2025 Pulau Babi Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Nestled off the coast of Mersing in Johor, Rawa Island is a pristine tropical paradise that remains a hidden gem for travelers seeking serenity and natural beauty. This small coral island, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand, is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. What Makes Rawa Island Special Rawa Island’s charm lies in its simplicity. There are no sprawling resorts or bustling tourist attractions—just unspoiled nature. The island is privately owned and boasts only a couple of eco-friendly resorts, such as Rawa Island Resort, ensuring an intimate and peaceful experience for visitors. Things to Do on Rawa Island • Snorkeling and Diving: The waters around Rawa are teeming with marine life, making it a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Spot colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even small reef sharks. • Beach Relaxation: The island’s soft white sands and turquoise waters make it ideal for lounging by the beach with a good book or simply soaking up the sun. • Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Glide over the calm waters for a serene view of the coastline. • Hiking to the Hilltop: A short hike will take you to a hilltop offering breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the South China Sea. It’s a must for photographers and nature lovers. Fun Facts About Rawa Island • Rawa is named after the white doves (Rawa in Malay) that inhabit the island. • It’s part of the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park, a protected area that ensures the preservation of its marine biodiversity. • The island’s waterslide, leading straight into the sea, adds a touch of fun for families and kids. How to Get There Rawa Island is accessible via a 20-minute speedboat ride from Mersing Jetty, which is about a 3-hour drive from Johor Bahru. Advance booking with resorts is recommended as the island limits the number of visitors to maintain its tranquility. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Rawa Island offers a slice of paradise that feels worlds away while being just off Johor’s coast. #johorjaya

#myhiddengems Pulau Rawa, an idyllic island located off the coast of Mersing in Johor, is one of Malaysia’s best-kept secrets. Known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, this hidden gem is the perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and unspoiled natural beauty. Unlike the more commercialized islands, Pulau Rawa remains relatively untouched, offering a serene environment where visitors can unwind and reconnect with nature. The island is small and intimate, with only a few resorts that offer comfortable accommodations. Visitors can spend their days snorkeling in the turquoise waters, where they can encounter a variety of marine life, or kayaking around the island to explore hidden coves and secluded beaches. For the more adventurous, a short hike up the island’s hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the South China Sea. The island’s charm lies in its simplicity – there are no cars, no bustling crowds, just the sound of waves gently lapping against the shore and the rustling of palm leaves in the breeze. Pulau Rawa is ideal for a digital detox and a retreat from the hectic pace of everyday life. With limited Wi-Fi and phone signal, you are encouraged to disconnect and fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. Dining on the island is a delightful experience, with fresh seafood and local delicacies served under the stars. For those looking to experience a slice of paradise that’s still off the beaten path, Pulau Rawa is a destination that promises peace, beauty, and a sense of pure escape.

Bayu Lestari Island Resort is a private island resort located on Johor Besar Island, just a 30-minute boat ride from Mersing. The island is incredibly peaceful, offering a variety of activities such as kayaking, cycling, jungle trekking, and volleyball. In the evening, gazing at the endless glassy sea is simply the best choice. The luxurious accommodations here are the perfect place to recharge, with spacious and comfortable rooms and stunning sea views that will leave you in awe. Bayu Lestari Island Resort Lot 4, Pulau Babi Besar, 86800 Mersing, Johor

#mymymemories Located within the protected Sultan Iskandar Marine Park in Mersing, Pulau Besar is an idyllic island where you can find crystal clear water and white sand beaches. Staying at Bayu Lestari Island Resort which is Malaysian-owned homestay, will give you a calming memorable experience. Offering 15 private villas to it's guests, this is the place where you can forget about your worklife and enjoy the nature.

visited Rawa island to escape the new year crowd. was nice and windy. but water sports were closed and the spa only had one masseuse, so book early. took the hillside rooms. but after taking a walk all around, think will grade as below. 1. beachfront 2. waterfront 3. frangipanni 4. hillside but hillside had the cheapest rates. food timings were bit odd. 8am - breakfast 12pm - lunch 7pm - dinner gap is too big between lunch and dinner. I got hungry by 5-6pm. when asked bout the timing, they said there were many in the past who ate at 6pm and by 8pm they were hungry. 👀

