Pulau Dayang: The Island That You Never Knew Existed in Johor

February 19, 2024
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Pulau Dayang, Johor

With 65km off the east coast of Johor, Pulau Dayang is the furthest island from the mainland of east Peninsular Malaysia.

Its unique diving spot and fishing location have made the island famous among active divers and sport-fishermen.

But in general, the island is lesser-known even though it offers stunning beaches and fantastic underwater world.

With increasing accommodation and promotion packages offered, Dayang Island has the potential to become an international tourist destination in Malaysia.

Why Stay In Pulau Dayang?

In fact, Pulau Dayang and 4 other small islands make up an Aur Group, the region of Johor’s Marine Park due to incredible marine life all around the islands. Pulau Dayang is the second biggest islands in the group.

Also read: 10 Best Johor Islands off Mersing

Dayang Island In Johor

Home to Black Marlin, the fastest fish in the world, Pulau Dayang has attracted sport fishermen from all over the places for a game fish. Ideal fishing spots are available all around the island.

Dayang Island, Johor

Mainly discovered by foreign tourists especially divers, Pulau Dayang serves an ideal training location even for new scuba divers. The crystal-clear water allows divers to discover the colorful underwater world clearly.

Also read: Besar Island Johor

The beautiful coral reefs offshore enable non-divers to go for snorkeling. With the white sandy beaches and astonishing sea view, Pulau Dayang is the tropical paradise in Malaysia.

How To Get To Pulau Dayang

The jetty that offers ferry service to Pulau Dayang is Mersing jetty. Departure time for the ferry is normally on Friday night and it takes around 5 hours to arrive at the island.

Alternatively, book a diving trip with the dive shops in Malaysia or Singapore. The operator will arrange boat transfer for you.

For budget transportation to jetty, direct coach services are now available. The journey from Singapore to Mersing jetty takes around 3 hours.

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To arrive at Mersing Jetty, either you’re from Malaysia or Singapore, it’s recommended to hire a private car as it makes your journey simple and less troublesome.

If you are planning to spend some times in Mersing, check out the best things to do in Mersing.

What To Do In Pulau Dayang

1. Scuba-Diving at Pulau Dayang

Scuba-diving experiences are the activities that shouldn’t be missed out in Pulau Dayang. Dayang Tip, Captains Point, Telok Jawa, Rayners Rock, and Dayang Jetty are the diving spots surround the island. After diving, fill up your own dive logs to have memories to look back in the future.

Sea Creature at Pulau Dayang

2. Visit Local Fisherman Village of Pulau Dayang

Hop on to nearby islands by chartering a small boat at the jetty. The nearest island, Aur Island is just 5 minutes boat ride from Pulau Dayang. Otherwise, visit Kampung Pasir Putih, a local fisherman village which means Village of White Sand.

Also read: 16 Fun & Memorable Outdoor Activities In Johor

3. Snorkelling At Pulau Dayang

Snorkelling at Pulau Dayang

For non-divers, go for snorkeling at shallower regions. Or you can play beach volleyball and go for sunbathing at the beach.

4. Catch Sunrise & Sunset At Pulau Dayang

Bring a binocular and be a star gazer at night! Pulau Dayang offers stunning views of stars when the weather is good. You’ll be amazed by the star formations high up the sky.

Wake up early to catch the sunrise at the jetty. In the evening, sunset can be enjoyed at the jetty as well.

Where to Stay in Pulau Dayang

1. Dayang Blue Resort

The only resort in Pulau Dayang is situated at the southernmost part of the island facing Pulau Aur. As Pulau Dayang is famous among divers, being the only resort on the island made it popular among the divers too. The resort is surrounded by blue water thus it is named Dayang Blue Resort.

Also read: 15 Best Beach Resorts in Johor You’ll Absolutely Love

Dayang Blue Resort

Dayang Blue Resort features comfortable chalets overlooking the elegant beach and it can accommodate up to 300 visitors. The resort provides over 20 outdoor bathrooms as there is no private bathroom in the rooms. Extra bed can be arranged upon request.

The on-site restaurant is located close to their reception counter. It serves simple local food such as char kue tiaw and nasi goreng. The restaurant can cater the needs of vegetarians. BBQ can be enjoyed at night.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Pulau Dayang

During monsoon season, the whole island is susceptible to monsoon winds from South China Sea. Due to the rough sea and strong wind, the island is closed to the public from November to March. There is no ferry available as well.

