2025 Mersing Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

#johorbahrutrip Driving trip to Johor Bahru (JB) to Muar, Kluang, Tebrau City, and Mersing The route balances cultural stops, food adventures, and natural sights across southern Johor: ### **Suggested Route & Stops** **Day 1: Johor Bahru → Tebrau City → Kluang** - **Tebrau City** (20 mins from JB): - Start with breakfast at **The Toast Café** (famous for *kaya toast* and soft-boiled eggs). - **Drive to Kluang** (~1.5 hours): - Stop at **Kluang Rail Coffee** (original 1938 railway station café) for coffee and *roti bakar*. - Visit **UK Farm Agro Resort** (interactive goat farm) or hike **Gunung Lambak** (510m trail). - Lunch: Try *Kluang Nasi Lemak* or *Curry Mee*. - Stay overnight in Kluang (e.g., **Kluang Hotel** or eco-lodges near Gunung Lambak). **Day 2: Kluang → Muar** (~2-hour drive) - **Muar Highlights**: - Breakfast: *Muar Mee Bandung* (spicy noodle dish) at **Restoran Salahuddin**. - Explore **Muar Town**: - **Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque** (grand Moorish-style mosque). - **Tanjung Emas Park** (riverside stroll with views of the Muar River). - **Muar Street Art** (murals around Jalan Meriam/Jalan Ali). - Lunch: *Otak-Otak* (grilled fish paste) at **Haji Wahid Otak-Otak**. - Drive to **Parit Jawa** (30 mins) for fresh seafood dinner at waterfront restaurants. - Stay overnight in Muar (e.g., **Thistle Hotel** or boutique guesthouses). **Day 3: Muar → Mersing** (~3-hour scenic drive via Kota Tinggi) - **Mersing Highlights**: - Breakfast: *Roti Canai* at **Mersing Seafood Restaurant**. - Explore **Mersing Town**: - **Mersing Waterfront** (quaint fishing village vibes). - **Pantai Air Papan** (beach for a quick dip). - Optional: Take a ferry to **Tioman Island** (if extending your trip). - Lunch: Fresh seafood at **Mersing Seafood Market**. - Return to JB (~2.5-hour drive) or stay overnight in Mersing (e.g., **Mersing Hotel**). ### **Key Food Stops** - **Tebrau City**: *The Toast Café*, *Hai Kee Teochew Porridge*. - **Kluang**: *Kluang Rail Coffee*, *Restoran Yat Yat*. - **Muar**: *Mee Bandung Salahuddin*, *Haji Wahid Otak-Otak*, *Asam Pedas*. - **Mersing**: *Mersing Seafood Market*, *Warung Pokok Ketapang*. ### **Driving Tips** 1. **Route**: Use **Highway E22** (JB-Kluang) and **Highway 24** (Kluang-Muar). For Mersing, take **Highway 3** (coastal road). 2. **Tolls**: Touch ’n Go card needed for highways. 3. **Parking**: Easy in towns; RM2–5 at most lots. 4. **Safety**: Avoid rural roads at night; watch for motorcycles. ### **Bonus Detours** - **Endau-Rompin National Park** (jungle trekking, waterfalls) between Kluang and Mersing. - **Kota Tinggi Waterfalls** (en route to Mersing). This road trip blends city vibes, heritage towns, and coastal relaxation—perfect for a 3-day Johor adventure! 🚗🍜🌴 Let me know if you need more details!

#traveldiaries #malaysia Aur Island, or Pulau Aur, is a tropical paradise off the east coast of Johor, Malaysia, known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, making it a top destination for divers and snorkelers. The island features pristine white-sand beaches, lush tropical forests, and relatively undeveloped landscapes, providing a serene escape for nature lovers. Outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the interior offer stunning panoramic views. Less commercialized than other Malaysian islands, Aur Island offers a tranquil atmosphere ideal for relaxation and adventure, making it a hidden gem in Malaysia.

