9 Fun Things To Do In Desaru, Johor: Beach Picnics, Befriend Ostriches, And Fresh Seafood

Located along the east coast of Johor, Desaru is a laid-back coastal town that's an easy hour's drive from Johor Bahru. The town boasts a 22 metre stretch of beach, tranquil fishing villages where you can get your fresh seafood, a waterpark that's popular for family getaways, an ostrich farm that's home to over 100 ostriches, plenty of nature-based activities, as well as a handful of luxurious beachfront resorts. Read on for our guide on the best things to do in Desaru if you're planning a trip here!

Whether you're planning a holiday with your family, friends, or partner, Desaru Coast is a perfect destination for those craving for a beach getaway. Pamper yourself to a luxurious stay at one of the town's beautiful 5-star resorts where you can wake up to the gentle ocean breeze and indulge in ultimate comfort during your stay.

Most of these resorts have direct access to Desaru Beach, and are within walking distance to the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark!

If you're a fan of waterparks, you simply cannot leave Desaru Coast without spending at least half a day at the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark! This family-friendly waterpark houses one of the biggest wave pools in the world (that measures nearly three acres and is filled with over four million gallons of water!), a pirate ship that arches up to 180 degrees, a roller coaster that goes through a full 360º horizontal loop, a variety of water slides, as well as a great balance of thrilling as well as kid-friendly attractions.

The long stretch of Desaru Beach overlooking the South China Sea is the highlight of the coastal town. Pack a beach mat and spend time just lounging here in the gentle ocean breeze with your favourite book or picnic spread. 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.

If you're an adrenaline junkie, try out water activities like banana boat, wakeboarding, surfing, and water skiing at the beach! Pre-book your activities on Klook to enjoy discounted rates and avoid being ripped off by local operators.

Did you know that the Desaru Ostrich Farm is one of the largest in Malaysia? This farm is home to over 100 ostriches and you'll get the opportunity to get up-close and personal with these giant flightless birds. Learn some educational and interesting facts on ostriches and get the chance to feed and even ride them! The farm is especially popular amongst families and promises an educational experience for your little ones.

Pick your own juicy fruit at the Desaru Fruit Farm! This 180-acres-big tropical fruitland was named the best agrotourism site in Malaysia back in 2006 and offers a fun and educational experience for people of all ages. The farm boasts all sorts of varieties of fruits from jackfruits to guavas, mangosteen, dragon fruit, and durians (you can even have a durian buffet during the durian season!). Hop on an ATV and explore the beautiful orchard on an exhilarating journey - you can even book a package with an English-speaking guide, paintball session, snacks, and lunch on Klook!

To catch a glimpse of a different side of Desaru, head out to explore the nearby fishing villages along the coast. Watch fishermen dock their boats and empty their nets - most of these villages are free of tourists and exude a charming kampung feel. The most popular of all fishing villages here is the Tanjung Balau Fishing Village where you can fly kites by the beach, walk along the rocky shore at low tide, catch a breathtaking sunset, and even visit a fishermen museum (Muzium Nelayan) and local art gallery.

Due to its coastal town nature and close vicinity to fishing villages, Desaru is a great destination for seafood lovers, and you'll get to feast on affordable, fresh seafood dishes while you're here. We recommend driving out to the nearby fishing village of Sungai Rengit where you can enjoy a satisfying meal at one of its few seafood restaurants!

For those who enjoy golfing, be sure to pack your golf set and set aside some time in your itinerary for a golfing sesh at Els Club Desaru Coast, a scenic golf club located along the Desaru Coast. Swing your golf club against the backdrop of the sea and lush rainforest. If you've never tried golfing, you can even sign up for a day course to give it a try - the courses here take inspiration from famous link courses spread across the UK!

For those who've never set eyes on fireflies, add the Desaru Firefly Cruise onto your trip itinerary and catch sight of a natural light show from a cruise along the Sungai Lebam mangrove swamp. If you're lucky, you may even get the chance to catch a firefly in your hands - but be sure not to hurt these gentle and precious creatures!

#KlookTip: enjoy a romantic dinner at the popular floating seafood restaurant - Bujang Seafood Restaurant before your cruise trip! The restaurant is surrounded by nature and is enveloped with a calming vibe, not to forget serves great seafood too.

Done with exploring Desaru? Drive an hour to Johor Bahru to continue your adventure!