Mersing, a laid-back coastal town on Malaysia's east coast, has long been known as the main gateway to Tioman Island. But beyond serving as a ferry port, Mersing itself offers one of Malaysia's most underrated travel experiences: island hopping. Within sight of the mainland lie a handful of small, idyllic islands that are perfect for day excursions. Each with its own character, charm and natural beauty.
Island hopping from Mersing is
easy to arrange and doesn't require an overnight stay. Travellers can set out in the morning, spend the day swimming, snorkelling and exploring, after which they can return to the mainland by late afternoon—refreshed and sun-kissed after a full day at sea.
Cluster of hidden treasures
While Tioman may be the name most travellers recognise, the smaller islands off Mersing offer a completely different experience. They're quieter, more intimate and often more pristine than even Mersing's pride and joy. The typical island-hopping route includes a combination of several nearby islets, such as Pulau Rawa, Pulau Tengah and Pulau Hujong, though other routes are just as likely.
Each stop brings something new. Rawa is famed for its soft white beaches and crystal-clear waters; perfect for wading in the shallows and easy snorkelling right off the shore. Pulau Tengah, meanwhile, has a more rugged charm with coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, making it ideal for those keen to spend time in the water. Other islands, like Pulau Hujong or Pulau Besar, are perfect for a peaceful picnic or a leisurely stroll along deserted stretches of sandy beaches that you have all to yourself.
Most island-hopping speedboats depart directly from the Mersing jetty. Depending on sea conditions and the chosen itinerary, each leg of the journey takes between 15 and 30 minutes, ensuring plenty of time to enjoy multiple stops before returning in the late afternoon.
What to expect on your island-hopping day trip
A typical island-hopping tour from Mersing begins in the morning, with passengers boarding a private or shared speedboat. These boats are fast and nimble, allowing them to pull right up to beaches without the need for jetties. Travellers are advised to bring along swimwear, sunscreen, towels and perhaps a packed lunch or some snacks, though a light meal and a few bottles of water are often included in the package.
The beauty of Mersing island hopping is its flexibility. Some operators offer fixed routes, while others can tailor the day based on tides, weather and traveller preference. Whether you want to snorkel among coral reefs, take selfies of dramatic rock formations or simply float in a bright turquoise sea, the skipper can adjust the day's plan accordingly.
And because these are day trips, there's no need to worry about overnight accommodation, making island hopping an ideal choice for those staying in Mersing or passing through on a road trip.
Charm of simplicity
One of the best things about island hopping off Mersing is how accessible it remains. There's no need for elaborate arrangements or luxury packages. Jjust bring a sense of adventure. Once you've got your day
booked, your boatman is happy to offer a day of fun and joy amongst what are nothing short of bounty islands.
Compared with the bigger islands, such as Tioman, the islands near Mersing's coast are pristine and devoid of people. This simplicity is part of their charm: you can snorkel among colourful reefs without anyone there, rest beneath a shady palm tree and truly disconnect for a few hours. The sound of the waves and the occasional call of a sea eagle are often the only things breaking the silence. Sheer bliss.
For travellers who have already explored Tioman or are simply looking for something more spontaneous, island hopping from Mersing offers a rewarding and memorable day out. It's a glimpse into the unspoiled side of Malaysia's east coast—one that's close to the mainland but feels a world away.
Keen to know more about island hopping off Mersing, or want to go ahead and book your day, go
here