How to Plan Romantic Escapes on Desaru Island: Love is in the Air

Ranked among Malaysia's top holiday destinations for honeymooners, Desaru Island is a landscape that's tailor-made for the romantically inclined. Blessed with stunning beaches and some of the finest spas in the country, Desaru Island is also a dream come true for couples with a love of natural wonders and off-beat adventures. From splashing around local water parks to signing up for a spa retreat, here are some of the best things to include on your Desaru tour itinerary.

Go on a Snorkeling Tour

Tipped to be one of the best things to do on a getaway on the Desaru Coast, a honeymoon or couple's trip to the island would not be complete without a snorkelling expedition. The underwater landscapes off the coast of the island are just as breathtaking as what lies above ground and couples can uncover the dozens of marine species that call this particular sea bed home. There are plenty of snorkelling gear rentals and local tour operators organizing excursions for couples and other holidaymakers so you can pick a package that suits your budget.

Hit the Waterparks

Boasting over 20 thrilling water-bound rides and slides, the Adventure Waterpark is another must-visit hotspot for couples. Famed as one of the largest water parks in the world, the wide variety of water-based distractions up for grabs are likely to delight not only young couples but duos who are young at heart. In addition to enjoying the splash centre's wave pool and water coaster, visitors can also ride the Swinging Ship at Adventure Waterpark.

Sign Up for a Spa Day

There's a reason why Desaru Island is considered a spa retreat haven for the masses and it's the large number of healing centres and massage parlours lining the streets of the isle. Couples can take advantage of their base to experience the luxurious spa treatments on offer whether they are based at the Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas or any similar rest. In fact, most beach resorts in Malaysia contain their own spa facility and accommodation providers on Desaru Island are no different.  Providing beauty treatments and healing therapies steeped in Balinese, Thai and Ayurvedic spa practices, couples can indulge in facials, massages and aromatherapy sessions among other therapeutic offerings.

Enjoy a River Cruise

While there are a great many locations where couples can go on a river cruise, Firefly Park is arguably the best place to enjoy this activity. This 40-minute excursion not only allows couples the chance to enjoy a romantic cruise on the Kota Tinggi Johor River but also interact with the countless fireflies lighting up the atmosphere.

Indulge in Seafood Delicacies at a Candle Lit Dinner

Often described as a foodie's dream come true, couples with a passion for seafood will find their fair share of romantic restaurants to indulge in what the Desaru Coast has plated up. Nelayan Seafood By The Coast, the Jade Garden Seafood Corner and the Desaru Seafood Corner are three venues that are famed for their seafood menus.  These veritable feasts feature not only grilled, fried and baked seafood but also other local culinary delicacies.

Explore Desaru Coast's Fruit Farm and Ostrich Farm

Couples on the lookout for some unique activities to include in their travel itinerary must head over to the Desaru Fruit Farm and explore its 180-acre orchard. Containing its own petting zoo, the area also offers newlyweds and other couples the chance to enjoy quad bike rides around the property. The Desaru Ostrich Farm is another must-see highlight for couples as it is home to nearly 200 ostriches including adorable baby chicks. Visitors are also allowed to take part in feeding activities at the farm where one can learn a great deal about these curious creatures.