Only a 30 minute speedboat ride from Mersing, this gem of an island brings the best of tropical escapades at an affordable cost. White sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters and an idyllic pace of life will enthrall all travelers, no matter couples or families. Activities on the island include trekking their lush green hills, snorkeling just off the island’s white beaches, dive trips out to neighbouring isles, and many many more. The island boasts five resorts, catering to different price points. D’Coconut, the most affordable, features quaint cottages and even a pool. Most resorts provide full board, so meals will never be an issue. An amazing holiday for all.#beachlife #summervacation

Just spent 4 nights in a beachfront cottage and it was everything I expected and more! Firstly, a lot of the photos that have been shared here seem to be outdated. Let me break it all down so you will know what to expect and how to prepare for a stay here. Rooms - our beachfront cottage had 2 big beds, lots of space, and a big bathroom. The AC seems too small for the size of the room and would greatly improve if it was at least a 2HP AC. The bathroom is so-so with an old shower head. It definitely needs an upgrade. At night you will never get total darkness because of an outdoor light that is left on and shines brightly through the frosted glass door. A curtain or blinds would have been great to block the light out. There is no mini refrigerator and no tv. *It is important to note that there are many other kinds of rooms to choose from to suit your needs. Our number one priority was to be able to step onto the beach from our balcony. The room also has a balcony that is nice to hang out in when you want a break from the sun. There are mosquitoes most of the time but a little bug spray can keep you protected. The rooms are cleaned daily in the morning. It's done quickly and thoroughly and left with a fresh clean scent. Food - the buffet meals are quite delicious! I was honestly pleasantly surprised. I do wish there was a better variety for breakfast as it seemed we were eating the same thing each day. But there is an egg station and I always enjoyed my daily omelet. Coffee and tea are basic... instant. But it was still nice to be able to have a cup or 2 throughout the day. The staff was friendly and accommodating. Please serve nasi lemak! I was really hoping to see it being served in at least one meal. Beach and Sea - WOW WOW WOW. It was absolute paradise. Our days were filled with nonstop snorkeling. There are so many spots to explore and so many things to see. I saw baby black tip reef sharks, rays, crocodile needlefish, and a vast assortment of fish. It was absolutely fantastic. The sand is some of the finest I have ever felt, glowing white but not hot. The waters are clear and clean. This is what will bring us back year after year. Boat - the boat ride going there is comfortable and fast. You don't have to carry anything! They will load your bags and deliver them to your doorstep. I really can't believe I didn't come here sooner. The moment I stepped onto the sand I knew this would be our special once a year holiday playground. We were very fortunate to have good weather, good company with us, a nd the whole resort to ourselves. I know we will be back within a year because I can't stop thinking of this paradise. A huge THANK YOU to Rawa Island Resort for giving us an amazing 5 day stay!! #rawaisland #mersing #johor #malaysia

Address: Rawa Island is a coral island in Mersing District, Johor, Malaysia. Highlights: Rawa Island is one of the most beautiful beach in the Malaysia. Unlike other more popular beaches and islands in Malaysia, Pulau Rawa remains gorgeous, unspoiled and protected. It is a relatively small island, with only about 1km long. I love the sand quality here. You can feel the grains of white, sun-baked sand between your toes as you stroll along the beach. The Rawa island also sometimes called as the 'Little Boracay'. 🤩 There are a lot to do at the Rawa beach such as swimming, kayaking and snorkelling activities which is suitable for all ages. 😬 Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ #createwithtrip #naturewonder #naturewalk #johor #beach

so peaceful. privacy at its finest.