#myhiddengems Aseania Beach Resort Pulau Besar indulge their guests in all elements of relaxation.. With plenty of sun, sea and sand... and a magical view to behold!!!! Aseania Beach Resort Pulau Besar facilities includes air-conditioning, desk, separate shower and tub, mini refrigerator, satellite TV as well as complimentary bottled of water.. Address- Lot 33,34 & 35, Pulau Babi Besar, 86800 Mersing #pulaubesar #mersing #johor

#wheretogo people often saying that nothing to do in JB. did you know that you could drive 1.5 hrs from JB to Mersing to have 4 snorkeling trip to 4 beautiful islands. your could just board to boat from Mersing Harbour Center the tour fare with just less than rm200 per person including lunch for a half day snorkeling tour. the island are soooo beautiful 🤩 with crystal clear water you can see the fish swimming around you. the island hoping tour include following ;- 1. pulau Harimau 2. pulau hujung 3. pulau besar 4. pulau Tengah depending on which package you take . you should come here to see it in real , and know how I felt . seriously Johor have beautiful island which you can just doing day tour from JB or Kota Tinggi. #johor #awesomepic #snorkeling #island

Address - RESTAURANT MYL TANDOORI HOUSE, 31, Jalan Jaafar, Pusat Perdagangan Kota Tinggi, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor Ambiance/Facilities - Very good business, as the foods here are very delicious. The restaurant serves Pakistan and Malaysia Cuisine. This is a Muslim restaurant, therefore all Malaysian Muslim are welcome here. Malaysian Politicians and VIPs also came to this Restaurant Highlights - Nasi Briyani and Curry Chicken is their top selling dish. Besides that, a Pakistan Cuisine such as Cheese Naan also good. It come with generous “kacang kuda” gravy. Don’t forget to try their huge portion of Puri/Poori. It’s crispy and hot!! Avg. Price per Person - RM5.00 onwards Rating - 4.8/5.0 #deliciousfood #awesomepic

Quite apprehensive at first , long drive , reviews often mentioned sand flies , awful toilets , but we had none of those issues . I see the staff hard at work and people are genuinely happy and they show incredible attentiveness towards the guests welfare , and not being a five star hotel you know they aren’t trained to do so . It’s natural , so thank you for that . After writing , yes I encountered the Sand flies , so beware , bring repellant . But nevertheless staff are amazing #mytripvlog #2023travelwish #newyearadventure #tripblazers #yearofrabbit #awesomepic #couplestrip #couplestrip

Perfect place for honeymooners! ♥️ Breathtaking beaches galore, sapphire-hued waters, coconuts swaying in a breeze and the endless powdery white sand trickling between your toes. Everything is perfect! There are only 4 main resorts currently operating in this island, hence not too many people will stay here. Less people, more privacy right?! The journey duration is typically around 4-5 hours drive from KL to Mersing Jetty. Dekat je! 😎 #spooktaculartrip #tripblazers #couplestrip #mersing

Address - MERSING Ambiance/Facilities - so good Highlights - so good Avg. Price per Person - Rm50 Rating - 10.5/10 I LOVE IT #spooktaculartrip #tripblazers #fallingforfall #awesomepic #couplestrip

A charming quaint and charming small town that serves as the gateway to Johor’s eastern islands. The drive up to Mersing takes only an hour and a half from Johor Baru, through quiet and winding country roads. The town itself has a laidback feel, with many lazy spots to choose from. There’s an alley with multiple cute and beautiful murals to fulfill all your instagram needs, and numerous restaurants and cafes to laze the day away. Even though it is a small town, familiar stores such as Mr DIY, Tealive, Watsons and Marrybrown will meet all your shopping needs during your holiday. The beaches face the islands beyond and will make great places to play. #summervacation #beachlife #passionpassport

The view is breathtaking. You will never know what happens around you when you are here. Time stops but your heartbeat will beat faster when you see this! @Pantai Air Papan, Mersing, Johor. #awesomepic #summervacation

#summervacation The excellent local city of Mersin is not very far from Kuala Lumpur, the young people are quite developed and very friendly, but this city is used for transit to the island of Tioman. In general, such a composite route consists of a trip to Mersing (Mersing) in the state of Johor, where the ferry pier is located and then by ferry from Mersing to Tioman. Mersing is fairly easy to get to with Malaysia's extensive bus network. Direct flights are available from at least Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Butterworth (near Penang), Alor Setar (near Langkawi) and Singapore. It is best to use the night crossing to be at the pier in Mersing early in the morning, otherwise you may miss the ferry, in which case you will have to spend the night in the city or hire an expensive private boat.#gooutside

