the authentic tropical jungle ambiance, where you can embark on beloved river tours, discover enchanting waterfalls, and perhaps catch a glimpse of jungle creatures in their natural habitat. Don’t miss the opportunity to traverse the world’s longest canopy walkway, offering breathtaking views from the treetops.
The park boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna, with some species endemic to Malaysia calling it home. Additionally, the park is inhabited by indigenous tribes, adding cultural richness to the experience.
For the adventurous souls, fuel your exploration spirit with a hiking expedition. However, ensure to enlist the guidance of an experienced local guide for a safe and rewarding journey through this lush wilderness.
6. Perhentian Island
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the serene coastal beauty of the Perhentian Islands, nestled off the coast of Terengganu.
Comprising two enchanting islands, Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil, this tropical paradise boasts pristine sandy beaches and crystal-clear azure waters that offer a blissful retreat from the urban chaos.
Renowned for its unparalleled snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities, the underwater world surrounding the islands teems with vibrant coral reefs and a diverse array of marine life, including jellyfish, sea turtles, reef fish, and even sharks, providing divers with unforgettable encounters beneath the waves. With its idyllic charm and world-class diving sites, the Perhentian Islands are truly a slice of paradise on earth.
Indeed, the Perhentian Islands offer a welcoming haven for families, couples, and groups of friends alike. With a plethora of water sports activities available, from snorkeling to kayaking, there’s something to delight every member of the group.
Moreover, the islands abound with opportunities for exploration and relaxation, ensuring a memorable coastal holiday experience. Whether it’s lounging on pristine beaches, embarking on jungle treks, or indulging in delectable seafood feasts by the sea, the Perhentian Islands promise endless enjoyment and cherished moments for all who visit.
7. Port Dickson Attraction
Situated on the west of the peninsular Malaysia, about 3 hours drive from Johor is the Negeri Sembilan state which has many beautiful coastal and resort areas, especially along Port Dickson beach.
This is a great place to get away from all the hustle and bustle, particularly visitors coming from the cities, Kuala Lumpur (about an hour drive) and also Singapore. The extensive beach areas are family friendly and clean that visitors can engage in many outdoor water sports like;
jet ski
banana boat
wind surfing
swimming
snorkelling
sailing
fishing and many more
Aside from the fantastic beaches, there are many other interesting sites worth visiting like the Army Museum Port Dickson, Cape Rachado Lighthouse, The Lukut Fort and Museum, The Upside Down House and many more.
8. Penang Attraction
Nestled off the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia lies the captivating island of Penang, home to the historic town of Georgetown, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
In Georgetown, visitors are transported back in time as they stroll through streets lined with well-preserved pre-war buildings, eclectic shops, ornate temples, elegant mosques, colonial-era structures, and charming 19th-century churches. The town’s architectural landscape reflects the rich tapestry of cultural influences stemming from Penang’s historical ties to Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European settlement and trade, making it a melting pot of diverse traditions and heritage.
A must-visit on your Penang itinerary is the iconic Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest of its kind, offering a breathtaking view of the majestic Pagoda and the awe-inspiring statue of Guanyin. For a touch of whimsy, wander through the streets of Georgetown, where trendy and playful street murals await discovery.
Penang’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses, drawing visitors from far and wide with its diverse and authentic flavors. Influenced by a fusion of local, Asian, and European cuisines, the food here promises to satisfy any palate and craving, ensuring a gastronomic adventure like no other.
9. Genting Highlands Attraction
At 6,000 feet from the ground, lies a famous hill resort comprising of casinos, hotels, restaurants and fine dining, theme parks and shopping malls. This Malaysian-style Las Vegas is settled in between Pahang and Selangor states which is only an hour drive from Kuala Lumpur.
In addition to the excitement of the casino, Genting Highlands offers a myriad of entertainment options for visitors. Indulge in dining and shopping at Sky Avenue or embark on a retail therapy journey at Genting Highlands Premium Outlet. Explore captivating attractions such as Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Odditorium, Chin Swee Cave Temple, and Snow World. Anticipate the upcoming thrill of the 20th Century Fox Theme Park.
Moreover, Genting Highlands serves as a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking a simple weekend getaway. The Arena of Stars, a renowned venue, frequently hosts performances by top-notch singers, adding to the allure of this mountain retreat.
10. Tioman Island
Renowned as one of the most picturesque islands since the 1970s, this destination has become a magnet for vacationers hailing from Malaysia, Singapore, and beyond.
Its pristine, crystal-clear waters and exceptional dive sites are among its primary draws, enticing diving enthusiasts from far and wide to plunge into the depths and explore the vibrant marine life thriving beneath the surface.
Nestled amidst the pristine beauty of Pulau Tioman, a treasure trove of attractions awaits your discovery. Immerse yourself in the soothing embrace of nature as you take a leisurely dip into the cooling waters of Asah Waterfall, a sanctuary of serenity and rejuvenation.
For travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement, Air Batang beckons with its laid-back ambiance and vibrant party atmosphere, offering the perfect retreat for backpackers looking to unwind and connect with fellow adventurers.
For those craving a quieter escape, Juara unveils its untouched splendor, where tranquility reigns supreme. Here, you can bask in the unspoiled beauty of secluded beaches and lush greenery. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Juara Turtle Project, where you can delve into the fascinating world of sea turtles and gain a deeper understanding of their conservation efforts.
With an array of captivating experiences waiting to be explored, Pulau Tioman promises an unforgettable journey filled with adventure, relaxation, and moments of wonder amidst its breathtaking landscapes.
Malaysia: Popular Destination For Vacation
Malaysia is the world’s 11th most visited country. With tourist numbers hitting 20 million per year and increasing steadily, this trend is certain to continue for a long time. Here is a little gist about Malaysia:
It is located in South East Asia and made up of 13 states.
The country sits on 2 distinct regions: Peninsular Malaysia which acts as the country at the tip Eurasia and the Sarawak and Sabah states in Northern Borneo.
The tropical climate is great for tourism as it ranges from 20° to 34°C with mostly hot days and cool nights.
The robust economy and its strategic location in South-East China also add to its attractiveness especially for business travellers and the conference tourism.
There is a wide variety of accommodation to fit all budgets, from basic bed and breakfasts to 5-star luxury resorts.
Hence, the best thing about visiting Malaysia is that every state has its attractions and there is something new to see or do every day and everywhere.
You can also get a diving license after joining the training courses. Go snorkelling near the shore or a deeper water area. Alternatively, participate in the fishing trips available.
Visit Turtle Hatchery in Juara Village to gain insights into our environment. Go jungle trekking and head off to the Asah Waterfall to get closer to nature.
If possible, bring a telescope for stargazing at night. Once you feel tired, just relax and watch the sunset at any of the beaches.
Juara Beach Tioman is a peaceful and quiet beach where exhilarating water sports can be enjoyed to the fullest. For nature lovers, spend the time to visit the turtle sanctuary around.
