Johor, the southernmost state of Malaysia, is not only known for its urban development and cultural heritage but also for its stunning islands. While many people think of Penang, Langkawi, or Perhentian when it comes to Malaysian islands, Johor offers its own hidden gems that are perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway or a family-friendly vacation, Johor’s islands have something for everyone.
This guide explores the best islands in Johor, highlighting their unique features, top activities, and how to make the most of your time there.
Why Choose Johor’s Islands for Your Next Vacation?
Johor, located in the southern part of Malaysia, is an ideal place for both locals and tourists to escape the bustle of city life. Its islands provide a perfect mix of untouched natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and opportunities for relaxation and exploration.
The islands of Johor, unlike those in other parts of Malaysia, are often less crowded, offering visitors a more serene experience. Moreover, Johor’s close proximity to Singapore makes it an easy and accessible destination for tourists from around the world.
Top Islands to Visit in Johor
1. Pulau Rawa (Rawa Island)
Pulau Rawa, a small but beautiful island located in the South China Sea, is one of the most famous islands in Johor. It is a private island resort renowned for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling, diving, and beach lounging.
- Things to Do:
- Snorkel in vibrant coral reefs and see tropical fish.
- Take a boat ride around the island to explore hidden coves.
- Enjoy the sunset from the beach while sipping on a cold drink.
- Visit the small fishing village nearby to experience local life.
- Snorkel in vibrant coral reefs and see tropical fish.
- Accommodation: Pulau Rawa offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from budget to luxury. The Rawa Island Resort is the most popular option, offering beachfront chalets and activities such as kayaking and water sports.
- How to Get There: To reach Pulau Rawa, take a ferry from Mersing Jetty (about 30 minutes), a town located on the mainland of Johor.
Beyond the beaches and clear waters, Johor’s islands are also home to diverse wildlife, tropical vegetation, and a serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an adventurous escape, Johor’s islands provide a peaceful haven, away from the crowds, where you can truly reconnect with nature. Start planning your Johor island getaway today—your perfect island escape is just a boat ride away!
(Best Time to Visit Johor? Oh, buddy… you’re gonna want to remember that one.)
Alright, real talk. Best Time to Visit Johor? I’ve typed that phrase into Google at least 17 times while plotting my next escape from city chaos. If you’re even slightly tempted to ditch the 9-to-5 grind or ghost reality for a bit, lemme point you straight to Johor, Malaysia’s southern gem. People always rave about Langkawi or Penang, but Johor’s islands? Chef’s kiss. Quiet, stunning, full of life—like that one barista who knows your name and your order and plays Fleetwood Mac on loop. Anyway, buckle up. We’re island hopping.
Why Choose Johor’s Islands for Your Next Vacation?
So here’s the deal—Best Time to Visit Johor? March to October, when the sun’s out, the seas are calm, and everything smells like coconuts and fresh decisions. Johor’s islands aren’t swarmed with tourist groups wielding selfie sticks like lightsabers. Instead, they’re raw, real, and still kinda secret. Close enough to Singapore for a quick hop, far enough to forget what a traffic jam feels like. Think crystal-clear waters, weirdly soft sand, and locals who’ll casually hand you the best grilled fish of your life. It’s like tropical therapy, minus the spa bill.
1. Pulau Rawa
Pulau Rawa is the island equivalent of that one friend who’s effortlessly cool. You know, white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and not even trying. I stayed at Rawa Island Resort and accidentally sunburned my feet because I was too busy gawking at the water (rookie mistake). There’s this rainbow-colored slide straight into the sea—yes, a literal SLIDE—and after three beers, it becomes your new religion. Pro tip: bring reef-safe sunscreen and avoid the weekends if you hate people. Oh, and the sunsets? They make your breakup texts feel poetic.