Kindly visit Pulau Dayang during diving season that falls between April to September. Within these months, the visibility of water  for many Malaysia dive sites are great including Dayang Island and the divers are able to see the coral reefs clearly. Plus, the water temperature is at normal range. However, beware of the jellyfish season. It is painful to get stung by them.

Pulau Dayang Travel Tips

  • The boat journey is long. It takes longer time when the sea is rough.
  • Mersing jetty offers more boat transfer to Pulau Dayang as compared to Tanjung Leman Jetty.
  • The life jacket is a must while going for snorkeling.
  • Weekend diving trips cost around SGD $380 to SGD $480.

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Pulau Besar: Awesome Island in Johor for an Exotic Beach & Scuba Diving Vacation

February 19, 2024
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Pulau Besar, Johor

Pulau Besar has an ancient name called Pulau Babi Besar which stands for “Big Boars Island”.

Due to the inhabitation of man, the number of wild boars decreases and its name changed to Pulau Besar at present.

Set within nature beauty, Pulau Besar is the tropical paradise on earth.

The island is fringed by swaying palm trees, dazzling waters and it has the finest white sands that can comfort your feet.

Established resorts complete your short trips from Singapore in Pulau Besar.

Why Stay In Pulau Besar?

Located 15km off the east coast of Johor, Pulau Besar is surrounded by many other scattered islands. Clean, peaceful and attractive are not enough to describe this beautiful island.

The water is so clear that even tiny sea creatures and the coral reef can be seen from the water surface.

Also read: 10 Best Haven Islands off Mersing, Johor

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Pulau Besar Underwater View 2

Due to the wide range of marine life offered, the island is appointed as Marine Park to preserve them. Decent tropical jungles offer numerous unique flora and fauna for nature lovers. Jungle trekking is a recommended activity on the island. Research on nature can be done too.

Pulau Besar Underwater View

Fewer people know that overseas survival programmes and films have been shot in Pulau Besar. The resorts were once closed due to the filming progress. To make the locals proud, even overseas programmes have acclaimed Pulau Besar as a beautiful island.

Pulau Besar Underwater View 1

Various water sports activities such as canoeing, diving, snorkeling, and swimming can be enjoyed on Pulau Besar. These activities make you stay more enjoyable and more interesting.

How To Get To Pulau Besar

Mersing jetty is the only gateway to Pulau Besar. You can get to Mersing jetty by coach or car. The journey takes around 3 hours depending on traffic condition.

Also read: Sibu Island Johor

1. Bus To Pulau Besar From Singapore

These coaches will bring you directly to Mersing jetty. The bus fare costs SGD35 on average. Bus tickets can be booked online.

Transnasional Coach Services

Pick-up point:  The Plaza@ Beach Road

One Travel & Tours

Pick up point: Golden Mile Complex

WTS Travel Singapore Flyer

Pick up point: Textile Centre

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What To Do In Pulau Besar

The environment and weather of Pulau Besar are great for water sports and beach activities. Sunny days and calm coast offer the best experience for the visitors. Activities that can be enjoyed on the island are:

  • Jungle trekking
  • Visit to kelong – experience the daily lives of local fishermen
  • Snorkeling
  • Fishing
  • Island Hopping
  • Scuba-diving
  • Beach volleyball
  • Canoeing
  • Beach futsal
  • Visit treehouse
  • Swinging hamster
  • Relax in hammock around the beach
  • Photo Shooting
  • Leisure stroll

Also read: 16 Fun & Memorable Outdoor Activities In Johor

Pulau Besar, Johor

There are a few souvenir shops selling local products on the island. Buy some souvenirs here for friends or keep them as your memory.

Where To Stay In Pulau Besar

1. Aseania Beach Resort Pulau Besar

Aseania Beach Resort Pulau Besar is a 3-star resort located within a stone throws distance from the white sandy beach. Offering an exciting and relaxing travel experience at once, the resort makes your dream summer holiday becomes real.

Aseania Beach Resort Pulau Besar

The wooden resort blends wonderfully into the natural environment of Pulau Besar. It features 47 beachfront rooms that are all furnished in traditional style, offering a classic and conventional environment.

It’s inevitable to feel the warm hospitality from their attentive and passionate staffs.

Also read: 15 Best Beach Resorts in Johor You’ll Absolutely Love

Kayu Manis Restaurant, the on-site restaurant, offers you the finest dining experience. Various local and international cuisines are cooked by their experienced chef.

Aseania Beach Resort At Besar Island

As beach facilities and equipment for water sport activities are provided, guests need not bring them along. To give some privacy and solitude, a beach hut facing the sea is offered.

