The Best Travel Destination : Tioman Island
Let it be serene beaches, the magnificent rainforest or the friendly habitats, Tioman Island knows how to welcome the tourists in the most spell-binding manner. Needless to say, it has all the traits that make it a wonderful travel destination.
We are living in a world that is full of absolutely mesmerizing places. When it comes to deciding a tourist destination, sometimes it feels like one of the toughest decisions ever. And of course it had to be; after all, you have numerous options at your disposal.
So, if you are also facing any difficulty in deciding which place to visit for your next adventure tour, we have one of the most amazing places to suggest – Tioman Island, Malaysia.
In this post, I’m going to share all about Tioman Island as state below:
- About Pulau Tioman
- How To Go Tioman Island
- Tioman Ferry Schedule
- Thing To Do in Pulau Tioman
- Explore the Island By Cycling
- Diving Courses In Tioman
- Resort in Tioman Island
- Best Time To Travel Pulau Tioman
- Tips Before You Travel to Pulau Tioman
About Pulau Tioman
It is located 32 kilometers off the east coast of Malaysia and is considered as one of the largest volcanic islands in the country. Such is the beauty of Tioman Island that it is regularly selected among world’s most awe-inspiring islands. The history suggests that this island was discovered thousands of years back by Arab and Chinese traders. This island comprises of beautiful eight villages and is surrounded by unspoiled coral reefs.
One of the best things about this island is the duty-free status on a lot of chalets and resorts. If one has to make the list of best diving destinations in Malaysia then the list would be incomplete without Tioman Island.
How To Go Tioman Island
As Mersing is the gateway to reach Tioman Island, This beautiful island can be reach via Mersing Jetty or Tanjung Gemok Jetty by speedboat or speed ferry.
For More About How To Go Mersing From Singapore
The fastest way to get to Tioman Island is by flying in to the island directly with Tunamaya Air or Samadhi Air. Berjaya Air is no longer flying into Tioman from Subang Airport or Changi Airport in Singapore.
Travel From Singapore To Tioman
1) Private Car From Singapore To Mersing / Tanjung Gemok
Private Car Services is always most Easy and most Convenient to Travel Among Singapore and Tioman.
For private car services, book your trip at SGMYTRIPS. This is one of the most trusted private car companies in Singapore. BOOK NOW
Where To Take SGMYTRIPS Services?
SGMYTRIPS Provided Door To Door Services. Will pick you up at your preferred time and any location in Singapore. So You Just wait at the Home Driver will come to you .
SGMYTRIPS private car service is affordable. If You Interest about this services. And get other destination Price .You can check the price here: RATE
2) Coach From Singapore To Mersing/Tanjung Gemok
You can book the ticket via online or get it at the counter. And Easiest way is to book via a travel agent so you have a fixed time and price.
There are 4 coach company that operate on this route directly From Singapore to Mersing Jetty:
KKKL Express, Starmart Express, Transnasional and WTS Travel.
For More About How To Go Tioman Island From Singapore
Travel From Kuala Lumpur To Tioman Island
1) Bus From Kuala Lumpur To Mersing
Kuala Lumpur is TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan) and the drop off is Mersing bus terminal. S&S International Express & Transnasional are the preferred buses going to Mersing from Kuala Lumpur.
One way ticket from Kuala Lumpur to Mersing costs RM 29.80. Buses are available at 9am, 12.30pm, 6pm, and 11.30 pm from Kuala Lumpur.
2) Bus From Kuala Lumpur To Tanjung Gemok
All Transnational buses coming from the Kuala Lumpur stop at Tanjung Gemok while going to Mersing. If you would like to get down at Tanjung Gemok, just inform the bus driver to stop.
3) Driving from Kuala Lumpur to Mersing Jetty
North-South Highway and drive towards south. Exit at Segamat and continue towards east on Route 50 to Kluang and then to Mersing. You can also take East Coast Highway from Kuala Lumpur to Kuantan and then take Route No: 3 towards South passing through Pekan and Rompin to reach Mersing. The approximate driving time from Kuala Lumpur to Mersing is 4 hours.
At the Mersing Jetty, you can find a car parking area that charges approximately around RM 8 per day.
4) Driving From Kuala Lumpur To Tanjung Gemok
Take the North-South Highway and exit at Seremban. From there, travel through the Kluang route to Kuala Pilah and Muadzam Shah, and then drive through the coastal road to reach Tanjung Gemok. The traveling time from Kuala Lumpur to Tanjung Gemok by car is 3 hours 30 minutes.
