When traveling to Malaysia, we recommend not going to amusement parks. Why? Because you will only squeeze your way in from place to place like everyone else there.
We know how that goes – starting from the pinnacle of excitement, you can feel your energy depleting from waiting in a 60 minutes line for a 5 minutes thrill with your family.
This is only one of the many games in an amusement park. Imagine doing this for the whole day.
Going on vacation is all about relaxing and chilling. What is the point if all you go through is testing your patience and challenging your limit? A family vacation shouldn’t be like your usual 9-5.
Yes, we love excitement during a family vacation, but not at the cost of a quality family bond!
For your family bond, we have prepared 7 places in Johor frequented by the locals. So now you can avoid overcrowding places and have a splendid time with your family.
Get ready to immerse yourself into some of Johor’s hidden gems:
- Salahuddin Bakery
- Laser Battle in Johor Bahru City Square
- Spring Labs Station
- Rocky Basecamp Tebrau City
- Putuo Village
- UK Farm
- O’Coffee Club Atelier @ Puteri Cove Quayside, Johor
1. Salahuddin Bakery
When you have just arrived in Johor Bahru, try to hold out your hunger until you have reached Salahuddin Bakery on Jalan Dhoby.
It may not be easy to spot because it has no distinguishing features. But, you should be able to find it if you follow the coal-baked aroma in the air.
The alluring fragrance is the doorway to the many patron’s nostalgias of the olden times.
(Alt text: Storefront of Salahuddin Bakery | 1 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image credit: zaiem othman
Now, don’t be fooled by the shop’s vintage appearance. For over eight decades, Salahuddin Bakery has been a local favorite.
The source of fame is not just their family recipe but also because they have been baking their pastries using the classic wood-fired oven since 1973.
With over 20 delicious selections, you should try their curry puffs (karipap). They have a few variations tailored to your different preferences.
(Alt text: Classic wood-fired oven in Salahuddin Bakery | 1 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image credit: Adam Abdul Rahim
If you want to eat bread for a few days, get their signature fluffy bread Bengali (roti Bengali). You can either eat it with jam or have it the Malaysian way – dip a slice in a cup of coffee or milo and eat it instantly!
Since they are freshly made every day, we recommend finishing the pastries as soon as possible while they still have their crispiness.
(Alt text: Pastries sold in Salahuddin Bakery | 1 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image credit: Mohd Asri Markom
Operation hours: 8:00 am – 2:00 pm daily
Address: 26, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor.
2. Laser Battle in Johor Bahru City Square
Suppose you feel like having an adventure time, but the weather is a little too unbearable. In that case, you can consider having a fun, interactive shoot-out at Laser Battle in Johor Bahru City Square.
It is a roughly 10-minute walk from Salahuddin Bakery if you don’t feel like driving. You are halfway there when you walk past Pasar Karat (Bazar JB), a night market location for food and souvenirs.
(Alt text: Four people posing before entering Laser Battle in Johor Bahru City Square | 2 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Laser Battle Johor Facebook Page
This laser tag operator can house 2 to 24 individuals in a single game, no matter your family size. That is one less factor to worry about when you have a large family.
The theme should not be a problem because it has over 30 game modes, from easy to advanced modes.
(Alt text: Surviving in Laser Battle in Johor Bahru City Square | 2 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Laser Battle Johor Facebook Page
You will gear up with their tech-equipments – a green laser beam, 6 full-vibration sensors with high quality LED light, and a touch screen display to have a better experience while enjoying the adrenaline sports game with your family.
If you need a place to scream and safely annihilate an opponent without actually sacrificing anyone, this will be the place. Oh, did I mention this is family-friendly too?
We recommend calling or WhatsApp them for more inquiries or booking so you’ll have a smoother Johor trip and experience.
(Alt text: 2 teams against each other in Laser Battle in Johor Bahru City Square | 2 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Laser Battle Johor Facebook Page
Operation hours: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm daily
Call: +6.07.207.0179
WhatsApp: +60 16-868 6279
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaserBattleJohor/
Website: https://www.laserbattle.com.my/
Email: info@laserbattle.com.my
Address: Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Johor Bahru, 80000, Johor, Malaysia.
3. Spring Labs Station
Craving for European-style buildings as your backdrop for your OOTD (outfit of the day)?
Spring Labs Station is an area brimming with European-style architectural design and features. It is just a 10-minute drive away from the tourist spot Austin Heights Water & Adventure Park.
(Alt text: Entrance to Spring Labs Station | 3 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Lee Cheng Chee
Spring Labs Station is a little further away from the busy heart of Johor Bahru. However, you can still find cafes and restaurants here to quench your hunger and convenience stores to restock your trip supplies.
