What’s the best destination for a beach holiday? If you prefer an uncommon spot, Rawa Island might just be the ideal destination for you. Framed by the China Sea with unspoiled beaches of powdery white sand, Rawa Island is a hidden gem off the coast of Malaysia that is part of the Johor Sultanate.
Often known as the “Maldives of Malaysia” due to its pristine beaches, Rawa Island has become one of the wonderful destinations for family-friendly travel with enough to keep younger family members occupied while the adults kick back and relax.
You can reach this tropical paradise within a 20-minute boat ride from the coastal town of Mersing, and this is the only way to get to the island as there is no airport.
We have listed out some great reasons to take that Halal-friendly family beach holiday at Rawa Island Beach so that you won’t miss out on all the fun.
Rawa Island is part of the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park and boasts of some of the best diving and snorkeling sites in Malaysia, where you will get to explore intriguing underwater diving spots. You will find marine life such as turtles and stingrays along with shoals of fish. The corals are bright and healthy at Rawa Island compared to other diving sites since this is a protected area.
Do head down to Orca Scuba Rawa which offers diving courses with PADI certifications, and diving excursions as well.
The Rawa Island Resort also provides diving and snorkeling excursions as well - so don’t miss out on this fun activity if you are staying at the resort.
What could be a better way to enjoy the ocean than kayaking around Rawa Island? This is a great way to explore the island’s surrounding and spend some quality time with your travel buddies or family.
Kayaking is the perfect activity for those who enjoy water sports or something more engaging than lying on the beach.
Credit: Rawa Island Resort
Why run into in the waves when you can enjoy a thrilling slide straight into the ocean? There are two huge water slides on Rawa Island which are the perfect addition for a day out at the beach. The water slides are some of the highlights of the island, which are ideal for children and adults alike.
If lazing around the beach with a mocktail in hand is not your thing, a game of volleyball with the family or your big group of friends might be the best thing to do. Plus, it’s always great to get some exercise even if you are on holiday. Beach volleyball is a great excuse to take a break from technology and make the most of Rawa Island.
One of the best ways to enjoy the rustic charm of Rawa Island is to get on the hiking trail. This is undoubtedly the best spot to get a fantastic view of the island and its surroundings while taking some photos of the gorgeous sunset. It can't get any better than that!
For something less strenuous, just go on the Island Walk Trail to explore the rest of the island which is quite relaxing.
Orca Scuba Rawa and the Rawa Island Resort both offer activities such as trampolining, pool, volleyball and more, so there is something for everyone here. If you are not into diving and snorkeling, playing a few games and enjoying other water sports such as stand-up paddling might be better options.
Alternatively, you can enjoy your freedom from technology and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Rawa Island by just soaking up some sun.
Some of the best things about Rawa Island being an unspoiled paradise is that the water is so clear that you can see marine life swimming along the corals even without diving.
Don’t forget to look out for the peacocks either! There are several sightings of the gorgeous birds roaming free around the area, so do keep an eye out.
There are just two accommodation options on the island - Rawa Island Resort and Alang’s Rawa since Rawa Island is far from the sprawling cities and the daily bustle. When considering family-friendly travel, Rawa Island Resort is the family-friendly option with fun activities, spa treatments, and simple yet comfortable accommodation options.
Credit: Alang's Rawa on Facebook
Alang’s Rawa is the budget option and ideal for that beach vibe accommodation, however, children below 16 are allowed only during weekdays.
You can choose to stay at Rawa Island Resort where buffets for breakfast, lunch, and dinner are available daily and are part of the package. There are no pork products included in the food preparation at the Rawa Island Resort, and all food is Halal even though they serve alcohol. Guests are not allowed to bring food from outside on to Rawa Island since cooking facilities are not available.
