Family Weekend Adventure: Desaru and Johor Bahru from Singapore

Day 1: Desaru Beach Day

Desaru, Malaysia on June 27, 2025

7:30am

Depart from Singapore to Desaru

Start early from Singapore taking the Coastal Expressway route, crossing via the Sultan Iskandar Customs and Immigration complex, to reach Desaru. The drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, ideal for beating traffic and maximising daylight.
SGD40 per car (toll and petrol approx.), 2h0m

9:30am

Breakfast at The Els Club Desaru Coast

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at The Els Club’s Plantation restaurant offering a peaceful garden setting with a varied menu suitable for adults and children, including freshly baked pastries and local favourites.
MYR30 per person approx., 1h0m

10:30am

Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark

Spend the morning at this family-friendly waterpark featuring slides, wave pools and dedicated areas for young children, making it perfect for kids aged 3 and 12.
MYR88 adult, MYR68 child, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Nelayan Seafood Restaurant

Dine at this popular local seafood spot offering fresh seafood dishes ideal for adults and children. Their signature crab and mild fried rice are crowd favourites.
MYR50-80 per person, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Desaru Fruit Farm

Explore the expansive fruit farm where children can enjoy fresh tropical fruits, learn about local agriculture, and participate in farm activities.
MYR15 per person, 2h0m

4:30pm

Check-in and Rest at Hotel

Relax at the hotel, such as The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, with seaside access and child-friendly facilities including a kids’ club and pool.
Hotel rates vary, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cuca Restaurant

Enjoy innovative local cuisine in an artsy setting perfect for adults, with kid-friendly menu options. The fusion dishes provide a unique and memorable dining experience.
MYR80-120 per person, 1h30m

Day 2: Johor Bahru Culture and Shopping

Johor Bahru, Malaysia on June 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel or nearby cafe, with options for children and adults to fuel up for the day’s activities.
Included in hotel stay or MYR20 per person, 1h0m

9:30am

Travel from Desaru to Johor Bahru

Drive towards Johor Bahru taking the coastal route, approximately 1.5 hours. This route offers scenic views and convenient stops.
SGD30 (petrol/toll approx.), 1h30m

11:00am

Visit Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple

Explore one of Johor Bahru’s oldest temples with vibrant cultural significance and intricate architecture, suitable for a quick cultural immersion.
Free, 45m

12:00pm

Lunch at Medan Selera Meldrum Walk

Sample a variety of local Malaysian foods including noodle dishes and satays from open-air stalls, perfect for both adults and kids.
MYR15-30 per person, 1h0m

1:30pm

Shopping at Johor Premium Outlets

Spend the afternoon shopping at this popular outlet mall with international brands and kid-friendly entertainment zones, ideal for the group’s varied interests.
Free entry, 3h0m

4:30pm

Check-in at Johor Bahru Hotel

Rest at a family-friendly hotel such as Amari Johor Bahru, featuring good amenities and comfortable rooms.
Hotel rates vary, 1h0m

6:00pm

Relax at Danga Bay

Enjoy an evening stroll by the waterfront with children’s play areas and casual eateries, perfect for unwinding.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Todak Seafood Restaurant

Known for its fresh seafood by the seaside, this restaurant is friendly for families and offers local favourites with mild flavours suitable for children.
MYR50-90 per person, 1h30m

Day 3: Family Fun and Return

Johor Bahru to Singapore on June 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast to start the day and prepare for some kid-friendly activities before departure.
Included or MYR20 per person, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Angry Birds Activity Park

A fantastic indoor playground and activity centre themed around the popular Angry Birds games, perfect for children aged 3 and 12 to enjoy safely.
MYR35-50 per person, 2h0m

11:30am

Lunch at Komtar JBCC Food Court

Convenient food court options with a variety of cuisines and kid-friendly dishes, ideal before heading back to Singapore.
MYR15-30 per person, 1h0m

1:00pm

Depart Johor Bahru back to Singapore

Leave Johor Bahru via Woodlands Checkpoint, timing the journey to avoid peak hour traffic for a smooth return.
SGD40 car toll/petrol approx., 1h30m

2:30pm

Arrive in Singapore

Arrive home safely after a fun and well-planned family weekend trip exploring Desaru and Johor Bahru.
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