Are you dreaming of sparkling clear blue waters, white sand beaches, and palm trees swaying in the wind? If so, then a beach vacation to Malaysia is exactly what you’re looking for! Packed with stunning coastline along both the South China Sea and Malacca Straits, Malaysia has no shortage of beautiful beach destinations.
While there are so many interesting things to do in Malaysia, hitting the beaches is one of our favourites. Here we present the top 10 picks for the best beaches in Malaysia: read on for all the necessary information about each location:
1. Pulau Sipadan
Pulau Sipadan is located off the east coast of Malaysia and is widely considered to be one of the best beaches in the country.
The island is home to a variety of marine life, including turtles, sharks, and barracudas. Get your toes wet as you walk on its powdery white sands or float in its blue waters full of tropical fish when snorkeling and diving.
If hitting the beach is more your style, there are plenty of pristine secluded spots near the center of town with Casuarina trees gracing their shores–don’t forget to try out some traditional Malaysian dishes while you’re at it!
2. Pangkor Island
Malaysia is home to the escape-worthy Pangkor Island, a duty-free paradise with an impressive golden, sandy coastline. Just three hours away from Malaysia’s stunning capital Kuala Lumpur, Pangkor is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway – without breaking your wallet.
The resorts of Pasi Bogak are a great launching pad and provide heaps of coconut trees for some needed shade as well as deep blue waters and plenty of pristine shoreline.
For those looking for something more low-key and intimate, head over to the Teluk Nipah bay where you’ll almost have the entire beach all to yourself in the morning. Rent a boat or even kayak to explore even more gems this Malaysian haven has to offer!
3. Batu Ferringhi
Malaysia is known for its beauty, and the beach resort area of Batu Ferringhi is the perfect place to experience it.
Initially beloved for its water sports activities like horseback riding and parasailing, Batu Ferringhi’s longer stretch of white sand has made it a popular destination for sun worshipers.
With George Town nearby, the area is an ideal weekend getaway for locals, while providing an easily accessible option for travelers looking to catch some waves without taking their vacation too far off the beaten path.
4. Port Dickson
Port Dickson is located on the west coast of Malaysia and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing.
The beach is also home to a number of resorts, making it a great place to relax and unwind. Visitors can find a variety of shops and restaurants along the beachfront.
Here you’ll find countless eating options, a unique nightlife full of live music and cozy cafes, plus a lively night market that’s always stocked with Malaysia’s best wares.
5. Langkawi
Malaysia’s Langkawi archipelago is an irresistible blend of adventure and relaxation. Thrill-seekers can rent water sports equipment from one of the many shops on Pantai Cenang and take off on a boat ride to explore the surrounding islands.
There’s plenty of sunshine and pampering to be had at resorts located right next to Pantai Tengah, where you can even enjoy soothing spa treatments while surrounded by majestic forests.
Prepare to stay mesmerized at Malaysia’s beautiful sunsets with a cruise around Datai Bay, or sit back and watch the mountains put on their evening show from the comfort of your beach lounger. Malaysia never looked so good!
6. Perhentian Islands
The Perhentian Islands located in Malaysia have blossomed over the last few decades from humble fishing villages to a premier tourist destinations.
Natural and still mostly unspoiled beauty is perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking some rest and relaxation. An array of aqua wonders awaits scuba divers, with abundant marine wildlife available for snorkelers and kayakers.
Of the seven islands, two are permanently inhabited – here you’ll find trails through thick jungle openings to different beach stretches around the island.
7. Redang Island
Malaysia’s Redang Island is a tropical paradise that attracts sun lovers from across the globe. With its crystal-clear waters, healthy coral reefs and miles of powdery white sand beaches, it’s easy to see why.
Although Malaysia experiences monsoon rains between October and March each year, there are plenty of all-inclusive resorts that keep the island full throughout the rest of the year.
Oh, and did we mention that this little Malaysian corner of paradise also plays an important role in protecting endangered sea turtles? Holidays don’t get much better than Redang!
8. Kota Kinabalu
Malaysia is home to the grand and wonderful Kota Kinabalu, located in the northern tip of Borneo. Along with its captivating views, Kota Kinabalu has exciting activities such as snorkeling, diving, camping, and hiking!
The beautiful Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park makes up for five distinct islands: Gaya Island, Manukan Island, and Sapi Island which are perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Sapi Island is great for those looking for a more secluded beach-camping experience. There are countless trails that traverse the lush forests connecting to astonishing cliffs and caves! Malaysia is definitely worth visiting!
9. Mersing
Mersing is a hidden gem, offering beach lovers wild and calm waters, dreamy sand beaches, and just enough hustle and bustle.
Sailors will rejoice at the opportunity to jump on a boat from Mersing that heads straight for Pulau Rawa, Malaysia’s tropical island resort located in the Malay peninsula.
Time your visit between March and October to avoid the monsoon rains – it’ll give you more time to take advantage of swimming, exploring caves and forest trails, and much more!
Mersing will make your jaw drop with its crystal clear waters and postcard-perfect palm-fringed shorelines perfect for any Malaysia getaway!
10. Tioman Island
Seeking a tropical escape that combines relaxation with adventure? Malaysia’s Tioman Island is the perfect destination!
The island’s stunning white beaches are part of Malaysia’s largest nature preserve, with plenty of snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in the coral reefs.
Best of all, its status as a duty-free zone means local prices are much lower than other popular Malaysia islands.
Surfers and nature lovers will also be impressed by the rich biodiversity and abundant wildlife – from protected species to jungle treks.
Whether you’re searching for a lazy day spent soaking up some sun and snorkelling over corals or an action-packed day filled with surfing and parasailing – there are plenty of options in Malaysia that won’t disappoint.
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