What to Do in Desaru with Kids | Easy Family Guide 2026

If you're looking for a quick weekend escape from Singapore with no flights, no jet lag, and plenty of kid-friendly fun, Desaru in Johor, Malaysia, is your answer. Just a short ferry ride or drive away, this coastal gem has exploded in popularity with young families, and for good reason.

We've done the homework for you. This guide combines the latest information with tips to help you figure out exactly what to do in Desaru with kids, where to stay, and how to make the most of every moment.

 

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Quick Guide: What to Do in Desaru with Kids

 

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Why Desaru is Perfect for Families

Question: Is Desaru good for kids?
Answer: Absolutely. Desaru was practically built with families in mind.

The main resort area, Desaru Coast, is a master-planned destination featuring world-class hotels, Southeast Asia's largest waterpark, and pristine beaches, all within a compact, easy-to-navigate area. Everything is designed for convenience, so you won't spend your vacation stuck in traffic or hauling tired kids across long distances.

Plus, it's incredibly accessible from Singapore. The ferry takes just 90 minutes, making it easier than a trip to most local attractions. No wonder it's become the go-to for Singaporean families seeking a quick escape.

 

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How to Get to Desaru from Singapore

By Ferry (Fastest & Easiest)

The ferry from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal takes about 90 minutes. This is hands-down the most convenient option, you step off the boat and you're already in Desaru Coast, minutes from the major resorts and waterpark.

Pro tip: Book your ferry tickets well in advance, especially during school holidays.

By Car (Most Flexible)

If you prefer driving, Desaru is about a 2-hour drive from Singapore, depending on traffic at the Causeway or Second Link. You'll need a car with proper Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) and Autopass card to cross the border.

Once you're in Desaru, having your own wheels gives you incredible flexibility to explore beyond the resort area, think local restaurants, fruit farms, and hidden beaches. (More on that later!)

Pro tip: Rent with WAHDAH for VEP Ready cars

By Bus (Most Budget-Friendly)

The cheapest option is taking a bus from JB Sentral to Desaru. However, you'll need to factor in the journey from Singapore to JB Sentral first.

 

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What To Do in Desaru with Kids

1. Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast: A Full Day of Splash-Tastic Fun

Best for: All ages
Time needed: Full day

This is the crown jewel of Desaru and the top answer to what to do in Desaru with kids. Boasting one of the largest wave pools in the world (seriously, it's massive), this waterpark delivers non-stop fun for every generation.

What makes it amazing for families:

• Tidal Wave Beach: This enormous wave pool mimics ocean swells at scheduled times. Grandparents can wade in the shallow end while big kids body-surf in the deeper sections.
• Kids' Water Play Area: Featuring mini slides, paddle boats, and a giant tipping water bucket that sends kids (and unsuspecting adults) into fits of giggles.
• Lazy River: Perfect for when everyone needs a calm-down moment. Float along on tubes and watch the world drift by.
• Thrill Rides: For the brave ones, there's a water roller coaster and massive tunnel slides. Parents can take turns while the other watches little ones in the kids' area.

Parent-tested tips:

• Rent a cabana along Tidal Wave Beach. Having a shaded base with seating makes the whole day more enjoyable, especially if little ones need naps.
• Arrive early and hit popular rides before queues form.
• Slather on waterproof sunscreen and reapply frequently. The sun is intense.
• Food options inside include kid-friendly staples like burgers, nuggets, and pasta.

2. Desaru Fruit Farm & Petting Zoo: An Educational Adventure

Best for: Ages 3+
Time needed: 2-3 hours

This 180-acre working farm offers a hands-on experience completely unlike anything in Singapore. It's educational, interactive, and surprisingly fun for all ages.

The experience:
A guided tour takes you through the farm on a truck, where you'll learn fascinating facts about tropical fruits like durian, rambutan, and pomelo. The tour guides are knowledgeable and engaging, making it interesting even for young kids.

