When planning a family getaway, parents often look for a balance between comfort, convenience and activities that keep children engaged, without feeling overwhelmed. Our recent stay at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas offered exactly that, with the added appeal of their newly relaunched Anantara Sea View Suite, designed to elevate the stay experience with more space and a clearer connection to the sea.
Located along the Desaru coastline, the resort feels open and calm from the moment you arrive. Wide walkways, lush greenery and the sound of waves set a relaxed pace, which is especially welcome for families used to juggling schedules and screen time. It’s the kind of environment that encourages everyone – parents included – to slow down.
Inside the Anantara Sea View Suite
The Sea View Suite is a refreshed room category that builds on an existing layout, enhanced to offer better views and a more refined, comfortable stay. Large windows open out to uninterrupted sea views, and the private terrace quickly became a favourite spot for quiet mornings or winding down after a day in the sun.
The suite is thoughtfully designed for small, young families, offering enough space for parents and a child to move comfortably without feeling cramped. The interiors are modern and understated, striking a good balance between luxury and practicality. Details like a spacious bathroom, and a functional layout make it easy to settle in, rather than constantly reorganising around kids.
The Sea View Suite: Pros & Considerations for Families
What Families Will Love
- Sea view with private terrace/balcony – a calming space for parents to unwind with sea breeze and views.
- Modern, elegant interiors – quality bedding and a well-appointed bathroom with bathtub and rain shower make it feel like a true retreat, not a typical “kids hotel.”
- Ideal for small families – comfortably accommodates 2 adults and 1 child (or 2 if they’re little).
- Great home base – easy access to pools, beach and kids’ clubs means less back-and-forth during the day.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Not ideal for larger families – families with more than one child may need connecting rooms or larger accommodation options.
- Weather matters – heat, humidity or rain can affect outdoor plans; scheduling activities earlier or later in the day helps.
Facilities That Go Beyond Play
Anantara Desaru Coast stands out for offering two dedicated kids’ clubs, thoughtfully designed for different age groups. For older children and teens, Luncur Ombak Teens’ Club provides a relaxed hangout space complete with PlayStation consoles, board games and ping pong – ideal for kids who want independence while still staying close by.
Younger guests are well taken care of at Layang-Layang Kids’ Club, where facilities include a climbing wall, arts and crafts stations, a cosy napping area and a variety of supervised activities that encourage both creativity and movement. The separation of age groups makes a noticeable difference, allowing children to engage at their own pace.
Beyond indoor play, the resort also offers guided nature walks as part of a new programme aimed at inspiring a deeper appreciation for nature among both children and adults. This was a highlight of our stay. Led by Nur Wahyu Ramadah, who warmly introduced herself as Along, Anantara’s in-house naturalist, the walk was engaging, educational and easy for children to follow.
Another family favourite is Cinema Under the Stars, held every Thursday to Sunday. With a large outdoor screen and comfortable loungers under the night sky, it’s a relaxed way for families to wind down together after a full day at the resort.
Family-Friendly Activities at a Glance
At the Resort
- Lagoon-Style Pools – Located close to accommodations, ideal for younger children
- Beachfront Infinity Pool – Overlooking the sea, suitable for older kids and adults
- Direct Beach Access – Wide, clean shoreline for free play and family walks
Kids & Teens
- Layang-Layang Kids’ Club – Supervised activities for younger children, including a climbing wall, arts & crafts, napping area, and pizza-making sessions
- Luncur Ombak Teens’ Club – PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, board games and ping pong
- Guided Nature Walks – Educational tours led by the resort’s in-house naturalist
Family Experiences
- Cinema Under the Stars (Thu–Sun) – Outdoor movie nights with a large screen and loungers
- Complimentary Bicycles – Kid-size bikes and child seats available for family rides
- Wellness & Spa Facilities – Options for parents while kids are engaged in activities
Nearby Attraction
- Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast – Home to one of the world’s largest wave pools, with rides and slides for all ages
Why This Resort Works for Families
What makes Anantara Desaru Coast work so well for families is its easy balance between adult comforts and child-friendly experiences. Parents can enjoy sea views, spa options and calm spaces, while children stay engaged with pools, kids’ clubs and guided nature activities in a safe environment.
With dining, activities, beach access and internal transport all on-site, the resort removes much of the usual holiday logistics, which is a big plus for parents travelling with young children. Families can also move at their own pace, mixing downtime with active moments, making the stay equally enjoyable for both parents and kids.
Dining is equally memorable. A special mention goes to Salt & Fire, where the food alone is worth the journey to Desaru. The tomahawk steak was exceptional, and the experience was made even more special by Arif, our 19-year-old waiter whose warmth, confidence and attentiveness stood out throughout the evening. Thoughtful service like this elevates a family meal into a lasting memory.
Whether it’s a first beach holiday, a family celebration, or simply time to reconnect away from daily routines, Anantara Desaru Coast offers families the space and moments that matter most.