I always thought that Mersing only had Tioman Island. I didn't expect that island hopping took us to other different islands. It was so beautiful❤️✨ I was really shocked by the caves on Harimau Island. It was so spectacular! The white sand on Tengah Island was also so fine! I really liked the feeling of walking on the white beach! I felt that it was only available in foreign countries, but it turned out to be available in Malaysia😆 The sea water is really as clear as that in Sabah! One-day tour is really stress-free hahahaha. I set off directly in the morning from 9am to 5pm and rushed home the next day. I didn't need to ask for leave and rushed directly! I took a bus directly from Johor Bahru to Mersing Jetty. It was super convenient! After island hopping, I walked directly to HeySummer B&B for a shower in 3 minutes. It was super convenient! I chose this B&B after a long time and it didn't disappoint us😍 The location is very good and it is very clean! The owner of the B&B is also very enthusiastic! #travel #staycation #staycation #seascapes Recommended Mersing one-day island hopping tour! Go, go, go! ✨🧡

#johorbahrutrip Just 16km off the coast of **Mersing, Johor**, **Pulau Rawa (Rawa Island)** is a breathtaking tropical escape known for its **powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life**. Unlike its more famous neighbor, Tioman, Rawa remains a **hidden gem**—perfect for travelers seeking serenity, adventure, and unspoiled beauty. ## **Why Visit Rawa Island?** ### **1. Stunning Beaches & Turquoise Waters** - **Rawa’s main beach** is a postcard-perfect stretch of **sugar-white sand** sloping gently into calm, shallow waters. - **Coral reefs** just offshore make it ideal for **snorkeling and swimming**—spot clownfish, rays, and even baby sharks! ### **2. Thrilling Water Sports & Activities** ✔ **Snorkeling & Diving** – Explore vibrant coral gardens near the jetty. ✔ **Kayaking & Paddleboarding** – Glide over glassy waters. ✔ **Climbing the Rawa Slide** – A famous (and fun!) wooden slide into the sea. ✔ **Beach Volleyball & Jungle Trekking** – For those who love land adventures. ### **3. Luxurious & Rustic Stay Options** - **Rawa Island Resort** – A **premium** beachfront retreat with private villas. - **Alang’s Rawa** – A **budget-friendly** option with a backpacker vibe. ### **4. Secluded & Crowd-Free** - Unlike Tioman or Perhentian, Rawa has **no local villages**—just two resorts, ensuring peace and exclusivity. - **No cars or roads**—just pure island relaxation. ## **How to Get to Rawa Island** - **From Mersing Jetty**: Speedboats take **30-45 mins** (arranged by resorts). - **Best Time to Visit**: **March–October** (avoid monsoon season Nov–Feb). ## **Top Things to Do** 🌊 **Snorkel at Coral Bay** – Just steps from shore! 📸 **Climb the viewpoint** for a panoramic island photo. 🍤 **Feast on fresh seafood** at resort restaurants. 🌅 **Watch sunset from the jetty** – Unforgettable views. ## **Travel Tips** ✔ **Book early** – Limited accommodations mean it sells out fast. ✔ **Bring cash** – No ATMs on the island. ✔ **Pack reef-safe sunscreen** to protect marine life. ## **Final Thoughts** Rawa Island is **paradise simplified**—no crowds, no stress, just **sun, sand, and sea** in their purest form. Whether you’re a honeymooner, diver, or just craving a digital detox, Rawa delivers **the ultimate island escape**. **Have you been to Rawa? Share your experience below!** 🏝️💙 #RawaIsland #JohorParadise #MalaysiaIslands #HiddenGems #LuxuryEscape #BeachLife

