BEACHFRONT LUXURY ON THE SOUTHERN COAST OF MALAYSIA
Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas
HIGHLIGHTS
- 116 rooms, villas and residences
- Two pools, including a beachfront infinity pool
- Malaysian, Thai and international signature dining
- Family activities and experiences, plus kids and teens clubs
- Technogym workouts
Desaru Coast is a playground of adventure, with golden beaches, a splashing waterpark and world-class golf courses. Anantara offers VIP access to all this and more at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas. Relax in lush gardens overlooking the ocean. Indulge in morning walks along the beach, family excursions and award-winning spa experiences.
Base yourself at our Desaru resort and your stay will be one of pure luxury, with accommodation in beachfront residences, fine dining and so much more.
Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas
Persiaran Pantai Desaru Coast, Bandar Penawar Johor 81930 Malaysia
2026-11-04
This place is absolutely amazing! And the best part? It’s conveniently located less than a two-hour drive from Singapore. My husband and I visited to celebrate our 21st wedding anniversary, and from the moment we arrived, the experience was nothing short of exceptional. On the day of our arrival, I sent just one email to the reservations team requesting that a romantic package and a seaside dinner be added to our reservation. They responded promptly and assured me that everything would be taken care of. And they certainly delivered! Upon arrival, we were welcomed with a beautiful traditional ceremony featuring drum beating, a hand-washing ritual, and a welcome drink. We were seated on a balcony overlooking the stunning property, with the beautiful beach right in front of us as we checked in. The General Manager, Hervé, even took the time to come over personally to greet us and wish us a happy anniversary. What impressed us most was how everyone we encountered throughout the resort knew we were celebrating our anniversary. The entire team went above and beyond to make sure every detail was taken care of and that we were having a wonderful time. And the food! Everything was delicious. Breakfast offered absolutely everything we could ask for and more. I had been particularly looking forward to the special Malaysian buffet night at Turmeric Restaurant. When we arrived, we were pleasantly surprised to discover that they had arranged a private table for two outdoors, right in front of the pool. The walkway was beautifully decorated with roses, creating the most romantic setting. To make the evening even more special, they brought out a violinist who played a song for us. The moment we heard the opening notes of Elvis Presley's "Can't Help Falling in Love," we immediately recognized it. It was such a beautiful and unforgettable moment! The following evening, we enjoyed our special dinner right on the beach, complete with a bonfire and s'mores. It was absolutely magical. I almost forgot to mention that we were also upgraded to a suite with a full ocean view and a wraparound porch! Waking up to that view was simply incredible. But as wonderful as the resort, the accommodations, and the food were, the hotel's greatest asset is undoubtedly its people. From the team at the entrance to the restaurant staff and everyone in between, every single person was genuinely warm, kind, and attentive. What stood out was their willingness to help with absolutely anything. Whether we needed assistance arranging excursions or making reservations, we never heard, "That's not my job." Instead, they would simply assure us that it would be taken care of, and someone would always follow up with us personally. That level of care and attention is truly rare. And I absolutely have to mention Shuhada, the F&B Manager! All she needed to hear was that I loved mangoes. From that day on, every morning, I was greeted with a fresh plate of delicious, freshly cut mangoes at our table. It's the little thoughtful gestures like this that make a stay so special. The resort isn't overly large, which gives it such a warm, intimate, and comfortable atmosphere. The staff make you feel less like a hotel guest and more like you're visiting the home of friends who genuinely want you to be happy. We couldn't have asked for a more perfect way to celebrate our 21st wedding anniversary. Every detail, every thoughtful gesture, and every interaction made this stay truly unforgettable. An absolutely wonderful resort with an exceptional team. We can't wait to return!
2026-11-04
Service from arrival till check out was smooth and warm. Staff was friendly and kind. Facilities in great and clean
2026-11-02
Absolutely fantastic experience at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort. I travelled to Singapore for a Conference, and took the opportunity immediately to travel up to Anantara resort. That was the perfect arrangement for me. The resort allowed me to relax and chill out before hitting the conference. The staffs were amazing and attentive. The food is vast with great varieties. In fact, after 2 days of eating, I felt so full that I cannot consume anymore food. Nevertheless, it was a wonderful experience. I would definitely come back here again, hopefully with my family next time; especially when I travel to Singapore. Highly highly recommended.
