Where Tioman Island Is Located
Tioman Island is a mukim (township) in the Rompin District of Pahang, Malaysia. It is located off the east coast of Malaysia Peninsular and is about 39 km long and 12 km wide.
Tioman Island is universally recognized as a geological wonder with beautiful coral reefs, bubbling marine life, wide beach sand, warm beaches, and abundant greenery.
Little wonder why Tioman’s economy, formerly based on fishing, is now predominantly based on tourism. The locals call the Island Palau Tioman.
Getting To And Around The Island
Palau Tioman is only accessible by water and air from the port town of Mersing and Tanjung Gemuk. Unfortunately, there is no direct international flight to Mersing or Tanjung.
International flight destination is most commonly Kuala Lumpur, which is the capital city of Malaysia. From here, there are direct buses to Mersing or Tanjung Gemuk by road and it takes about 6 hours.
From the port town of Mersing or Tanjung Gemuk, tourists can get to the Island by ferry which takes about 2 hours.
The water at Tanjung Gemuk port is deep, ferries often operate here more frequently than at Mersing. Tourists may experience an occasional delay due to shallow water depth sometimes at Mersing.
Another way to get to the Island is by flight which is operated by Berjaya Air from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore to Paulo Tioman Airport. Tourists from Singapore can link Tioman Island directly by ferry.
Also, there are direct bus services from Singapore to Mersing or Tanjung Gemuk from where you can take a ferry to Pulau Tioman, Malaysia.
There is seven village settlement on the Island. Kampung Tekek is the largest and most populous village located on the west coast. Teluk Juara is another village located on the east coast.
The villages are linked by a rough hilly road with Mount Kajang somewhere in the middle (1,038 meters high). Tourists can go from one village to another by hiking, ferry or using rent cars.
See also: 15 Best Things to Do in Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Best Time to Visit Pulau Tioman
The weather on the Island is akin to the one on the mainland. A hot humid calm climate with sunny days and cool nights. However, the monsoon season does come with strong wind and heavy rainfall from October to January.
As a result of the monsoon, the best time to visit Tioman Island is between March and October. A study of Island hotel bookings showed that the peak tourist season is between May and August.
Asides monsoon, another reason to steer clear of the Island is the local holidays. On school and public holidays, the Island is often jam-packed with locals from Malaysia and Singapore.
See also: Best Time of the Year to Visit Malaysia
Tioman Island Travel Tips
The following travel tips can guide you in preparing for your trip:
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen – You need sunglasses and sunscreen to reduce the impact of the sun’s reflection on your eyes. Also, get sun lotion to reduce skin burn.
- Get a Hat – Don’t travel without a hat; protect your head from direct sun.
- If you want to do the diving school, register before you arrive for a smaller fee.
- If you are looking to do snorkeling is better to bring your own goggles set.
- You may need to have mosquito and insect repellant/cream in your pack.
- Get a small waterproof bag for your cash and money. Don’t leave your belongings on the beach with strangers.
- Have your card and enough cash – Carry your credit card with you and ensure you arrive with sufficient cash that will sustain your stay. There are not many ATMs on the Island, your hotel may be far from one.
- Buy a tourist Data SIM card if you plan to stay more than a few days in Malaysia.
Where to Stay Pulau Tioman Island
The hotels are well known for the beautiful view of the blue oceans and green flora. Most of the accommodations come as bungalows, chalets, villas or hostels within a resort.
Paya Beach Spa & Dive Resort
This Malaysian beach resort boasts of astonishing coral reef and it is an ideal destination for visitors who are looking to enjoy nature’s undiluted gifts.
Facilities include a spa, swimming pool, beach bar, Free WiFi (lobby and rooms), BBQ & grill, restaurants and dive centers. The resort has a desk for visitors who want to arrange daily activities.
Selesa Tioman Apartments
A very good place that offers affordable accommodation around Tekek. Tekek Jetty is where most of the tourists come and go by ferry.
The apartment overlooks the South China Sea, it has a golf course and an outdoor pool. Facilities include free WiFi (lobby and rooms), sea view, garden, A/C, luggage storage, and private balcony.
Cheers Chalet
They have a shared lounge, dining area, nice garden, and balcony view. There is a water sports facility, BBQ facility, free WiFi (reception), and parking space.
Tioman Peladang Chalet
This chalet is located at a 5-minute walking distance from Tekek Jetty. The facility offers an on-site restaurant, water sports, free WiFi, BBQ, housekeeping, family rooms, and a garden seat.
Arrangements for snorkeling and fishing activity can be made at the front desk for a fee. The ability of the staff to speak English makes things smooth for tourists.
Marina Bay Resort and Restaurant
Facilities here include 24-hour security, WiFi (lobby only), restaurant, laundry service, A/C rooms, and a bar. Marina Bay has an exciting ambiance that will form part of your experience.
Other hotels in Pulau Tioman Island that worth a try:
Tioman Island Beaches
Tourists generally agree that Pulau Tioman beaches are beautiful and take your breath away. A good beach may be relative depending on tourist’s energy and below is a list of beaches that I found interesting and fun at my last visit:
- Monkey beach
- Air Batang beach
- Juara beach
- Paya beach
- Salang Beach
- Berjaya beach
- Genting beach
- Mukut beach
- Nipah beach
- Lalang beach
Best Things to Do in Tioman Island
- Fishing
The Island has a rich marine life and this has made fishing a popular and fun activity. You can arrange deep-sea fishing from desk staff at your resort. Although fishing is prohibited within marine parks, you are free to fish some few kilometers off the coast. - Kayaking and Snorkelling
You will miss a lot if you visit the Pulau Tioman island without experiencing kayaking and snorkeling. It presents a great opportunity to witness bubbling marine life underwater, and you can also get the chance to feed some sea fish. - Play Golf
If you have not tried your skill with a tee, your visit to Paulo Tioman presents a golden opportunity. The Island has an 18-hole beautiful golf club and you can play a round of golf with family and friends in a friendly competition. - Forest Hiking
Odd for an Island you say? You can find time to get away from the glare of the hot sun, sandy beaches, and ocean views. There is a local trekking guide who will walk you through the formation of the island and explain different types of plants and jungle survival skills. I learned that this island was formed from volcanic eruptions many years ago during the forest trip. Don’t miss it. - Spa
The spas on the island will treat you under the soothing sound of beach waves and shiny sky. The massages are relaxing and reinvigorating.
LIKE IT? PIN IT