On the island, there are unlimited spots for sightseeing and photographing. Take some pictures home and keep them as one of your precious memories.

Office Address: Lot 33, 34 & 35, Pulau Besar, 86800 Mersing, Johor, Malaysia
Contact:+607 – 797 0058
3D2N Package: RM540 – RM590, click here for more details -> Pulau Besar Package

2. D’Coconut Island Resort

D’Coconut Island Resort is a famous resort strategically located in Pulau Besar. Because of the excellent services and facilities they provide, the resort has a lot of returning guests each year. Many of their guests turn into friends.

D’Coconut Island Resort Plate

Rooms provided are ranged from the terrace, standard rooms, deluxe rooms, executive deluxe rooms to family rooms.

The room rates are affordable and additional charges of RM40 will be imposed during public holidays. These rooms feature an en-suite bathroom and a mini-fridge.

D’Coconut Island Resort Room

Take advantage of its strategic location by indulging yourself in the water activities provided such as snorkeling, canoeing, island hopping, beach volleyball, and fishing trips.

The resort features a swimming pool and a pool bar for relaxation. For business travelers, the resort is well-equipped with conference facilities. After long day activities, take pleasure at the on-site restaurant for a delightful meal.

Contact: +603 – 4252 6686, +603 – 4296 5753
Fax: +603 – 4252 2689

3. Nirwana Beach Resort Mersing

Nestled in Pulau Besar, Nirwana Beach Resort Pulau Besar has welcomed lots of local and international tourists each year. Due to its cosy atmosphere, it’s pleasant to spend a few days of holidays here to be totally indulged in the wonders of nature.

Nirwana Beach Resort Mersing

The resort features Malay style chalets and dormitory style chalets. These chalets come with an en-suite bathroom and modern amenities to provide utmost comfort. The restaurant serves local and western cuisines that are simple and delightful.

To convenience the guests, it offers cheap packages that include accommodation fees, meals and returns boat transfer. If you wish to enjoy BBQ dinner, additional charges are imposed.

Beach is within a few steps from the resort. Guests get to enjoy snorkeling, fishing, diving and island hopping during their stay. If you wish to stay indoors, a pool table is provided for leisure. Otherwise, simply take a stroll and watch stunning sunset along the beach.

Address: 20A, Jalan Ismail, 86800 Pulau Besar, Mersing, Johor, Malaysia.

4. Mirage Island Resort

Mirage Island Resort offers a different type of unique designed chalets ranging from A-frame chalet, family chalet to sea view chalet. Among the chalets, A-frame chalet will be the most economical.

Mirage Island Resort, Pulau Besar

All are equipped with air-conditioning, clean beds, bathroom and resting chairs on the outdoor terrace. If you are looking for a luxury stay on this island, this resort is not your choice.

Mirage Island Resort Besar Island

For the 3 days, 2 nights stay package, the price per pax ranging from RM425 to RM620. The package includes accommodation, food, and speedboat (Mersing-resort-Mersing).

When Is The Best Time To Visit Pulau Besar

To ensure safety, Pulau Besar does not welcome visitors during monsoon season (October to March). The sea is rough and the wind is strong and fast. Thus, water sports are prohibited to keep visitors safe. Many resorts close their doors within this period too.

June to August is the summertime in Malaysia. This time period has great weather for water sports and many other activities. Boat transfers are less influenced by unfavorable tidal conditions. Thus, it is recommended to visit Pulau Besar between June to August.

Pulau Besar Travel Tips

  1. There are a lot of sand flies on the beach. Remember to bring insect repellent.
  2. Snorkeling equipment is not available in Mirage Island Resort.
  3. Chalet does not provide any shampoos, body wash liquid and remember to bring on your own.
  4. Mobile signal coverage on the island is not good. Therefore, it is a good opportunity to keep you away from the phone.
  5. No ATM is available at Pulau Besar. Therefore, you need to bring enough cash to pay for your accommodation and drink.
  6. There is no medical infrastructure on the island and don’t have any trained staff in first aid. If anything serious happens, you need to take the boat back to Mersing.
  7. Most resorts closed on monsoon season (around November to February).
  8. Only Aseania Resort Pulau Besar and D’Coconut Island Resort have a swimming pool.

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Short Trips From Singapore (17 Weekend Getaway)

February 10, 2024
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17 Recommended Short Trips From Singapore

Naturally, if you’re looking for short trips from Singapore, places to visit in Malaysia will inevitably be part of that equation!

You don’t need to go far to get a different perspective from the humdrum of city life in Singapore!

