Are you dreaming of pristine beaches, lush jungles, and a serene island escape? Pulau Besar Johor, located off the east coast of Malaysia, is the perfect destination for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. If you’re starting your journey in Kuala Lumpur, this guide will walk you through the best ways to reach this hidden gem. Let’s dive in!
Why Visit Pulau Besar, Johor?
Before we get into the logistics, here’s why Pulau Besar should be on your travel list:
Untouched beaches with crystal-clear waters.
Snorkeling and diving spots teeming with marine life.
Peaceful vibes perfect for relaxation or a digital detox.
Charming local culture and fresh seafood.
Now, let’s plan your trip from Kuala Lumpur!
Step 1: Kuala Lumpur to Mersing Jetty
Pulau Besar is accessible via ferry from Mersing Jetty, Johor. Your first task is to get from KL to Mersing. Here are your options:
1. By Car (Self-Drive or Rental)
The distance from Kuala Lumpur to Mersing Jetty is approximately 320 km, with a travel time of around 4 to 4.5 hours depending on traffic, following the route via Lebuhraya Karak towards Kuantan and then continuing on Highway 12/FT 12 to Mersing.
Tips:
Use GPS apps like Waze or Google Maps for real-time directions.
Start early to avoid traffic and catch the morning ferries.
Parking is available at Mersing Jetty (approx. RM 10–15 per day).
2. By Bus
You can travel from Kuala Lumpur to Mersing Jetty by bus with operators like Transnasional, S&S International, or KKKL Express. Buses depart from Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) or KL Sentral, with a travel time of approximately 5 to 6 hours. Ticket prices range from RM 30 to RM 50 per person (one way), and the drop-off points are either Mersing Bus Terminal or Mersing Jetty.
Tips:
Book tickets online in advance.
From Mersing Bus Terminal, take a taxi to Mersing Jetty (5-minute ride, RM 10–15).
3. By Plane
You can fly from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Senai International Airport (JHB) in Johor Bahru with airlines like Firefly or Malaysia Airlines, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour. From Senai, you can either take a taxi to Mersing (a 2.5-hour drive, costing RM 200–250) or travel by bus from Johor Bahru's Larkin Terminal to Mersing, which takes around 2.5 to 3 hours with a fare of RM 20–30.
Step 2: Ferry from Mersing Jetty to Pulau Besar
Once you arrive at Mersing Jetty, you can take a speedboat to Pulau Besar, with daily departures at 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM, depending on weather and tide conditions. The return speedboat from Pulau Besar operate at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. The journey takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, and the round-trip ticket costs between RM 30 and RM 40 per person. It is recommended to pre-book your speedboat tickets through your resort or purchase them at the jetty counter.
Pro Tip: Confirm speedboat timings in advance, as schedules may change seasonally.
Step 3: Arrival at Pulau Besar
Upon arrival at Pulau Besar, you’ll be greeted by stunning tropical scenery. Most resorts, including Aseania Resort, offer pick-up services from the island’s jetty, with staff ready to assist with transfers.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey:
Plan Around Ferry Times
Arrive at Mersing Jetty at least an hour before departure to avoid last-minute rushes.
Pack Light
Essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, and cash are recommended, as ATMs are limited on the island.
Book Accommodation Early
Resorts on Pulau Besar are small and can fill up quickly, so advance booking is advisable.
Check Weather Conditions
For a smoother journey, avoid the monsoon season (November to February), when sea conditions can be rough.
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Pulau Besar, Johor, is an adventure that rewards you with breathtaking scenery and a peaceful retreat. Whether you drive, take a bus, or fly, the journey is part of the experience—so sit back, relax, and get ready to fall in love with this tropical haven.
Ready to explore Pulau Besar? Visit www.pulaubesarjohor.com for more travel tips, resort bookings, and island activities!
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