Whether you are traveling within Johor or driving up North to Penang Island (Pulau Pinang), it makes sense to organize your travel before your trip begins (or even update the itinerary during your trip too). Start by selecting your preferred vehicle for your journey, and then choose a location that favors you in Johor Bahru before you hit the road.
(Alt text: Colourful buildings in Spring Labs Station | 3 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Lee Cheng Chee
The buildings are not fully occupied, but the area has a handful of unique attractions enough for you to spend some time taking Instagrammable pictures.
At a glance, you will see buildings with a cottage-like front. Take a little stroll around, and you will find the steam train model, Ferris wheel model, etc.
(Alt text: Ferris wheel model in Spring Labs Station | 3 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: CS CS CS
Inside Spring Labs Station, you can take your children to Diggersite to have a realistic, one-of-a-kind experience operating small-scale construction machinery. Do note that Diggersite only opens on Saturday and Sunday, 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. You can find out more about their business on Instagram.
(Alt text: Diggersite entrance in Spring Labs Station | 3 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Scott Ang
At night, Spring Labs Station has a rather fairy-like environment. So, you can come here for a family dinner with an extraordinary atmosphere.
(Alt text: Palladium exterior in Spring Labs Station | 3 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Scott Ang
Address: Eco Spring Labs, Jalan Eko Flora 1, Taman EkoFlora, 81100, Johor Bahru, Johor.
4. Rocky Basecamp Tebrau City
Rock climbing does not have to be a hazardous sport for professional adults. Even kids can conquer the ever-challenging climbing activities (and maybe their fear of heights, too).
(Alt text: Library theme rock climbing in Rocky Basecamp Tebrau City | 4 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Mohamad Hafizi Badruddin
Rocky Basecamp is an indoor climbing center located inside AEON Tebrau City, roughly 15 minutes drive from Spring Labs Station.
You can find several themes of wall climbing facilities. Players will equip safety harnesses to ensure a safe activity experience; for children and adults alike.
(Alt text: Two children putting on harness before climbing in Rocky Basecamp Tebrau City | 4 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Mohamad Hafizi Badruddin
The walls in this center extend to the height of 15 meters. It may not pass as an extreme sport, but the scale is enough for a fun family interaction!
Wall climbing is not the only activity. You’ll find obstacles running court and a kids’ playground catering to different needs.
(Alt text: Obstacle run court and kids playground in Rocky Basecamp Tebrau City | 4 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Rocky Basecamp Tebrau City Facebook Page
Don’t forget to wear socks to protect your feet and ankles throughout your activity.
The overall price ranges from RM15 to RM70, depending on the activity you partake in. Make sure you reach out to them via Facebook for more accurate information, and check their schedule before you go because it depends on their time slot availability.
Operation hours:
Weekdays, 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Weekends and public holidays 10:00 am – 7:30 pm
Call: 017-228 5068
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RBCTebrauCityOfficial/
Address: Level 1, Lot F102A, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor.
5. Putuo Village
Do you know there is a lush bamboo forest village in Johor, away from the bustling cities?
If you have not, Putuo Village is a cultural village for everyone to take scenic images and immerse oneself in Buddhism’s architecture and ambience.
This beautiful village takes roughly an hour of driving from Johor Bahru, so make sure you had a few quick bites before hitting the road.
(Alt text: Images of Putuo Village | 5 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Putuo Village
You should know that the village is split into two areas – Purple Bamboo Valley and Bodhi Sanctuary when you are here.
As the name suggests, Purple Bamboo Valley is an area filled with bamboo. You can even donate to the village to help with the bamboo forest expansion. Talk to the committee, and they’ll guide you through!
In this bamboo forest, you will find several distinctive spots, like artificial hanging nests inspired by the weaver bird nests you can find around the village, hanging beds, and a rainbow path. There is even a wall of bamboo painted in rainbow ready for you to photograph.
(Alt text: Artificial hanging nest for photography in Putuo Village | 5 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Putuo Village
Feeling a little tired or want a little recharge? You will find a stall selling their signature bamboo ice cream and bamboo rice. We recommend the charcoal flavored ice cream before you venture to the second part of the village.
(Alt text: Signature bamboo ice cream in Putuo Village | 5 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Putuo Village
Inside Bodhi Sanctuary, anyone can pay respect to the deities regardless of their faith. You can even take photos of the surrounding design and structures.
A sanctuary is a holy place for the devotees, so make sure not to run around or cause a scene as that can come across as disrespectful.
For those who are interested, you can make a small donation to help with the sanctuary’s maintenance, too. Just ask your nearest committee, and they will assist.
