4 Island Hopping You Must Do In Johor
With almost 900 islands – 878 to be exact – Malaysia has plenty of offshore attractions. DiscoverJB had been noticing a lot of articles on islands and beaches around Malaysia but we haven't read any articles on island hopping adventure. Therefore, we've rounded up 4 island hopping adventure in Johor that you can do on your own by chartering a boat or by signing up for a tour package.
1. Pulau Besar - Pulau Tengah - Pulau Hujong
Pulau Besar is clustered with two more islands. They are Pulau Hujong (Hujong Island) and Pulau Tengah (Tengah Island). Pulau Besar is once a fishing village but currently has been listed as a marine park by the Government to preserve the marine life. The island offers many water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving and more.
Pulau Besar and Pulau Tengah were the host islands for the popular and controversial reality TV show in Europe called the 'Expedition Robinson' that ran for 9 seasons. Accommodation facilities are only available at Pulau Besar and Pulau Tengah
2. Pulau Rawa - Pulau Harimau - Pulau Mensirip
The island possesses white fine sand with crystal clear water. Rawa Island acts as one of the best getaways for urbanites who wanted some alone time out of their hectic schedule.
Island hopping trips are available to Pulau Mensirip and Pulau Harimau. Pulau Harimau also has a cave as you see on the photo top left. All these small islands are inhabited thus bring along some snacks and water if you decided to spend your day there. Do note that Pulau Mensirip is a private island, belongs to the Johor royal family and so no trespassers.
3. Pulau Pemanggil - Pulau Dayang - Pulau Tioman - Pulau Aur
Pulau Pemanggil is the lesser known of the 4 islands. There is a hill for the adventurous people. Climb to the top to experience the scenic view of the island with a bird's view.
All 4 of these islands are known for scuba diving and snorkeling. Pulau Dayang & Pulau Tioman are famous for its diving site. Most tourists visit these islands for scuba diving and snorkeling experiences.
Accommodation are available on all 4 islands. Just ask around the hotel/resort for any island hopping package tour.
4. Pulau Sibu - Pulau Kukus -Pulau Tinggi
Pulau Sibu forms part of the Seribuat chain of islands lying 12 kilometers off the east coast of the West Peninsular. The name Pulau Sibu usually refers to the main island in this cluster, which is Pulau Sibu Besar (Big Sibu Island). Other islands in this cluster include Pulau Sibu Tengah (Middle Sibu Island), Pulau Sibu Hujung (End Sibu Island) and Pulau Kukus. Pulau Tinggi can be viewed from the north eastern section of Pulau Sibu Besar.
Accommodation is available at Pulau Sibu and Pulau Tinggi. Tour operator on the island often offers island hopping packages that includes snorkeling at these 3 islands.
How to go?
According to the website of Department of Marine Park Malaysia, there are scheduled ferries from Mersing to Pulau Besar, Pulau Tinggi, Pulau Sibu, Pulau Rawa, Pulau Pemanggil and Pulau Aur. Scheduled ferries are also available from Tanjong Leman to Pulau Sibu and Pulau Tinggi. However, this information may not be the newest, hence, it is best to call or email the resort/hotel you're staying in.
With the monsoon season ending soon, the east coast of Johor makes for a perfect getaway from the concrete jungle of Johor Bahru. Remember, it doesn't hurt to ask locals or the reception on island hopping packages available. Have a great week ahead!
Images: Instagram