2025 Kota Tinggi Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

#outdooradventures During our trip to Desaru, we decided to visit the Desaru Mini Zoo for a little outdoor adventure. It’s a small but charming zoo, perfect for a casual day out. The place is surrounded by greenery, giving it a relaxing vibe. As I walked around, I saw a variety of animals like horses, rabbits, deer, alpacas, fishes and even ostriches. You can get up close and personal with some of the animals, and there’s even an option to feed them, which kids especially enjoy. It’s not a big place, so it doesn’t take too long to explore, but it’s a fun and peaceful spot if you’re looking to enjoy nature and see some friendly animals up close. If you're feeling adventurous, you’ve got to try the ATV ride! It's a good way to add some thrill to your day. The ride could be bumpy but super fun, with muddy paths and small hills that made the experience exciting.

#weekendgetaways Tanjung Balau Beach is just a quick 15 minute drive from the renowned Desaru Beach, made for a perfect short stop before heading to the Hard Rock Hotel. This hidden gem stands out for several reasons: 1. A peaceful place for retreat, less crowded. 2. Stunning beach with unique black rocks and reefs. 3. Beautiful clear water, making it a refreshing spot for a quick dip. Just leisurely walk through the water, past the rocks to explore further from the shoreline and simply sit on one of the bigger rocks to take in the tranquil view. #100waysoftravel #myhiddengems #malaysiatrip

#waterfall #100waysoftravel Kota Tinggi Waterfall is a perfect destination for a fun and refreshing getaway. Located amidst lush greenery, the waterfall offers a beautiful cascade of water, creating a cool and inviting pool below. It’s a great spot for families and friends to enjoy a day out, whether you're looking to swim, have a picnic, or simply relax in nature. The surrounding park area is well-maintained, with facilities that make your visit comfortable and enjoyable. The sound of rushing water, combined with the serene natural setting, provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. If you’re in search of a rejuvenating escape, Kota Tinggi Waterfall is definitely worth a visit.

#familytrips2024 Desaru Mini Zoo is a delightful attraction in Johor, Malaysia, perfect for families with kids. Here’s what you can expect when you visit: Interactive Animal Experience: At Desaru Mini Zoo, you’ll get up close and personal with various animals. From birds and reptiles to furry four-legged creatures, there’s something for everyone. Feeding Fun: Before exploring the mini zoo, grab a basket of goodies from the entrance ticket counter. You can feed the animals treats like bread, long beans, baby corn, chicken feed, and fish food. It’s optional, but having treats makes it easier to interact with the animals. Adorable Alpacas: The fluffy alpacas steal the show! Kids and adults alike will enjoy petting these super-friendly and soft creatures. Remember to be gentle with the animals and follow any guidelines provided by the staff. Desaru Mini Zoo is a must-visit for animal lovers! Details: Admission Price: 20 RM Operating Hours: 10 am to 7 pm You can pay via pay wave!

#familytrips2024 A cute café in Desaru Mini Zoo. It's like a cozy wooden hut with seats outside where you can chill. There aren't tons of food options, but they've got drinks, ice cream, and desserts. Plus, you can hang out with animals wandering around. And there's this awesome giant swing made of wood – super fun! Address: 103-A, Jalan Damai 10, Kampung Sungai Kapal, 81620 Pengerang, Johor, Malaysia

#familytrips2024 The Giant Yellow Duckling Floaty Decor at Desaru Mini Zoo adds a splash of fun to our visit. Imagine strolling past ponds teeming with colorful Koi fish, their scales glinting in the sunlight. Remember to buy fish food at the entrance so you can feed them, watching as they eagerly nibble at the food. And don't miss the excitement of longkang fish catching, where you can try your hand at scooping up these lively fish from a water-filled ditch. It's an experience that's sure to delight both kids and adults.

#wheretogo Yard&Co a seaside cafe in Sungai Renggit, Pengerang Johor . the charming and stylish interior definitely draw you in. there are plenty of card park location and it’s free of charge. Is convenient for you to drive in to pengerang but not public transport . is hard to get a public transport or taxi in this area. the price for the menu is a cafe pricing is on high side . but is worth to pay for the view, and the food was great too. is a Muslim friendly restaurant , no pork no lard. you may need to come early as the restaurant often fully book on weekend. opening 7 days a week from 12pm to 7pm. you can come during sunset time too, for sure you can take nice picture . #tripmoments #awesomepic #holiday #restaurant #desaru #deliciousfood

Manage to find this hidden gem beach @ Batu Layar near Desaru when driving around . it’s took 30 mins drive from Desaru to Batu Layar. the beach is beautiful and not many people know about the place. that’s why not many people know about this Hidden Spot. went there for sun tanning , listening to the wave & chilling by the beach. beautiful #weekendgetaways just short drive from JB. #freehotelstay #hiddengems

Honey is beneficial to health and it definitely has got good medicinal properties too. When we chanced upon honeybee cafe in Malaysia, we know we had to try their honey desserts. We heard so much fantastic reviews on their honeycomb ice cream and I m glad we gave it a try. A honeycomb rack can be seen at the entrance of the cafe and a piece of honeycomb is freshly cut for each order of their dessert. Although there were quite a few variations for their dessert, we had their original golden honeybee ice cream. It consists of crunchy cornflakes, vanilla ice cream, honey pearls, honey drizzle and a piece of honeycomb. It's certainly delicious and satisfied our sweet cravings! Drinks like frappe are also available but trust me, their desserts are way better!

