Leap between Isles like a Pro: 8 Spots to Go for Your Mersing Island Hopping
Island hopping is like speed dating with tropical paradises—except you can go back and visit without any awkward “It’s not you, it’s me” conversations. Last time I tried to keep it simple—you know, pick one or two islands for a quick trip—it became kind of complicated.
You see, Mersing is surrounded by a lot of islands, and you’ll probably get confused about which ones you should visit. But hey, that’s why I’m here, and I’ve listed them down so you don’t skip on the good ones.
So, follow along!
Pulau Rawa
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Directions
Distance from Mersing: Approx. 16 km (about 10 miles)
Pulau Rawa is one of those islands where the water is so clear and the sand so powdery, you’d swear it’s been photoshopped. But nope, and it’s actually renowned for its coral reefs, so snorkeling here is pretty much a must-do.
Aside from snorkeling, you can also try out kayaking, windsurfing, or going on a hike since the island also has some scenic hiking trails that aren’t too challenging. Now, it isn’t massive, which means you can easily explore it within a day or two.
Moreover, the nightlife is pretty laid-back, with some resorts hosting beach BBQs or small parties. Just remember, Pulau Rawa is a place to disconnect, so don’t expect bustling markets or a wild night scene.
Pro tip: Since Pulau Rawa is privately owned, there are only a couple of accommodation options available, and they can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Booking well in advance is wise, especially if you’re eyeing those beachfront chalets. Also, weekends can get quite busy, so a mid-week visit might offer a more serene experience.
Pulau Besar
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Directions
Distance from Mersing: About 13 km (8 miles)
Pulau Besar is a bit of an underrated gem, which means fewer crowds and more untouched beauty to enjoy. Its waters are a snorkeler’s and diver’s paradise, with coral gardens and an abundance of marine life.
For those who like a touch of mystery, Pulau Besar has a few legends and historic sites worth checking out, adding an interesting twist to your typical beach holiday.
The island also offers a wide range of water sports, from jet skiing to banana boat rides. And let’s not forget the jungle trekking opportunities, which allow you to explore the island’s lush interior.
Pro tip: Accommodation on Pulau Besar varies from basic chalets to more luxurious resorts, so there’s something for every budget.
Just keep in mind that during the monsoon season (November to February), many resorts close down and boat services can be scarce, so plan your visit accordingly.
Pulau Tinggi
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Directions
Distance from Mersing: Approx. 32 km (about 20 miles)
Pulau Tinggi is often referred to as the “General’s Hat Island” due to its unique silhouette. The island’s beaches are postcard-perfect, with soft white sand and clear turquoise waters (no exaggerating here!).
Snorkeling and scuba diving are superb here, with several untouched coral reefs surrounding the island. Apart from water activities, Pulau Tinggi is home to a rich biodiversity, including a variety of birds, so it’s a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
What’s more, the island has a small village where you can experience the local Malay culture. You can also hike up to the island’s peak for a spectacular panoramic view; though it’s a bit of a trek, it’s totally worth it.
Pro tip: Since Pulau Tinggi is less developed compared to other islands, it’s important to manage your expectations in terms of facilities. Make sure to bring along some cash, as ATMs are non-existent and not all places accept cards.
Pulau Tengah
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Directions
Distance from Mersing: Roughly 21 km (around 13 miles)
Once a refugee camp in the ’70s, Pulau Tengah now stands as a beacon of tranquility and isolation, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. It’s especially famous for its history as the setting for the French version of the “Survivor” TV series.
When it comes to activities, Pulau Tengah doesn’t disappoint. Snorkeling and diving here are top-notch, given the abundance of marine life and coral reefs.
You can also kayak around the island or simply enjoy a leisurely swim in its warm waters. By the way, the island is a nesting ground for sea turtles, so you might get lucky and witness turtle hatchlings making their way to the sea.
Pro tip: The accommodation options on Pulau Tengah are quite limited, so it’s another place where booking ahead is crucial. Also, if you’re keen on seeing turtles, plan your visit between June and August, which is the peak season for turtle landings.