Highlights for kids:

• Outdoor Petting Zoo: Feed camels, rabbits, and ostriches. Seeing a camel up close is a memory that sticks.
• Bee Talk: Learn about how bees make honey, peek at a real (protected) beehive, and taste raw honey straight from the comb.
• Indoor Petting Zoo: Get up close with llamas and adorable raccoons.
• ATV Ride: Older kids can ride an ATV with an adult through the plantation. It's muddy, bumpy, and absolutely thrilling. (More on this below!)

What's included:
Depending on your package, you'll get fresh-cut fruit from the farm—delicious and refreshing after the tour. Some packages include a fruit buffet lunch, featuring farm-to-table goodness.

Pro tip: Go in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. If you're bringing a stroller, note that some parts of the tour involve walking on uneven paths.

3. Desaru ATV Adventure: Mud-Splashing Fun

Best for: Ages 6+ (riding with adult)
Time needed: Around 20 minutes

Located at the same site as the Fruit Farm, this ATV tour lets you explore the landscape on all-terrain vehicles. You'll follow a guide along semi-bumpy dirt roads, passing fruit trees and open fields.

What parents need to know:

• Each adult and child pair can ride one ATV together. It's easy to manoeuvre—no bike license required, though driving experience helps.
• You'll likely get splashed with mud, so wear dark clothing or shoes you don't mind getting dirty.
• The pace is manageable for beginners, but there are enough bumps and potholes to make it feel adventurous.

4. Desaru Coast Mangrove Tour: Educational Boat Ride

Best for: Ages 5+
Time needed: 2 hours

Hop on a wooden boat and cruise along the Sungai Lebam River through a lush mangrove forest. A knowledgeable guide shares fascinating facts about the ecosystem, the unique mangrove trees, and the wildlife that calls this place home.

Is it good for young kids?
This depends on your child. The boat ride lasts about two hours, so active toddlers might get restless. We'd recommend this activity for kids aged 5 and up who can sit still and appreciate the scenery. For families with babies or very young toddlers, you might want to skip this one.

Book through operators for a professional experience with hotel pickup included.

5. Desaru Ostrich Farm: Meet the Big Birds

Best for: All ages
Time needed: 1-2 hours

Home to more than 100 ostriches, this unique farm offers personal guided tours where you'll learn fascinating facts about these enormous birds. Kids can watch them being fed, see ostrich eggs (they're huge!), and maybe even work up the courage to touch one.

It's quirky, affordable, and a hit with young children.

6. Beach Time: Sand, Sea, and Sunshine

Best for: All ages
Time needed: Flexible

Desaru is famous for its beaches, though the experience varies depending on which one you visit.

Tanjung Balau Beach: A local favorite, often crowded on weekends. There's a pasar malam (night market) nearby in the evenings, making for a lovely family stroll.

Desaru Public Beach: This beach is gated and maintained by a watersports company. Note that it closes in the early evening, so plan accordingly.

Pro tip: If you're staying at a resort like Anantara or Westin, you'll have direct access to private, well-maintained beach areas—well worth it if beach time is a priority.

 

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Where to Stay in Desaru with Kids

Your choice of accommodation shapes your entire trip. Here are the best family-friendly options:

 

 

 

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Where to Eat in Desaru with Kids

Resort Dining (Convenient & Kid-Friendly)

• Beach Bar at The Westin: Casual alfresco dining on the sand. Grilled seafood and plenty of space for kids to play.
• Waterpark eatery: Burgers, nuggets, pasta—standard kid fare when you're at the waterpark.

Local Eateries

• Chinese kopitiam: The only one nearby, and the food is yummy. Try the handmade noodles.
• Seafood restaurant: For fresh seafood including chili crab.
• Aesthetic cafe: Serving pretty pastries, sweet drinks, and passable pasta mains. Great for a treat.
• Burger spot: Western food, but note they close for prayer break and often sell out early.

Important tip: Shops and restaurants in the area close early. Many are out of food by early evening. Plan dinners accordingly or eat at resort restaurants.