We’ve got a line-up of memorable locations that will not require a long fight (thank goodness for that!), including some stunning islands that are sure to leave you breathless in awe!

17 Recommended Short Trips From Singapore

1. Spend The Day (Or Two) At Legoland Malaysia

Bring back your childhood while you spend time with your whole family!

Everything is Lego here and don’t worry, you’ll definitely get a chance to build something! short getaway from singapore!

They even have a Ninjago-themed hotel!

Recommended Itinerary From Singapore To Legoland:

Day 1:
Get to Legoland, take the rest of the day to explore the main park. There are so many rides to try and attractions to see!

Day 2:
Browse the ocean aquariums at Sea Life and end the day with at the water park to cool off in the heat!

Legoland Malaysia Sea Life (Amazing Creations)

How To Go To Legoland Malaysia From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service

On a normal weekday, it can take a minimum of 30 minutes to drive to Legoland straight from Singapore.

Do not forget the time to clear immigration at the border. Or potential delays from subsequent traffic at the border!

Option 2: Bus (1 hour)

Departure Location: Singapore Flyer
Arrival Location: Legoland

Note: The bus service only operates twice a day. Since it does not stop directly in front of Legoland, you will have to walk for ~10 minutes.

2. Drive-Up To Genting Highlands For The Weekend

Despite being up on a mountain range (The Titiwangsa Mountains to be exact) and among an ancient rainforest, Genting Highlands is a popular getaway destination for short trips from Singapore with surprisingly many modern attractions!

In fact, there is more than one theme park here!

Genting Highlands Theme Park (2)

Recommended Itinerary From Singapore To Genting Highlands:

Note: The highlight of this itinerary is SkyAvenue Genting.

Day 1:

  • Travel to Genting Highlands from Singapore.
  • Check into the hotel of your choice.
  • Have lunch at The Laughing Fish by Harry Ramsden.
  • Go to SkyTropolis Funland – 4 levels of indoor entertainment (e.g. rides and virtual reality games!) including a zip line across the park (Eagle Landing Zipline).
  • Dinner with a view (High Line Roof Top Market)

Day 2:

After breakfast, you can check out SkyAvenue:

  • Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium (Museum with a very strange collection of objects)
  • Jurassic Research Centre

Jurassic Research Centre Genting

  • Zombie Outbreaks(Haunted house attraction)

Zombie Outbreak Genting

  • Alive Museum (3D optical illusion gallery)
  • Healing Touch (Massages)

Have lunch (Medan Selera Foodcourt) and then see a movie at Bona Cinemas (IMAX or Gold Class with D-BOX Halls).

Catch a free light show at the atrium around 4.45pm (SkySymphony).

Ride the Awana SkyWay cable car at SkyAvenue Station and visit either:

  1. Chin Swee Temple or
  2. Genting Highlands Premium Outlets

Dinner at Motorino Pizzeria or London’s Burger & Lobster.

Party at Empire by Zouk (Ground level, SkyAvenue).

Day 3:

Check out and head back to Singapore.

How To Go To Genting Highlands From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service

This will be a 5-6 hour drive along a windy and steep road.

If that is something you’re not keen on, you can book SGMYTAXI private car service instead!

Option 2: Bus (6.5hours)

Departure Location: Golden Mile Tower
Arrival Location: Genting Highlands

3. Short Getaway From Singapore At Jonker Street Melaka

If you’re looking for places to go for short trips from Singapore, Jonker Street surely tops the list of visitors wanting to pay a visit to the historic city of Malacca!

Walking distance to many other wonderful attractions in Malacca like the Maritime Museum, there are heaps of excellent dining options, interesting shops and quaint cafes all along the street.

Maritime Museum Malacca

Recommended Itinerary Short Getaway From singapore To Jonker Street Melaka:

Day 1:

Try to reach Melaka early so you’ll have more time to explore!

  • A’Famosa (also known as Porta de Santiago)

A'Famosa Fort in Malacca

  • Paul’s Church (hilltop church ruins with a view of the city)
  • Chicken rice balls for lunch (Chung Wah)
  • Red Square (Dutch Square)
  • Baba and Nyonya Museum 
  • Melaka River Cruise

Pick up point at Muara Jetty For Melaka River Cruise trip

  • Jonker Street Night Market (Fridays- Sundays from 6pm to 12am) – Try satay celup (hot pot with satay peanut sauce)

Day 2:

Start this day early too:

  • Sunrise at the seaside Floating Mosqueof Melaka
  • Cheng Ho Museum
  • Kampung Kling Mosque
  • Leisurely stroll down Jonker Street Melaka – Buy some treats like durian-flavoured dodols, pineapple tarts and gula melaka as souvenirs to take back home!

jonker street

  • Nyonya dinner (Kocik Restaurant or Peranakan Place)

Day 3:

You can always stop by Kuala Lumpur for some shopping (See point 11 for more details) before returning back to Singapore!