#johorbahrutrip Just 15km off Mersing lies **Pulau Besar** - Johor's answer to those "unspoiled paradise" daydreams you have during Zoom meetings. This island swaps crowds for **powder-soft beaches**, jungle trails haunted by pirate ghosts, and waters so clear you'll spot Nemo staring back at you. --- ### **First Magic Moments** - **The Arrival**: Your boat gliding over liquid sapphire before hitting sand so white it hurts your eyes - **The Smell**: Frangipani blossoms and grilled ikan bakar - the island's signature perfume - **The Sound**: Absolute silence... until the jungle chorus of cicadas kicks in **"Pinch Me" Moment**: Snorkeling at **Mirage Beach** where baby blacktip reef sharks dart between your legs (don't worry - they're shy!) --- ### **Island Secrets** 🔍 **Pirate Caves**: Explore the mossy Batu Belah cave where 18th-century pirates allegedly stashed treasure 🔍 **Magic Well**: Locals swear the freshwater **Perigi Beracun** well grants wishes (just don't drink the water!) 🔍 **Secret Sunset Spot**: Follow the overgrown path behind D'Coconut Resort to a private cliff viewpoint --- ### **Must-Try Experiences** 🤿 **Snorkel with Ghost Nets**: An eerie underwater art installation of coral-covered fishing nets 🍤 **Beachfront BBQ**: Feast on squid so fresh it practically jumps onto the grill 🌌 **Bioluminescent Kayaking**: Paddle through liquid stars on moonless nights (Mar-Oct) --- ### **Sample Itinerary** ⏰ **9:00 AM**: Speedboat from Mersing ⏰ **10:30 AM**: Jungle trek to pirate caves ⏰ **12:30 PM**: Beachside coconut + nap combo ⏰ **3:00 PM**: Snorkel safari ⏰ **6:00 PM**: Sunset BBQ with your toes in the sand --- ### **Island Hacks** - **Pack Cash**: No ATMs, and coconut vendors don't take PayPal - **Water Shoes**: Protect your feet from coral rubble - **Weekday Trips**: You might get entire beaches to yourself - **RM150-200** for return boat transfers --- Pulau Besar is that rare **throwback paradise** where hammocks outnumber sunbeds, where the jungle still whispers pirate tales, and where your biggest decision is whether to snorkel or nap first. Just don't be surprised if you start eyeballing vacant beachfront lots... *Legend Says: The island's real name is Pulau Babi Besar ("Big Pig Island") - named after wild boars, not insulting visitors!*

In Perhentian Besar, every day feels like a page from a story you never want to end. 🌞🌸 Mornings begin with the warm kiss of sunlight and the gentle call of the sea. 🚣♂ We set off on adventures across clear turquoise waters, paddling kayaks over shallow reefs, diving into a world of vibrant corals and curious turtles, discovering secret beaches where time seems to stand still. 🐢🏝 As the day unfolds, the island reveals its simple magic — barefoot walks along soft sands, laughter shared over fresh seafood at The Barat, and the quiet wonder of watching the horizon stretch endlessly before us. 🍽🌊 But it’s at sunset when the real spell is cast. 🌅 The world slows down, the sky blushes in hues of gold, rose, and lavender, and everything is bathed in a soft, dreamlike light. From a boat adrift on calm waters or from the beach with our feet buried in the sand, we watch the sun melt into the ocean — a moment so beautiful it feels almost sacred. ✨ In those sunsets, we found more than just a breathtaking view — we found a piece of ourselves, a piece of each other. 💙 🏨 Stay: Coral View Resort – a peaceful retreat just steps from the sea. 🍽 Eat: The Barat – the heart of the island’s flavors and warmth. 🏖 Swim: Perhentian Island Resort Beach – where paradise meets the shore. 💰Average Price per Person: 1500RM 💞Reasons to Recommend: Adventure may start the day, but it’s love — for the island, for life, for each other — that lingers long after the sun has set. 🌴🌺

If you dream of a place where time slows down and every sunset feels like a secret gift, this island escape is calling your name. 🇲🇾✨ 🏝 Our Stay at Coral View Resort Nestled between turquoise waters and lush greenery, Coral View Resort felt like our own little haven. Waking up to the sound of waves and walking barefoot to the beach within minutes—pure bliss. 🍽 Meals to Remember at The Barat Just a stroll away, The Barat became our go-to spot for mouthwatering meals. Fresh seafood, grilled delights, and tropical cocktails—every bite came with a side of ocean breeze. 🌊🍤 🐠 Snorkeling Tour Adventures From vibrant coral gardens to swimming alongside turtles and baby sharks, the snorkeling tour was nothing short of magical. Every dive revealed a hidden underwater world straight out of a dream. 🛶 Kayaking in Crystal Waters We paddled through shimmering blue waters, discovering quiet coves and hidden beaches. Renting a kayak was the perfect way to explore at our own pace. 🌅 Sunset at Romantic Beach As the sun dipped into the horizon, Romantic Beach turned into a golden dreamscape. Watching the sky melt into shades of orange and pink with hardly another soul around was pure magic. 🐢 Turtle View Point Wonders A short walk from Coral View Resort, Turtle View Point offered a breathtaking panorama. Standing there, gazing at the endless sea, we felt like we had stumbled upon one of Malaysia’s best-kept secrets. ✨ Final Thoughts This isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling. Calm mornings, sun-drenched afternoons, and starlit nights. If you're craving tranquility, crystal-clear waters, and a touch of adventure, this hidden paradise is everything you need. This pictures are taken by me on film in this beautiful island 🏝 😍 #malaysia #asia #beachlife #couplestrip #travel #beachlife