Avoid Miss Your Time You Purchase ticket From online Click here to Buy Bus Ticket Online
5) Private Car From Kuala Lumpur To Mersing / Tanjung Gemok
Private Car Services is always most Easy and most Convenient to Travel Among Kuala Lumpur and Tioman.
For private car services, book your trip at SGMYTRIPS. This is one of the most trusted private car companies in Malaysia. BOOK NOW
How To Get To Tioman Island From Mersing Jetty/ Tanjung Gemok Jetty
Once you reach Mersing Jetty or Tanjung Gemok Jetty. Go directly towards the counter, you will spot the ferry ticket counter very easily. The operator company is Blue Water Express
Ferry Fare to Tioman island One way: MYR 35 (adult) / MYR30 (child) 2-11 years old
The ferry hop to Tioman takes about 1.5-2 hours, depending on external factors of course.
You May Also Purchase TICKET VIA Online for advanced ferry bookings and to avoid any frustrations.This is Website LINK for purchase ferry ticket.
1.) http://www.easybook.com/en-my/ferry
After You get Your ticket . Head to the Marine Park Permit counter after the registration. Each person has to buy one Marine Park Conservation permit.
Malaysian, RM5.00 for adults, and RM2.00 for children from age 6 to 12, and senior citizens (60 year and above). Disabled person is FREE.Non Malaysia, RM 30 for adults, and RM15.00 for children from age 6 to 12, and senior citizens (60 year and above). Disabled person is FREE.
Tioman Ferry Schedule
You May Check Tioman Ferry Schedule
Things to Do in Tioman Island
Let it be the splendid water, beautiful marine life or the beguiling nature, this island has so much to offer that the excitement levels won’t drop for even a second. If you are wondering what you’ll do on this island then here is an alluring list for you:
- Get a Diving License in RM 1000
- Explore The Diving Sites
- Snorkeling in Tioman Island
- Swim With The Amazing Marine Life
- Stand Up Paddle (SUP) At Tioman Island
- Trekking Through The Rainforest
- The Spellbingding Sunset
- Visit And Relax at Pacifying Beach
- Witness the Protected Wildlife
- Visit Juara Turtle Hatchery
- Indulge in the Night Life
- Go on a Fishing Trip in Tioman
- Shopping in the Tioman island
- Spa in Tioman Island
#1 Get A Diving License in RM1000++
Tioman Island offers its tourists who plan to stay more than five days on the Island diving license for around RM 1000, which is highly cheap when compared to license rates around Malaysia. DiveAsia is probably the best diving school out there to make your diving experience worthwhile.
If you are learning diving and seeking a license as well then you should mark this activity in your things to do in Tioman Island wunderlist.
#2 Explore the Diving Sites
There is a reason why Tioman Island is known as a diver’s paradise. There are about 25 amazing diving sites that you can explore. You’ll find a reasonably healthy variety of hard and soft coral. When it comes to wreck diving, Soyak Wreck is quite famous among advanced divers.
There is another famous diving spot for scuba divers called as Tiger Reef. The current is quite gentle, best visibility is in months from March to September, and water temperature remains reasonable for divers (about 28 °C all year round). You can also visit various fascinating dive sites such as:
- Teluk Kador
- Magician Rock
- Soyak Wreck
- Malang Rock
- Bahara Rocks
- Fan Canyon
- Pulau Labas among many others
#3 Snorkeling in Tioman Island
One of the most famous places to go snorkel in Tioman is at Coral Island (also known as Pulau Tulai). Monkey Bay is also one of the best spots to snorkel in Pulau Tioman. Located behind the Salang Village, this beautiful area can be reach via speedboat or tourist can also hike along the one-hour trail from Salang.
These experiences will never make you forget about the awesome snorkeling adventure you had in Tioman!
#4 Swim with the Amazing Marine Life
There are numerous reasons to visit Tioman Island and one of them is definitely the abundance of marine life. Tourists from all over the world come to this place and explore the amazing marine life by scuba diving, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat tours.
You can do kayaking and can literally see fishes swimming underneath you. On top of all this, you can snorkel with the sharks and if you are lucky then you can get to see black tip reef sharks as well.
#5 Stand Up Paddle (SUP) At Tioman Island
SUP, or stand up paddling, has been gaining a lot of traction in both the surfing community and the general world of watersports for some years now. One of the main draws of SUP is its easy learning curve, with beginners becoming comfortable in as little as an hour of training.
