Tanjong Jara Resort in Terengganu

The Tanjong Jara Resort in Terengganu is one of the few unique holiday destinations that offer a very traditional and local experience.

In 2012, I had visited this place twice as I was on my way to Perhentian and Tenggol Island, so the long 8-hour drive there required me to spend a night here.

As Tanjong Jara is located deep in the Dungun area, it is also situated in a private and isolated area within the local kampung or village. 

Tanjong Jara Resort Review 

From the restaurants right to the rooms, you will see a fantastic fusion play of Malay and Asian cultures and architecture.

When you talk about the scenery here, it is something out of a postcard where lush greenery divides the beach from the resort. And yes, it is a beachfront property and a private one too.

Anyway, back to the resort – branded 5 Star, you are sure of quality holidaymakers minus the loud teenagers and screaming kids and this was a plus point for me as I wanted a place where I could relax and lay back.

They have two swimming pools where one is only for adults and the larger one open to all. I kind of like this concept where if you want some peace and quiet, you have the option to do so. 

The 99 rooms and suites are divided into blocks where you have a sea view or garden view and maintain the traditional wooden architecture.

Facilities are placed strategically around the entire resort land that sits on a 77.7-acre land area here in Dungun, Terengganu. 

I managed to do without any interference with someone trying to sell you something or screaming kids running up and down.

The sound of fairly large surfing waves complete the experience but it is advised that you check with the resort if you want to go swimming there.

Usually, a red flag is visible when the waves are strong and if you are bringing very young children, you need to be a little more alert while on the beach. 

The beautiful and scenic pool at the resort

The pool at Tanjong Jara Resort

Wooden pergolas in drapes provide a relaxing time by the pool while deck chairs are available around the pool for those wanting some sun.

The other pool, called Teratai Pool is awesome for those seeking privacy. Set in an almost enclosed area, there is a bar nearby where you can order cocktails or juices and simply lounge by the pool.

All rooms come with a private mini balcony area with no obstruction. They are not on the beach but facing the sea. Spacious and well decorated with modern amenities, I cannot help commenting about the bed and bathroom.

The bed was super comfortable, one of the best sleep I had in a long time while the bathroom was half the size of the room. This goes to show that you are getting what you deserve while on holiday.

One of the dishes at Tanjong Jara Resort

The food at Tanjong Jara Resort

One thing I have to take my hat off to is the chefs here at TJR. From breakfast till dinner, I could not compliment them enough with the amazing quality of dishes churned out.

There are three main restaurants at Tanjong Jara Resort;

1. Di Atas Sungai which translates as ‘Above The River’ serving some amazing local fusion dishes and a great place to just have a relaxed meal. 
2. Teratai Terrace by the swimming pool which serves private dining experiences from an overall menu which is suitable for couples or small families. 
3. Nelayan which means Fisherman offering fine dining western cuisine for dinner. 

Local Malaysian therapist and masseuse who are highly trained staff perform programs for relaxation, reinvigoration and stress relief based on traditional healing methods.

If you have never tried any of the YTL spas before, this is one of the recommended ones and I say this due to my first-hand experience here. You will not be disappointed.

Tenggol Island Beach

Tenggol Island

Tenggol Island is located about 45 minutes away from Tanjong Jara Resort (TJR) by private boat service from the resort. 

Therefore, the resort offers snorkelling and scuba diving packages to the island which includes a barbecue lunch. Transportation to the jetty and then a return boat ride is also included in the package.

All you need to do is bring your swimwear. If you are a scuba diver, TJR has a very experienced in-house dive instructor and guide that will take you on a very interesting dive at Tenggol Island.

For the casual divers, full scuba diving gear is also available for rental. If you get seasick easily, I would advise against going for this trip as the waters can be a little choppy depending on the season.

A baby turtle being released

Activities at Tanjong Jara Resort

Turtle watching at Tanjong Jara was one of the main highlights as this special package is only available during the turtle season at Rantau Abang in Terengganu.

Seriously, this is one of the most amazing things to witness when the mother turtle lays her eggs and even more joyous when the baby turtles are released back to the sea.

There are plenty more activities available here and you can find them at the end of the article.

One of the outdoor areas of the Tanjong Jara Resort

Photos of Tanjong Jara Resort in Terengganu

I do not claim to be a professional photographer but I do enjoy taking photos during my trips and sharing them on my social media networks.

Here are a series of random pictures taken around the Tanjong Jara Resort in Terengganu. Click on them to see the full picture.

If you love exploring your taste buds, there is a cooking class that can be arranged and you can explore the local and traditional Malay cooking.

For craft lovers, there is batik painting and for those who want to do absolutely nothing, no one is going to disturb you.

When I was here, I also managed to do a cycling tour around Tanjong Jara, which I found was very interesting, and I highly recommend you try this.

Facilities and Activities at Tanjong Jara Resort

Where is Tanjong Jara Resort?

Tanjong Jara Resort is a 4 to 5-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur city, therefore, most guests prefer to fly into Kuala Terengganu and the resort will have the driver come pick them from the airport.

Flying here is the fastest way, but if you want to explore the beauty of Terengganu, I would highly recommend self-driving here.

This way, you can see the scenic countryside of Malaysia including some rainforest and local villages along your journey.

Also, you can use applications like Waze or Google Maps to find your way to Tanjong Jara Resort.

Conclusion

My conclusion to this review is that for me, I love driving out of the city as there is much to see along the journey anywhere.

So if you are up for a nice driving holiday, take that challenge and head over to Tanjong Jara Resort in Terengganu, as you will not regret it.