Looking for the perfect tropical escape? Perhentian Besar is pure magic! ✨ 🏨 Best Stay: Coral View Resort – cozy, right on the beach, and the ideal place to unwind. 🍽 Best Food: The Barat – delicious seafood BBQs and laid-back vibes, perfect after a day in the sun. 🏖 Best Beach: The beach at Perhentian Island Resort is straight out of a dream—powdery white sand and crystal-clear water. 🌊 Snorkeling trips and boat rides around the island are an absolute must—colorful reefs, turtles, and vibrant marine life await! 🐠 🌅 Pro Tip: Don’t miss a boat trip during sunset—watching the sun melt into the ocean from the water #naturalwonders #travel #beachlife #seascapes #couplestrip #beachlife #malaysia #asia is unforgettable.

#malaysiatrip Pulau Babi Besar is an island located off the coast of Johor, Malaysia. It's part of the Tanjung Leman area and is well known for its serene environment, clear waters, and natural beauty. The island is relatively small, but it offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. 1. Beaches: The island features beautiful, quiet beaches with soft white sand, making it a great spot for relaxing, sunbathing, and swimming. 2. Snorkeling and Diving: The surrounding waters are home to vibrant marine life, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling and diving. Coral reefs can be found around the island, attracting a variety of fish and other marine species. 3. Trekking and Nature Walks: The island is also a place for nature lovers, with trails that allow visitors to explore its lush forests and enjoy the diverse wildlife. 4. Accommodations: There are a few resorts and homestays on the island where visitors can stay, offering basic amenities in a tranquil setting. Pulau Babi Besar is a hidden gem for nature lovers and beachgoers who want to enjoy Malaysia’s natural beauty in a peaceful, laid-back setting.

I recently spent two nights on Pulau Besar, and it was a fantastic alternative to Tioman. The island is less developed, offering a more natural and serene environment. The beaches were pristine, with clear emerald waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. I stayed in one of the cozy beach huts, which provided a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the stunning sunsets. The island's tranquility was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With fewer tourists, it felt like a private paradise. Pulau Besar is ideal for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing getaway #malaysiatrip

Just arrived on Pulau Babi Besar (aka Pulau Besar……) We’re at the end of the season but the sea is still crystal clear, the beach is super white and the sun is still out Guessing it’ll rain tonight, but who cares? It’s so peaceful here just listening to the waves lap away down on the beach Off for a swim now and a stroll down the beach with my gorgeous family Will post more photos later

#myhiddengems Pulau Rawa ~ A small island at johor, Malaysia ~ white sand , crystal sea~ love it~ #pulaurawa

#beachlife Rawa Island Resort, nestled in the serene waters of Malaysia's East Coast, is a secluded paradise offering a perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty. The resort boasts charming beachfront chalets and villas, each offering breathtaking views and modern amenities for a comfortable stay. Guests can indulge in a variety of water sports and activities, including snorkeling, diving, and kayaking in the crystal-clear waters. The resort's restaurant serves delectable cuisine, while the beach bar offers refreshing drinks and stunning sunset views. With its pristine beaches and tranquil ambiance, Rawa Island Resort promises an unforgettable tropical getaway for relaxation and adventure seekers alike.