ACCOMMODATION
CHOOSE YOUR SANCTUARY
Our rooms are located in the main building, each spacious with a private balcony for you to enjoy. Pool villas are then dotted around the lagoon, with large decks to sunbathe on and dine under the stars. Most spectacular of all are our sprawling residences, some right on the beach – modern, chic, with all the comforts of home including a fully equipped kitchen and a butler to see to all your needs.
HOW TO ARRIVE
Persiaran Pantai, Desaru Coast, 81930 Bandar Penawar, Johor Darul Ta´zim
Our resort is a 4-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur. Alternatively, you may fly into Johor Bahru, with airport shuttles available for the 1-hour journey to Desaru Coast.
There are also shuttles from Changi International Airport, with journey times of approximately 2 hours including crossing the border. The ferry from Tanah Merah Terminal travels directly to Desaru Coast; it is then only a 10-minute drive to the resort.
SPECIAL OFFERS
Malaysia & Singapore Residents' Privilege
From
The Pool Villa Dream
From
Best Flexible Rate
FromGALLERY
FACILITIES & SERVICES
A WORLD OF ADVENTURE
As part of the Desaru Coast development, resort guests enjoy easy access to its famed water park and The Els Club, designed by the world’s former no. 1 golfer, Ernie Els. We also invite you to explore Malaysia’s unique fusion cuisine with our signature foodie tour in Johor Bahru. Leisure facilities at the resort include two swimming pools, a water sports centre, a gym, kids’ and teens’ clubs, and an outdoor cinema.
DINING
GOURMET CUISINE IN A RELAXED BEACHFRONT SETTING
There are six restaurants and bars at the resort. Highlights include Turmeric, where you may enjoy the spice of Southeast Asia, and Anantara signature Sea.Fire.Salt., where grilled steak and seafood are accompanied by wine from the cellar and fabulous views of the ocean. The Observatory Bar is also a guest favourite, with Afternoon Tea, cocktails and cigars, and a 360° panorama that is especially stunning at sunset.
SPA & WELLNESS
RETREAT AND UNWIND
Our spa is a tropical oasis where you may explore the healing traditions of the region. Soak in a warm bath infused with Malaysian herbs. Revitalise the skin with indigenous kopi, coconut and ginger, then indulge in a signature massage that blends Malay, Chinese and Ayurvedic techniques for deep-seated relief. We also offer multi-day wellness retreats that cleanse body and mind with healthy cuisine, yoga and therapeutic spa treatments.
MEETINGS
WORLD-CLASS EVENTS
As one of Malaysia’s premier event destinations, Desaru Coast’s nearby conference centre can host extravagant gatherings of over 1,000 guests. Our ballroom, meanwhile, can host up to 200, with a large reception area and terrace perfect for coffee breaks. Celebrate afterwards with an elegant cocktail reception and gala dinner, whether in one of our restaurants, within the terraced gardens, or on the beach.
WEDDINGS
GOLDEN DESTINATION WEDDINGS
There are many settings within the resort for you to enjoy on your special day. Exchange vows in front of the ocean under a floral arch, then host a traditional tea ceremony in the garden followed by a Champagne reception in the panoramic observatory. A magnificent banquet and dancing in the ballroom follow, each detail personalised and seen to by a professional events team to bring your dream wedding to life.
Where is Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas?
The beachfront Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas is part of the Desaru Coast development in the south of Malaysia, only two hours from Singapore.
How do I get to Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas?
Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas can be reached by car, plane or ferry, and is four hours from Kuala Lumpur, one hour from Johor Bahru, and two hours from Singapore.
Does Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas offer parking?
Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas guests enjoy free and secure parking.
Does Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas offer airport transfers?
Yes, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas offers airport transfers, as well as limousine service from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
Is Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas family friendly?
Yes, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas is family friendly, with pool villas and residences, kids’ and teens’ clubs, and activities especially for children.
What dining options are there at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas?
There are six restaurants and bars at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, as well as in-room and private dining.
What leisure facilities are there at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas?
Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas has two swimming pools, a water sports centre, gym, outdoor cinema, kids’ and teens’ clubs, and a spa.
What is there to see and do near Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas?
Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas is part of the Desaru Coast development, with a waterpark, world-class golf course and convention centre. The area is also known for its eco-tourism, with mangroves and fruit farms to explore.
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