Desaru is a stunning beach spot down south in Johor. It’s a secret treasure for anyone just itching for some fun and a break from all that city noise. If you have a week all to yourself and want to kick back and unwind, Desaru is the perfect place to be. The town has an undeniable holiday vibe that you’ll get swept up in. Here’s how you can spend a week in Desaru.

Image via Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas

You simply have to visit the waterpark when you're in Desaru! The Adventure Waterpark offers amazing fun – they have over 20 slides that'll have your adrenaline going through the roof. Ever been on a Swinging Ship? It's just one of the wild rides you’ll find here. It's not just for the thrill-seekers; there's something for everyone, no matter your age.

Located just a 3-minute car drive from Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, the Adventure Waterpark is one of the biggest waterparks around. You can’t miss their massive wave pool and a water coaster that's totally unique. It's the perfect spot for having a blast with your friends or family.

The waterpark is one of the best Desaru attractions, so don’t miss it!

What do you think of saying hello to a bunch of ostriches? Sounds amazing, isn’t it? You're in luck because the Desaru Ostrich Farm is home to over 200 of these long-legged birds. You can get right in there, feed them, and if you're feeling brave, you can even hop on for a supervised ride. Seeing those baby ostrich chicks toddling about is just as adorable as you'd imagine. Plus, it's pretty funny when the grown-ups give you that curious look with their big eyes. It's definitely not your everyday experience!

Why not take your beach day to the next level? Just imagine chilling on the soft sands of Desaru Beach with a picnic spread and the South China Sea right in front of you. It's the perfect spot to kick back with your family or friends. You can toss a frisbee around, catch a gorgeous sunset or sunrise, and even work on that tan. In this peaceful slice of paradise, it's all about good vibes and making memories.

How about a day at the Desaru Fruit Farm? This place isn't just about the tasty treats; it's an award-winner where you can take a guided stroll and soak up all sorts of cool facts about Malaysian fruits. There's also a petting zoo and you can even become a bee genius for a day. And if you're looking for a bit of adventure, they offer quad bike rides. Feeling peckish? You can tag on a lunch or dinner to round out the experience.

If you're a seafood lover, Desaru Coast is your paradise! This place is at the heart of an amazing fishing culture, so you know the seafood is going to be off-the-charts delicious. There's a lineup of spots where you can dive into some of the freshest, most mouth-watering seafood feasts you might ever have in your life.

Imagine a river cruise at night where you're surrounded by hundreds of twinkling fireflies. That's what you get along the Kota Tinggi Johor River. It's just a 40-minute drive to step into a real-life fairy tale under the starry sky. And the magic doesn't stop there. After the cruise, there's this beautiful tradition where everyone sends glowing lanterns up into the night sky.

If you’re into golf, you will love Desaru! It's a bit of a golfer's haven, especially with The Els Club around. These courses are the brainchild of some real experts in the game. You have options, too. Fancy a game with the sea breeze on your face? Hit the 27-hole Ocean Course where you have that stunning beach and ocean scene as your backdrop. If you're feeling like a challenge, the Valley Course is ready for you – both are local favourites for a reason.