The Mersing River is the town's working spine, lined with small boats, mangrove edges and the practical bustle of the ferry and bus area. It is not a grand promenade, but it gives you the quickest read on what Mersing is: a fishing town first, a transit town second.
Walk near the harbour early or late in the day, when the light is softer and the heat has eased. The river is also a useful landmark, since most buses, boats and food stops cluster near it.