Pulau Tioman, Pahang

Pahang, the largest state in Peninsular Malaysia, is also home to Tioman, an enchanting island in the South China Sea. The state is blessed with a beautiful coastline, which offers endless tropical bliss for sun-seekers.

Hailed as one of the best island getaways in the world, Tioman is famed as the setting for “Bali Hai” in the Hollywood musical, South Pacific.

Tioman is the largest and most developed of the volcanic islands that form the Tioman Marine Park. According to legend, the island is the final resting place of a beautiful dragon princess. Till today, the island bears startling resemblance to a sleeping dragon.

A sense of peace, tranquility, and simplicity embraces visitors upon arrival.

The waters around Tioman are ideal for a host of water sports activities, including swimming, boating, kayaking or windsurfing. Its warm waters and good visibility make it a paradise for underwater explorations. Discover astounding sights such as colourful gorgonian sea fans, staghhorn corals, nudibranchs and beautifully sculptured sea sponges.

Marine life such as Napolean fish, golden striped Trevally, Bumphead parrotfish and shoals of fusiliers swim playfully in the depths.

Those without a strong affininity to water can still enjoy these sights in a glass-bottomed boat. Divers will enjoy trips to outlying islands as it provides opportunities to encounter harmless Black-tip sharks, Murray eels and other pelagic species.

For a touch of adventure, take a boat ride to Monkey Beach, or the uninhabited islands of Tulai and Renggis for a swim and a picnic.

There are several villages scattered around the island’s coastline, the larger ones being Salang, Tekek, Genting, Paya and Juara. Each village offers a different atmosphere and will be a unique experience to enjoy.

Salang, situated on the northwest of the island, enjoys immense popularity for its crystal-clear waters and colourful corals close to the shoreline. Spend a day exploring the vibrant underwater gardens or enjoy a nap in a hammock while hearing the soothing sound of gentle waves. A stroll by the beach in the evening will reward visitors with a spectacular view of the sun setting against the horizon.

Tekek, located midway on the island’s western coastline, has the longest stretch of beach on the island. This village is the gateway to Tioman by air and sea. It is also the closest village to the Berjaya Tioman Beach, Golf & Spa Resort, the island’s only five-star accommodation.

The Genting Village, further south of Tekek, is enveloped by a serene and rustic atmosphere. The tranquil beach boasts stretches of golden sand ideal for long strolls by the shore.

Juara, on the east coast of the island, is a secluded hide-away boasting a wide beach fwith fine spots for swimming, sunbathing or camping. Marvellous views of sunrise can be seen from Juara.

The island’s southernmost village, Mukut, is surrounded by natire at its purest forum. Towering against its skyline are the Twin Peaks or Dragon’s Horns, and unmistakable landmark of the island.

Getting There
By Road
Tanjung Gemok in Pahang and Mersing in Johor, are two take-off points to Tioman. Tanjung Gemok is a 3 ½ hour drive via North-South Expressway. Visitors can exit at the Senawang Interchange, and proceed to Maudzam Shah and Rompin before arriving at Tanjung Gemok. To get to Mersing from Kuala Lumpur, exit Kluang in Johor on the North-South Expressway.

By Air
Berjaya Air operates daily flights to Tioman from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Kuala Limpur and Seletar Airport in Singapore.

By Sea
The island is accessible by boat from the jetties in Tanjung Gemok and Mersing. The ride takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes depending on sea conditions. Tioman is also accessible from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore. Journey time is 4 hours and 30 minutes.