A lyrical ode to the vibrant, nature-kissed diversity of Asia, Malaysia’s sumptuous experiences are tailor-made to every tribe of footloose traveller seeking an authentic fusion of heritage, flavours, innovation, and adventure. Just a stone’s throw from Singapore, Desaru is a contemporary beachcomber’s haven, full of lively leisure activities to charm the entire family! Here are some hacks to make the most of your seaside sojourn.

Image via Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas

Seasoned travellers will tell you to start planning your trip at least six months in advance so that you can diligently research your dream vacation destination and identify that sweet spot to embark on your adventure when it’s both less crowded and more affordable, just before or after the peak season. Desaru, celebrated for its laidback tropical vibes, Insta-worthy beaches, and exhilarating family-friendly fun, is best savoured between May and October when the weather is brilliant and balmy without any hair-frizzing humidity experienced during monsoon months. However, suppose you don’t want your serenity disturbed by a surge of fellow travellers. In that case, all Desaru’s activities are open to enjoy during March and April as the Monsoons peter out and the weather is pleasant with only a few bouts of refreshing rain.

Whether you are most excited to picnic on golden sands serenaded by clear turquoise ripples, conquer wild tube slides, stomach-dropping flume loop-de-loops, and thrilling rollercoasters at the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark, or race ATVs through picturesque fruit orchards while looking forward to a vibrantly flavourful buffet, this idyllic weekend vacation spot has something to entice everyone. The most serviceable mode of transport to Desaru depends on where you’re starting from and which season you choose to visit. For instance, if you’re travelling during the peak season (June-August), taking the ferry from Singapore’s Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (TMFT) is a great idea. But if you’re making the trip during the off-season (October-February), when the seas are rough and the sky overcast, it’s best to drive there yourself, use public transport, or book a private car.

If you’re making a spontaneous stop at Desaru with no guarantee that the weather will be in your favour, make sure you pick a resort that seamlessly caters to your vacationing vision, whether it’s cutting-edge bleisure amenities, knee-weakening cuisine, authentic local immersions, or customised culture-rich tours. That way, if you find yourself unable to bask on a sunny beach, take picturesque riverside strolls, or golf by the sea due to monsoonal storms, you can still enjoy a dose of mindful pampering and experiential bliss. If you’re looking for a serene escape suitable for all seasons, venture no further than the likes of Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas.

Whether you find yourself in this modern adventurescape when the weather is balmy and brilliant or you get caught up in wild breezes and impromptu showers, Desaru still makes for a fantastic all-in-one getaway! For such a small coastal enclave, the scope of exciting things to do in Desaru is impressive, from surfing (real or simulated) jewel-toned waves, winding through mysterious mangroves on a firefly boat tour, and combining the delightful pastimes of golf and high tea to learning how to cook authentic local dishes, embarking on a riverine eco-cruise, and exploring quaintly artistic fishing villages.

The comfort, convenience, and safety of your trip largely rests on savvy packing skills! While Desaru is a tropical haven, which necessitates swimsuits, sunhats, and summer dresses, the many outdoorsy walks and workshops require your hardiest pair of sneakers and don’t forget your camera, bird-watching binoculars, and extra layers in case the weather plays up!