12 best islands in Malaysia

Malaysia, washed by the waters of the South China Sea and the Strait of Malacca, is called a tourist paradise by travelers. It conquers with the harmony of the unique beauty of virgin nature with historical sights and the benefits of modern civilization. The islands of Malaysia, scattered around the peninsular part of the country, are remarkable for their stunning exotic flavor. The highlight of some islands is the magnificent sandy beaches surrounded by luxurious tropical nature, others are the historical and cultural attractions of the place, and the third is the traditional ethnic culture. If you wish, thanks to the excellent transport links, you will be able to enjoy the whole palette of the best Malaysian islands during your vacation.

Langkawi

Langkawi, located in the Andaman Sea in northern Malaysia, 30 km from the mainland, is surrounded by amazing sandy beaches with crystal clear azure waters. Today it is a model for resorts throughout Southeast Asia. Excellent infrastructure, organization of excursions, excellent beach relaxation and dutyfree shopping centers with inexpensive prices are a great opportunity to enjoy your vacation.

Acquaintance with Langkawi begins with the capital city of Kuah. The first thing that tourists see when approaching its port is a huge statue of an eagle, which has become a business card. Kuah is interesting for its picturesque parks, cinemas and nightlife that rages in bars and clubs located close to the water. There are no bathing beaches in the city itself. Not far from the airport stretches for 2 km Chenang beach area with fine light sand and a gentle entrance to the sea, surrounded by hotel complexes with restaurants, swimming pools, children's clubs and spas. On the south side of Chenang, behind a stone promontory, stretches Tenang Beach, with yellow coarse sand and a sharp slope at the entrance to the water.

It is famous for some of the best water attractions in the area: paragliders, bananas, ATVs and green cottage complexes. The western shores of Langkawi are attractive Burau Bay with luxurious beaches at Pantai Kok and Pantai Burau Bay, a cable car that stretches to the Sky Bridge overhanging the abyss. Among the public beaches, the best stretch in the northeast: Rekreasi Kastam, which stands out for its picturesque coastline with comfortable bungalows, and Tanjung Ru with light sand, surrounded by coniferous groves and mangrove trees.

Penang

Penang is an island connected to the "mainland" by a 13.5 km bridge, similar in appearance to the San Francisco Bridge. It will be of interest to tourists who prefer sightseeing tours on vacation, hiking in picturesque corners of nature, nightlife and not demanding beach service. The capital of Penang - Georgetown is called an open-air museum. Fort Kornvallis testifies to the solid age of the city, the walls of which served as protection for the first settlers from pirate attacks.

A city has grown up around the citadel, leaving as a legacy streets saturated with the spirit of English colonial architecture, quarters of Indian ethnic culture and Chinatown with a pronounced Chinese flavor. The harmonious coexistence of four cultures is represented by the snow-white Church of St. George, a mosque, Hindu and Chinese temples. Many wonderful museums will enrich the experience of art lovers. Tourists do not miss the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque view of the landscape, which appears from the observation deck of the Penang hill, where they rise to a height of 830 meters by funicular.

The largest temple in Southeast Asia, Kek Lok Si, was built, notable for the combination of the architectural traditions of China, Thailand and Burma. In addition to Batu Ferringhi Beach, Penang cannot boast of having beach areas suitable for swimming, so you should combine your stay here with other islands with great beaches.

Borneo

Borneo, divided between three states: Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei, is called Kalimantan on the world map. Two Malaysian states - Sabah and Sarawak occupy an area in northern Borneo. The coast of the state of Sabah, stretching for almost one and a half thousand kilometers, goes to the waters of three seas. The beaches are amazing everywhere with the picturesque coral reefs and atolls, famous for the underwater world.