How To Get To Jonker Street Melaka From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service

It takes 2 hours and 40 minutes to reach Malacca from Singapore. Book a private car service with SGMYTAXI on WhatsApp if you want to save your energy for enjoying your trip!

Option 2: Bus (4 hours)

Departure Location: Queen Street Bus Terminal
Arrival Location: Melaka Sentral

4. Have Fun At Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark

It’s worth making a trip to Desaru for the weekend!

Desaru Coast Adventure Water Park

There is much more than just food here!

Besides the Desaru waterpark, you can have a tour of Desaru Fruit Farm, visit Malaysia’s largest ostrich farm or see huge crocodiles at Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm!

Recommended Itinerary From Singapore To Desaru Coast Adventure Water Park:

Day 1:

From Singapore, you can visit these places first before heading to Desaru Coast.

  • Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm

Crocodile Farm at Teluk Sengat

  • Desaru Fruit Farm (And lunch)
  • Desaru Ostrich Farm

Feed Ostrich With Vege In Desaru Ostrich Farm

  • Dinner
  • Kota Tinggi Firefly Park

Kota Tinggi Firefly Park

Day 2:

Spend the day at Adventure Water Park Desaru Coast before going back to Singapore.

How To Go To Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service

Wonder how to get to Desaru from Singapore?

SGMYTAXI private car service can take you straight from your home in Singapore to Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark in roughly an hour.

A quick, comfortable and convenient experience, to be sure!

Option 2: Bus (2 hours)

Departure Location: Singapore Flyer
Arrival Location: Adventure Park Desaru Coast

5. Getaway Climb Up Mount Lambak At Kluang

You can do this one in 1 day short trip from Singapore.

Mount Lambak locally known as Gunung Lambak has a height of 510m.

That means roughly 4 hours of hiking from the base right up to the summit and back.

Great for beginners! The mountain is in Kluang, Johor.

Gunung Lambak johor

Recommended Itinerary From Singapore To Mount Lambak:

Day 1:

  • Reach Kluang in the morning
  • Have light breakfast
  • Get to the base of Mount Lambak
  • Start the 2-hour climb (Pack lunch to bring with you)

Halfway To Peak Of Mount Lambak

  • Lunch at the peak
  • Climb back down (another 2 hours)
  • Relax before journey back to Singapore


View From Mount Lambak

Note: Moderate fitness is required for this hike.

How To Go To Mount Lambak From Singapore:

Option 1: Private car service

You will need 2.5 hours on the road to get to Mount Lambak from Singapore.

It’s worth opting for a private car service in this case (if you don’t want to drive) because the bus takes incredibly long with multiple transits! And you’ll be tired after the hike!

Option 2: Bus (4 hours)

Departure Location: Aft Windsor Pk Rd or Opp Flame Tree Pk
Arrival Location: Bus Terminal Kluang

6. Short Trips From Singapore And Stay At Eco Resort – Tadom Hill Resorts, Banting

Tadom Hill Resort is an eco resort consisting entirely bamboo structures, that lies in a manmade crater left behind as this once was a quarry site.

They have basic huts and more comfortable ones depending on your preference (and budget).

Note: You can also opt to just make a day visit rather than stay overnight.


Tadom Hill Resorts, Selangor


tadom-hill-resort

Things to do At Tadom Hill Resort:

  • Dive off their bamboo platform into the lake
  • Swing into the lake
  • Go bamboo rafting


Tadom Hill Resorts Water Activity

  • Play giant Jenga, badminton, ping pong, volleyball or basketball
  • Try their flying fox line
  • Have a barbeque

7. Go To One Of Many Theme Park Malaysia short trips from singapore

Malaysia has ever-growing selection of theme parks!

Why not bring your family over to any of these theme parks in Malaysia for a fun day out?

Theme Parks in Malaysia:


Sunway Lagoon

  • Melaka Wonderland
  • Berjaya Times Square Theme Park
  • A’Famosa Melaka
  • Lost World of Tambun
  • Teluk Bahang Escape Theme Park
  • Kidzania


Kidzania Kuala Lumpur

  • I-City Theme Park
  • Skytrex Adventure
  • District 21 Indoor Adventure Theme Park


District 21 Indoor Adventure Theme Park Putrajaya

8. Join A Durian Farm Tour Malaysia

Want to make an appointment with the king of fruits?