#summerfest #desaru Yard & Co Cafe, the perfect place to eat and enjoy the seaside scenery. Best time to go is for breakfast or lunch as the place is bright for phototaking and easier to get Grab. There is an al fresco dining where you get the view of the peaceful sea and the blue skies. The interior of the cafe is also giving out a beach vibe to match the seaside scenery so that customers would feel as if they are actually on the beach. We ordered the lobster roll, halo salmon, creme brulee, lychee oolong, iced chocolate mint and all were so good! Worth a trip down to sip, eat And enjoy the seaside View!

#malaysia #johor This is Yard & Co cafe located in Johor, Malaysia. 30-minute drive from Desaru. Here, you can order massive breakfast plates and desserts like milk mochi, while enjoying the view of the beautiful sea ~ Once you find the cafe, you’ll be greeted by a charming, low-lying building next to a wooden deck with tables and chairs where you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the calming open waters and clear skies. This place is very instagrammable and the food is nice!

Did you plan your retreat yet? Fall in love all over at Jojo Rakit House. Spend some quality time with fishing activity. Take a romantic holiday or stay for the night for an unforgettable experiences with your loved. Let's celebrate your love and create memorable moments. Best holiday for your partner and family! #valentinescape #mytripvlog #couplestrip #awesomepic

#newyearadventure #tripblazers #awesomepic A good place to spend our weekend. Away from busyness of the city. Near food place with varity of choices. Got medan selera nearby & food stalls. Clean public toilet (have charged) available. Clean & windy. Parking a bit hard though. And For those who loves fishing, this is the place to go to. Can fishing at the jetty for free! Enjoy the scenery too! Location: Jetty Telok Sengat, Kota Tinggi Johor

recommended place to organize family day or gathering. quite and peaceful environment. you can rent kitchen for meals prep. bbq pit also available, open space in front seaside suitable for lite game and sport. price very affordable, rooms are clean, amenities limited, but hot shower perfect. you can rent overnight or day use. nearby restaurant located at tanjung sedili, a wide range of hawker stall, fresh seafood ... buy and bring back to resort...enjoy the grill...

Desaru Coast is a coastal resort area in Southeastern Johor, Peninsular Malaysia. The small town of Bandar Penawar serves as the area’s transport hub. Whether you are traveling alone, with your friends or family, there are more than enough activities to keep your stay fun and awesome and alternatively, if you want to keep it low-key and relaxed, the place can still give you the quiet and peace as it is still laid-back and not too crowded. For those bringing their kids in tow, there’s the Desaru Coast Adventure Water Park and the Ostrich Farms. If you love nature activities, a trip to the fishing villages in Tanjung Balau and the Desaru Fruit Farm are top options. And then there’s the food. At 40-50 RM or around 10 USD, you can already feast on affordable seafood as the town is coastal in nature. Keep it local and definitely there will be plenty of affordable but decent food options. The race started with a rolling start process in front of The Westin Desaru Coast Resort beachfront. The course is an inverted triangle swim, and in a clockwise direction. The swim was relatively smooth except for some little waves near the shore. Feedback from finishers were the presence of tiny shrimp-like creatures, or planktons. That’s open water swim for you and you will get through that. The last 700m swim back was a hurdle for some, as they were fighting to keep it rightmost on waves that were coming from right to left. From the swim out is a good 200-300 meter jog to the transition area. Another 200m jog from the transition area greets the athletes from where the bike mount area is. The long transition is worth it as this is one of the best bike courses in the triathlon racing circuit in Asia. What made the bike course pop out in this review is two things: First, the roads are silky smooth (as Zohan would say it), almost perfect and immaculate road conditions. Second, the canopy of trees and vegetation is a welcome sight, especially in the Jalan Ladang Siang section. With the sun barely out, the canopy provided shade to the athletes. It is truly a refreshing view. Despite the terrain being rolling and undulating, there is nothing too hard for most trained triathletes, except for a few steep sections. A cassette with 27 or 30 at the back is more than enough. Despite that, the course is not technical and plenty of straight sections can give triathletes time to keep their head down and steady. I thought the course would feature some coastal views, but the roadside view of plants, trees and vegetation does not disappoint. Course was well marked and plenty of marshals and police/security on hand to control the minimal traffic on the course. On my coverage, there was very minimal vehicle-cyclist interaction, and could say that the bike course was almost exclusive to the participants. Another long jog to the transition area greets the triathletes after the dismount area. As with any Siutheast Asian race, it should be hot on the

Desaru fruit farm is indeed a good place to explore. They sell a package while you can try a 20min ATV route, 45-60min fruit tour with guide, and a 6 dishes 1 soup meal made of fruit. Reasonable price and good experience. Good for family or friends.

