2025 Gelang Patah Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Weekend getaway to Forest City, JB — short trip, big vibes! 🇲🇾✨ Crossed the border with zero plans, just good company and a craving for chill. Checked into a quiet spot with sea views, explored the surroundings, and took a slow walk 🌊🌿 The photo spot known as the Stairway to Heaven — the staircase that literally leads into the sky 📸☁️😆 Perfect for a quick escape from the usual rush 😌 #summervacay #ForestCityJB #WeekendGetaway #NatureChill

#summervacay We kicked off day 1 of our easy summer vacation in Johor with a slow, relaxing morning at Little Bun Cafe around 10am. Tucked away in a quiet part of town, the Korean style café had a cosy charm that made us feel instantly at ease. Their steamed brioche was incredibly soft and fluffy, slightly sweet with just the right texture — perfect with a savoury breakfast set and a warm cup of coffee. It was a peaceful start, and we didn’t feel rushed at all. By 12pm, we made our way to Eco Galleria — a beautifully designed mall with wide open corridors and a slightly European feel. It was a weekday, so the whole place was calm and quiet, perfect for window shopping and enjoying the aesthetic surroundings without the usual crowds. Lunch was at Chi Bao Zi at 1pm, a casual retro Hong Kong themed spot focused on handmade Chinese buns. The buns were pillowy soft, freshly steamed, and generously packed with flavourful fillings. We ordered a few different ones to try, and each bite was satisfying. It was a light but comforting meal, just enough to keep us going. At 3pm, we checked into Hotel Granada for a mid-day rest. The location was super convenient — close to the malls and eateries in Bukit Indah — and the room was clean and spacious, great for a short break to recharge. We headed to AEON Bukit Indah at 5pm for a bit of shopping. It’s a familiar stop, but always a fun one, whether it’s browsing skincare, picking up snacks, or just people-watching. The mall was nicely air-conditioned and not too crowded, which made it even more enjoyable. By 7pm, we were ready for dinner at Treasure Thai - a nature hidden farmhouse cafe straight out of a Ghibli film. The tomyum mama had that fiery kick we were craving — spicy, tangy, and full of flavour. The green curry was rich and creamy, perfectly balanced with tender chicken and vegetables. Every dish hit the spot. To end the night, we made one last stop at a cozy panda themed cafe called Tangii Dessert at 9pm. Their taro mochi milk ice was everything we hoped for — silky smooth shaved ice topped with rich taro purée, chewy mochi balls, and a generous drizzle of condensed milk. It was sweet, comforting, and a dreamy way to wrap up our first day in Johor. #localfood #thingstodo #couplestrip #poolhotel #afternoonteatime #staycation

#summervacay We recently spent a leisurely day exploring Eco Galleria in Iskandar Puteri, and it turned out to be a surprisingly refreshing spot to unwind. As soon as we stepped inside, the first thing that caught our eyes was the enormous 7-meter-tall capybara mascot standing proudly at the entrance. It was impossible not to smile — the giant, friendly figure added a whimsical, playful vibe that set the tone for the whole visit. It’s one of those unexpected highlights that makes the trip memorable. Walking further in, we discovered that Eco Galleria isn’t just a regular shopping mall. The design beautifully blends modern architecture with lush greenery, creating a spacious, open-air environment that feels more like a garden promenade than a typical retail centre. The garden areas are thoughtfully maintained, with winding paths shaded by tall trees, pockets of flowering plants, and benches that invite you to pause and soak in the calm atmosphere. What we really enjoyed was how Eco Galleria manages to balance eco-conscious design with family-friendly fun. Aside from the quirky capybara mascot, there were interactive zones and activity corners, perfect for kids and adults alike to engage and explore. The vibe here is relaxed, with a strong sense of connection to nature despite being a commercial space. There are plenty of spots to grab a bite or a drink too, with eateries that open up to the garden areas, letting you enjoy your food while basking in natural light and fresh air. It felt like a little oasis away from the usual hustle and bustle — a place where you can slow down, wander, and enjoy simple pleasures. All in all, Eco Galleria surprised us with its laid-back charm and thoughtful design. Whether you’re dropping by to see the giant capybara, take a peaceful stroll through the gardens, or simply hang out with friends and family in a pleasant setting, it’s worth a visit. We’re already looking forward to our next trip back.

