5 Island Getaways in Johor That Feel Like Paradise
Photo Source : @UiHua Cheah
When people think of island getaways in Malaysia, places like Tioman, Redang, or Perhentian often steal the spotlight. But that’s a good thing.
Because, tucked away along Johor’s eastern coastline lies a collection of islands that can easily rival some of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful tropical destinations - just without the crowds and commercialisation.
From powdery white beaches and crystal-clear waters to world-class diving spots and eco-luxury retreats, Johor’s islands offer experiences for every kind of traveller. Better yet, many of them remain relatively untouched thanks to their protected Marine Park status.
So if you’re looking for a warm-up or a second wind for your Batam trip, here are 5 islands that you can visit.
1. Pulau Rawa: The “Maldives of Malaysia”
Photo source: Google Maps
Vibe: Mainstream Luxury
Best for: Couples, honeymooners, and travellers seeking a premium island retreat
Getting there: 30 minutes by private speedboat from Mersing Jetty
Often called the “Maldives of Malaysia,” this privately owned island is one of Johor’s most sought-after tropical escapes. Other than its blindingly white sand, the island’s most recognizable feature is its iconic orange water slide that sends visitors straight into the turquoise water surrounding the island.
Snorkelers can explore vibrant marine life directly from the beach, while kayakers and sailors can spend the day exploring the surrounding waters. You can also trek up the island’s Hill Trail for spectacular sunrise views over the South China Sea.
The island is incredibly low density, with only two resorts on the entire island. There are no public roads, crazy beachside clubs, or noisy motorized water sports here. The result is an incredibly peaceful island experience. However, this exclusivity comes at a price, with rates starting at RM1,200 per pax for a minimum two-night stay.
2. Pulau Tengah: A Hidden Eco-Luxury Sanctuary
Photo source: Google Maps
Vibe: Hidden Gem / Eco-Luxury
Best for: Nature lovers, luxury travellers, and conservation enthusiasts
Getting there: 20 minutes by private speedboat from Mersing Jetty
If you want luxury without sacrificing sustainability, the privately-owned Pulau Tengah offers one of Malaysia’s most unique island experiences.
For one, there’s wildlife. Pulau Tengah used to be known as Pulau Babi Tengah due to the wild boars that were once on the island. Today, it’s a protected Marine Park - preserving the island’s pristine beaches, untouched coral reefs, and important sea turtle nesting grounds. You can tour the Turtle Watch Camp, explore one of the island’s eight beaches, or dive among some of Johor’s healthiest coral ecosystems.
Second, it’s the history and stories. Pulau Tengah once served as a United Nations refugee transit camp for Vietnamese boat people during the 1970s and 1980s. Remnants and memorials from that period can still be found on the island. It was also used as a location for the first season of Expedition Robinson, a Swedish TV series that became the blueprint for Survivor.
3. Pulau Besar: The Perfect Family Island Getaway
Photo source: Google Maps
Vibe: Family-Friendly Midrange
Best for: Families, especially with older generations
Getting there: 30 minutes by speedboat from Mersing Jetty
Pulau Besar combines beautiful beaches with a relaxed atmosphere that makes it one of Johor’s most family-friendly islands.
Long stretches of soft sand, swaying coconut trees, and calm waters create the perfect setting to slow down and unwind. The relatively flat terrain and spacious beaches make Pulau Besar particularly comfortable for young children and elderly travellers too!
Return speedboat tickets cost roughly RM55 to RM100. Most resorts are budget-to-mid-range friendly, with 3D2N packages averaging RM 600 to RM 900 per person.
Many resorts provide complimentary bicycles, making it easy to explore the island at your own pace. Jungle trails lead to secluded coves, while nearby islets such as Pulau Hujong and Pulau Tengah make excellent island-hopping destinations.
4. Pulau Sibu: Traditional Island Life
Photo source: Google Maps
Vibe: Midrange local lifestyle
Best for: Eco-conscious travellers and those seeking cultural experiences
Getting there: 30 minutes by boat from Tanjung Leman Jetty
Unlike many resort-focused islands, Pulau Sibu offers a glimpse into traditional island living.
The Pulau Sibu archipelago consists of several islands, including Sibu Besar, Sibu Tengah, Sibu Kukus, and Sibu Hujung. Together, they offer a unique landscape of mangrove forests, rocky coastlines, quiet beaches, and traditional fishing villages.
You can explore local kampungs, learn about the island community’s way of life, take mangrove tours, or enjoy diving and snorkelling around the surrounding reefs. If you’re there at the right time, you may also get to observe or participate in various marine conservation projects, including turtles and dugongs.
5. Pulau Aur and Pulau Dayang: A Diver’s Dream
Photo source: Google Maps
Vibe: Hardcore Diver Haven
Best for: Certified divers
Getting there: 2.5 hours by dive boat or speedboat from Mersing Jetty
Pulau Aur and Pulau Dayang are two islands separated by a small channel. It is the farthest island (longer than a ferry ride to Batam!), accommodation isn’t a luxury 5-star hotel, and it’s not cheap.
But none of that matters the moment you dive into the water.
Located at the outer edge of Johor’s waters, these islands offer some of the clearest visibility and richest marine biodiversity in the state. Divers regularly encounter schools of barracuda, reef sharks, turtles, and, on rare occasions, even manta rays. Visibility can reach up to 25 metres on good days, creating ideal conditions for underwater exploration.
Above water, you can hike up Pulau Dayang’s steep cliffs for breathtaking views of the channel separating the two islands.
Every island adventure starts and ends in Johor
Photo Source : @UiHua Cheah
Whether you’re looking for luxury villas, traditional fishing villages, or world-class diving, Johor’s islands offer far more variety than you’d initially think.
And Batam is always within reach. Whether it’s your first stop or a palate cleanser after your trip to Batam, you can easily continue your journey toward Mersing or Tanjung Leman.
Before boarding your boat, remember that all visitors departing from Mersing or Tanjung Leman jetties are required to pay a Marine Park conservation fee.
Fees typically range from around RM5 to RM10 for Malaysians and RM30 to RM50 for international visitors. These contributions help fund conservation efforts that keep Johor’s reefs, marine ecosystems, and island environments healthy for future generations.