Here in Kota Tinggi Johor..Although the restaurant seems quite a bit further in a palm oil fields and village..but once u arrived u will be amazed by the floating restaurant and 2 boats where one of the boat provides a firefly adventure..u can see its a big and comfortable boat for u to take and see the firefly at the swamp area nearby..we came in a group of 12 person..the choices of food offered also is variety and very delicious too..I personally loved the tomyam..the fish also marvellous..we had the foods cleared in just seconds..with the price offered worth and affordable..we came early so got the chance to take the table on the boat..and manage to see the other boat take off for their adventure..we had fun and belly fulled..we would come again some day again next time..#tripblazers #urbanexplorer #awesomepic #spooktaculartrip #couplestrip #deliciousfood #foodie #staycation #passionpassport #passionpassport #mytripvlog #bucketlistreboot #featured #featuredtag

📍Desaru Long Jetty Unexpected place while visiting Desaru 🫣 Apparently found a catchy jetty after look around tanjung balau 💖💖 #awesomepic #couplestrip

Vacation MODE 🔛 DO NOT DISTURB 😜 26&27 SEPTEMBER 2020 #familytrip #familytime #triplocal

Flying to Johor Bahru, the airport is overwhelming where I am going to play, Desaru Coast. Desharu's Fruit Garden, the largest tropical fruit garden in Malaysia, you can get a close look at the cold knowledge of various Southeast Asian fruits, as well as rabbits playing ~ being recognized by fans and courtesy, then from Australia And the sports planning expert in Singapore, made the J step guest of the fourth episode of "J Steps in the World" ~ [Desaru Fruit Farm, Malaysia Johor Bahru] #JVlog#

Visited Desaru Fruit Farm in Desaru Fruit Garden, I have seen passion fruit, avocado, jackfruit, breadfruit, carambola, lotus, mangosteen, ginseng fruit, lime, nine-story tower, and have not seen Many uncommon fruits and plants such as Luoshenhuamao, Qianzhijiao, leprosy, cocoa, sorrel, galangal, curry leaves, stevia, and ghost pepper. In addition to full of happiness, you can also eat fruit feast, full of food.

we took the package for fruit farm + outdoor petting zoo + lunch. This included a truck drive (can bring stroller) to fruit farm where we were introduced to varied fruits via a short walking tour (bring fans coz its gonna be hot). After that, we visited the outdoor petting zoo, which the kids loved.. camels, emu, goats, rabbits etc. ended off with fruit lunch + fruit buffet. Lunch was great!

#tesaruonbudget Lunch at Yard & Co was a delightful mix of good food and great ambiance. Nestled by the sea with a breezy, garden-style setting, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a laid-back afternoon. I had the truffle fries and soft-shell crab pasta—both beautifully plated and full of flavor. The café’s minimalist, coastal décor and sea view created a peaceful, Instagram-worthy vibe. Staff were friendly, and service was prompt. Whether you're here for brunch, coffee, or a full meal, Yard & Co delivers a relaxing dining experience by the coast that's worth returning to.

Nestled along the serene coastline of Desaru, Yard & Co. Cafe is more than just a place to grab a bite; it's a meticulously crafted escape that transports you to a tranquil, Instagram-worthy paradise. Imagine soft sea breezes gently caressing your face as you sip on expertly brewed coffee, gazing out at the endless expanse of the South China Sea from their chic al-fresco deck. This cafe is a masterclass in minimalist design, effortlessly blending clean lines with warm, inviting touches, creating an ambiance that feels straight out of a K-drama. But it's not just about the aesthetics; Yard & Co. also delights the palate with an array of delectable treats, from their light-as-air tiramisu and uniquely chewy milk mochi to refreshing iced teas. Whether you're craving a hearty meal like their famed Lobster & Lobster or a simple yet satisfying pastry, every dish is prepared with an artistic flair. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely brunch, a romantic sunset dinner, or simply to unwind and soak in the breathtaking views, mking it an absolute must-visit for anyone seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed coastal dining experience in Desaru. #tesaruonbudget #cafe

#tesaruonbudget Desaru Kopitiam 51 brings the classic charm of a traditional Malaysian coffee shop to the heart of Bandar Penawar. With its simple yet inviting setup, this kopitiam is a go-to spot for locals and tourists craving familiar flavors like kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs, and rich, aromatic kopi. The menu also features hearty local dishes such as nasi lemak and mee goreng, served in generous portions at wallet-friendly prices. The casual, no-frills atmosphere makes it perfect for a laid-back breakfast or afternoon tea. What sets Desaru Kopitiam 51 apart is its commitment to preserving the essence of old-school Malaysian dining. The staff are friendly and efficient, and the service is quick even during peak hours. Patrons often praise the consistency of the food and the nostalgic ambiance that evokes memories of childhood breakfasts. Whether you’re fueling up before a beach day or winding down after exploring Desaru, this kopitiam offers a comforting slice of local culture that’s hard to beat.

