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Getting to Pulau Besar Johor
Your journey to Pulau Besar begins in Mersing, a charming coastal town located on Johor’s scenic east coast. Well known as the main gateway to the islands of the South China Sea, Mersing offers a relaxed seaside atmosphere before your island escape. From the Mersing Jetty, Pulau Besar is only a short boat ride away, taking you across clear turquoise waters with refreshing sea breezes and views of nearby islets. As you approach the island, lush greenery and pristine beaches come into view, setting the tone for a peaceful tropical retreat surrounded by nature.
Senai International Airport (JHB), located near Johor Bahru, is the nearest airport to Pulau Besar. It serves frequent domestic flights from Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kota Kinabalu, and Kuching, as well as international routes from Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta, and Ho Chi Minh City.
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From the airport, Mersing Jetty is reachable in about 2.5 to 3 hours by private car, taxi, or pre-arranged resort transfer. Car rental services and intercity coaches are also available.
The Boat to Pulau Besar
From Mersing Jetty, the final leg of the journey is a 20–30 minute boat ride to Besar Island. Along the way, you’ll pass other idyllic islands within the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park, each surrounded by crystal-clear waters and coral reefs.
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Most resorts on Besar Island provide pre-arranged boat transfers for guests, so it’s best to confirm your timing in advance. Boat schedules depend on the tide, and departures may vary daily.
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If you’re arriving in Mersing on the same day as your boat trip, plan to reach early, ideally at least one hour before departure to allow for ticketing and boarding.
Best Time to Travel
Pulau Besar is open to visitors from March to October, the best time for calm seas, sunny skies, and clear underwater visibility. During these months, marine activities, resort operations and boat transfers run smoothly.
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From November to February, the island is closed to visitors due to the northeast monsoon season. Strong winds and high waves make sea travel unsafe, and the seasonal rest helps preserve Pulau Besar’s delicate ecosystem.
Travel Tips
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Arrive early at Mersing Jetty, as boat timings follow the tide.
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Cash is essential - ATMs and card facilities are limited on the island.
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Keep important items in a waterproof bag during the boat ride.
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Parking is available near Mersing Jetty for self-drive travellers.
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Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid single-use plastics to help protect the marine environment.
A Journey Worth Taking
Reaching Pulau Besar is more than just a trip, it’s the beginning of an unforgettable island experience. As your boat glides over the blue-green waters and the island’s white sands come into view, you’ll feel that sense of calm that only paradise can offer.