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

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.