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The Anantara Desaru Resort has a palatial entrance: through the lobby, to a shallow infinity pool that overlooks, three stories down, a large swimming pool, beach cabanas, and a stretch of white sand. All of the modish rooms share this view, with ample deck space, and floor to ceiling windows for an unobstructed look out over the ten-mile private beachfront. For something splashier, there are 13 two-storey villas, each with a private pool, a patio, two bathrooms, a living area, an incredibly large bedroom, and a spacious bathroom.
Anantara Desaru seeks to infuse the hotel with little bits of local traditions. The dinner hour is announced each evening by the beating of a large drum; a tradition of the local villages, who used to summon the fishermen back from sea. There is a choice of three restaurants: Turmeric, which serves a fusion of Thai and Malay food; The Infinity Bar, which serves pub fare with a tropical twist; and Sea.Fire.Salt., the hotel’s most upscale establishment offering a variety of local and international surf and turf. Private barbeques can also be arranged for anyone staying in a villa – with everything pre-arranged and cooked right on the deck. Sundowner drinks can be had at the elevated observatory bar, separated from the main hotel by a gangway.
The beach is the main draw at Anantara Desaru, but there are also a variety of other activities, not limited to mangrove boat tours, culinary classes, tie-dye lessons, and outdoor cinema nights. The spa is award-winning (Malaysia’s Best Resort Spa at the 2024 World Resort Awards), and its small, 6-room treatment facility is staffed by a cheery and knowledgeable staff.
Families
Other Activities
Great walks
Beach Life
Golf
Sights nearby
Restaurant
Spa
Rooms with balcony/terrace
Private Pool
Family Suites
Air conditioning
Outstanding location
Sit-out Terrace
Full of character
Good wine list
Wellbeing
On the beach
Sea Views
Gym
Child friendly
Disabled access
Traditional
Charming
Luxury
Views
Kids Club
Conference facilities
Rooms
116 rooms in this hotelRestaurant
Various refined dining options including Malaysian and Thai cuisine, premium seafood and steaks and bespoke beachfront dinnersSpa
Luxurious wellness area offering a steam room, spa packages, relaxation areas and rejuvenating massage treatmentsRooms with balcony/terrace
Some rooms have a private sit-out terrace or balcony with stunning views of the surrounding areaSwimming Pool
Two outdoor pools with sun loungers, a poolside bar and stunning ocean vistasParking
Free parking is possible on site, no reservation neededNo pets
Private Pool
Family Suites
Bar
Communal Dining
Bicycles available
Air conditioning
Outdoor dining
Sauna/Steam
Meeting Room
Massage
Babysitting
Lift
Sit-out Terrace
Laundry
Good wine list
Garden
Gym
Child friendly
Sitting Room
Room service
Disabled access
Suites
Bath robes
Private villas
Concierge
Wifi
Views
Kids Club
Conference facilities
Safe
Other Activities
Great walks
Golf
Sights nearby
Why do people love staying in your hotel?
Guests love our resort for its seamless blend of barefoot luxury and heartfelt hospitality. Nestled along the pristine coastline, our resort offers spacious rooms, private villas with pools, personalised service, and curated experiences that make every stay unforgettable. It’s the perfect destination for families, couples, and luxury seekers looking to unwind and reconnect in a tropical setting.
What is there to do in the area?
Desaru Coast is a thriving coastal destination offering everything from championship golf at The Els Club and thrilling fun at the Adventure Waterpark, to nature excursions like mangrove tours and fruit farm visits. Cultural experiences and artisanal workshops nearby provide enriching insights into Malaysian heritage.
What kind of breakfast do you offer?
We offer an indulgent and diverse breakfast experience designed to cater to every palate. Guests can enjoy an extensive buffet featuring international favourites, traditional Malaysian delicacies, freshly baked pastries, tropical fruits, and live cooking stations — all served in a serene setting at our main restaurant overlooking the gardens and pool. For guests staying in our Villas or Residences, breakfast can also be enjoyed in the comfort and privacy of their own unit, offering a more relaxed and personalised start to the day. Additionally, we offer a Floating Breakfast experience — a beautifully curated breakfast tray served in the villa’s private pool — perfect for a luxurious touch or a memorable celebration. This is available upon request at an additional charge.
Do you offer other meals? And can you recommend good places to eat out locally?
Yes, we offer a range of dining options including local Malaysian cuisine, international fare, beachside grills, and private dining experiences. While we believe our culinary experiences cater well to every taste, guests looking to explore can also visit local seafood restaurants within Desaru for a more rustic experience, such as Nelayan Seafood and Jade Garden.
Which are your most popular room types, and why?
Our One and Two Bedroom Lagoon Pool Villas and Three- and Four-Bedroom Beach Residences are guest favourites due to their space, privacy, and exclusive amenities. These are ideal for families and groups looking for an elevated and tranquil escape with private pools and direct beach access.
What facilities do you have for children and can you fit extra beds in your rooms?
We offer both the Layang Layang Kids’ Club and Luncur Ombak Teens’ Club with daily activities, games, and creative workshops. Extra bed can be set up in our villa and residence units as these categories are ideal for larger family setups.
What message would you like to give The Hotel Guru readers?
Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas is more than just a beach resort — it’s where nature, culture, and luxury come together to create meaningful journeys. Whether you are seeking serenity, adventure, or quality family time, we welcome you to experience Malaysia’s coastal gem in a way that’s personal, refined, and unforgettable.
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