(Alt text: A deity statue placed inside Bodhi Sanctuary in Putuo Village | 5 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Putuo Village
Not to mention, there is a cafe inside the village with freshly made food and beverages every day. Since this is the only cafe in the vicinity, there will be a crowd if you visit during the holidays. However, if you don’t feel like waiting for your turn, the bamboo rice from the stall should do just fine.
The Putuo Village committee is actively updating their events and activities on Facebook and Instagram, so check them out for the latest information before heading over for a good time.
Operation hours: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm daily
Call: 072133398
Website: https://putuovillage.com.my/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/putuovillage
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/putuovillage/
Address: Putuo Village, 1488, Jalan Kampung, Off, Jalan Kota Tinggi – Kluang, Felda Taib Andak, 81000 Kulai, Johor.
6. UK Farm
If you have never caught a sheep under a 3-minute window, you are missing out big time on the Sheep Challenge activity in UK Farm.
(Alt text: A girl is enjoying the Sheep Challenge in UK Farm | 6 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: UK Farm
This farm is just 30 minutes drive from the central city of Kluang.
Here, you can enjoy the various activities and packages to deepen your bonds with your family, like DIY your shirt, horse riding for kids, picking your own passion fruit and turning it into juice, and more.
(Alt text: The entrance to UK Farm | 6 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: UK Farm
There are many activities tailored for bonding, so check out their website for more information. You can also book accommodation directly from their website, ranging from RM 30 to RM 1,000.
If you wonder if UK Farm has something to do with the United Kingdom, the answer is no (ok, maybe some imported sheep species do). It is actually a private limited company in Malaysia specializing in providing sheep farming products and services.
(Alt text: An image of passion fruit and the fruit flower in UK Farm | 6 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: UK Farm
Operation hours: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm daily
Call: +607-759 7555 / +6013 – 722 2299
WhatsApp: 019-7738985
Website: https://ukfarm.com.my/
Email: info@ukfarm.com.my
Address: Plot 8, Projek Pertanian Moden Kluang, KM13 Jalan Batu Pahat, 86000 Kluang, Johor, Malaysia.
7. O’Coffee Club Atelier @ Puteri Cove Quayside, Johor
This is not a place to sightsee but to chomp down a sea-view meal with your family – a cafe we sought from locals just for you.
(Alt text: Exterior of O’Coffee Club Atelier @ Puteri Cove Quayside, Johor | 7 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Amin Ali
This cafe is in the residential area in the Puteri Harbour vicinity (not directly in Puteri Harbour). Once you arrive at the guardhouse, simply state the cafe’s name, and you may park your car inside their car park (no parking fee required).
It is advisable not to get here on the weekend. If you did, get here as early as possible to avoid overcrowding or even waiting for your table.
(Alt text: Drip coffee and coffee-related products sold in O’Coffee Club Atelier @ Puteri Cove Quayside, Johor| 7 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Saran Bala Krishnan
The cafe has a nice ambience, and the food is rated above average. Many came for their 10″ pizza, which is only available after 11 am.
As everyone has their own preference for food, we will leave it to you to be the judge.
(Alt text: Two cups of coffee and a plate of burger dish in O’Coffee Club Atelier @ Puteri Cove Quayside, Johor| 7 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Anson Twang
The most prominent attraction here would be their coffee made from their own brand of coffee beans. If you find their espresso-based coffee basic, try their signature Avocado Coffee or filter coffee series for a change.
(Alt text: The second floor of O’Coffee Club Atelier @ Puteri Cove Quayside, Johor | 7 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: Saran Bala Krishnan
Once you are done having a meal, you can stroll around the area with your loved ones or start taking photos with a beautiful sun setting down the horizon.
(Alt text: View from the inside of O’Coffee Club Atelier @ Puteri Cove Quayside, Johor| 7 of 7 Family-Friendly Places in Johor Recommended by Locals)
Image source: 김순이
Operation hours: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm daily
Call: 075226323
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100763914774342
Website: https://store.ocoffeeclubmalaysia.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocoffeeclubatelier/?hl=en
Address: Puteri Cove Residences, LG2-02 and LG2-03, Persiaran Tanjung, Puteri Harbour, 79000 Nusajaya, Johor.
Worry-less about scheduling your family trip in Johor. We trust you will find a way to fill it up with happiness and treasured memories. You also don’t have to worry about car renting services in Johor because Gem Car Rental is here for you.
Not only do they have the most affordable car renting fees in Johor, but you can also trust their friendly services. They always tailor to their customers’ needs – just check out their Google reviews!
When you are ready, contact them about their car rental services. Their wheels are prepared at all times.