#cherryblossom25 💞Reasons to Recommend: One of the best buffet I ever had. Wide range of foods and drinks to choose from. Driving around 30 minutes from Johor Bahru, this hotel offers a great experience of dining. 🏖️Ambiance/Facilities: Huge buffer spread and ofcourse the buffet were tasty. The ambiance and the decor were top notch for a 5 star hotel. 💰Average Price per Person: Breakfast RM58/pax Lunch RM78/pax Dinner RM98/pax 📍Address: Forest City Marina Hotel ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Gelang Patah Johor

#johorbahrutrip Visiting Forest City in Johor Bahru felt like stepping into a vision of the future—a sleek, green metropolis rising by the sea. Built with bold ambition and wrapped in lush tropical landscaping, the entire city gave off an otherworldly vibe, blending futuristic architecture with eco-conscious planning. As I explored the tree-lined boulevards and manicured gardens, I was struck by how serene the atmosphere felt. The buildings were covered in vertical greenery, and everything from the roads to the waterfront promenade was designed with harmony and aesthetics in mind. Pedestrian bridges, water canals, and clean open spaces connected different parts of the city seamlessly, offering scenic spots to pause and admire the surroundings. One of the highlights was the coastal boardwalk, where I watched the waves roll in while a gentle breeze carried the scent of the sea. The skyline, though modern, never felt overwhelming—it was softened by thoughtful landscaping and peaceful views of the water. Families, joggers, and cyclists shared the space, all moving at a slower, more intentional pace. Stopping by one of the cafés near the waterfront, I sat back with a drink and watched the city hum quietly in the background. The sunlight filtered through palm trees, and I couldn’t help but admire how Forest City balanced modernity with tranquility. It wasn’t just a place to visit—it felt like a glimpse into what a greener, more peaceful urban future could look like.

#johorjaya Location is easily accessible by private transport and there's plenty of parking right in front of or at the well lit basement of the hotel. Special shoutout to the guest experience manager who noticed that it was my wife's birthday during breakfast and suggested preparing a surprise cake to celebrate the occasion!.overall it ok for me and enjoyed it

#foodies #vianasjourney #deliciousfood 🌟 My personal favourite; 1) Terong Balado; The sambal is spicy and balanced taste. Terong was not fried till it was too soggy. 2) Tempe Goreng as a side is a must. 🌟 We were served with complimentary warm wedqng jahe (warm ginger tea) in a small cup. 🌟 Apart from balinese cuisine, they also have option from Central Java, snack food and typical Indonesian mee such bakso. 🌟 Restaurant interior & vibes; it is a medium size restaurant which does not have overcrowded decorative but they tried to have an Indonesian elements. For example, you can see it by seeing the plates they using, the arrangement of the table and some other common decorations use in Indonesia. I enjoyed my food and the vibes. Staff were helpful. 🌟 Location; A0104 (GF), Block A, Eko Galleria, Jalan Eko Botani 3, Taman Eko Botani, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor.

#beachlife This was our first time in Forest City, so we had to take cycle around! It was only possible because our hotel provided free bicycle rental, on a super cute family bicycle. It was a bucket list check off, because these things are so expensive to rent in Singapore. After checking in we immediately went to cycle, there is a beach next to the hotel so it was a nice coastal area to be at, rather cooling since it just rained. There are a few photogenic spots there, such as a nice garden for beach wedding, a stairway to heaven and even a mini water theme park (more suitable for toddlers). If you love beach holidays and can't travel far, I think Forest City is a nice place to be at.

#hotelreview We loved the room at Forest City Marina Hotel. It was about 44m2 and all rooms faces the sea, you don’t even have to request for it. You will get it. The rooms comes with balcony where you can enjoy the sea breeze if you like. We got the twin room as it was a promotional package with free lunch or dinner, free breakfast and bicycle rental! A very good steal for you to spend a day in Forest City. Bathtub lovers would be delighted the rooms comes with them. If you don’t need shopping, I would really recommend you to come here for a gate away.

#2024wish Eco Botany aka Eco Galleria in Johor Bahru hosts a sprawling children's ball pit playground, offering not just photogenic backdrop but also a range of entertaining activities for families to enjoy together. The expansive play area provides a delightful backdrop for memorable photos, creating a visually appealing experience. Beyond the photogenic allure, the venue offers diverse and enjoyable family bonding opportunities, ensuring that visitors can engage in a variety of fun activities tailored to different interests. This large-scale playground in Eco Botany becomes a go-to destination for families seeking both picturesque settings and a rich array of recreational pursuits for wholesome bonding experiences. 📍Eco Botany Jalan Eko Botani 2/32, 81550 Gelang Patah, Johor, Malaysia

