Desaru Coast

If you’re looking to vacation in another country not far from Singapore, Desaru Coast Malaysia isn’t far from Singapore. In fact, it is at an ideal distance for a short getaway. Only 30 minutes ferry ride from Changi Ferry Terminal to Tanjung Belungkor Ferry Terminal followed by a 30-minute drive to Desaru Coast. And if you’re driving across the border, it’s 1 hour 30 minutes from Singapore via the Causeway.

Desaru Coast is developed by Desaru Development Holdings One Sdn. Bhd., located at the south-eastern region of Malaysia. Crossing over 3,900 acres of land along an untainted 17km beachfront facing the South China Sea.

You can look forward to four internationally eminent hotels and resorts including The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast and One&Only Desaru Coast. In addition to two world-class golf courses including The Els Club Desaru Coast – Ocean Course and The Els Club Desaru Coast – Valley Course. And also activities that may interest family and kids at Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark and Desaru Coast Riverside, a retail and lifestyle village. Looking for an ideal conference venue to host your next event? Check out Desaru Coast Conference Centre.

1. Desaru Coast – 261 Restaurant at The Els Club

Stepping into The Els Club was like stepping into another world, an unparalleled golf and lifestyle experience.

261 Bar & Restaurant at The Els Club Desaru Coast oversees an unobstructed view of the valley course and you may also watch the sunset over this golf course.

I’m so glad to be one of the first to enjoy new flavour interpretations from the 13 states of Malaysia. In the first chapter of Desaru Coast Gourmet Series, a Malaysian Journey, a 6-course dinner is curated by award-winning Michelin Chef Emmanuel Stroobant and Pastry Chef Michael Liu. Don’t worry if you’ve missed the first series, there are a total of six series where award-winning chefs from over the world to present their unique interpretations of iconic Malaysian cuisines.

Looking at my food photos, I’m actually drooling at the 24 hours braised short ribs, scallop with coconut and laksa, Nasi Kerabu with brinjal buah keluak, salted egg popiah and okra sambal and mouthwatering desserts.

2. Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast

Enjoyed a spectacular dinner at The Els Club and took a transport back to Hard Rock Desaru Coast Hotel. Loved for its laid-back look and feel, Hard Rock Desaru Coast Hotel is good for a catch up with friends at the bar, shopping for Hard Rock Desaru Coast exclusive merchandises or outdoor pool for a relaxing dip. A little pity as we didn’t manage to explore the facilities in Hard Rock Desaru Coast due to time constraint. Nevertheless, I’ve checked in to Hard Rock Desaru Coast with a clean room, comfortable queen size bed and pillows. Great music plays throughout the day and night making it a relaxed setting. I’ve especially enjoyed the wardrobe that is adjacent to the bathroom that makes it conveniently accessible after a shower. Hotel breakfast spread was good with decent choices like western, nasi lemak, yong tau foo and more!

3. Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark

Hot weather is best handled with a visit to a water park with friends and family! Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark is stretched across 21 acres with five zones featuring more than 20 rides, slides, attractions suitable for everyone. Sadly, I’m unable to share my water experience as none of us manages to hop into any water ride or slide due to time constraint.

4. MCM Studio

On our way to Malacca from JB, MCM Studio is a fairly new tourist zone so it’s less crowded. Spot familiar classic cartoon characters like Garfield, or cute Harry Bunnie, Larva Underground Adventure World, Bumper Car, Dinocore or the upcoming The Jungle Book. And guess what? We spent most of our time at MCM Gift Store and bought many “barang barang” back to Singapore.

Are you daring to glide along a breathtaking glass-bottomed walkway at The City of Glass?

Malacca

5. A ‘Famosa Resort Night Performances / Fireworks

Upon reaching Malacca, we’ve checked in A’Famosa and had our dinner at A’Famosa Huang Di Chinese Restaurant before heading to watch the daily night performances and fireworks.

6. Freeport A’Famosa Outlet

Freeport A’Famosa Outlet with more than 70 international fashion, sports, and accessories brands. As I’ve bought too many barang barang, I’ve even bought a luggage here.

7. Queen Victoria’s Fountain Melaka

Built in 1901 by the British, located in a historic square. Queen Victoria’s Fountain is a popular place among tourists.

8. Jonker Walk

Interesting of having curry rice and assorted Indian sides on a banana leaf instead of a plate! Can’t remember the shop name but it’s walking distance to Red Fort.

Something that we don’t get to see in Singapore – Blue pea meat dumpling at 60 East & West Rendezvous. Didn’t get to try any blue pea dumpling as the waiting time is at least 30 minutes. Recommended making a reservation before your visit.

I’m not a coffee person but I can smell the nice coffee fragrance. The coffee jar cafe is especially enticing as they roast their own beans in the cafe. Ordered a latte and I can customise to make it to more bitter or sour. Enjoyed this cuppa coffee with a sour-toned aftertaste more than a bitterish or astringent aftertaste.

9. St. Paul’s Hill & Church (Bukit St. Paul)

St. Paul’s Church is the oldest historic church building in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, built in 1521.

10. Malacca River

Taking a stroll around the Malacca River and enjoy the view before heading to our next destination.

Media Trip invited by Tourism Malaysia