 

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Sample 3D2N Desaru Itinerary with Kids

Day 1: Arrival & Waterpark Fun

• Morning: Travel from Singapore to Desaru Coast
• Check-in: Resort of your choice
• Afternoon: Hit the Adventure Waterpark
• Evening: Casual dinner at your resort
• Night: Relax after a fun-filled day

Day 2: Farm Adventure & Beach Time

• Morning: Desaru Fruit Farm tour + ATV ride (go early to beat the heat)
• Lunch: Fruit buffet at the farm or pack a picnic
• Afternoon: Beach time at Tanjung Balau (explore the pasar malam)
• Dinner: Local seafood feast
• Evening: Relax at hotel pool or kids' club

Day 3: Lazy Morning & Departure

• Morning: Sleep in, enjoy hotel breakfast, last swim
• Lunch: Light meal at a local cafe
• Afternoon: Travel back to Singapore

 

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What to Do in Desaru with Kids: FAQ

Which is better, Desaru or Bintan?
Both are excellent family destinations, but they offer different experiences. Desaru is more developed with a world-class waterpark, luxury resorts, and easy ferry access. It feels more like a purpose-built resort destination. Bintan offers a more rustic, nature-focused experience with beautiful beaches and fewer crowds. For families who want waterpark thrills and resort convenience, Desaru wins. For a quieter, more laid-back beach escape, choose Bintan.

How many days to spend at Desaru?
3 days and 2 nights is the sweet spot. This gives you enough time to enjoy the waterpark (full day), visit the fruit farm (half day), and have some beach/pool time without feeling rushed. If you want to add activities like the mangrove tour or ostrich farm, consider extending to 4 days.

Which part of Malaysia is best for kids?
For young families, Desaru and Langkawi are top contenders. Desaru wins for accessibility from Singapore and its compact, resort-style layout. Langkawi offers more variety (cable car, duty-free shopping, islands) but requires a flight. Within Johor, Desaru is hands-down the best beach destination for families.

What is the best time to visit Desaru?
The best time is during the dry season (March to October) when rainfall is lower and skies are sunnier. School holidays are popular, so expect crowds and higher prices. If you can travel during term time, you'll enjoy shorter queues and better rates. Avoid the monsoon season (November to January) when beach conditions are rougher and some activities may be limited.

Is Desaru safe for kids?
Absolutely. Desaru Coast is a well-developed, secure resort area. Beaches have lifeguards at designated areas, and the waterpark follows strict safety protocols. As always, supervise children near water and follow local guidelines.

Read more: Panti Bird Sanctuary Guide for Your Bird-Watching Quest

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Your Desaru Adventure Starts with the Right Wheels

Now you know what to do in Desaru with kids, let’s talk about transportation. While the ferry is convenient, having your own car in Desaru unlocks a whole different level of flexibility. Want to try that highly-recommended noodle place? Easy. Fancy exploring both Tanjung Balau and the gated public beach in one afternoon? No problem. Staying at a budget-friendly Airbnb but want to visit the waterpark? Drive yourself.

The local shuttle and buggy services are fine for resort hopping, but they run on schedules. With a car, you set the schedule—perfect for families with unpredictable little ones.

Explore Desaru Your Way with WAHDAH

Unlimited Mileage – Drive from the waterpark to the fruit farm to the beach without watching the odometer. Explore every corner of Desaru freely.

Flexible Pickup & Drop-Off – Pick up your car in Singapore and drive across. Return at a different location. We make your cross-border travel seamless.

VEP-Ready Cars – We handle all the cross-border paperwork so you don't have to stress. All our vehicles are equipped with valid VEP registration and Autopass cards, ready for legal entry into Malaysia.

Well-Maintained Vehicles – Clean, comfortable, reliable cars with cold AC. Perfect for keeping the kids comfortable between adventures.

Your perfect Desaru family adventure starts with the right car.
Book Your WAHDAH VEP Ready Car Now

 

Image Source: golfandmore