Pulau Babi Besar: Your secluded island paradise 30 mins from Johor – Guide to getting there, staying & playing

Ready for a chill island escape from Singapore? Pulau Babi Besar, a destination that’s off the radar, is just a 30-minute boat ride from Johor. You’ll discover untouched beaches and crystal-clear waters, a peaceful haven far from the usual tourist hustle.

Here’s how to kick off your adventure from Singapore!

How to get there from Singapore

First, head to Mersing Jetty in Johor, Malaysia. You can either take a 3-4 hour bus ride (from S$35 one-way via 12go.asia) or gather your road trip crew and drive up if you’ve got a car.

From Mersing, it’s a quick 30-minute boat ride to Pulau Babi Besar. Most resorts arrange transfers (around RM55 per person each way, if not in your package). Easy peasy, island breezy!

* Exchange rate (at time of writing, 5 June 2025) is RM1 = ~S$0.30

What to do on Pulau Babi Besar

1. Beach bliss & relaxation

This is arguably the island’s biggest draw. Think powdery white sand, swaying palm trees, and calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for simply unwinding. You’ll find hammocks and lounge chairs outside resorts, but the real joy is strolling along the shore, finding your own secluded spot, and soaking up the sun. The shallow waters are also ideal for non-swimmers and kids to splash around safely.

2. Snorkelling & Diving

With its incredibly clear waters and vibrant coral reefs just a short swim from the shore, Pulau Babi Besar is a fantastic spot for exploring marine life. You can often rent gear from resorts (around RM15/day for snorkelling). Expect to spot colorful fish, clownfish, and perhaps even small reef sharks and healthy corals. Some of the best spots are near Aseana Beach Resort and Pulau Besar Jetty. Diving excursions are also available for those wanting to go deeper.

3. Kayaking & Paddleboarding

For a more active way to enjoy the pristine waters, grab a kayak or paddle board. You can rent these from most resorts (around RM30/hour for kayaks) and gently paddle along the coastline, enjoying the stunning views and spotting marine life beneath you in the shallower areas.

4. Jungle Trekking & Hiking

If you’re up for an adventure on land, the island offers jungle treks. Your resort can help arrange a guide (which is recommended as paths aren’t always well-marked) to lead you through the lush interior to secluded beaches on the other side of the island or to viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the South China Sea. These treks can take about 2 hours one way, so wear appropriate footwear and go early to avoid the midday heat.

10 Johor Bahru hotels & resorts that will make you want to stay forever

5. Cycling

Some resorts also offer bicycle rentals, allowing you to cycle along paths that connect different parts of the island, enjoying the coastal scenery at a leisurely pace.

6. Island hopping

While Pulau Babi Besar itself is charming, you can also arrange boat trips to nearby islands like Pulau Harimau for more exploration.

Where to stay on Pulau Babi Besar

On Pulau Babi Besar, accommodation primarily consists of a few charming beachfront resorts that offer a true island escape. Here are the main options you’ll find:

1. Aseania Beach Resort Pulau Besar

Aseania Beach Resort Pulau Besar offers a serene beachfront escape on the island. This 3-star resort features tropical chalet rooms, many with balconies, blending comfort with local charm.

You’ll find a beautiful white sand beach perfect for relaxing, plus an outdoor swimming pool. The Kayu Manis Restaurant serves local and international dishes with ocean views, complemented by a beach bar.

Activities include snorkelling, kayaking, and beach volleyball, with a spa available for relaxation. Guests often praise the friendly staff and delicious food, making it a highly regarded choice for a peaceful beach holiday.

2. D’Coconut Island Resort

D’Coconut Island Resort offers a more low-key and relaxed island experience on Pulau Babi Besar. This resort provides simply furnished rooms and chalets, many set amidst lush greenery or just steps from the beach, focusing on comfort and a peaceful ambiance.

Guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool as a refreshing alternative to the sea, and the open-air restaurant serves a variety of local and international dishes in a laid-back setting. While perhaps less opulent than some other resorts, D’Coconut is often praised for its tranquil atmosphere and the natural beauty of its surroundings.

It’s a great option for those seeking a genuinely unpretentious and serene getaway, providing essential amenities for a comfortable stay on this charming Malaysian island.

3. Bayu Lestari Island Resort

Bayu Lestari Island Resort offers a more intimate and authentic Malaysian island experience on Pulau Babi Besar. This charming, family-run resort (managed by Ibu Rose and her children!) prides itself on providing a true taste of Malaysian hospitality in a relaxed, natural setting.

The resort features 15 cosy villas, many in a traditional Malay style and often boasting beach or garden views. While it might be described as low-key, it provides essential comforts like air-conditioning and private bathrooms.

Bayu Lestari emphasises peace and nature, perfect for a digital detox. They offer a private beach area, and guests can enjoy snorkelling, cycling, and jungle trekking (guides often recommended). The on-site restaurant serves delicious, freshly prepared halal Malay cuisine, with a focus on local flavours.

It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a tranquil, unpretentious escape with a warm, personal touch.

What to do in Jun 2025: i Light, Flipside, Go Green SG & more