Just remember to treat the island with respect and follow all guidelines to ensure the preservation of its natural beauty and wildlife.
Pulau Harimau
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Directions
Distance from Mersing: Around 23 km (approx. 14 miles)
Pulau Harimau is basically your dream come true if you’re all about exploring and Instagram-worthy moments. The name translates to Tiger Island, but relax, you won’t find any tigers here!
What you will find, though, are mind-blowingly beautiful sea caves and a natural lagoon that’s just perfect for swimming. Besides taking a dip in that unreal lagoon, Harimau is prime for some snorkeling action.
The marine life around here is vibrant, and the water clarity is just unbeatable. Just be ready to paddle a bit, because kayaking around is another must-do.
Pro tip: This island is more on the ‘untouched’ side of things, which means facilities are pretty much nonexistent. Pack anything you might need for the day—think water, snacks, and sun protection.
And, given its natural state, please make sure to leave no trace behind.
Pulau Dayang
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Directions
Distance from Mersing: Around 76 km (47 miles)
Next up is Pulau Dayang, the big kahuna for divers and anyone looking to get their PADI certification in a slice of paradise. It’s basically the diving mecca around Mersing, with dive sites that cater to all levels.
From mesmerizing coral gardens to exciting shipwrecks, Dayang’s underwater world is packed with sights that’ll make you want to stay submerged all day long. In terms of marine life, expect to be swimming alongside turtles, reef sharks, and tropical fish.
But hey, it’s not all about what’s under the water since, on land, Dayang has this chill vibe that’s hard to beat. Accommodations are cozy and geared towards divers, so you’ll probably meet fellow underwater enthusiasts here.
Pro tip: If you’re aiming to dive, booking a dive package is your best bet. These usually include accommodations, meals, and multiple dives, making it a hassle-free option.
Also, keep in mind that Dayang is seasonal; it’s often closed to visitors during the monsoon season (usually from November to February), so plan your trip accordingly.
Pulau Aur
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Directions
Distance from Mersing: Roughly 76 km (approx. 47 miles)
Pulau Aur is like Dayang’s low-key cousin, who’s equally into diving but has a bit more of a secret paradise vibe. It offers that secluded island feeling where you can truly unplug and enjoy nature.
Dive sites here are absolutely world-class, with water visibility that can reach up to 30 meters on a good day and underwater topography that includes coral towers and deep, intriguing wrecks.
Now, for folks who love fishing, Aur has some of the richest waters around Mersing, teeming with big game fish. And for those who prefer land-based exploits, there’s jungle trekking that unveils the lush inner world of Aur.
Pro tip: Given its distance from the mainland, make sure to stock up on essentials before heading out to Aur. The island’s remote charm also means less in the way of luxury, so prepare for a more rustic stay.
For divers, checking weather conditions and booking with a reputable dive center on the island is crucial, as Aur’s dive spots can challenge even seasoned divers.
Pulau Pemanggil
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Directions
Distance from Mersing: Approx. 56 km (about 35 miles)
If you’re after an island that’s a jack of all trades, Pulau Pemanggil has got you covered. It’s like this hidden jewel that’s not quite as known as the others, but wait until you get there—fishing, snorkeling, diving—you name it, Pemanggil delivers.
For anglers out there, this island is legendary, as its waters are so fertile that it’s known as one of the best deep-sea fishing spots in Malaysia. But hey, maybe you’re more of a snorkeler or a diver.
No worries; the coral reefs around Pemanggil are thriving and home to a vibrant array of marine life. It’s like swimming in an aquarium, only way cooler because it’s all natural.
Pro tip: Pemanggil is pretty remote, and that’s part of its appeal, but it means you need to plan your trip well. There’s a limited choice of accommodations, so booking ahead is crucial.
Also, the journey here can be a bit of an adventure in itself, as it’s further out. Make sure to check boat schedules and weather conditions.