The highlight of the western coast, washed by the waters of the South China Sea, is called Tanjung Aru Beach. It is located near the state capital - Kota Kinabalu, drawing attention to the luxurious Shangri-LaTanjungAru hotel complex, notable for its comprehensive service. Boats leave from Tanjug Aru to the islands of the Tunku Abul Rahman marine reserve, where there are 2 amazing resorts with comfortable villas and large diving training centers.

The eastern shores, facing the Sulu Sea, are of interest to tourists in the four Turtle Islands, where only one of them - Selingan - is allowed to stay overnight. World famous dive resorts are located on the southeast coast of the Seleb Sea: Mataking, Mabul, Sipadan and Kapalai. Rest on the beaches of the state is perfectly combined with excursions: a hike to the top of Mount Canibalu, a visit to the orangutan sanctuary, thermal springs and the Pearl Farm.

The state of Sarawak, located in the west of Borneo, is washed by the South China Sea. It attracts with magnificent beaches, virgin jungle and the world's largest Nyah caves, decorated with prehistoric drawings. Not far from its shore on the Sarawak River is the main city of the state - Kuching, translated from the Malaccan language as "cat". Sculptures of cats - the symbol of the city, filled the streets and squares, a whole museum was dedicated to them.

It is interesting to get acquainted with the history and cultural heritage of Borneo in the Sarawak Museum and on an excursion to the ethnographic village. Trips to the crocodile farm and the Gunug Gading Park with many exotic plants and a vampire rafflesia flower that feeds on lianas juice will give you a lot of impressions. You can complement the experience of excursions by rafting or an exciting safari, after which indulge in enjoying the beach relaxation at the foot of Mount Santubong. It's good to come to Borneo all year round and preferably for 2-3 weeks to embrace - immense!

Pangkor

Pangkor is a paradise island off the west coast of Malaysia in the Strait of Malacca, stretching from north to south for 9 km, from west to east for 3.5 km. It is only 2 km away from the mainland, connected with it by a high-speed ferry. Surrounded by luxurious fine sandy beaches and hotels to satisfy every whim of guests, Pangkor has become a favorite vacation spot in Malaysia. Most of the territory is covered with jungle and only along the coastal strip there are fishing villages.

It won't take much time to explore the "highlights" of Pangkor - Niphah Bay, an old Dutch fortress and the architecture of the Chinese temple Fu Lin Kong. Basically, in Pangkor, a calm beach relaxation awaits, occasionally interrupted by flying exotic hornbirds. The best places for recreation are called Coral beach and Teluk Nipah with a developed beach infrastructure, cafes and shops.

Sitting under the shade of trees on Coral Beach, you should cover your bags from monkeys jumping in the trees and stealing food. There are no nightclubs and noisy bars here. In the vastness of the Tuluk-Nepakh Marine Park, they usually spend the whole day. By renting equipment, they dive into the depths of the sea and go snorkeling. The acknowledged Tiger Rock's range of affordable, comfortable hotels and villas cater to all tastes and budgets.

Tioman

Tioman is one of the best islands in the world for romantic getaways, snorkeling and diving. Even the most sophisticated travelers admire its flora and fauna. Fantastically picturesque coral reefs, inhabited by turtles, exotic fish and whale sharks, attract romantics of water depths here from all over the world, especially the visibility under water reaches 35 meters. Tourists will also see exotic terrestrial fauna: dwarf deer, iguanas and mine birds, fascinating with unusually beautiful singing, which is why they were ranked among the main attractions.

There is practically no infrastructure on Tioman. Some villages even lack electricity and running water. Only one paved road leads from the airport to the Berjaya hotel, which is located with comfortable rooms - a chalet on the seashore. The hotel has a large area, animation, fitness center and a golf course will not let couples or families with children get bored. Bungalows in other hotels must be reached by boat. Tioman is attractive for duty-free shopping and alcohol sales in hotel bars and shops.

