Pulau Harimau

Whilst Harimau Island has been named after the tigers that used to roam Malaysia's rainforest's, some say until even today, this particular offshore neck of the woods is guaranteed free of tigers. In fact, it's been said the island actually derived its name from its silhouette when viewed from above, resembling a reclining tiger against the azure blue background.

Now, what you will find on Harimau Island is breathtaking white sandy beaches, a gin-clear coral-rich sea, stunning 360 panoramas, a sparkling and totally secluded cave pool and an idyllic tranquillity that is unmatched.


Pulau Harimau's gin-clear seas

The reason for Pulau Harimau's serene ambience is the fact that it's not really listed as a getaway island in any of the tourism brochures and websites, as these tend to highlight the more renown island jewels that Malaysia's east coast offers, such as Tioman and Rawa. After all, these have been travel agency money-makers for decades.

Whilst there is no doubt that Tioman and Rawa and pretty islands in their own right, to really get into the skin of Robinson Crusoe or Swiss Family Robinson, you've got to visit Harimau Island.

If you're into snorkeling or scuba-diving, then Harimau is a must-go place to explore. Tiger Island offers not only coral gardens of superb calibre, but the entire ecology below the waterline is thriving and, in a word, spectacular.

When you're coming to Harimau, make sure that you bring your photography equipment, because there's a long staircase to the very pinnacle of Pulau Harimau that's open to the public and leads to Pulau Harimau's lighthouse/cell beacon, as well as vistas of the surrounding Seri Buat islands and Malaysia mainland that have to be seen to be believed.

How to get to Pulau Harimau

To get to Harimau Island, you'll need to head for Mersing first. Mersing is the default jumping point to the various islands off Malaysia Johor coast. You can go to Mersing by either bus or taxi. From Mersing, you can book a speedboat to Pulau Harimau. Do note that some of the islands offshore require approval before you can go there.




As most of the Malaysia and Singapore coaches travel to Mersing just once per day, reserving your bus tickets before it is fully booked is highly recommended.

NOTE: Peak season is !

If you prefer to take a taxi to Mersing, click here for available taxi vehicles and pricing.