When we think of tropical island paradises, we often think about places like the Maldives or Fiji. In truth, Malaysia has many equally beautiful islands which make the perfect getaway spot. One such spot is none other than Batu Batu Island Resort in Johor.
A short boat ride away
Image Credit: Xernaxx on Google Review (Left), Shirley Ramsey on Google Review (Right)
This resort is a getaway located on Pulau Tengah, about 16km off the coast of Mersing, Johor. It’s a private island retreat which can only be reached via a 20-30 minute speedboat ride from the mainland. Scheduled transfers take place daily, but private boats can also be chartered.
22 island villas
Image Credit: BBIR (Left), Jean-Claude Etter on Google Review (Right)
With only 22 villas, you can tell this place likes to keep things intimate for its guests. The villas are designed using traditional Malay carpentry and they blend perfectly into the natural surroundings. If you love greenery, go for a Jungle Villa. Love the sea? Ocean Villa, it is.
Perfect beaches
Imagine white, powdery sands, clear turquoise waters. This is what you can find here. The surrounding South China Sea is teeming with marine life and if you go snorkelling, you can spy on turtles and sharks living among the coral reefs.
No shortage of food
Image Credit: Professor Loredana Padurean on Google Review (Left), Shirley Ramsey on Google Review (Right)
After a long day out, you must be feeling famished. Despite its isolation, Batu Batu is well-stocked with food. Everything served here is made using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Even the in-house restaurant has a daily rotating menu to spice things up.
Some culinary favourites among guests include the spicy beef rendang cooked with island-grown coconut milk and grilled snapper wrapped in banana leaves with chilli paste. The resort also has its own bakery, serving up fresh bread, ice-cream and desserts.
An eco-friendly resort
Image Credit: BBIR
In addition to being a beautiful hotel, Batu Batu has its Tengah Island Conservation programme, which works to protect sea turtles, coral reefs and the island’s fragile ecosystem. You, as a guest, can even get involved by learning the facts or even by observing turtle catchlings.
Sea & sand
Image Credit: Shirley Ramsey on Google Review (Left), Xernaxx on Google Review (Right)
Are you the adventurous sort? There’s always something to do at Batu Batu. Snorkelling and diving bring you closer to the area’s marine life, while jungle trekking lets you explore the island’s wild heart. Otherwise, you can just enjoy lounging on the beach and admiring the sunset.
Villa rates
Staying at such a unique place comes with a price tag, though. Villa rates start at around RM1,500 per person for a two-day, one-night stay with a three-meal plan, costing around RM340 per adult per day and about RM175 per child.
Worth it?
That said, given the environment, food and service, the price is definitely worth it. After all, where else can you enjoy laid-back island vibes without leaving Malaysia? This is the tropical getaway which always gives you a little something extra.
Batu Batu Island Resort
Address: Pulau Tengah, 86800 Mersing, Johor
Contact: 017-7555888
You should also check out: HIDDEN Santorini-Style Villa in Ipoh!
Feature Image Credit: BBIR