Small and quiet island with just 4 resorts on the island. Aseania resort is one of the better resorts on this island. However, this resort is old, and therefore there were lots of things that could use a makeover. The rooms were not clean and had lizards and cockroaches, and the water pressure of the shower was weak. The beach was nice, but the waters were mirky during evening time. It is usually clearer in the morning, and therefore snorkelling/diving should be done in the morning. There are many sandflies, so insect repellent is a must to bring. The best part of the resort is the deck overlooking the sea, which me and my friends spend most of our time on. #staycation #beaches #couplestrip

Being an island lover myself, I have always wanted to experience island hopping. There are lots of beautiful islands off the coast of Mersing, Johor including several uninhabited ones. The only way to access these uninhabited islands is by booking a Johor Island Hopping Tour or chartering your own private boat. I went in a group tour. I just did that few months ago, solo without booking, weekend but better to book earlier online or contact via Facebook, to be sure of a seat. The tour group and organiser gathered at the restaurant near the boat jetty around 8 am and boat ride 9am. Mersing seaview is nothing much maybe stay town centre near the boat jetty, budget hotel like BlueWater or Riverside. #staycation

Getting there: Pulau Mawar is located north of Mersing town, where a 30 minutes' drive from town will take you to Pantai Mawar. Highlights: Pulau Mawar used to be an island separated by a small straight from the mainland but after years of wave-washing. You can enjoy a stroll along the beautiful beach lapped with clear blue waters under the sun. It’s a quite a hidden beach spot, so you can have all the space to yourself! 😆 I have then walk through a trail into the forest. It’s a simple hike assisted with ropes along the way and a ladder at the end. What at the end is the Heaven’s Gate, which is the main attraction at this beach!🤩 Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ #createwithtrip #naturewalk #naturewonder #beach

Getting There - By Car Attractions - Nice place and view for relaxing with family and friends. The beach is beautiful and clean. Suitable for picnics and relaxing with your beloved family. Comfortable and simple strong wind. From the beach you can see small islands & also Tioman island. there are also eateries that sell food at reasonable prices for large families. So happy to be there. #staycation

#mersing

Pulau Besar has an ancient name called Pulau Babi Besar which stands for “Big Boars Island”. Due to the inhabitation of man, the number of wild boars decreases and its name changed to Pulau Besar at present. Set within nature beauty, Pulau Besar is the tropical paradise on earth. The island is fringed by swaying palm trees, dazzling waters and it has the finest white sands that can comfort your feet. Established resorts complete your short trips from Singapore in Pulau Besar. #beautifulsunsets#romanticrestaurant#naturalwonders#hiking#nationalpark

#triplocal #triplocal

Pulau Hujung is located off the coast of Mersing, Johor, Malaysia. It is a tranquil and rarely visited island. The name "Hujung" means "end" in Malay, reflecting its geographical position and evoking a sense of serenity at the edge of the world where sea and sky converge. Pulau Hujung boasts pristine natural landscapes, with white sandy beaches and emerald waters creating a dreamy scene. It is perfect for snorkeling, diving, or simply enjoying the gentle sea breeze. Due to its sparse human presence, the island retains an atmosphere of purity and tranquility, resembling a hidden paradise. It is a must-visit destination when exploring the islands of Johor.

Pulau Harimau (Tiger Island) is located in the waters of Johor, Malaysia, near the town of Mersing. It is named after its tiger-shaped rocky terrain. Although small in size, this island hides stunning secrets—natural stone caves and crystal-clear waters that add a sense of mystery to exploration. The tranquil white sandy beaches and rich marine ecosystem make it a popular spot for snorkeling, diving, and photography. With fewer visitors, Pulau Harimau retains its pristine natural charm, making it an ideal destination to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience adventure and serenity.

Pulau Gajah (Elephant Island) is located off the coast of Mersing, Johor, Malaysia. This small island gets its name from its elephant-like shape. Despite its modest size, the island boasts serene white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a relaxing getaway. The surrounding waters of Pulau Gajah are rich in marine life, offering vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish for snorkeling enthusiasts, providing a pure and natural experience. The atmosphere here is more tranquil compared to popular tourist spots, resembling an untouched hidden paradise. It is especially suitable for couples or small groups looking to unwind, explore, and capture memorable photos.