Uncle Lim Durian Pekan Nenas, Johor

Durian farms are something of a tourist attraction as people are curious as to how these impressive fruit are grown.

And at a durian farm, you can usually sample what’s available!


Zhong Cheng Durian Farm JB

Make a visit to one if you have a weekend to spare as best durian tends to be in the central part of Malaysia (notably, Pahang):

  • Penang Durian Farm (Bao Sheng Durian Farm, Green Acres)
  • Bentong Durian Farm
  • Raub Durian Farm (Raub Durian Orchard, Tras Durian Farmstay)
  • Pahang Durian Farm
  • Malacca Durian Farm (Sim Koa Yen)
  • Kuala Lumpur Durian Farm (Karak Organic Durian Farm)
  • Johor Durian Farm (忠誠榴槤園 Zhong Cheng Durian Farm)


Zhong Cheng Durian Farm

Note: The peak of durian season is in July & August for most of Malaysia.

9. Experience Fishing Village Life At Kukup Island

Let Kukup open your eyes up to a totally different lifestyle – one with a slower pace with more connections to nature!

It’s surely a great place for short trip from Singapore for a group of people.

In between Singapore and Kukup, you can stop by a pineapple farm or two to see how the spiky acidic fruit grows!


Kukup Kelong

Recommended Itinerary From Singapore To Kukup:

Day 1:

Upon reaching Kukup, you can start to explore the fishing village:

  • Try local snacks like fried shrimp cake
  • Take a walk through the mangroves (Kukup National Park)


Kukup National Park

  • Retire to your resort in Kukup for a seafood barbeque and karaoke session!

Day 2:

  • Begin the day with fish porridge for breakfast
  • Short visit to a local fish farm
  • Grab some local goods like belacan or keropok
  • Seafood lunch


Kukup Seafood

How To Go To Kukup From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service

40 minutes is the estimated duration time to Kukup from Singapore.

Public transport is inconvenient to reach a place as rural as Kukup. So you may want to hire a private car service as they are well-acquainted with the roads!

Read previous customer reviews regarding SGMYTAXI’s private car service.

Option 2: Bus (~3 hours excluding immigration clearance)

Departure Location: Kranji MRT Station
Transit Location: Larkin Terminal followed by Tuas Checkpoint
Arrival Location: Pontian

Note: After your reach Pontian town, take a taxi for 30 minutes to Kukup fishing village.

10. Go On A Johor Bahru Heritage Trail Walking Tour

What better way to see the historical places in Johor Bahru than to take on the Johor Bahru Heritage Trail!

The trail begins at the High Court Building and ends at Jalan Dhoby.

In between these endpoints are museums, streets with historical significance and religious buildings!

To cover everything, it’s best to have a car at your disposal!


johor bahru town

Johor Bahru Heritage Trail Route:

High Court Building > Sultan Ibrahim Building > Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum (Tiong Hua Museum) > Jalan Tan Hiok Nee > Sentral Police Station > Kampung Ah Fook > Old Johor Bahru Railway Station > Chinese Temple > Gurdwara Sahib (Sikh temple) > Arulmigu Rajamariamman Devasthanam Temple > Broadway Cinema > Jalan Dhoby


Sultan Ibrahim Building Johor Bahru

Other attractions that are not walking distance:

  • Grand Palace and Royal Abu Bakar Museum
  • Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque


Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque

  • Johor Zoo
  • Danga Bay Marina Club
  • Royal Mausoleum
  • Dataran Bandaraya

How To Go To Johor Bahru From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service

Think you won’t need a private car service for the 1-hour drive?

You may want to rethink that if you have more than 2 people in your group as having direct transport to Johor Bahru can save you time and avoid unnecessary qualms!

Make an online booking for SGMYTAXI private car service.

Option 2: Bus (~2 hours or just under an hour from Kranji or Woodlands)

Departure Locations:

  • Singapore Jurong East Interchange
  • Kranji
  • Woodlands
  • Queen Street
  • Newton Circus
  • Boon Lay
  • Changi Airport
  • Marina Square
  • Resort World Sentosa
  • Buona Vista

Arrival Location: Johor Bahru

11. Shopping In Kuala Lumpur With Lower Exchange Rate

Kuala Lumpur is a convenient place for short trips from Singapore.

It has its own legion of shopping malls that will tempt you with glossy displays and brands from all over the world!