#6 Trekking Through the Rainforest
A major part of Tiomon’s top appeal is the dense rainforest that offers best trekking opportunity to anyone who loves adventure. Given the fact that the rainforest is covered with rolling hills of capricious steepness, it is best to travel in broad daylight. Apart from finding various trees, medicinal plants, and wonderful waterfalls, you’ll also find species such as red flying squirrel, mouse deer, walking catfish and many others. And hey, don’t forget to bring your swimwear if you are planning to have a bath in the waterfalls.
#7 The Spellbinding Sunset
When was the last time you witnessed a sunset? Thanks to our hectic daily lives, we are unable to fully appreciate little but beautiful things. At Tioman Island, you can enjoy a sublime sunset every evening (except for when it is raining, of course). If you have a passion for taking picturesque images then mark our words, this place is an absolute heaven for you.
#8 Visit and Relax at Pacifying Beaches
When you step foot in the Tioman island, it is mandatory for you to take a bath or a scroll at the clean and mystifying beaches that this amazing island has to offer. Of course, you can resist and not visit any beach, but the temptation will be just too high!
Here are some captivating beaches in Tioman for you to visit:
- Juara Beach
- Genting Beach
- Monkey Beach
- Salang Beach
- Berjaya Beach
- Panuba Beach
- Melina Beach
You can stay at some of the best beach hotels and resorts of the island such as Berjaya Timon Hotel, Bagus Place Retreat, Melina Beach Resort, Minang Cove Resort, Paya Paradise Resort, Mentawak Chalet, and Tioman Santai Bistro Resort.
Also Read : Tioman Island Food Trip (Updated)
#9 Witness the Protected Wildlife
Apart from the diverse marine life, this island also offers several protected species of wildlife such as black giant squirrel, brush-tailed porcupine, binturong, mouse deer, red giant flying squirrel, common palm civet, long-tailed macaque. This island also hosts 138 species of birds, 45 species of mammals, and other various endemic species. You can also find majestic frigatebird, Kajang slender litter frog, and walking catfish.
#10 Visit Juara Turtle Hatchery
In Kampung Juara, Tioman Island have one project call JUARA TURTLE PROJEACT.
Juara Turtle Project now take care for one handicapped Green Sea Turtle, named Jo, who is blind. It lived at the Project; for 9 years before somebody released her into the ocean on one monsoon night.
There is a minimum contribution of RM10 per person to visit the centre.
#11 Indulge in the Night Life
Nights are peaceful and quiet in Pulau Tioman .However, if you prefer to get a drink or listen to music in the night time. There are several bars that offer entertainment.
For a casual drink at the end of a busy day diving, attempt Tioman cabana Beach Bar. you may notice cheerful company during a casual setting. Paya Beach Resort Bar may be a nice place to relax with a beer or cocktail
You can also enjoy a live band performance every night (except on Monday) at Beach Bar in the vicinity of Berjaya Tioman Beach, Golf & Spa Resort
Also Read : Nightlife on Tioman Island
#12 Go on a Fishing Trip in Tioman
Tioman is also famous for the wide range of tropical fish found on the surrounding waters. Do note the immediate surround Tioman is a no-fishing zone, it has to be 2-miles offshore.
You May Hire A Boat And Ask The Captain Bring you the place got a lot fish. Some Resorts in Tioman will provided also.
#13 Shopping In Tioman Island
The duty free status in Tioman is certainly a great reason for most tourists to come to the island while in Malaysia.
When in Tioman, shopping for items; especially items like chocolate, liquor and cigarettes is a must because these items cost far cheaper than they would on the main land
Duty free shops are found almost everywhere on the island. The main outlet which is the Vision Commerce store is very large and offers a grand variety of products.
Here, you can find souvenirs like t-shirts, key chains, utensils to be used in the kitchen, liquors, batik prints, hand crafted items and even local food products-all for a much lower price because of the duty free status of the island.
#14 Spa In Tioman Island
Spa sessions offered at resorts such as Japamala ,Barat Tioman Beach Resort and Paya Beach Resort & Spa are worth to try!
Explore the Island By Cycling
One of the best ways to explore the island is by cycling. Given the fact that there are not many up-slopes on this island, you and your family can start exploring the island on your bicycles.
The rent-a-bicycles come in various types and sizes, so just pick one that’s comfy for you. If you like, you can adjust the height of the seat and handlebar to customize them to your preference. The cost of renting a bicycle is just RM 5 per hour or maybe less than RM 5. Depend how you discuss with the bicycles boss 😀
It goes without saying, the soothing air and the amazing environment makes every moment memorable.
Diving Courses in Tioman
The waters around Tioman Island also harbor several shipwrecks and a wide variety of marine life to satisfy any diver. But divers have to take different courses for their safety and best experience.
