Best Beaches in Malaysia
3 Most popular beaches in Malaysia
- Perhentian Islands: Consisting of two main islands, Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil, and five small inhabited ones, the Perhentian archipelago is home to some of the best beaches in Malaysia. Tourists come here to try scuba-diving and snorkeling and spot amazing marine species ranging from sea turtles to clownfish, black-tipped sharks, blue spotted rays, and cuttlefish.
- Batu Ferringhi: This suburb of George Town is located on the northern coast of Penang Island and is known for being a favorite local spot. Beaches in Penang such as Batu Ferringhi, are among the most renowned in Malaysia, and in recent years, several high-rise hotels and resorts have been built here, attracting luxury tourists from all over the world. Batu Ferringhi is also known for being a great parasailing destination.
- Sipadan Island: Located in the Celebes Sea off the east coast of Sabah, this is the ideal destination for nature lovers. Sipadan Island is one of the richest marine habitats in the world, with over 400 species of fish and hundreds of colorful corals safely anchored to the rocks underwater. Here you will find green and hawksbill turtles, bumphead parrotfish, barracuda, big-eye trevally, and much more. Underwater limestone caves are located underneath the island, forming a maze of tunnels and caves containing ancient skeletons of turtles and other marine animals.
Highlights of Malaysia beach tours
- Visit Cherating, which rose to prominence in the 80s for being one of the first surf destinations in the country. Located roughly 30 kilometers from the North of Kuantan, this is the perfect beach for beginner surfers.
- Try out kitesurfing in Juara, a kitesurfer heaven, thanks to its regular sea breeze.
- Drive all the way to Penarik Beach for a romantic adventure with your loved one. This private beach is characterized by golden sand and delicious restaurants located within walking distance of the coast.
- Dive in the sea in Pulau Sipadan. Beaches in Sabah are home to colorful coral reefs and an abundance of marine life.
- Head to the famous snake island of Borneo to get a boost of adrenaline and see the many venomous snakes inhabiting this area. Check out our tours to Borneo.
- Visit Sarawak and try to spot one of the many whales who made this area their home.
Travel tips for beach tours in Malaysia
- The best time to visit Malaysia is during the shoulder season, between July and November. In this period, the weather is nice but prices are not inflated by the high season.
- Make sure to always have your passport with you when moving around. It is required by law.
- Register your travels with the State Department and you will know when dangerous situations, such as strikes, arise in your area.
- The best time for surfing on the east coast is from October to March, while surfers should head on the west coast from April to October to find ideal conditions.
- Budget about USD 82 per day to travel comfortably in Malaysia.
