Rawa Island, or Pulau Rawa is a small coral island located in the Mersing District of Johor, in southeast Malaysia. Filled with natural beauty, beaches, clear turquoise waters and a rich marine ecosystem, it’s popular for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
Geography and Ecology
Rawa Island is characterized by its unique geography. With one side featuring a sandy beach and the other a rocky cliff. It’s home to a diverse range of marine life, including various fish species, squids, jellyfish, and black tip reef sharks. The surrounding waters are abundant with coral, providing excellent opportunities for underwater exploration.The name “Rawa” translates to “white doves” in the local dialect, reflecting the presence of these birds on the island. The island is part of the Johor Marine Park, which helps preserve its natural beauty and biodiversity.
Accessibility
Rawa Island is accessible via a 30-minute speedboat ride from Mersing, a town in Johor. Visitors typically reach Mersing by car or bus from major cities like Kuala Lumpur or Singapore, making it a convenient getaway for those seeking a quick escape from urban life. You can book full board packages on Klook for 3 or 4 days.
Accommodations
There are two main resorts on the island: Rawa Island Resort and Alang’s Rawa Resort. Both offer a range of accommodations suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers. The resorts provide various amenities, including restaurants serving local and international cuisine, spa services, and recreational activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking.
Activities
Rawa Island is renowned for its recreational offerings. Guests can enjoy:
- Snorkeling and Diving: The house reef is shallow and ideal for safe entry diving, perfect for beginners and experienced divers. The PADI Five Star Scuba Diving Instructor Development Center on the island offers courses for all skill levels.
- Beach Activities: Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the clear waters, or participate in water sports like kayaking and island hopping.
- Nature Exploration: Hiking trails lead to panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the South China Sea, providing opportunities for nature photography and wildlife observation.
Due to its lodging prices, we believe Rawa Island remains a tranquil, exclusive and less commercialized alternative. This is when compared with more popular Malaysian beach destinations, such as the nearby Tioman island. For these reasons, Rawa island is an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty.
Keep traveling, keep learning!