These are the best boutique hotels in Desaru Coast, Malaysia

Yes, we love Phuket and Phu Quoc for a beach holiday, but if you’re looking for a new sandy hot spot, have we got somewhere for you. Just a one-hour flight (and a one-hour shuttle bus) from Kuala Lumpur or a two-hour drive from Singapore, Desaru Coast is the popular new resort destination in Malaysia. Surrounded by over 17 kilometres of gorgeous beaches, a range of championship golf courses, adventure parks, and easy access to Johor Bahru for culture and food tours, these are the best boutique hotels in Desaru Coast, Malaysia. Time for a holiday?

The best boutique hotels in Desaru Coast, Malaysia

1. Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas

The first opening from Anantara in Malaysia, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas is everything you’d expect from this luxury brand. Nestled amid lush tropical gardens, you’ll find complete escape here with the property set right on the beach.

With 108 rooms, villas, and residences, guests will discover interiors that are tastefully decorated with indigenous materials and fabrics, including Malaysian wicker elements. Facilities include a beachfront infinity pool, restaurants serving both local and international fare, and a signature Anantara Spa. Plus, guests can enjoy dining by design (see main image), bespoke dining options that will make your trip unforgettable.

Read our full story on Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas

Find out more about Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas

2. Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast

High ceilings, natural woods, and vibrant colours come together in the guestrooms at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, a property that is all about the tunes. Reserve one of the hotel’s 20 Fender guitars and amps in advance and rock out in your room for the ultimate musical vacay (they even have video lessons for novices!)

If you want to swim, there are underwater speakers in the pool so you won’t miss a beat, and fitness fanatics will love the Body Rock Fitness Centre that is equipped with everything you need to stay shredded. Be sure to upgrade your stay to include access to the Rock Royalty Lounge that includes complimentary continental breakfast, refreshments throughout the day, evening cocktails, dedicated butler services and more.

Learn more about Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast

3. One & Only Desaru Coast

One & Only Desaru Coast has just recently opened its doors and we’re VERY excited. Inspired by the beauty of Malaysia’s southeast, the hotel is set amidst lush greenery and includes Ember Beach Club, a destination for live music and great food.

Choose from one of the four suite options (each of which include their own pool), or go all out with the standalone villa, whatever you choose, you’ll be living the luxe life. There’s a kid’s club as well as a teen’s club too, so you can rest assured everyone will be catered to.

One&Only has just launched its debut property in Europe. Read all about One&Only Portonovi in Montenegro.

Learn more about One & Only Desaru Coast

4. The Westin Desaru Coast Resort

Relax completely at The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, a hotel set right on the South China Sea. Choose from a sea or garden view and settle in to rooms that have been designed in a contemporary chic way that lets the surroundings do the talking.

Spend time on the private beach, sample local and international dishes at the restaurants, or refresh your body with a range of treatments at the spa. Or grab a book and head to the cabanas by the pool for a day in perfect paradise.

Read more about The Westin Desaru Coast Resort

5. Sand and Sandals Desaru Beach Resort & Spa

If white sandy beaches and sparkling seas are what your dreams are made of, then you definitely need to take a look at Sand and Sandals Desaru Beach Resort & Spa. Guestrooms here are decked out in fresh white with pops of colour and four-poster beds, and many even have private bath tubs on secluded outdoor balconies.

While away your days by the pool or at the beach, or get ready to adventure on ATVs. The indoor/outdoor spa is the perfect place to get relaxed, and there’s a kid’s club to keep the little ones happy too.

Find out more about Sand and Sandals Desaru Beach Resort & Spa

But wait, there’s more…

• We recently stayed at the new Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape in the Balinese jungle
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• Or read our interview with hotel designer Tara Bernerd