Singapore to Malaysia Getaways: Top Picks for Unforgettable Trips

Embarking from Singapore to Malaysia is an adventure filled with diverse experiences, from lush rainforests to serene beaches, historic landmarks, and mouthwatering local cuisines. Whether you’re travelling for a weekend getaway or a short vacation, Malaysia offers something for every type of traveller.

Here’s a detailed guide to the best destinations in Johor and beyond, including tips on exploring each spot using bus routes from Singapore. Plus, you can book your tickets seamlessly on redBus!

What to Know Before Traveling from Singapore to Malaysia

Before setting out, here are some essentials to keep in mind:

• Documents and Fuel Requirements:
  • Ensure your passport is valid and carry all necessary documents.
  • For those driving, Singapore-registered cars need at least ¾ of a tank of petrol before entering Malaysia. Non-compliance can result in a $500 fine.
  • Avoid using RON95 petrol, which is subsidized for Malaysian-registered vehicles only.
• Travel Time:
  • Traffic conditions at the Woodlands Checkpoint or Tuas Second Link can affect travel time. For smoother crossings, plan to leave early (before 5 a.m.) or during off-peak hours (12 pm—3 pm).
• Transportation Options:
  • Even if you don’t own a car, public buses and rentals from JB Sentral or CIQ make travelling from Singapore to Malaysia convenient. There are plenty of options when searching for a bus from Singapore to Malaysia and you can book the tickets online or from terminal offices.

Top Getaways from Singapore to Malaysia

1. Desaru: Adventure and Relaxation

• Best Features: Adventure Waterpark, Ostrich Farm, and pristine beaches.
• Travel Time: 1 hour 13 minutes from Woodlands Checkpoint.
• Things to Do:
  • Visit the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark, featuring thrilling water rides and a lazy river.
  • Explore the Desaru Ostrich Farm for an up-close encounter with ostriches.
  • Stay overnight at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast or The Westin Desaru Coast for a luxurious seaside retreat.
• Bus Routes: Direct buses are available from Singapore to Johor Bahru with transfers to Desaru.

How to Reach –

By Bus:

2. Kota Tinggi: Nature and Adventure

• Best Features: Waterfalls, fireflies, and hiking trails.
• Travel Time: 1 hour 21 minutes.
• Things to Do:
  • Swim in the Kota Tinggi Waterfalls or hike up Gunung Panti for panoramic views.
  • Take a Firefly River Cruise at night to witness glowing fireflies in their natural habitat.
• Bus Routes: Take a bus from Singapore to JB Sentral and transfer to Kota Tinggi via local services.

How to Reach –

• Take a bus from Singapore to Larkin Sentral Bus Terminal in Johor Bahru.
• From Larkin, transfer to a local bus to Kota Tinggi. The journey includes scenic views of Johor’s countryside.

3. Tanjung Sedili: Seaside Glamping

• Best Features: Stargazer Dome glamping and fishing spots.
• Travel Time: 1 hour 48 minutes.
• Things to Do:
  • Stay at Sea Horizon Resort, where you can enjoy glamping with breathtaking sea views.
  • Rent a boat for a fishing trip or relax by the Sungai Sedili Besar riverbank.
• Bus Routes: Take a bus from Singapore to Kota Tinggi and arrange for local transport to Tanjung Sedili.

How to Reach –

By Bus:

• Travel to JB Sentral via Causeway Link or SBS Transit buses from Singapore.
• Take a taxi or arrange private transport to reach Tanjung Sedili, as direct buses are limited.

By Ferry:

• Ferry services from Singapore to Tanjung Belungkor offer a picturesque route. From there, you can hire a car or taxi to Tanjung Sedili.

4. Kukup: Mangroves and Seafood

• Best Features: Mangrove forests and fresh seafood.
• Travel Time: 1 hour 48 minutes.
• Things to Do:
  • Explore the Pulau Kukup National Park, one of Malaysia’s largest mangrove reserves.
  • Dine at New Kukup Restaurant, famous for its fresh seafood.
• Bus Routes: Take a bus from Singapore to Pontian and arrange for a transfer to Kukup.

How to Reach –

By Bus:

• Board a bus from Singapore to Pontian Bus Terminal via JB Sentral or Larkin.
• From Pontian, take a local bus or taxi to Kukup.