Here are our top picks for shopping malls in Kuala Lumpur:

  • Pavillion Kuala Lumpur Shopping Mall – Cream of the crop!
  • Suria KLCC – Branded goods and of course, the Petronas Twin Towers!


Petronas Twin Tower

  • Low Yat Plaza Shopping Mall – Best if you’re on the hunt for electronics
  • Sungei Wang Plaza – Fast fashion retail outlets
  • One Utama Shopping Mall – Large mall in Petaling Jaya
  • Mid Valley Megamall – If you’ve been to the one in Johor Bahru, this one in Kuala Lumpur is the elder sister.

Mid Valley Megamall KL

Image credits: midvalley.com.my

  • The Garden – Connected to Mid Valley Megamall so you get two malls in one!
  • Starhill Gallery Kuala Lumpur – Luxury brands.
  • Berjaya Times Square – Conveniently attached to a hotel.
  • Sunway Pyramid – Close to Sunway Lagoon Theme Park and has an ice-skating rink!


Sunway Lagoon Water Park

How To Go To Kuala Lumpur From Singapore:

Option 1: Private Car Service

Prepare for a 4-hour drive to reach Kuala Lumpur from Singapore.

If you don’t want to drive, look into booking a private car service from SGMYTAXI!

Option 2: Bus (~5 hours, 15 minutes)

Departure Location: Golden Mile Complex
Arrival Location: Jalan Imbi

12. Eat & Sight-see At George Town, Penang

Penang is certainly the best short trips from Singapore to take.

2 days is considerably short to see all that Penang has to offer!

Still, it’s only a short flight from Singapore so you can come again anytime!

So don’t rush and take your time to roam around Penang’s vibrant George Town.


Kek Lok Si Temple Penang

Recommended Itinerary From Singapore To Penang:

Day 1:

  • Take a flight from Singapore to Penang.
  • Restoran Hameediyah Tandoori House (Nasi kandar)
  • Penang street murals on Armenian Street


Georgetown Heritage Walk

  • See the historical clan jetties at Chew Jetty or stroll down Little India
  • Batu Ferringhi Beach
  • New Hawker Lane Centre or a Nyonya cuisine restaurant (Dinner)
  • Grab a drink at a hidden bar (Out of Nowhere)

Day 2:

  • Early rise to hike up Penang Hill (or to take the cable car, your choice!)


Penang Hill

  • Tek Sen restaurant (double-roasted pork)
  • Prangin Mall for some shopping
  • Skywalk tower (TOP @ Komtar)
  • Fly back to Singapore

Departure Location: Singapore Changi Airport
Arrival Location: Georgetown, Penang

13. Snorkel At Pulau Tioman

If you’re looking for options on short trips from Singapore to Malaysia, Pulau Tioman is one of the best islands from Mersing, Johor!

Among all the other islands in this region:


Relax & Do Nothing at Tioman Island

Tioman Island is comparatively well-equipped with resorts, restaurants, roads and a marine park center to accommodate visitors who throng the island particularly in the summer months!

Note: There are around 8 villages on the island.


Pulau Tioman


snorkeling at tioman

How To Go To Tioman Island From Singapore:

To get to Tioman Island, you will have to take a ferry from Mersing Jetty or Tanjung Gemok Jetty.

The ferry trip takes anywhere between 1.5 to 2 hours.

Note: Getting to the jetties is a different story. On public holidays and long weekends, traffic is unavoidable which can extend the 3-hour journey to 6 hours (or more!) from Singapore

14. Explore Pulau Besar

Less than an hour away from Mersing Jetty, one of the ferry terminals in Johor.

Also read: 9 Best Things To Do In Mersing: While You Are Waiting For Your Ferry!

Gorgeous Pulau Besar has yet to have become as well-known as Tioman Island still!

Which means you can pretty much have the island to yourself and a few other visitors!

Snorkeling is the main activity here!


Pulau Besar Johor

Recommended Itinerary From Singapore To Pulau Besar:

Day 1:

After around 4 hours’ worth of traveling, you owe it to yourself to just soak in your surroundings and lounge on the pristine stretch of beach in front of you!

Maybe go for a swim or rent a canoe!

Note: There are dead corals in the water. Protect your feet with swimming shoes.

Day 2:

Take an early morning stroll from one side of the island to the other. Go snorkeling afterwards! That’s what you came for, isn’t it? Resorts typically offer snorkeling trips too.


Pulau Besar Underwater View

Note: No fantastic reef immediately close to Pulau Besar but snorkeling is still enjoyable.

