Johor, the southernmost state of the Peninsula, is steeped in history and is a heaven for nature lovers.
The state has unbroken coastline flanked by the South China Sea in the east, extending around its southern tip to the western shoreline overlooking the Straits of Malacca. Johor Bahru, the state capital, is the state of several historical buildings and landmarks.
Like a necklace of glittering jewels, the islands ofSibu, Rawa, Pemanggil, Aur, Tinggi, Besar, Tengah, Mensirip and Hujung lay nestled off Johor's eastern coast. They are accessible from Mersing, a charming coastal town and the jump-off point to the renowned Tioman Island. Lush vegetation and endless stretches of golden beaches characterised the Sibu Group of Islands.
They are accessible from the Tanjung Leman jetty, 60km from Mersing. The islands abound with water sports activities such as snorkeling, windsurfing, sailing and kayaking.
Opt for a visit to the nearby Kelong, where anchovies are caught or head for the villages on the islands of Sibu Besar to see how the natives live. For some adventure, hike through the jungle trails leading to unspoilt mangrove swamps.
The island of Rawa is perfect for snorkeling, kayaking and windsurfing. Famed for its tall palm trees, white sand and secluded coves, this is the ideal tropical getaway.
Be mesmerised by the glassy blue and emerald green waters of Rawa. Perfect for honeymooners, it is only 30-minutes from Mersing
by speed boat.
Get close to the marine life as neon-coloured fish swim close to shore, right below the jetty and between your ankles! Rawa was among the earliest islands here to be developed as a tourist destination. Pemanggil is the largest among the cluster of islands of Johor. Squid fishing is an enjoyable seasonal sport here. Other popular activities are jungle trekking, snorkeling and diving.
The unspoilt island of Aur is the perfect dive destination. Encounters with pelagics including jacks, barracudas and black tip sharks are a big draw. The best time to dive is between April and October when the sea is calmer and visibility is at its best.. The islands of Tinggi, Besar, Tengah, Mensirip and Hujung are idyllic secluded getaways. These islands boasts beautiful beaches with shady cool trees and clear waters. Perfect for simply working on nothing, but a tan!
Dubbed as "Robinson Islands" in Scandinavia, the islands of Johor served as the location of the popular "Expedition Robinson" series akin to "Survivor".
Mersing is the main staging point to Johor's islands in the South China Sea. It is 138km north of Johor Bahru or a two-hour drive from there. Life here moves at a casual pace as trawlers prepare to sail out to the sea from this fishing town.
