Twenty-five kilometres of white, sandy beach and lush tropical greenery makes up Desaru - the most popular beach in Johor.  Located 98km north east of Johor Bahru, Desaru, or also known as the 'Village of Casuarinas', was developed by the South Johor Development Authority (KEJORA) to boost tourism industry in Johor.

Desaru is a great destination for family vacation as it offers a variety of activities for the whole family including swimming, fishing, snorkelling, canoeing, horse riding, jungle trekking, go-carting, golfing and windsurfing. Regarded as Johor's 'gold mine', Desaru is equipped with a wide range of facilities and several up-market resorts, each with its own individual character.  An 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. makes Desaru a well-known destination among golfers.

Apart from first-class Hotels and resorts, other accommodations available in Desaru include chalets, dormitories and camping facilities for those looking for a back-to-nature experience. Facilities at the beachfront include picnic grounds, restaurants, food outlets and souvenir shops.

Perhaps after a sumptuous seafood dinner, one can choose to admire nature's gift - the fireflies that gather in the thousands along the Johor River to display twinkling lights of love.

For the more curious ones, head for Kota Tinggi (57KM away) to shop for textiles and Malay garments at Bazar Kota. One can also visit the tombs of the past Sultans and dignitaries who shaped the history of Johor in Kampung Makam and Kampung Kelantan.

To get to Desaru, head for Kota Tinggi, while if from Johor Bahru, use the Johor Bahru-Kota Tinggi trunk road (45KM).