#BeachWalk #SnorkelingAdventure #AugustDestinations2025 Pulau Tengah (Tengah Island), located off the coast of Mersing, Johor, Malaysia, is a private island surrounded by turquoise waters and pristine white beaches. Once a settlement for Vietnamese boat people, it is now renowned for its ecotourism and resorts. The island boasts pristine rainforests and coral reefs, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling, diving, and turtle watching. With its low crowds, Pulau Tengah offers a tranquil escape, allowing travelers to truly immerse themselves in nature. It's a dream getaway for couples and families, earning the nickname "The Hidden Gem of Johor's Waters."

🌺 Kuil Sri Subramaniar Located in Malaysia, Kuil Sri Subramaniar is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, the god of war. Renowned for its vibrant colors and intricate carvings, the temple's exterior is adorned with layers of statues that showcase the grandeur and spiritual strength of South Indian temple architecture. It serves as a vital spiritual hub for the local Indian community. During festivals, devotees gather here for grand ceremonies and prayers, creating an atmosphere that is both solemn and lively. Beyond being a place of worship, it also offers a window into Indian culture and art, attracting numerous visitors who come to admire its beauty.

#AugustDestinations2025 ⛩️ Hock Soon Temple in Mersing Hock Soon Temple, located in Mersing, Johor, Malaysia, is one of the oldest Chinese temples in the area, boasting over a century of history. Primarily dedicated to Tua Pek Kong, the temple serves as a vital center of worship for local Chinese fishermen and residents. The temple's architecture retains a strong Southern Chinese style, with carved beams and painted rafters, and intricately decorated with colorful porcelain, bearing witness to the cultural heritage of the Chinese ancestors who migrated to Southeast Asia. The temple is bustling with incense, and is especially bustling during festivals. It is not only a place for prayer, but also an important window for visitors to explore the culture of the Chinese community in Mersing.

#AugustDestinations2025 #LocalTaste "Zao Shi Ah Street Noodle Stall" is a traditional street noodle stall brimming with nostalgia, nestled in a corner of the morning market. While its facade may appear dated, it exudes a rich local charm. They specialize in a wide variety of noodles and fried rice dishes, including fried kway teow, wonton noodles, curry noodles, and Hokkien mee. They offer a diverse menu with authentic flavors. For locals, it's a great choice for breakfast and lunch; for travelers, it's a hidden gem offering a taste of traditional Malaysian cuisine.

#AugustDeals2025 #IndianFood #Malaysia MYL Tandoori House is a beloved Indian restaurant in Malaysia, renowned for its authentic charcoal-grilled dishes and rich spices. The signature Tandoori Chicken, with its lightly charred skin and tender meat, is paired with a unique spice marinade for a truly unforgettable experience. They also offer a variety of curries, flatbreads, and rice dishes, each showcasing the essence of Indian cuisine through its spiciness and richness. Whether dining with friends or simply experiencing international cuisine, MYL Tandoori House promises a delightful and satisfying experience, making it a must-try when exploring Malaysia's diverse culinary scene.

#AugustDestinations2025 #Malaysia #Mersing #Mosque Located on the east coast of Johor, Malaysia, Masjid Bandar Mersing is the town's most iconic religious landmark. Boasting elegant Islamic architecture, its domes and towering minarets stand out majestically against the blue sky. It is not only a vital place for daily prayer for Muslims, but also a focal point for local gatherings and religious activities. Entering the mosque, one can experience a tranquil and reverent atmosphere, showcasing the locals' religious life. Located in the heart of the city, it is a focal point for tourists passing through Mersing. For travelers, it's more than just a mosque; it's a beautiful spot where they can experience traditional Malay culture and find peace of mind.

#AugustDestinations2025 Located on the east coast of Johor, Malaysia, Mersing Harbour Centre serves as a key terminal and passenger hub for trips to Tioman Island and surrounding islands. It houses ticket counters, food and beverage outlets, a convenience store, and a tourist information center, allowing passengers to rest and prepare before boarding. The building boasts a simple, functional design and a comfortable waiting area for passengers to await their ferry. Mersing is not only a maritime hub but also a jumping-off point for exploring Malaysia's tropical islands. Many backpackers and diving enthusiasts gather here to embark on journeys filled with sunshine and the ocean.