Discover Johor's Islands: Malaysia's Hidden Gems

Pulau Harimau Mersing

Pulau Harimau if translated to English means ‘tiger island’ is an uninhabited island, its deserted locale serves as a sweet spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. Enthusiasts of both pastimes should do well to come here and take a look.

Pulau Mensirip Mersing

One of the uninhibited islands in the waters off Mersing, Pulau Mensirip is another haven for scuba diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. A gem that is worth the visit for those whose interest will take them to the waters.

Pulau Pemanggil, Mersing Johor

As you approach the island you’re mesmerized by its inviting emerald-green waters, beckoning you to dive in and see what wonders it beholds. Pulau Pemanggil is a sequestered island and is one of the furthest off the Mersing coast. The island has only one resort, the Lanting Beach Resort which sits tucked away on a hillside on the island. Revered as a fishing location, the waters off Pemanggil are home to many sport fish such as marlin, sailfish and mackerel.

Diving, snorkeling and Jet Ski facilities are also offered at the resort. Even if you are not a morning person, waking up early to watch the dark sky slowly turn to hues of orange as the sun rises is an absolute must. Take note that some areas of the resort are accessed by very steep stairs, which may be difficult for the elderly and young children. As Pulau Pemanggil lies 45 kilometers East of Mersing, the journey by catamaran takes 90 minutes whereas taking the slow boat triples travel time.

Pulau Rawa Mersing Johor Darul Ta’zim

Pulau Rawa would be a rocky, inaccessible islet in the South China Sea if it were not for its idyllic beach. Steep jungle clad slopes embrace the sweep of powdery white beach from behind and land meets water in smooth ripples of soft sand and gently lapping waves. At the far edges of the palm-dotted beach, jagged rocks lay strewn in the sea at the bottom of straight cliffs. Remote island paradise does not have to be so remote after all. The swaying palms, heavenly beach and island breezes of Rawa are within four hours of Singapore and less than 45 minutes from Mersing on the mainland of peninsular Malaysia.

Pulau Sibu Besar, Mersing, Johor Darul Ta’zim

How could it be that a largely developed island manages to preserve its immense natural beauty while maintaining such an aura of serenity and tranquillity? Pulau Sibu Besar, as its name suggests is the largest of the three Sibu islands.

The sheer beauty of this place is so enticing that it compelled a foreigner to open a resort on the island, catering mainly to tourists from abroad. Resorts provide diving and snorkelling trips, enabling you to experience the exotic aquatic life including barracuda, nudibranchs and giant clams.

In the northeast section of the island, you will find gorgeous, secluded sandy beaches perfect for just relaxing and working on your tan. With multiple resorts on the island appealing to different demographics, Pulau Sibu Besar is one of the more accommodating islands as picky travellers will have more options to choose from.