Johor National Park of Tanjung Piai not really well known as other National Park in Malaysia. It is located at the Tip of Most Southern of Asia Mainland. It is also facing another 2 countries which is Singapore and Indonesia (Karimun Island). This National Park also a conservation area of mangroove and its ecosystem lead by this National Park Authority with the collaboration of private sectors and various of Non-Govermental Organisation. Lead to the monument of The Southernmost Tip of Mainland Asia, visitors will be educated with the information of various species of wildlife and plants live among the mangroove ecosystem. The good thing here, to avoid visitors from damaged the natural habitats of mangroove ecosystem and to facilitate us enjoy the scenery, a walkway has been provided as a guidance towards the monument. #hiddengems

#hotelreview Ibis Styles Iskandar Puteri located just 10 minutes away from Legoland themepark , 15 minutes from Johor Premium Outlet and 30 minutes from Singapore. Despite its location nearby tourist attraction, the price is so reasonable. As this place quite new, theres a lot of parking space outside the hotel. They have basement parking but i not recommend to park at basement as it quite dark and foggy. The check in process is smooth and the hotel cleanliness is outstanding. The bed is comfy and the room space is just nice for our family of 4. The breakfast is good. The only thing lack is they dont have the bell boy. We need to push the trolley our self which is not a problem for us considering the cheap price and the great room we got. #Boutiquehotel #awesomepic

#Malaysia #Johorbahru #deliciousfood #coffeeshop Address - ECO BORANIC, JOHOR BAHRU Ambiance/Facilities - 100/100 Highlights - COFFEE LOVERS Avg. Price per Person - RM 11/person Rating - 4.5/5✨ Great coffee and a wonderful space for meeting up with friends. Don’t bring your laptop cause this place is for coffee and contemplation🤣 Really trust me!!!!

Tanjung Piai National Park covers an area of 926 ha out of which 526 ha consists of coastal mangroves and 400 ha of inter-tidal mudflats. Mudflats are soft and muddy soil where creatures such as crabs, mud skippers, cockles and lizards thrive. Due to its vicinity to the sea, the mud has high salt content and low in oxygen levels. A few species of large water birds and shorebirds were seen to be feeding on these mudflats. These mangroves and mudflats are also critical to the survival of the migratory birds from the northern and southern hemisphere. #tanjungpiai

Forest City Golf Resort in Johor is a true gem for golf enthusiasts. The resort offers a remarkable golfing experience with its well-maintained course, breathtaking scenery, and top-notch facilities. The fairways are beautifully designed, challenging players of all skill levels. The staff is friendly, professional, and always ready to assist. The clubhouse is modern and luxurious, providing a perfect place to relax after a round of golf. The resort's attention to detail and commitment to excellence make it a premier destination for golfers. Whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner, Forest City Golf Resort guarantees an unforgettable and enjoyable golfing experience.#golfcourse #beachlife #resortandhotel

Hua Kee Kelong Seafood is famous for fresh and live seafood dishes in the evening and dimsum in the morning. It is located at Gelang Patah, 10 minutes drive from Legoland. We visited the restaurant for breakfast and dinner during our stay in M+ Boutique Hotel as it is just next to the hotel. The restaurant is clean and spacious with a large seating capacity. In the morning, the restaurant functions like a coffee shop. You shouldn't miss the wide selection of dimsum dishes. There are also food stalls selling local delicacies like noodles and yong tau foo. In the evening, the restaurant is frequented by locals for its reasonably priced seafood dishes. Do not miss their homemade fishballs! Location: 24-30 14, Kawasan Perindustrian SILC, 79200 Iskandar Puteri, Jalan Silc 1, 81550 Gelang Patah, Johor, Malaysia #malaysia #johorbahru #johor #gelangpatah #restaurant #seafood #dimsum #legoland #coffeeshop #tripblazers

#johor #ibis Weekend get away . One night stay at ibis Johor . This hotel is located far from town but I very near to 2nd link . Fairly new and value for money is about 220rm per night . Just 15 min drive from outlet and Lego land . The nearest place to eat or small town is eco bontanic is also a 15 min drive . Room is clean , up to date and a great shower room with strong water . Free parking as well good place to stay if you are coming from 2nd link

This two beds room hotel at Forest city is very spacious, the single bed feels more like a super single, can fit 2 person if you’re not too big size. We are lucky to get a room that can see the beautiful sunset, the view from this room is breathtaking. The toilet is very spacious too, even have a nice bathtub. However, there are still a few complaints despite the room being so nice. 1. The toilet bowl clog very easily, we only used once and it’s clogged, had to call to unclogged. 2. The check in time is very long, we only managed to checked in after 6pm!! Despite we reaching here at 2:30pm. I think that also due to the high number of customers that check in on this day as well. 3. Most of the things feels old here, the lock in the toilet is spoiled, so can’t lock the door. 4. There are a lot of mosquitoes here, but they try to solve it by putting a net sliding door. Overall is quite a nice place, but there are still room for improvements.