#tesaruonbudget About 84 km from Kota Tinggi and just south of Desaru’s bustling shores, Pantai Batu Layar (meaning “sail rock”) offers a tranquil, less-crowded atmosphere amid striking natural formations. The moment I stepped onto its golden sands, shaded by swaying trees, I felt a wave of calm—perfect for a relaxed beach day. I spent a leisurely afternoon here, exploring tide pools at low tide, swimming in the gently lapping waters, and photographing the iconic sail‑shaped rock formations steadfast on the shoreline. The beach’s coral‑rich reefs lie just off the coast, adding a hidden depth for snorkelers. While strolling, I noticed a few local stalls selling snacks and drinks, and families picnicking under the trees—low‑key but charming, with a distinctly Malaysian coastal vibe. Admission & Practical Info: • 🕒 Open 24 hours; best visited during daytime • 💵 Free entry; parking available (some free, some paid)  • 📍 Address: Pantai Batu Layar, Bandar Penawar, Johor (81600); contact +60‑7‑8222044  • ⚠️ Note: occasionally closed during the monsoon season; clean-up efforts ongoing—bring your own trash bag to help • 🚗 Nearest amenities: Bandar Penawar—supermarkets, parking, restrooms (toilet ≈RM0.50–1), food stalls nearby  Why It’s Worth Visiting: • 🌅 Secluded beauty: Quieter than nearby Desaru, offering spacious shade, fewer tourists, and a genuine seaside atmosphere  • 🪨 Sail Rock & corals: Dramatic rock formations ideal for photography, plus accessible tide pools and coral reefs for light snorkeling and exploration  • 🍹 Low-key amenities: Local vendors serve simple refreshments (like Ramli-style burgers, tea, cincau); basic restrooms available  • 🧺 Great for picnics/camping: Shadowy trees perfect for family outings; camping popular (you’ll even find camping groups on weekends)  Final Thoughts: Pantai Batu Layar is a hidden gem along the Desaru coast—offering golden sands, iconic rock formations, and a peaceful retreat without the resort crowds. Bring snacks, sandals for exploring tide pools, and a sense of adventure. It’s an affordable and authentic beach day option, perfect for families, photographers, and anyone seeking a serene coastal escape.

#tesaruonbudget Tucked away in Bandar Penawar near Desaru, the Eight Chinese Temple Village is a captivating blend of vivid architecture, religious heritage, and tranquil ambiance—and completely free to explore  . I arrived between 8 AM and 6 PM on a weekday and found ample free parking nearby. As I wandered past the eight side-by-side temples, each dedicated to different deities—from Tudigong and Guanyin to the White Dragon King—the variety of ornate rooftops, intricate carvings, and colourful murals struck me instantly . A highlight was discovering the majestic dragon sculpture, suspended mid-air—it felt whimsical and otherworldly, perfect content for Instagram . Inside each temple, soft incense smoke curled around gilded statues while locals knelt in prayer, inviting moments of quiet reflection amid the artistic grandeur . I spent about 45 minutes to an hour here, leisurely stepping through courtyards, soaking in the atmosphere, and admiring architectural styles that blended Taoist, Buddhist, and local folk elements. The area is peaceful and seldom crowded—a great escape from Desaru’s beachfront buzz . Why It’s Worth a Visit: • 🎨 Free & culturally rich: Explore eight uniquely decorated temples in one serene village. • 🐉 Photogenic charm: Eye-catching dragon sculptures and colourful temple facades perfect for photos . • 🕯️ Spiritual solace: Local worshippers, soothing chants, and incense create a peaceful vibe. • 🕰️ Quick & easy stop: Just off the main road, no entrance fee, and ideal for a relaxed 1-hour visit. Pro Tips: • Visit weekdays for the quietest experience. • Respectful attire is advised inside temples (no shorts or sleeveless tops). • No food or drink stalls onsite—plan to eat before or after your visit. ⸻ A serene retreat steeped in vibrant culture, the Eight Temple Village is a hidden gem in Desaru that’s easily overlooked yet unforgettable—an ideal stop for those wanting calm, beauty, and heritage, all on a budget.

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