Mersing is one of the districts in Johor Bahru and is well known amongst the local and foreign tourists.
It is known as an interchange point to the beautiful islands such as Tioman Island, Rawa Island and many more via the ferry services at Mersing Jetty.
But why just treat it as an interchange point?
Why not explore Mersing attraction while you are there?
Mersing town is a small but quaint town with a couple of hidden gems that is worth exploring.
Let's have a look at the 9 best things to do in Mersing.
1. Adventurous Snorkeling & Island Hopping All In A Day
Island hopping and snorkelling is no doubt the No.1 spot of the best things to do in Mersing.
Are you aiming for the best experience of island hopping and snorkelling in just ONE day?
It is absolutely possible to venture out and cover a total of 5 islands in a day! How amazing is that?
Example of a day trip covers over the following beaches
- Sibu Kukus Island (Hiking)
- Tekek Island
- LIMA Island (Snorkelling Nemo)
- Mentinggi Island
- Shaz Resort Tinggi Island
The package normally includes
- Boat transfer
- Meals (lunch and tea break)
- Snorkeling equipment (i.e snorkel, mask & life jacket)
- Fish food (i.e bread)
- Tour guide assistance
Location: From Mersing Jetty
Duration: 8-10 hours (depending on the company as well as the package chosen)
Package fee: RM 160 – RM 180
2. A Refreshing Walk Along Air Papan Mersing Beach
Wondering what to do in Mersing while you wait for your ferry ride?
Air Papan Mersing Beach is just 15mins drive away from Mersing town and it is easy to get a car transport there.
It is a popular spot due to its beautiful white long beach. The water is fairly clean for a nice swim to cool yourself down from the hot weather.
It has ample parking space and you can also find quite a number of food stalls along the beach.
3. Seafood Indulgence At Mersing
What else to do in Mersing? Makan-lah (let's eat)!
There are a couple of restaurants that offer you reasonably priced delicious seafood. If you see the locals dining there, then you can never go wrong.
-Loke Tien Yuen Restaurant
- Mersing Seafood Restaurant
- T&K Seafood Restaurant
4. Hands On Fishing Experience at Ah Fatt Kelong Fishing
Are you a fishing enthusiast? Or are you one of those “TV” fishing enthusiast but dream of being able to fish at a proper fishing kelong?
If you are, then you would love Ah Fatt Kelong. It is located offshore and takes only about 10 – 15mins ferry ride from Penyabong Jetty.
This place is highly recommended as the top “what-to-do in Mersing” list. You should at least stay a night here in order to fully experience the nature of this place.
Their 2 Days 1 Night Package (RM 180) includes:-
- Accommodation (no frills bunk beds with mattress, one pillow and one blanket)
- Food (5 meals/day)
- Free flow coffee and tea
- TV – Astro (Malaysian Satellite Service Provider)
- Mahjong
- Wifi
- Fan
Other facilities:
- Fishing Rod (rental fee)
- Live shrimps as bait (with fee)
- Snooker (with fee)
- Boat to go further from the kelong (rental fee)
5. Relax at Mersing Harbour Centre
Mersing Harbour Centre is like a one-stop centre to obtain all the tourism information that you need and it is opposite of the pier.
You may purchase your Cataferry or Bluewater Express ferry tickets as well as make your payment for the Marine Park Conservation fee.
The centre is spacious and equipped with air-conditioning, WiFi, wooden benches, clean toilets, few food stalls and merchandise shops.
This is a very good place for a nice rest while waiting for the arrival of your ferry ride to Tioman Island or speedboat to Rawa Island.
6. Beautiful Structured Hock Soon Temple (Fushun Temple)
Hock Soon Temple which is known for its magnificent architecture carving design is more than a century old.
It was built as a Taoist temple dedicated to Tua Pek Kong which is believed to be the God of Prosperity by the Taoists.
If you are one of those who appreciate historical places, this is a must-visit temple while you are in Mersing
7. Walk Along The Nature Of Tanjung Resang Beach
Fancy a sunset view on a serene long white beach with dense trees as the backdrop?
Tanjung Resang Beach is the place to be when you want to enjoy the beauty of being at the seaside while in Mersing.
8. Hike Up To The Peak Of Gunung Arong
If you have always wanted to go for your first hiking experience or if you want your kids to get the exposure towards outdoor nature through hiking, this is the perfect place.
Gunung Arong is a small hill at Tanjung Resang (240m) and it takes less than an hour to hike up to the peak.
You may access it via Kampung Tanjung Resang or Teluk Gorek Beach (or you may want to choose to ascend and descend at each of these entrances.
Tips:
- Aim for the peak as the view is a sight that you wouldn’t want to miss.
- If you are more of an adventurous person, you may want to explore Pulau Mawar. However, it can only be accessed by foot and it is not suitable for kids.
- There is a place called the “Lovers Bridge” around 15mins hike down the peak. It offers you a panoramic view of South China Sea and the surrounding islands.
- No toilet facilities.