On your next Malaysian adventure, escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the southern state of Johor. Sandwiched between two coastlines, with tiny islands on both, it offers a rustic escape to a simpler, more idyllic life by the beach. The real luxury here is the peace and quiet of island village life. Here are three lesser-known islands in Malaysia that are worth exploring.

Pulau Rawa (Rawa Island)

Pulau Rawa, a speck of land on Johor’s east coast, is a jewel in the Malaysian Archipelago. This island, with ties to the Johor Royal family, is a local favourite. Imagine stepping onto the white sandy beaches of Pulau Rawa, where the gentle waves kiss your feet and the tropical breeze caresses your skin. On one side, the beach stretches out like a pristine canvas, while on the other, rugged cliffs stand as silent sentinels against the azure sky. In the middle, a tropical jungle creates a serene oasis, offering a perfect escape for nature lovers.

The warm, crystal-clear waters surrounding Pulau Rawa invite you to take a refreshing dip. As you snorkel or scuba dive, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life. The sight of colourful fish darting among the coral reefs is mesmerizing. You can explore this aquatic paradise safely with a guide to navigate the strong currents. Pulau Rawa is also home to majestic Malayan sea eagles, adding a touch of wildlife excitement to your adventure.

The white sandy beaches of Rawa Island, image by H-AB Photography, shutterstock

Pulau Rawa, image by Bon04, shutterstock

Being within the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park, the island’s diverse natural beauty, both above and below water, makes it a must-visit for those seeking a serene yet adventurous escape.

Pulau Besar (Besar Island)

Pulau Besar is just south of Pulau Rawa, a larger yet equally captivating island. Most of Pulau Besar remains undeveloped, preserving its pristine natural beauty. Picture yourself trekking through dense jungle trails, surrounded by the symphony of chirping birds and rustling leaves. The island’s coastline blends sandy beaches and rocky outcrops, creating hidden coves accessible only by kayak or small boat.

Pulau Besar island, image by drshahrinmdayob, shutterstock

Pulau Besar embodies the essence of barefoot luxury. Imagine lounging on a secluded beach, the soft sand between your toes and the gentle sound of waves lulling you into relaxation. This island offers simple living with a high emphasis on the environment. Snorkelling and scuba diving reveal an underwater paradise, with coral reefs bustling with diverse marine life. The warm South China Sea waters embrace you as you explore snorkel sites like Monkey Bay, Coral Bay, and Teluk Dalam, where the depths vary from shallow to deep, making it perfect for novice and experienced snorkelers.

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Jungle trekking on Pulau Besar is an adventure in itself. Winding trails lead you through lush forests, past tiny waterfalls and natural pools. Each step brings you closer to nature, offering a refreshing escape into the island’s verdant heart. Pulau Besar provides a mini Malaysian nature escape where you can genuinely connect with the natural world.

Pulau Tioman (Tioman Island)

Pulau Tioman, more prominent and further out to sea than Pulau Rawa and Pulau Besar, has been a favourite local escape for decades. Despite recent infrastructure developments, the island retains its authentic charm. Imagine a morning hike through ancient rainforests, the air filled with the earthy scent of wet leaves and the distant call of exotic birds. As you emerge from the jungle, a pristine beach stretches before you, the golden sand meeting the turquoise sea in a breathtaking embrace.

Tioman offers a perfect blend of jungle escapades and beach getaways, making it a versatile destination for all types of travellers. The island is predominantly covered in ancient rainforests, with a few long stretches of golden beaches inviting you to unwind. Diving and surfing in the island’s surrounding waters reveal vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Being part of the Tioman Island Marine Park ensures that the natural beauty is preserved for future generations.

The ever beautiful Tioman Island, image by aksenovden, shutterstock

Coral reefs at Pulau Tioman, Image by Norhayati, shutterstock

Tioman’s charm lies in its simplicity. Picture yourself wandering through quaint village streets, where friendly locals greet you with warm smiles (and offer you economical diving packages only the way!). The island’s laid-back vibe invites you to slow down, savour each moment, and immerse yourself in the simple pleasures of this idyllic destination. Most visitors come for 2-3 days, but to truly experience the island’s magic, consider staying for a fortnight. The rich biodiversity and tranquil environment make it a haven for nature lovers, where every day is a new adventure waiting to be discovered.

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These three islands, Pulau Rawa, Pulau Besar, and Pulau Tioman, offer a unique and rustic escape from the mainland’s busy life. Each island has its own personality and charm, providing visitors various experiences, from adventurous water activities to peaceful jungle retreats. The simplicity and tranquillity of island life, combined with the stunning natural beauty, make these lesser-known islands in Malaysia genuinely worth discovering. ◼

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© This article was first published online in July 2024 – World Travel Magazine.