By Ferry:

• While no direct ferry operates from Singapore to Kukup, you can take a ferry to Johor Bahru, then use a local bus or taxi to complete your journey.

5. Kluang: Coffee and Hiking

• Best Features: Iconic coffee shops and scenic hikes.
• Travel Time: 2 hours.
• Things to Do:
  • Enjoy local coffee at Kluang Rail Coffee, located by the railway tracks.
  • Visit the Kluang Coffee Powder Factory to learn about traditional coffee roasting.
  • Hike up Gunung Lambak for a beginner-friendly trail with rewarding views.
• Bus Routes: Direct buses from Singapore to Kluang are available via redBus.

How to Reach –

By Bus:

• Book a direct bus from Singapore to Kluang via operators like Konsortium Express or Starmart Express. These buses depart from key terminals like Golden Mile Complex.

By Ferry:

• Ferry services do not operate directly to Kluang. Opt for a bus to JB Sentral or Larkin Sentral, then switch to a local bus heading to Kluang

6. Pengerang: Seafood and History

• Best Features: Coastal cafes and WWII sites.
• Travel Time: 2 hours 8 minutes.
• Things to Do:
  • Enjoy Santorini-like vibes at Yard & Co Cafe by the sea.
  • Visit the Pengerang British Coastal Battery, a WWII historical site.
  • Stay at Sebana Cove Resort, which features a private marina and golf course.
• Bus Routes: Take a bus to Johor Bahru and transfer to Pengerang.

How to Reach –

By Bus:

• Travel from Singapore to Johor Bahru using a Causeway Link or SBS Transit bus.
• From JB Sentral, take a local bus or taxi to Pengerang.

By Ferry:

• Take a ferry from Changi Ferry Terminal to Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal. From there, a short taxi ride will get you to Pengerang.

7. Batu Pahat: Arts and Culture

• Best Features: Street art and historic sites.
• Travel Time: 2 hours 20 minutes.
• Things to Do:
  • Explore vibrant murals and art installations across the town.
  • Visit the Lovers’ Bridge, a picturesque fishing jetty turned romantic destination.
  • Discover history at Pantai Minyak Beku and its ancient well.
• Bus Routes: Direct buses available from Singapore to Batu Pahat.

How to Reach –

By Bus:

• Direct buses from Singapore to Batu Pahat are available via 707 Travel Group or KKKL Express.
• Buses typically depart from Golden Mile Tower or other major Singapore bus terminals.

8. Mersing: Gateway to Tropical Islands

• Best Features: Beaches, diving, and island-hopping.
• Travel Time: 2 hours 30 minutes.
• Things to Do:
  • Take a boat to Tioman Island for snorkelling and diving adventures.
  • Hike Gunung Arong for stunning coastal views.
  • Relax at Alang’s Rawa, a private beach resort on Rawa Island.
• Bus Routes: Book a bus from Singapore to Mersing via redBus for convenient travel.

How to Reach –

By Bus:

• Board a bus from Singapore to Mersing offered by operators like Transnasional or Causeway Link. These buses provide comfortable travel and drop off at Mersing town.

By Ferry:

• Take a bus to Mersing Jetty, then board a ferry to Tioman Island or other islands for island-hopping adventures.

9. Muar: Royal Charm and Scenic Hikes

• Best Features: Historical landmarks and challenging hikes.
• Travel Time: 3 hours 6 minutes.
• Things to Do:
  • Explore the Palace of Muar and Masjid Jamek Sultan Ibrahim.
  • Hike Gunung Ledang (Mount Ophir), Johor’s highest mountain, with a local guide.
  • Stay at HS Farmstay, a family-friendly retreat offering mini zoo visits and fishing.
• Bus Routes: Direct buses are available from Singapore to Muar.

How to Reach –

By Bus:

• Buses from Singapore to Muar operate frequently via operators such as Delima Express or KKKL Express. These buses depart from major terminals like Queen Street Bus Terminal or Golden Mile Complex.

By Ferry:

• Ferries are not available directly to Muar. Opt for a bus for the most convenient travel experience.

Plan Your Getaway Today!

With so many destinations just a few hours away, Malaysia offers endless options for quick getaways from Singapore. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, these road trips provide the perfect opportunity to explore Johor’s hidden gems.

Book your bus tickets today for seamless travel and start planning your next adventure!