Kuala Lumpur might be the capital of Malaysia, but it’s not the only place to visit. There are plenty of beautiful beaches along the coast that are worth exploring.
These beaches range from secluded to bustling and popular, and have something for everyone. So read on to find out our picks for the best beaches in Malaysia!
Malaysia might not be the first place you think of when it comes to planning a beach holiday, but we’re here to tell you that there are plenty of beautiful beaches along the coast that are worth exploring. These beaches range from secluded to bustling and popular, and have something for everyone. So read on to find out our picks for the best beaches in Malaysia!
5 Best Beaches in Malaysia
Pulau Perhentian, Terengganu
Perhentian Islands, situated in the heart of South China Sea, is one of the most popular places for holidaymakers in Malaysia. The serenity and natural beauty of Perhentian Islands can blow the minds off any tourist who comes here. The stunning landscapes, picturesque beaches and clear blue sea make it a perfect spot for relaxation.
This is a group of remote islands that have some of the best diving & white water rafting locations in the world. An added bonus is that these islands are aptly protected and preserved so you can enjoy all this great natural beauty responsibly.
The small island is known as Pulau Perhentian Kecil. Kecil in Bahasa Melayu means small. Hence, even though it’s a smaller one, it is the busier than the other one which is called Pulau Perhentian Besar which means big.
You’ll be able to find water taxis when you want to go somewhere. If you love sports & outdoor activities, then don’t miss kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving and sea turtle watching whilst you’re here.
Pulau Kapalai, Sabah
Pulau Kapalai is an island located just about 15km from Sipadan Island. The island is known as one of the best scuba diving destinations in the world.
It has a sandy beach which makes it popular for swimming and snorkeling.
Kapalai Island has been eroded over the years, and now only a few Malay style wooden chalets are in sight.
You won’t exactly be on a beach but instead you’ll be on a sandbar with low tides that allow for some walks. When that happens, it’s possible to feel the water splash all over you.
Located on the Ligitan Reef, Kapalai Island is one of those tropical islands in Malaysia that ticks all the boxes. Have you been dreaming of a lazy day at the beach?
Pulau Tioman, Pahang
Pulau Tioman is a well-known island in Malaysia that’s surrounded by crystal clear waters and has many great dining options. One of the nicest things about this island is that it has many beautiful beaches.
The beach is considered to be paradise on earth, as it buzzles with activities all around the year. Visit the beaches during the night hours to visit a large number of food stalls that have been set up along the shores of this beach.
Jungle trekking, swimming, scuba diving are some of the main activities to be done at Tioman Island. Paya Beach, Salang Beach, Juara Beach and Monkey Beach are some of the breathtaking beaches on Tioman Island.
Pulau Pangkor, Perak
Pangkor Island is filled with white sand and has a beautiful coastline that’s a perfect destination for those seeking peace and tranquility.
Once you step on this island, you will feel exactly like how the locals do. The island is very relaxed and it’s always sunny. It’s the perfect place to go to when you want to escape from your busy life back in the city.
The beaches of Malaysia are beautiful and diverse. There are beaches like Pantai Pasir Bogak, Nipah Beach, Ketapang Beach and Segadas Beach with Pangkor Hill nearby. Pangkor hill is a 350 meters tall hill that offers some really scenic views of the Islands.
Pangkor Island’s great for water-fun. You can take a tour around all the beaches and even go snorkelling, kayaking or try your hand at Jet Skiing.
Pantai Cenang, Langkawi, Kedah
Pantai Cenang is a destination that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.
The turquoise blue waters & white sand are what Pantai Cenang is known for. There are many attractions to enjoy beach life here – scuba dives, snorkelling trips & the like.
You can either go on a kayaking tour or you can go on a fishing trip – the fishing trip operators will provide all the necessary gear.
Pantai Cenang is one of Langkawi’s most popular destinations among local and international tourists alike. It is a large, picturesque beach with white sands and clear blue waters. There are many souvenir shops along the promenade, as well as street food stalls which sell everything from fresh coffee to freshly-made roti canai.
It could be because it’s close to some popular tourist destinations like Telaga Harbour, Kuala Kangsar, Kedah and Kuah town which makes it a handy place for travelers to stop off when exploring the island.
The beach is in a prime location and attracts people from all around Asia, especially during weekends and school holidays.
The beach is a great place for water sports activities like swimming, parasailing, jet skiing, para-motoring, and banana rides. Plus there are lots of food stalls along the coastline to cater to tourists.