Top Attractions and Activities in Desaru, Malaysia

Desaru, a coastal resort area in Peninsular Malaysia, boasts many fascinating attractions that draw holidaymakers from far and wide. From scintillating beaches to exciting adventures and interesting local culture and cuisine, the destination has a lot to offer to tourists who come here for a tranquil escape from the hustle-bustle of city life. Check out the top five attractions in this beautiful coastal region.

The white sandy beaches

Home to some of the most spectacular beaches in Malaysia, Desaru is a dream destination for nature-lovers and leisure-seekers alike. The white sandy beaches with a backdrop of lush tropical greenery here make for a sight to behold. The great thing is that the whole 25km stretch is open to the public, and there are lots of things to keep the visitors happily occupied. Apart from the picture-perfect scenery, tourists can enjoy sunbathing, swimming and al fresco dining at the beach-side restaurants.

Exciting Water Sports

Dive deep to discover fascinating coral reefs and exhilarating marine life! Get the adrenaline rush with a surfing session, or try fishing with your whole family – Desaru boasts an array of water sports to keep you thoroughly enthralled. What else? Go trekking in the nearby casuarinas forests to enjoy the region’s exotic flora & fauna.

The Sungai Lebam River Cruise

Probably the best way to discover the untamed beauty of Desaru, going on the Sungai Lebam River Cruise is a must-do activity for all. The journey will take you through the unexplored areas of the island, featuring an array of natural spectacles and unsurpassable tranquillity. Excursions to watch fireflies are also quite popular. Inhabiting the trees on the banks of the Sungai Lebam River, the insects dazzle in the dark and illuminate the area like a Christmas tree. This rare and incredible sight can be best witnessed after the rainy season. Plenty of hotels and local tour agencies arrange these excursions.

Delectable Dining

Desaru promises a superb culinary experience to its visitors. A wide range of restaurants and eateries offers the foodies opportunities to sample delicious local seafood, along with a variety of Asian and Western dishes. For delicious Japanese food, head to Teppan, a popular Japanese restaurant in Pulai Desaru Beach Resort and Spa. Palm Brasserie is another renowned restaurant, which serves a mix of authentic local and international cuisine. For a romantic al fresco dining experience, book your table at the revered Beach Bar, a lively bar and restaurant overlooking the South China Sea.

The Desura Fruit Farm Tour

This 180-acre of lush farm packs in an array of tropical fruits, local herbs, a petting zoo, a koi-fish pond and more, promising a delightful experience to the tourists. For families with kids, a visit to this farm is a great learning experience. Apart from learning about the growth and production process of these fruit trees, they can sample some of the fresh fruits grown here. The quality of these fruits is widely renowned; for instance, in 2006, the farm was awarded as the ‘Best Agro Tourism Site’ in Malaysia by Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture and Agro-Tourism (MAHA).