Istg (i swear to god), the black teh o is just another level here. Oklah. Its maddening sweet so don’t ask for less ice and also, it’s 50cents?? The best i tell you! On the other hand, food’s here not bad too! But do come early as their popular dishes tend to be sold out by mid afternoon. There’s 2nd level to seat if the first floor is full and also, seating area outside for waiting. There’s ample of parking so come down soon! 📍Teh O ice 50cent & Boat Noodle no 58, Jalan Nusaria 11/4, Taman Nusantara, 81550 Gelang Patah, Johor, Malaysia #foodie #urbanexplorer #awesomepic #tripblazers #cafe #johorbaru #thaifood #makananhalal #makanjohor

Good Times Cafe was established by 6 siblings who grew up in Segamat. The cafe serves local delicacies made with traditional recipes which are reminiscent of many's childhood memories. The interior is beautifully decorated with many household items that are commonly used in the past which give you a homely kampung feel. I especially like the nice wall murals in the cafe which remind me of the good old times. We ordered Segamat wantan noodles and toasted bread with signature duck egg kaya and butter. The cafe also serves GT house blend premium coffee which has a strong and satisfying aftertaste. Address: 24, Jalan Eko Botani 3/2, 79100 Gelang Patah, Johor, Malaysia #johorcafe #johorbahru #malaysia #cafe #restaurant #foodie #tripblazers #localfood

Forest city has a concept of private town for it’s residents but we were able to visit last time as there were some store that a friend interested to visit and of course I was curious about this place. This area even has it’s own swimming pool, playground and the best part was it’s own white sandy beach. A lot of nice spot for healing and relaxing but I have to admit it was quite a drive from the city.

#newyearadventure Address - Tea Garden, NO. 10 & 12, Jln Nusaria 11, Taman Nusantara, 81550 Gelang Patah, Johor Ambiance/Facilities - Comfortable eatery with variety of dim sum available all the time. Pasty, dessert and food are freshly made for their customer. Just scan and order via your smart phone and the food will be served to you. Highlights - Eggs tart, Taufu Fa, Dim sum and mee Siam are my favourites here. Avg. Price per Person - RM15.00 Rating - 4.4/5.0

Apparently this place has become a "ghost city"after the pandemic. It's quite a sad looking place honestly with so many vacant shops and hardly anyone around. BUT! Nice place for family especially for kids. A lot of choices in waterpark play such as slides, water maze and playground. Yes, ticket only RM10.

📍Lot Zone C 01-03 & C01, 03a, Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, 81120 Gelang Patah, Johor. Getting There - by car, waze ssi and then we just follow the route given. 20-25 minutes from JB city centre. Attractions - new JDT stadium with crown design, home of JDT Southern Tiger. Hummer tour at SSI available with fee RM30/pax & free for children <3yo & disabled people . Hotels - 3,4 ⭐ hotels and budget hotels nearby Gelang Patah/Nusajaya. Food & Restaurants - KFC, Woodfire burger, Subway restaurant inside the stadium. Shopping - JDT souvenir shop available. #newyearadventure #stadiumsultanibrahim #johor #yearofrabbit #awesomepic

The Hotel is a golf resort area therefore there is nothing much surrounding it. However, the hotel has a really nice view, rooms were big, breakfast was good, staffs were friendly and very helpful. So if you are looking for peaceful place and nice view, come to this hotel and you will not regret! Overall for me, I will definitely come again here. #staycation #forestcity #johorbahru #couplestrip #MyTripVlog #deliciousfood

Have good time in forest city,my sons like the swimming pool.The swimming ring need to rent.Just have a bad feels is the room not clean.But their service is the best.Take a Christmas buffet dinner,they have many choice of dishes.I like the Christmas cake.So delicious!!!

A weekend with alot of teddy bear🌹 family times, bring children to visit the teddy bear at Eco Botanic at Johor. had some juice from Lao Pat Sat, fresh and nice juice. The place is just 10 minutes journey from Bukit Indah. very convenient. alot of restaurants there, clean and new.. I had a good good time with my family members, I will definitely visit here again.