Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Family Resort in Desaru

Having fun on a beach vacation together is often one of the most precious childhood memories many of us will have. For travellers in the region looking for child-friendly, well-developed, charming holiday destinations, Desaru provides the perfect backdrop for creating those special moments that we will remember for a lifetime.

From luxurious beachfront properties to cosy family-run villas, Desaru offers a diverse range of accommodation options. But with a growing number of resorts vying for your attention, how do you choose the best one for your family?

This guide will navigate you through the key considerations, from budget and amenities to dining options and proximity to attractions. We’ll then dive into a curated list of family-friendly resorts, ensuring you find the ideal sanctuary for your Desaru adventure.

Key Considerations for Choosing a Family-Friendly Resort in Desaru

Before you get swept away by stunning photos and enticing offers, it’s crucial to consider your family’s unique needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the essential factors to keep in mind:

1. Budget: Finding Your Financial Sweet Spot

Desaru caters to a wide range of preferences. Before you start browsing, determine a realistic budget for your accommodation. This will help you narrow down your options and avoid overspending.

Remember, there are ways to save on accommodation without compromising on quality. Consider travelling during the off-peak season, opting for a weekday stay, or exploring alternative accommodation types like villas or apartments, which often offer more space and privacy for families.

2. Available Amenities: Catering to Every Family Member

A resort’s amenities can make or break your family vacation. Look for resorts in Desaru that cater specifically to families, offering features like:

• Kids’ Clubs: Supervised activities and dedicated play areas keep children entertained while parents enjoy some downtime.
• Swimming Pools: Multiple pools, including children’s pools with water features and slides, provide hours of fun for the whole family.
• Playgrounds: Outdoor playgrounds offer a space for children to run, climb, and burn off energy.
• Babysitting Services: Give parents a break with reliable babysitting services, allowing them to enjoy a romantic dinner or a relaxing spa treatment.

Consider your children’s ages and interests when evaluating amenities. Older children might appreciate game rooms, teen clubs, or sports facilities, while younger ones might prefer playgrounds, splash pads, and shallow pools.

3. Bed/Room Options: Ensuring a Comfortable Stay

Choosing the right bedding configuration is crucial for a comfortable family vacation in Desaru. Consider the number of children in your family and their sleeping habits. Look for resorts that offer:

• Family Suites: Spacious suites with separate bedrooms or sleeping areas provide privacy and comfort for everyone.
• Connecting Rooms: Connecting rooms allow families to stay close together while still enjoying some separation.
• Extra Beds: Rollaway beds, cribs, or sofa beds can accommodate additional children in the same room.

4. Dining Options: Satisfying Every Palate

Mealtimes can be a challenge with picky eaters. The best option would be to choose a family-friendly resort in Desaru with diverse dining options to cater to everyone’s tastes. Look for:

• Multiple Restaurants: Resorts with multiple restaurants offer a variety of cuisines and dining experiences.
• Kid-Friendly Menus: Ensure the resort has menus with kid-friendly options.
• Flexible Dining: Consider resorts with in-room dining or all-inclusive packages for added convenience.

Beyond the resort’s offerings, Desaru boasts a vibrant culinary scene with a range of options to satisfy every palate. Savour fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants, indulge in spicy Malay curries or enjoy international favourites like pizza and pasta.

Don’t miss the chance to try local delicacies like otak-otak (grilled fish cake) and cendol (a refreshing dessert with shaved ice and coconut milk).

5. Proximity to Attractions: Planning Your Itinerary

Consider the location of the resort in relation to Desaru’s attractions. Do you want to be within walking distance of the beach or water park? Or are you comfortable using taxis or rental cars to get around?

Think about your family’s interests and plan your itinerary accordingly. If you plan to spend most of your time at the beach, choose a beachfront resort. If you want to explore Desaru’s attractions, consider a resort with easy access to transportation or within walking distance of key landmarks.

Here are some of the top attractions in Desaru to consider when choosing your resort:

• Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark: With thrilling slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, this water park is a must-visit for families seeking aquatic adventures.
• Desaru Fruit Farm: Embark on a fruity adventure at this sprawling farm, where you can sample exotic fruits, learn about agriculture, and enjoy activities like fruit picking and ATV rides.
• Desaru Ostrich Farm: Get up close and personal with ostriches at this unique farm. Learn about these fascinating birds, feed them, and even take a ride on an ostrich (for the brave ones!).
• Desaru Beach: Relax on the pristine shores of Desaru Beach, build sandcastles, swim in the clear waters, or simply soak up the sun.
• Firefly River Cruise: Embark on a magical evening cruise along the Desaru River and witness the enchanting spectacle of fireflies illuminating the mangrove forests.

