MY · Johor · 1.54°N 104.27°E
desaru
Beach resorts, a water park and durian farms on Johor's east coast.
- Best time
- March to October for calmer seas. The north-east monsoon, roughly November to February, brings rough water and more rain. Durian season is usually around the middle of the year.
- How long
- 2 days, 1 night
- Getting there
- About 4 hours' drive from KL, the last hour from JB on the Senai–Desaru Expressway. Or fly to Senai (about an hour from KL) and drive about an hour from there.
desaru
Dear group chat,— gowherelahTo: whoever’s drivingDesaruMY, Johor
Photo: Fahmi Rosli · CC BY-SA 4.0 Photo: Chongkian · CC BY-SA 4.0 Photo: Jpatokal · CC BY-SA 4.0 Photo: Chongkian · CC BY-SA 4.0 Photo: laymong · CC BY 3.0
Photos: Wikimedia Commons, credited on each.
A long beach on Johor's east coast, facing the South China Sea, about an hour from JB. Desaru Coast has big resorts, a water park and golf courses, and the wide sandy beach is the reason it's all there.
Makan
- Durian and tropical fruitIn season, Johor's durian and fruit farms are a big part of the trip.Map ↗
Things to do
- Desaru Coast Adventure WaterparkSlides, a wave pool and a lazy river, good for families.Map ↗
- The beachA long stretch of sand for walks, and swimming when the sea is calm.Map ↗
- Desaru Fruit FarmTours of a tropical fruit farm with tastings, and durian in season.Map ↗
- GolfSeveral courses along the coast, some right by the sea.Map ↗
- Kota Tinggi WaterfallA stop on the drive for a cool dip in the pools below the falls.Map ↗
Good to know
- Swim near the lifeguard areas. The open coast gets strong currents, especially in the monsoon.
- You'll want a car, as public transport to Desaru is limited.
Last checked October 2026. Things change, so check opening times, fees and transport before you go.