2. Pulau Sibu
Pulau Sibu is where you go when you wanna disappear—like, delete social media levels of peace. It’s a cluster of chill islands with beaches so empty, I started talking to hermit crabs. I bunked at Sibu Island Resort where the vibe was part-eco-retreat, part-hammock-heaven. The snorkeling? Unreal. I swear a parrotfish winked at me. Kayaking at dusk with just the sound of the waves and the occasional monkey shriek was the reset I didn’t know I needed. Best Time to Visit Johor? When the jellyfish aren’t planning a coup—so avoid monsoon season, November to February.
3. Pulau Tinggi
Tinggi means “high” in Malay and wow, she lives up to it. Pulau Tinggi rises outta the sea like it’s trying to kiss the clouds. Hiked up its forest trail at 7 AM, almost died from humidity, but made it to the summit—and holy wow, the view slapped. I stayed at Tinggi Island Resort, which felt like summer camp for tired adults. I tripped over a crab on the way to breakfast (he was fine, just dramatic). Best Time to Visit Johor? When the morning mist hangs like a movie filter—April was perfect, FYI.
4. Pulau Aur
Pulau Aur is for the “I wanna be cast away but with snacks” crowd. It’s remote, it’s raw, and it’s a scuba diver’s fever dream. Took a boat out from Tanjung Leman, nearly lost my hat, and felt like I was entering another planet. Aur Island Resort is low-key—don’t expect room service, but the stars above your bed will do just fine. We picnicked on a silent beach with fish grilling over a tiny fire, and for a second, I forgot my Wi-Fi password (liberating, honestly). Come here between April and September—the coral’s alive, the skies are clear, and it’s just you and the ocean.
5. Pulau Babi Besar
Yes, Pulau Babi Besar literally means “Big Pig Island” and no, there aren’t any pigs. Just a big, quiet island where time drips slow. We stayed in beachfront chalets and watched thunderclouds build in the distance like some dramatic movie climax. I tried fishing with a local guy named Pak Din and only caught seaweed. Still, he insisted I had “good energy.” The snorkeling here? Pure, with fish that seem a bit nosy. Avoid the monsoon, stick to the Best Time to Visit Johor, and you’ll be golden.
6. Pulau Kukup
Not your classic beach island, Pulau Kukup is all mangroves and mystery. It’s like nature decided to go goth. Boardwalks through thick swampy green, the sound of birds you can’t name, and mudskippers doing whatever mudskippers do. I saw a monitor lizard casually saunter past like he owned the place (and honestly, he did). Didn’t stay on the island, but bunked in Kukup Town nearby—think seafood galore and zero pretension. Come when it’s dry, ideally between March and October, and don’t forget mosquito spray unless you want to be a buffet.
Best Time to Visit Johor’s Islands
Look, Best Time to Visit Johor isn’t just a handy keyword—it’s a survival tip. March to October is prime time: clear skies, calm seas, and perfect for underwater escapades or lazy hammocking. Monsoon season (November to February) brings rain, choppy waters, and cancelled ferries (ask me how I know…). If you’re planning dives, aim for June. If you’re after solitude, September weekdays are peak ghost town in the best way possible. TLDR: If it’s sunny and you’ve got snacks, you’re good.
Conclusion: Johor’s Best Islands Are Waiting for You
So. Should you drop everything and run off to Johor’s islands? Absolutely. Each one’s got a soul—Pulau Rawa’s flash, Pulau Sibu’s chill, Pulau Tinggi’s wild green heights, Pulau Aur’s remote calm, Pulau Babi Besar’s lazy days, and Pulau Kukup’s swampy magic. You won’t find packed beach clubs or overpriced cocktails here—just real beauty, warm people, and a slower rhythm that your overworked brain desperately needs.
Honestly? You’ll come back with salt in your hair, sand in your shoes, and maybe a tan line shaped like a snorkeling mask. Worth it. Just remember the Best Time to Visit Johor—March to October—and bring curiosity, bug spray, and an open heart.
Now go. The islands are calling.
