Photograph: One & Only
Photograph: One & Only
Photograph: One & Only

Desaru Coast 101: What to see, do and eat at this idyllic getaway destination

We spill the beans on what to do and the best places to eat in Desaru Coast

Dawson Tan
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It's fast becoming one of our favourite destinations: Desaru Coast, a picturesque seaside town along the southeast coast of Johor. While it's an easy hour's drive from Johor Bahru, it's also just a convenient 90-minute ferry ride from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. Even better that it's filled with an array of adrenaline-pumping things to do and tasty grub to try. 

Thrill seeker or laid-back traveller, they've got everything from an Adventure Waterpark to slow-paced fishing villages – there's even an ostrich farm that's home to more than 200 of these massive birds. And like many nearby beach getaways, the food here is of utmost priority. Once greeted by sandy shores, it's exactly where you should enjoy a feast, from the seasonal sashimi at an omakase restaurant to the grilled seafood at a luxed up beach club. Here's a guide to everything you should do and eat when in Desaru Coast.

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Best places to stay

One & Only Desaru Coast

Step into beachside resort One & Only and you’ll immediately be blown away. One of the most stunning sights? Its infinity pool that's flanked by lush foliage – the hotel pays lots of careful attention behind the scenes to preserve the flora and fauna. The views don't stop there though. Look further and you’ll be greeted with a glimpse of the picturesque South China Sea.

It's a spacious resort too: 42 Junior Suites, two expansive two-bedroom Grand Suites and a four-bedroom residence, Villa One. Each suite even comes with its own private plunge pool. If you ask us, its the Ocean Junior Suite that's most appealing since there's a verendah that fully opens up to sweeping sea views. 

While you can book a range of activities, including paddleboarding, massage, jet-skiing, and kite surfing, it's tempting to simply lounge at Ember Beach Club to even out your tan. 

The Westin Desaru Coast Resort

With beachfront views, The Westin makes for the perfect getaway destination for all – romantic couple's trip or girls' weekend getaway. When it comes with spacious rooms and private balconies, this resort is bound to make for a memorable stay. Kudos to the Westin Heavenly Beds too, as they're meant to have extra plush pillowtop mattresses to ease you into deep sleep. 

They do have quite a lineup of wellness activities, from a relaxing session of sunrise yoga or scenic sunset run. If you prefer unwinding through other means, there's also a beach bar that serves up unique cocktail concoctions. Sounds like a leisurely way to end your day, while basking in the convivial spirit of a campfire.

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Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas

Over at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, it's the beachfront infinty pool that's an obvious draw. Even private villas and residences come with their own private pool, so make sure to pack your most stylish swimsuit. 

But besides lounging by the pool, you can also enjoy family-friendly activities at this seaside resort. Bicycles are available for free for guests to cycle around the resort. They also occasionally have movie nights, else, the sun terrace and varied massage services prove to be a treat too. Otherwise, simply enjoy whittling away your time in their luxurious rooms. We won't fault you – each comes with a large private balcony with seaside views. 

Best things to do

Have a game of golf at Els Golf Club Desaru Coast

All golf ethusiasts, here's one for you. Set aside some time in your itinerary for a golfing session at Els Golf Club – each course is inspired by famous greens in the UK. The Ocean Course features a trio of 9-hole courses, while the Valley Course is an 18-hole course designed by Vijay Singh that's jointly developed with Ernie Els Design.

If you're entirely new to golfing, there is also a beginner friendly one-day course that runs you through the basics. After a few rounds of swinging your club against the backdrop of lush rainforest, rest and relax at the Big Easy Bar Grill over some good ol' American nosh.

Hop on a river cruise through a mangrove forest

The Junglewalla's Westland River Cruise is ideal for a nature getaway. The tour starts at Sedili, a fishing village located just a 40 minutes drive from Desaru Coast. Not only is this boat cruise an educational trip around the wetlands, but also one where you can spot a bevy of wildlife, from birds to water creatures.