Day 3:

Check out and leave for Singapore.

How To Go To Pulau Besar From Singapore:

You will find ferries for Pulau Besar at Mersing Jetty. The ferry takes around 30 minutes to reach the island!

If you happen to choose Aseania Beach Resort, they offer package deals that include this ferry service!


Aseania Beach Resort Pulau Besar

15. Go Deep-sea Fishing Pulau Pemanggil

There are 2 things to highlight about Pulau Pemanggil:

First of all, there is the deep-sea fishing for marlin and mackerel!

And secondly, there is a mountain on the island where you can have panoramic views of the island and the ocean!


Pulau Pemanggil Beach View

Recommended Itinerary From Singapore To Pulau Pemanggil:

Day 1:

Upon arrival, take in the views and head down to the rocky beach to see if you can spot the neighboring islands like Pulau Aur! Sit down to dinner at your resort.

  • Wake up early for a spectacular sunrise.
  • Prepare for a full day snorkeling trip!
  • Visit Kampung Buau
  • Hike up Batu Buau.


Snorkelling at Pemanggil Island

Note: If you want to hike up Batu Buau, your resort may be able to arrange a hiking trip for you!

Day 3:

Time to leave Pulau Pemanggil for Singapore!


pulau pemanggil

How To Go To Pulau Pemanggil From Singapore:

Getting to Pulau Pemanggil requires a 1.5-hour speedboat ride from Mersing Jetty. Check with your resort if they can arrange one for you!

Note: Be wary of the dates that you choose. A full moon or new moon can mean unfavourable tidal conditions (i.e. too low or too high) which greatly affects the boat schedules!

16. Have A Quiet Getaway On Pulau Tinggi

Another snorkeling and diving paradise but the one thing that sets Pulau Tinggi apart from the other islands is Mount Semundu!

This extinct volcano proves to be a challenging hike of 3 hours with rewarding views of Pulau Tinggi!


Mount Semudu at Pulau Tinggi

Recommended Itinerary From Singapore To Pulau Tinggi:

Day 1:

Check out the beach once you have put down your bag! At low tide, the strikingly clear water is a marvellous sight to behold!


Seaview at Pulau Tinggi

Rent a kayak and get out onto that super transparent water!

Tip: This beach has sandflies. Do slap on a layer of repellent!

Day 2:

Go on an early morning hike to any of the 10 waterfalls on the island or Mount Semundu!

Join a snorkeling trip to Pulau Mentinggi.


Underwater creature at Pulau Tinggi

Day 3:

Alas, time to pack up and say goodbye to Pulau Tinggi!

How To Go To Pulau Tinggi From Singapore:

Tanjung Leman Jetty is the departure point for Pulau Tinggi. From here, you will need a 45-minute speedboat trip which your resort should arrange for you.

There’s no direct bus to Tanjung Leman Jetty so it’s easier to drive here or better still, take a private car service so you don’t have to worry about leaving your car at the jetty overnight!

17. Live Island Life On Pulau Sibu

Pulau Sibu consists of 4 little islands (Pulau Sibu Tengah, Pulau Sibu Besar, Pulau Sibu Kukus and Pulau Sibu Hujung) which makes island hopping around this marine park a breeze!

With little marks of civilization (i.e. no roads and limited facilities), you can truly feel like you’re lost in paradise on this island!


You will see the coral and nemo fish when diving in Pulau Sibu

Recommended Itinerary From Singapore To Pulau Sibu:

Day 1:

  • Reach Pulau Sibu. Take a stroll around the island through the resorts. Or rent a canoe!


Sibu Island

Day 2:

  • Island hop
  • Go snorkeling
  • Check out and have lunch
  • Start your journey back to Singapore


Sibu Island Beach View

How To Go To Pulau Sibu From Singapore:

Pulau Sibu is actually pretty close to Singapore. Do include in this your choice for short trips from Singapore.

The total journey time door-to-door is around 3 to 4 hours including the 20 to 45-minute boat transfers between Tanjung Leman Jetty and Pulau Sibu!

Again, you should book this boat service through your resort!

Travel Tips For Short Trips From Singapore To Malaysia

  • Avoid going on a public holiday (either Malaysia or Singapore) if you can help it!
  • If driving, make sure you have ¾ tank full of petrol as required by the Singapore law
  • Remember to bring your Passport!
  • Prepare for 40 minutes to 2 hours journey from Singapore to Johor Bahru if you are taking bus.
  • Download the GPS mobile application such as Google Map/Waze before you are coming to Malaysia.

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