Labuan

Labuan enchants with wonderful white sand beaches and excellent diving conditions. The capital city is Bandar Labuan. It has an air and sea harbor that hosts aircraft and sea transport from Kuala Lampur and Kota Canibalu. To the delight of tourists, Labuan is a duty-free trade zone, which makes it cheaper to stay on vacation. In all corners, affordable room rates in hotels of different status and apartments, inexpensive delicious Indian and Malaysian cuisine in restaurants, clean comfortable beaches.

In Bandar, you should look at the beauty of the Mira Landscape Park, Bird Park and visit the parrot show. The city does not prosecute the sale and consumption of alcohol, as well as smoking. For divers, Labuan has endless expanses. They are attracted by the remains of long-sunken ships lying among corals and aquatic vegetation. The artifacts of the Maritime Museum raised from the seabed after shipwrecks and the inhabitants of the sea floating in a large aquarium are of great interest. The best beaches are located on the west coast, where diving centers and golf courses are concentrated.

Kapas

Kapas is a small exotic island about 2 km long and 1 km wide, located 6 km from the mainland of Terengganu state. There is electricity, running water, and cellular communication. Surrounded by wonderful fine sandy beaches fringed with palm trees, picturesque cliffs and virgin jungle. All beaches are connected by concrete bridges, which are easy to cross when choosing a vacation spot. There are several comfortable hotels along the beach line, equipped with modern conveniences and the Internet, ready to satisfy any wishes of the guests.

There are also many budget options - economy class chalets and bungalows. From the hotel complexes Kapas Island Resort and Turtle Valley Resort, walking trails are arranged deep into the jungle, and from the observation deck there is an amazing view of the nearby island of Gemia. Crystal clarity of water, sea depths, striking variety and picturesque coral reefs, schools of colorful fish and turtles attract explorers of the sea depths - divers to Kapas.

The water area of ​​the island is an excellent place for surfing, canoeing and kayaking, snorkeling and fishing. Kapas, where accommodation is much cheaper due to its lack of fame, can be a great alternative to an expensive vacation on the advertised islands.

Tengol

Tengol is a small island in the southern state of Malaysia, stretching for 3 km in length and 2 km in width, located 45 minutes' sail from the town of Kuala Dungun. Its rocky surface is overgrown with tropical rainforest, ending in sheer cliffs that in some places go directly to the sea. Until recently, it was uninhabited. Today there are several hotels and comfortable bungalows built near the water. Tengol's development was inspired by the amazing underwater world around the coast, with 20 diving sites that delight in exotic diving.

In a quiet bay of Tengola, the depth smoothly reaches 20 m along a gentle slope, delighting the seascape with bizarre boulders, tunnels, crevices and coral gardens. Several underwater dive sites with families of bats, bluefish, butterfly fish, moray eels, crabs and other exotic mid-water dwellers can be done with experienced instructors. Tengol is also suitable for a beach holiday.

There are small beaches surrounded by palm trees and lush tropical vegetation. Soft sand and clear sea are favorable for a beautiful sunburn and comfortable swimming. From any height, here you can endlessly admire the stunning view of the South China Sea stretching beyond the horizon. The picture of a tropical paradise is complemented by rare birds with their colorful appearance and voices.

Lankayan

In the northeastern side of the Malaysian part of the island of Borneo, in the vastness of the Sulu Sea, in a conservation area, there is a small picturesque island of Lankayan, shaped like a drop. From the city of Sandakan, you can get there by boat in an hour and a half. It is surrounded by an emerald lagoon, palm trees, snow-white sandy beaches interspersed with shells and corals that do not heat up in the sun. Its top is covered by a tropical forest.

On the quiet side of the sea, there is one Lankayan Dive Island Resort, which includes 23 comfortable chalets with all-inclusive service that saves you a lot of worries. Meals are organized according to the principle of "buffet" with an abundance of exotic fruits and vegetables. Nearly every bungalow has a private beach area with sun loungers. A further away from the hotel, there is a dive center in a separate building on stilts with all the necessary amenities. There you can rent equipment, there are rooms for assembling and disassembling equipment.

