Desaru Resort Recreation Center, Kota Tinggi

This highly developed stretch of sandy beaches flanking the South China Sea lies about 100 kilometers from Johor Bahru, accessible by car in two hours. Several modern hotel resorts line the 25 kilometer stretch, where a host of water sports and outdoor activities beckon. Two very playable golf courses—the Sebana Cove and Desaru Golf and Country Resort —are open to walk-in golfers. The Fishermen's Museum at the Tanjung Balau fishing village showcases a collection of fishing traps, tackles and floats.