Recommended Family-Friendly Resorts in Desaru

Now that you understand the key considerations let’s explore some of the best family-friendly resorts Desaru has to offer:

1. Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast: Rock out with the whole family at this music-themed resort. With a vibrant atmosphere, a kids’ club, multiple pools, and direct beach access, it’s a haven for fun and entertainment. (From SGD $180 per night).
2. The Westin Desaru Coast Resort: Embrace relaxation and rejuvenation at this beachfront accommodation. With spacious rooms, multiple pools, a kids’ club, and a luxurious spa, it caters to both parents and children. (From SGD $200 per night).
3. Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas: Experience luxury and tranquillity at this beachfront resort. With private villas, a kids’ club, multiple dining options, and a focus on cultural experiences, it’s perfect for families seeking a sophisticated getaway. (FromSGD $350 per night).
4. One & Only Desaru Coast: Indulge in unparalleled luxury at this exclusive resort. With private villas, a world-class spa, exceptional dining, and a dedicated kids’ club, it’s the ultimate escape for discerning families. (From SGD $1,135 per night).
5. Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa: Enjoy a fun-filled family vacation at this beachfront resort. With multiple pools, water slides, a kids’ club, and a variety of activities, it’s perfect for families seeking an action-packed getaway. (From SGD $95 per night).
6. Sand & Sandals Desaru Beach Resort & Spa: Relax and unwind at this beachfront resort with a focus on wellness. With a spa, multiple pools, a kids’ club, and a tranquil atmosphere, it’s ideal for families seeking a rejuvenating escape. (From SGD $135 per night).
7. Tiara Desaru Seaview Residences: Enjoy spacious and comfortable accommodations at these family-friendly apartments. With a pool, playground, and easy access to the beach, it’s an excellent option for families seeking value and flexibility. (From SGD $60 per night).
8. Four Points by Sheraton Desaru: Experience comfort and convenience at this family-friendly hotel. With a pool, kids’ club, and a range of dining options, it’s a great choice for families seeking a relaxed and affordable stay. (From SGD $108 per night).

Travel with Peace of Mind: Importance of Travel Insurance

While planning your dream family vacation, it’s crucial to consider the unexpected. While in most cases, things go by without a hitch, it’s always better to travel knowing that you’re protected against unforeseen events that could disrupt your trip or incur unwanted expenses. This is why travel insurance should always be a part of your pre-trip planning process.

For families, travel insurance is particularly important. It offers coverage for the entire family under a single plan, often at a more affordable rate than purchasing individual policies. Travel insurance can safeguard you against the following:

• Medical emergencies: Covers medical expenses, hospitalisation, and emergency medical evacuation.
• Trip cancellations and interruptions: Reimburses non-refundable expenses if your trip is cancelled or interrupted due to covered reasons.
• Lost or delayed baggage: Provides compensation for lost or delayed baggage, ensuring you have essential items during your trip.
• Personal liability: Covers legal expenses if you’re held responsible for accidental injury or damage to property.

If you’re looking for comprehensive yet affordable coverage for your next family trip, Hong Leong Assurance offers both single-trip and annual multi-trip insurance policies for your consideration.

With benefits like hassle-free claims and coverage for travel inconveniences and medical expenses, you can embark on your Desaru adventure with peace of mind, knowing that you’re protected with our range of travel insurance plans.

Creating Your Dream Family Vacation in Desaru

Choosing the perfect resort for your family vacation in Desaru requires careful consideration of many different aspects. By using this guide and exploring the recommended resorts, you can find the ideal accommodation that caters to your family’s unique needs and preferences.

Remember, a well-planned vacation is a happy vacation. Take the time to research your options, consider your priorities, and don’t forget to secure travel insurance from HL Assurance for added peace of mind. With careful planning and the right resort, your family can create unforgettable memories in the beautiful coastal haven of Desaru.

Book your dream family vacation to Desaru today and embark on an adventure filled with sun, sand, and boundless fun!

Information taken from hotel and accommodation websites is accurate at the time of publishing.