All entertainment in Lankayan is associated with water.Diving at nearby dive sites allows you to spot rare whale and bamboo sharks, colorful fish and octopuses. For those who like to explore sunken ships, there are several wrecks nearby. The underwater life around the island is also impressive for snorkelers. There is a station for the study and conservation of turtles that come here from July to October to lay their eggs. Despite this, nothing stands in the way of a peaceful and exciting outdoor activity.

Sipadan

Sipadan is a small exotic island with an area of ​​no more than 12 hectares, shaped like a foot. Luxurious sandy beaches are bordered by dense rainforests. Any diver's dream is to visit Sipadan. An amazing underwater kingdom with stunning coral and volcanic landscapes, more than 3 thousand species of exotic marine life have firmly guaranteed the island to be in the rating of the 5 best islands in the world for diving.

The famous Jacques-Yves Cousteau also conducted his dives in these places. It is forbidden to go deep into Sipadan, but on the shore you can find lizards living here, other animals and birds. Excursions are organized daily to the island to visit the most famous dive sites, consisting of rocks overgrown with sponges and corals. Among them are the most interesting: "Valley of the Turtles" near the southern coast, the terrifying underwater cave "Turtle Cemetery" with numerous labyrinths of tunnels and caves on the east coast, Cape Barracuda - with barracudas that form the movements of shoals breathtaking patterns, coral and hanging gardens with exotic fish. Diving is done with boats and right from the shore.

Since the island is reserved, no people live here, there are no hotels and beach infrastructure. Usually tourists are accommodated in chalets in the nearby: Mabula and Kapalai. When planning to visit Sipadan, you must take water and food with you.

Redang

You can get to Redang by ferry from Kuala Terengganu. Surrounded by grandiose reefs, among which the famous mushroom-shaped reef Mushroom with a hat in diameter of 20 m, famous in diving circles, beckons divers and snorkelers to the island. It cannot boast of hotels and beaches with a developed infrastructure. Tourists who are picky about service should book The Taaras Beach and Spa Resort, which boasts a magnificent spacious beach and gorgeous sea views from its designer rooms.

The beach in the area of ​​the Laguna Redang Resort, which stretches near the airport, has a developed infrastructure. There are shops, a souvenir shop, and several restaurants with live music. Basically, all holidays in Redang are focused on beach relaxation, diving, windsurfing, boat trips and jungle raids.

Perhentians

The volcanic islands of the Perhentian archipelago are located in the Gulf of Thailand, the South China Sea, 19 km from the mainland in the Terengganu state region. The two largest islands have a tourist attraction: Small - Perkhetian-Kechil and Bolshoy - Perkhetian-Besar, surrounded by small islets. The landscapes are rocky plateaus overgrown with tropical forests. The beach strip of the Big and Small Islands, separated by cozy bays and a succession of coral reefs, resembles an advertisement for "Bounty" - luxurious palm trees against the backdrop of soft white sand and bright blue water.

Convenient smooth entry into the sea provides comfortable swimming for tourists of any age. In addition to the public beach areas, the Perhentiana archipelago has several luxurious private beaches, where water taxis deliver. The archipelago is famous for its amazing underwater world, interesting for diving and snorkeling. In its depths one can meet turtles, whale sharks, clown fish and parrot fish, stingrays and other exotic underwater inhabitants.

Big Besar and Small Kechil are distinguished by developed infrastructure. Wealthy tourists prefer to stay at Besar, which attracts with elite hotel service, exquisite restaurant cuisine and a variety of nightlife. Small Kecil is somewhat inferior in terms of service, but will delight unpretentious tourists with affordable prices.

Where is the best place to rest

Most travelers who choose Malaysia for vacation are initially interested in a comfortable beach vacation, and then in diving. Resorts located on the Malaysian islands will be able to provide a great vacation for all tastes.