So i list 5 Best Diving Courses In Tioman For Diving Lovers :
1）DiveAsia Tioman
DiveAsia Tioman is probably the oldest dive center in Tioman Island, established in 1976. DiveAsia Tioman is the first dive centre that provides formal diving lessons in Tioman Island. DiveAsia is known for their holiday packages and for the scuba diving courses. Their instructors are PADI certified and focus upon each participant individually.
Learn more about DiveAsia Tioman from their Facebook page.
2) Tioman Dive Center
Tioman Dive Center offers various courses for the beginners to the professional ones. Their divers are PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) certified that is the world’s largest diver training organization. safety of students is always their main priority.
The center is situated in Tekek village of the island.
Website :https://www.tioman-dive-centre.com
Phone:+60 9-419 1228
3) Tioman Dive Buddy
Tioman Dive Buddy (TDB) is another diving center that offers diving courses in Tioman Island.Their instructors are passionate about their work and do not treat you as a customer but as their buddies.
Besides diving courses, the dive centre provides a comprehensive service. They arrange accommodations, meals and even transport for their customers.
Learn more about Tioman Dive Buddy from their Facebook page.
4) B&J Diving Centre
The B&J Diving Center is one of the oldest diving schools in Pulau Tioman. The school runs two shops on Tioman Island on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia.
One of them is Salang Bay School located in Salang Village and near to the main diving spots.
No matter if you are new to diving, want to learn new skills, or PADI open water scuba diver, B&J offers best diving courses in Tioman Island for you.
Learn more about B&J Diving Centre from their Facebook page.
5) Bayu Dive Centre
A youthful dive centre that features a look at the Snake Eels (Ophichthidae) in their natural habitat.
Here’s a range of PADI courses to choose from: Discover Scuba, Open Water Scuba, Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver and Emergency First Response and last but not the least, Divemaster.
Learn more about Bayu Dive Centre from their Facebook Page
Resort in Tioman Island
1) Berjaya Tioman Resort
It is one of the largest hotels in Pulau Tioman. A lush jungle surrounding and a spacious beachfront make this resort simply the best.
2) Japamala Resort
Japamala Beach Resort It is an amazing location for spending your holidays. As far as the meal and refreshments are concerned, they are quite affordable for everyone.
3) Paya Beach Spa & Dive Resort
Paya Beach Spa & Dive Resort is centrally located at the central western shores of Pulau Tioman. Enjoy an exclusive white sand beachfront resort getaway with full facilities at our Pulau Tioman resort.
For More About Tioman island Resort
Spoil Yourself with the Delicious Local Food
The local food of Tioman Island is simply out of this world. As a matter of fact, words are just not enough to explain how good the local cuisine is – it is simply worth trying. And hey, if you like spicy food then it can be said with absolute certainty that you’ll love the local cuisine of this island.
Best Time to Visit Tioman
Timing matters when you are visiting a place surrounded by water. The most appropriate time to visit Tioman is in between March and October. So, this means that months of June and July offer the best time to visit this small heaven.
After October, Monsoon seasons starts and that is why most of the resorts start to close. Therefore, it is best to avoid visiting Tioman in the monsoon season (September till February).
Best Time To Dive
- Scuba Diving Tioman is possible from February to November (Dry season).
- March until May , September until November (Best visibility ranges from 15m to 30m)
- June to August (Less good visibility range from 8m to 12m)
- Mid-range warm temperature of 27- 29°c
TIPS BEFORE YOU TRAVEL TO TIOMAN ISLAND
- Not all the place or resorts provide WIFI services. It is good to buy a local sim card with 3G or Active Your Roaming services
- Make sure to prepare enough cash in MYR currency. Because In Tioman Island Only Kampong Tekek Got ATM.
- Tioman Is Duty Free Shopping Heaven. You may use cheap price to buy a lot stuff. Duty Free Shop Can Use Credit Card .
- If you are on a diving trip, book a full-board package as resorts will get a good price.
- Try to avoid travel to Tioman Island during Malaysia’s school holiday since the island becomes over populated with school children and their parents.
What Are You Waiting For? Plan Your trip now
There is absolutely no denying that world is full of amazing places. It is imperative for you to include Tioman Island in your list of ‘must-visit’ places because you have no idea what you are missing out by not visiting this place. It has everything to offer that can make your trip truly exceptional and memorable.
So, don’t wait for a right time, just pack your bags and embark on a journey to Tioman. Stay safe and have lots of, lots of fun!!!
