Pulau Redang - A beautiful Marine Park

Redang Island or Pulau Redang is famous for its crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and the tropical fish that inhabit the numerous reefs, many within 50 feet of the shore. With its crystal clear waters, prolific coral formations and an array of marine life, it is little wonder then that Redang has earned for itself the enviable reputation as one of the best marine parks in the world. This paradise-like island is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, jungle trekking, fishing, boating, wind surfing and canoeing.

Pulau Redang which is located 50km from the mainland and a 2 hour boat ride from the Marang Jetty, Terengganu, the island is surrounded by crystal clear waters, pearly white shores, a colorful array of spectacular marine life, a breathtaking sunset, and what could be the world's most mature coral garden. The park is arguable among the best diving spots in the world where marine life is protected and souvenir hunters are liable for prosecution.

Pulau Redang is the largest of a group of nine protected islands dotting the South China Sea off the Terengganu coast. The island offers crystal clear waters and numerous dive sites for enthusiasts. Sheltered within the Pulau Redang Marine Park, the waters here are rich in marine life. At midday when sun rays penetrate the sea, brilliant hues of coral, anemones and fish can be seen.No fishing is allowed within a 3.2km radius of the island as Pulau Redang is gazetted as a marine park. The collection of corals and other aquatic life is also strictly prohibited.

The waters around Pulau Redang also contain two historic shipwrecks: The H.M.S. Prince of Wales and H.M.S. Repulse, which sank here at the start of World War II, setting the stage for the Japanese occupation of Malaya.



Getting there: By Boat
Begin your island-hopping adventure by catching a boat at any of the jetties in Kuala Terengganu and Marang. Travelling time to Pulau Redang is one hour from Kuala Terengganu and 50 minutes from Marang.



Accomodation:
Plenty to choose from either in the form of chalets, or a luxury type.

Desaru a true place for vacation

DESARU, located on the eastern tip of the Malay Peninsula, has clean sandy white beaches and it is popular with tourists as well as locals. The 25km long stretch of unspoiled beach framed by the South China Sea on one side and lush tropical forest on the other, is home to many hotels and resorts ready to take in new guests.

Activitites in Desaru

In Desaru, activities are largely available and include golfing, horseback riding, tennis, canoeing, swimming, boating, fishing, snorkeling, jungle trekking, and you can even enjoy yourselves in the local theme park.



Snorkeling is a good option, but don't expect banks of colorful fishes and wonderful sea creatures. Scuba diving here is out of the question, although some of the resorts do arrange trips out to Johor's northern islands.


One thing you can definitely try is surfing. If wind is good, the waves are quite OK, and especially the lack of jellyfish and sharks makes it an attractive location. During December, January and first half of February (monsoon season), the waves are almost constantly high, but do expect the water to be a little cold. There is a company that rents surf boards for 20 RM/h and provides surf lessons for 100 RM. The same company rents jetskis.

Excursions to see the fireflies (api-api) in the Sungei Lebam river are very popular. While theoretically possible to arrange yourself, this would require bumping about dirt roads to find the dock and then cruising around a pitch-black jungle river, so it's much easier to join one of the hotel excursions. The best time to go is after rain on a new moon.

Getting to Desaru



By Land

Desaru Beach is easily accessible from Singapore and the northern areas by road via Kota Tinggi, Johor, Malaysia.

Approximate distance and traveling time when driving to Desaru:

* from Johor Bahru: 100 km, 1h 30min
* from Kuala Lumpur: 436 km, 4hrs 15min
* from Singapore: 125 km, 2hrs 15min

Public transport is available from Johor Bahru, Kota Tinggi and Tanjung Belungkor to Desaru, but do check schedules as buses tend to be few and far between.

By Sea

Travel by ferry from Changi Point, Singapore to Tanjong Belungkor, Malaysia. The ferry operates four times a day and has capacity for 400 passengers and 70 cars on its car deck.


In Desaru, Johor, you don't have to worry about 'a place to stay' and 'where to eat'...as there are plenty to choose from and within your budget. So, worries not but 100% relax and enjoy.....