Desaru, located in the south-eastern region of Malaysia in Johor, was once intended to be a thriving resort destination in the late ’80s and early ’90s, however its appeal swiftly dwindled way before it even gained traction. Thankfully though, its undisputed potential was never disregarded and the coastal town has since been given new life by major investors.
Branded the Desaru Coast, the project extends an integrated resort-lifestyle experience spanning 3,900 acres of land along a pristine 17km coastline with world-class accommodation, entertainment and attractions. While the development isn’t thoroughly complete, the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark (DCAWP) is the latest addition to open its doors to the public.
This impressive waterpark isn’t just one of the largest of its kind in the world, covering over 25 acres of space with the capacity to accommodate more than 12,000 visitors simultaneously; it is also home to one of the biggest wave pools around the globe, promising a splashing fun time for local and international visitors of all ages and walks of life.
Conceptualised around a traditional Malaysian fishing village, DCAWP boasts over 20 wet and dry rides comprising slides and other attractions geared toward any sort of adrenaline levels. Thanks to the generous souls at DCAWP, we weren’t only able to visit the waterpark recently but also fully immerse ourselves in all of its offerings.
Here, we break down some of the highlights available at DCAWP across its five splash-tacular zones:
For the thrill seeker
Having an adrenaline rush every once in a while is a great reminder that you’re alive, and luckily DCAWP is packed with a chock-full of exhilarating rides. Amidst three towering waterfalls cascading over 13-metre cliffs is the Swinging Ship that arches up to 180° in both directions, feeling like your stomach’s floating in your chest.
Now, the spotlight of the entire waterpark has got to be none other than Kraken’s Revenge – a fusion of a roller coaster and a splashing flume ride that takes riders 30 metres up into the air before swooping through a 360° loop, and then plummeting a 27-metre drop at speeds of up to 70km/h down to a splashing finish.
Amongst the other rides that will induce heart palpitations (in a good way!) include the Surf Wall which is a high-energy surf simulator, and four other massive, sensational slides with enthralling curves, drops, and twisters – Wild Whirl, Super Twister, Riptide and The Tempest.
For those solely in need of R&R
Grab a float, cruise down the lazy, meandering Penawar River and allow your worries to slowly peel away. By the time you make an entire loop along the 350-metre waterway surrounded by the lush and verdant landscape, you’ll step out feeling rejuvenated and more carefree. It’s guaranteed!
Craving some actual waves? DCAWP’s signature Tidal Wave Beach is the place to be. It spreads across three metres, holds over four gallons of water and produces waves of up to four metres high. Float about in the water, or relax in luxury at the Beachside Cabanas while the soothing sounds of the waves soothe the mind, soul and body.
For the little ones
The best way to tuck those little ones to bed at night effortlessly is, well, to exhaust them completely during the day and the Kids Ahoy zone is the perfect zone to do just that. There are three play areas – Li’l Warrior’s Hideout, Scallywags and Starfish Splash – and also The Octo-Bites Cafe with oh-so-cute kid-sized food portions.
For those after sustenance
Spending the entire day at a waterpark can be tiring to say the least regardless of age, hence, DCAWP extends five food and beverage outlets for visitors to refresh and recharge their energies with a slew of irresistible choices spanning various cuisines, both local and international.
Aside from the Surf’s Up Juice Bar, The Galley Snack Bar and the The Octo-Bites Cafe, there are two we reckon are worth checking out – The Kelong Eatery and The River Grill Food Outlet. The former is sort of like a food court with endless selections whereas the latter serves up pretty awesome burgers and fried chicken.
DCAWP is located about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Johor Bahru via the Senai-Desaru Expressway, 1 hour and 30 minutes from Singapore via the Causeway and 4 hours from Kuala Lumpur via the North-South Expressway. Alternatively, visitors can get there by air to the Senai International Airport followed by a 45-minute car ride, or by sea via a 30-minute ferry ride from the Changi Ferry Terminal in Singapore.
Open from 10am to 6pm daily including weekends and public holidays, tickets to the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark are priced as follows:
Adults (Age 12-59) – RM151 (Walk-in), RM128 (Online), RM121 (MyKad holders)
Children (Age 3-11) – RM113 (Walk-in), RM96 (Online), RM90 (MyKad holders)
Senior citizens (Age 60+) – RM113 (Walk-in), RM96 (Online), RM90 (MyKad holders)
Infants & toddlers (Below age 3) – Free admission
Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark
Persiaran Pantai, Desaru Coast,
81930 Bandar Penawar,
Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia.
Tel: +607-8783800
Email: info@dcawp.com