Langkawi is a resort with a touch of romance, famous for its comfortable hotels, invigorating air and healing magnesium sand on the beaches that heals bronchitis, rheumatism and osteochondrosis. You can swim in Langkawi all year round without fear of storms. The abundance of exotic fruits in the markets, inexpensive goods in stores will delight you with shopping. Nature lovers will be delighted with Kilim Park, Lake Pregnant Maiden, Pulau Tuba Geopark and Burau Bay.

Admirers of outdoor activities, unique natural attractions, and exotic animals will fall in love with Borneo. Tourists interested in ethnic culture and gourmets will find rest to their liking. There are many wonderful beaches and unique dive sites in different corners.

Penang is a resort island popular with young people and lovers of nightlife. Notable for cool restaurants, nightclubs, markets, exotic sights. There are few good beaches here, as the coastal waters are chosen by jellyfish. From Penang go to relax for the whole day on the beaches of neighboring islands.

Redang has earned the fame of an eco-friendly island surrounded by lush greenery, captivating with the purity of white sandy beaches, crystal waters and rare sea creatures. Romantics come here to admire the sunsets and the beauty of the underwater reefs.

Pangkor is a relatively new resort that has come to the taste of couples in love and families with children. Wonderful beaches surrounded by exotic nature, smooth entry into the sea with a comfortable bottom, a light sea breeze that does not allow you to feel the heat - ideal conditions for a quiet secluded holiday.

Islands for families with children

The best Malaysian resort for children is called Langkawi. The clean and quiet shallow sea near the coast gives a lot of pleasure to children of all ages. Soft white sand and smooth descent into the water, great even for toddlers. Parents should take into account the presence of sharp seashells in places at the bottom, so it is better for children to swim in special shoes, and in November-February there is an abundance of jellyfish in the coastal waters.

There are many attractions in Langkawi that will interest children. A huge oceanarium with labyrinths of underwater tunnels, artificial waterfalls and lakes, with exotic fish, crabs, turtles and jellyfish inhabiting them, literally mesmerizes children. The aquarium also has a mini zoo with penguins, birds and monkeys.

In the Eastern Village, children will be fascinated by riding catamarans, elephants and ponies. A trip to the Oriental Village Geopark and return from there on an amphibious duck will bring a lot of positive emotions. An unforgettable experience will be a cable car ride over a 700 meter abyss and a visit to a bird park and a parrot show.

Excellent conditions for children's recreation have been created on the western coast of Sabah, Borneo, at the Shangri-La`s Rasa Ria Resort, where animators and educators work with children in a children's club. During the game, they will teach children to distinguish between birds and take care of animals, visit a rehabilitation center for orangutans and a mini-zoo, and nearby attractions. In the upscale Penang hotels Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort & SPA and Shangri-La Golden Sands, a lot of entertainment for children has been thought out, animators work. There are excellent kid-friendly beaches and hotels that organize children's activities on the islands of Pangkor, Labuan, Tioman and the Perhentian Archipelago.

The best time to go on vacation

The location forms a humid climate with hot weather throughout the year. The average annual temperature does not drop below + 27 ° C, and sometimes rises to + 32 ° C, the water temperature is never less than + 25 ° C. The climate on different islands may differ. So on the eastern islands: Borneo, Tioman, Redang, Parhentian in November - February, the weather is spoiled by rains, so it is better to rest there from March to mid-September.

In the west of Malaysia, in Pangkor, a great holiday is guaranteed in April-May and from October to December. In the northern part - in Langkawi, December - June is an excellent time for a beach holiday, and a favorable time for diving is May and October, when the water becomes crystal clear. In Labuan, a comfortable holiday begins in April, continuing until early October, when the weather is sunny and dry.

As you can see, on the Malaysian islands it is possible at any time of the year to choose a good place for a vacation, with the weather ideal for a beach holiday and diving.

Islands of Malaysia on the map