Pulau Tioman is a duty-free island off Malaysia’s east coast, known for its tropical beauty and rich biodiversity. Located 32 nautical miles from the mainland, it’s easily reached by ferry. The island boasts warm beaches, clear waters, and lush rainforests. As a marine park, Tioman is surrounded by colourful coral reefs and abundant marine life, making it a hotspot for diving and snorkeling. Its pristine rainforest is home to unique wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers. With its natural wonders and relaxed vibe, Tioman attracts visitors from all over the world.
Immerse in Mukut Village Life and Asah Waterfall Adventure
In the secluded village of Kampung Mukut, experience a slower pace of life along with one of Tioman’s natural wonders, Asah Waterfall. Begin by exploring the village’s serene beaches and traditional setting, where time seems to stand still, allowing you to soak in the raw beauty of island culture.
Then, follow the rainforest trail to Asah Waterfall, Tioman’s tallest cascade, with its powerful waters flowing over moss-covered rocks. Along the path, you’ll be surrounded by rich biodiversity, making the journey as rewarding as the destination itself. This adventure combines cultural immersion with nature, perfect for disconnecting and recharging.
To get to Mukut
To reach Kampung Mukut and Asah Waterfall, disembark at Genting Jetty if coming from Mersing, as Mukut jetty isn’t directly accessible by ferry. From Genting, you can take a water taxi or arrange for your Mukut lodging to pick you up. Once in Mukut, the scenic Asah Waterfall is a 1.5-hour hike away, or, for a shorter journey, locals can take you by boat to Warisan Eco Asah Camp Pier, reducing the hike to just 30 minutes.
Hike at Monkey Bay
Monkey Bay is a beautiful, secluded beach tucked behind Salang Village on the west coast of Pulau Tioman. This sweeping bay features a pristine beach with calm waters, and is embraced by lush rainforest, creating a picturesque tropical scene.
Reaching Monkey Bay is an adventure in itself, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a tranquil oasis where the calm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. But watch out, monkeys might be hiding in the trees!
To get to Monkey Bay
- As a snorkeling spot, it is accessible via round-island tours by speedboat from any village, or via a 1-hour hike from Salang.
- Alternatively, you can hike for about two hours on the trail from Air Batang (ABC Village) through Panuba Bay and Monkey Beach. The trail can be obscure, so follow the path nearest the electric poles.
The Juara Turtle Hatchery
Located in Juara Village on Pulau Tioman, the Juara Turtle Project (JTP) educates visitors about endangered sea turtles at its conservation centre. Through interactive talks and activities, JTP helps visitors understand the challenges sea turtles face and the importance of eco-friendly practices.
For a more hands-on experience, JTP offers a volunteer program where participants can join conservation efforts. During nesting season, from March to October, volunteers may help collect turtle eggs or release hatchlings into the ocean. This experience creates lasting memories and fosters a deeper appreciation for protecting these remarkable marine animals.
To get to Juara Turtle Hatchery
- Upon arriving at Tioman by ferry, get off at the Tekek village stop. From there, take a taxi across the island to Juara, which costs around RM50-60 per person, or RM30 per person if shared with others.
Further information:
- Conservation talks are held between 10:00AM and 5:00PM, with a donation fee of RM10 per person.
Where to stay in Pulau Tioman
Japamala Resort
Japamala Resort is carefully crafted over a decade to harmonize with its natural surroundings, embodying a rustic-luxe design philosophy that pays homage to the island’s inherent beauty. There are no two villas that are alike here — wooden chalets, hillside sarangs (nests), and beachside villas are thoughtfully positioned to avoid disturbing the existing landscape, ensuring that no rocks were moved and no trees were cut down in the process.
The resort’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every detail; reclaimed timber from old kampung houses form the backbone of the structures, while bamboo and other natural materials are sourced from the Orang Asli. This considerate approach allows guests to indulge in luxury while feeling deeply connected to the nature of Tioman.
To get to Japamala Resort
- Option A: Sailing from Tanjong Gemok to Japamala Resort. Sail on a private Japamala boat for about 1.5 hours, covering 93 km. The charter costs RM1,180 nett return per person, with a minimum of two people.
- Option B: Via Kuala Lumpur-Mersing Jetty. You can also request a chauffeur to drive from Kuala Lumpur to Mersing Jetty, which takes about 4.5-5 hours, covering approximately 270 km. The private car transfer costs RM1,500 nett one way, accommodating up to three persons per trip.
Further information:
- Address: Kampung Lanting, 26800, Pahang
- Contact: +609-419 7777
- Room types: The resort features wooden chalets, hillside sarangs and beachside villas.
Berjaya Tioman Resort
Spanning 200 acres of lush tropical rainforest, Berjaya Tioman Resort is the largest resort on Pulau Tioman. This four-star resort spans a vast area that stretches from the edge of the jungle to the pristine beachfront, blending natural beauty with modern amenities. The size of the resort enables it to offer an outstanding array of facilities catering to all travellers including function halls, a dive centre, an 18-hole golf course, an outdoor team building circuit, various restaurants and more. Renggis Island, a beautiful small island with fringing reef is one of the famous dive and snorkelling spots at Tioman, is located near to the resort just about 50 metres from the Berjaya Tioman Resort beachfront.
Accommodation at Berjaya Tioman Resort is inspired by traditional village architecture, which includes quaint chalets and duplex structures. The variety of accommodation options makes it ideal for family vacations, honeymoons, or corporate retreats. The resort offers a comprehensive island experience that combines the natural charm of Pulau Tioman with the conveniences of a full-service resort.
To get to Berjaya Tioman Resort
- Travel to Terminal Feri Tanjung Gemok or Mersing Jetty. From there, take a two-hour ferry ride or you can also opt for a direct flight from the Subang Airport or Johor Bahru to Tioman Island.
Further information:
- Address:Kampung Tekek, 26800 Tioman Island, Pahang.
- Contact: +609-419 1000
- Room types: Featuring eight room types including the Garden Chalet/Terrace, Garden Premier Chalet/Terrace, Beach Terrace, Two-Bedroom Garden Chalet, Executive Suite, and Beach Front Suit