Herons, crabs, even monkeys – these are regular sights in Desaru's rich mangrove forest. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a family of otters playing in the river. There'll also be a guide who will point out the different types of mangrove tree species, while also offering up fun facts on the wildlife ecosystem and impact of ocean tides.

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Splash through more than 20 thrilling water rides

For some splashing good time, you’ll want to visit the Adventure Waterpark. This family-friendly place is set against the picture-perfect backdrop of a quaint fishing village, and features over 20 wet and dry rides, slides and attractions. Besides having one of the largest wave pools in the world or a classic swinging replica of a pirate ship, there's something for everyone.

If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, make sure to head over to one of the more thrilling rides: The Tempest. That "heart in your mouth" rush is a sure-fire feeling at this funnel-shaped water ride – besides regular twists and turns, there is also a shocking 24-foot drop. 

Laze by the sandy shores of Desaru Beach

The long stretch of Desaru Coast Beach overlooking the South China Sea is the highlight of the coastal town. Lay down a mat and packed lunches and laze your day away on the sandy beach. If you'd like to have a swim, the warm waters here are generally calm and shallow, great for casual dips and for kids to splash around in. Water sports are also available here - there are plenty of local operators around so you can compare prices before committing. Sunsets here are pretty scenic too, so don’t forget to snap one while you’re here.

For the adventurous, consider a night stroll along the shore where you're sure to encounter burrowing crabs and hermit crabs on the prowl. Remember to bring a torch or simply toggle on your phone flash to be able to spot them under the moonlight.

Best restaurants to eat at

World-class nigiri sushi at Hoshi

Within the tranquil grounds of One&Only emerges a star of a Japanese omakase restaurant that melds traditional Japanese sensibilities with contemporary techniques. In the warm and cosy space, sink your teeth into world-class nigiri sushi crafted using premium ingredients that align with the philosophy of "syun" – an artful showcase of simplicity that leverages peak seasonality.

Expect a fine line-up of chutoro, Kagoshima Wagyu, oscietra caviar, seasonal seafood, and more with a touch of theatrics on the side. Premium Japanese sake and whiskies are also available for pairings.

AFTER Right around the corner is Dusky Monkey, an enchanting al-fresco lobby bar surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. Here you can sit back and enjoy a nightcap made from either regional rums or curated gins.

Grilled seafood at Ember Beach Club

Hungry? The smoky aroma coming straight from the wood-fired ovens of Ember Beach Club will have you salivating. This is famed chef Andrew Walsh's latest seaside luxury dining concept, so don't hesitate to grab any on of the sea-facing tables and brace yourself for a quality meal ahead. Get those tastebuds going with starters such as the grilled tiger prawns with harissa and the perky Thai grilled beef salad tossed with tamarind and papaya. 

Hearty mains include smoke-kissed lamb chops, crispy fish and chips and our top pick, the wood-fire confit free-range chicken that came beautifully dressed with a richly spiced Percik style sauce. Definitely order a side of the steamed coconut basmati rice so that none of that sauce goes to waste. But if you're skipping carbs, the charred baby gem lettuce, laced with heaps of nori and furikake, makes for a good substitute.

AFTER Come sundown, don't leave just yet. The oasis transforms into a live music venue under the stars where fine libations await your lips.

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Gourmet buffet dishes at Turmeric

While it seems just like your typical international hotel buffet spread at first glance, zoom in on the explosive union of local Malaysian and Thai flavours that is nothing short of a feast fit for royalty. Whether you're chilling at the terrace overlooking the pool or escaping the heat in its air-conditioned quarters, this all-day dining restaurant also brings you gourmet dishes prepared a la minute at the live stations. Highlights include the sumptuous beef rendang tok, vibrant green papaya som tam, addictive nasi lemak danish, spicy tangy Johor laksa, and more.

AFTER Feel the breeze caressing your hair at the elevated 360-degree Observatory Bar paired with fine vintages and cigars. Otherwise, head down to the beach to enjoy a couple of refreshing cocktails and vibe out to the laidback house beats from a live DJ at the coastal seaside restaurant bar of Sea.Fire.Salt. 

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