Rawa Island Resort surpassed all expectations! From pristine white sands to crystal-clear waters, this slice of paradise offers the ultimate escape. The cozy beachfront chalets provide a luxurious yet laid-back vibe, perfect for unwinding. With delicious dining options and activities like snorkeling and kayaking, every moment felt like a dream. Don't miss the chance to experience pure bliss at Rawa Island Resort!#paradise #privateisland

I wanted to add another twist to my trip to Singapore, so I found this Malaysian island of Rawa. I entered Malaysia from Singapore by express bus and went to a pier called Mersing Jetty. It took about 3 hours. From there, I took a boat for about 25 minutes, and the clear sea was far different from the sea I saw in Mersing! Rawa Island is an island where only guests are allowed to disembark, and it is a very compact island with only two hotels. We stayed at a beachfront bungalow hotel called Alangsurawa. It is an all-inclusive hotel with three meals a day + snacks. There are several types of rooms and the exterior is cute! Since it is an island, the bathroom facilities were not very good, but even so, it was an environment full of privacy, the beach was right when I opened the door of the room, food was just a short walk from the room, and the sunsets and stars were so beautiful that I could forgive it. It was so amazing that I didn't want to tell anyone about it. It was also fun that the number of guests was limited, so I could make friends with the people staying there on the same day. The cost of accommodation depends on the room and the number of people, but I think it was less than 20,000 yen for 3 days and 2 nights, including transportation to the pier and meals. If you can't speak English, you may have some difficulties, but in this day and age, you can probably manage with a translator! The wifi was great but weak. The connection was poor even with the router I brought from Japan, but because of that, I was able to spend less time on my phone and relax in nature, so I think it was a positive thing in the end! #Singapore #Malaysia #Island #BeachResort

#malaysia Pulau Besar off the east coast has to be a hidden treasure that everyone should visit if you get a chance. The fact that it's still under the radar makes it special. An easy 30 minutes speed boat ride from Mersing and you'd arrive in this island paradise with unreal sunrise and serene sunset views along its clean and empty white sand beaches. Just off the coast is some of the most beautiful coral and underwater life that you'll witness without having to travel much far. The hike overlooking beautiful sea views is something that'll be part of your core memory for years to come. Go out and plan your trip to this hidden treasure as soon as you can

Bayu Lestari Island Resort Getting there - Lot 4, Pulau Besar 86800 Mersing, Johor. Highlight - located in Mersing district. Travel 40km northeast towards Kota Tinggi. This resort is a family owned managed by Ibu Rose and her five children. located within the protected Sultan Iskandar Marine Park in Mersing, Pulau Besar is an idyllic island where you can find crystal clear water and white sand beach. #awesomepic

If you want to feel like royalty on vacation, Pulau Rawa is one of the places to go if you are in Johor. The reason is that this island is a private island owned by Tuanku Sultan Johor. If you want to feel like a holiday in a remote island, this is one of the places. This small island has no vehicles. If you want to go there, you can walk. Pulau Rawa is located about 16km from Mersing jetty. If you take a boat, about 20-25 minutes. On this island there are only two resorts namely Rawa Island Resort and Alang's Rawa. These two resorts are located next to each other. #royalcarribean #islandlover #wonderfultrip

#newyearadventure Its a long journey from home. Have to travel along the long stretch of Endau Rompin Forest Reserve road and a 30 minutes boat ride but what awaits you a worthwhile experience. All good things takes time..😊 Clear blue sky, crystal water, serene view and splendid service from the staff. We experienced snorkelling by the beach (further than the beach is out of my league)..😅, leisure walk around the island (2 km walk), hiking to top view, sun set view, water slide , ping pong game and trampoline ( i don't think there's age limit , so i give it a go)..😁 #MyTripVlog #2023TravelWish #tripblazers #newyearadventure #yearofrabbit #awesomepic #couplestrip

Getting There - Dari Jetty Mersing, kita akan menaiki bot yang disediakan oleh pihak Pulau. Attractions - Pantai yang cantik memutih Hotels - Rawa Island resort Food & Restaurants - makanan western food, chinese food, juga makanan tempatan. Shopping - Semasa hendak pulang, pelancong boleh mendapatkan produk tempatan keropok Lekor, sata, ikan masin.

Nice place