Malaysia is renowned around the world for its diversity of races, vast tropical forests, mouthwatering food and indeed, its beautiful beaches. I had the pleasure of visiting several Malaysian islands to laze on the bright white beaches, float in the crystal-clear waters and say ‘hello’ to the beautiful marine life. Malaysia consists of two parts: Peninsular Malaysia (or West Malaysia), the southernmost region of the Asian peninsula, and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo (the third largest island in the world), also collectively referred to as East Malaysia. While both western and eastern Malaysia ‘s coastline has lovely sandy beaches, the best beaches and coral reefs are located off the coast on the many islands. Penang and Langkawi the main islands offer far more than just beaches. Here’s my list of ten Malaysian islands to visit, classified by operation.
1. Penang
Malaysian islands have gorgeous colonial houses, scenic mosques, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Georgetown) and some of the country’s best cuisine. The beaches aren’t perfect, but they’re more than offset by a number of historic landmarks, sightseeing opportunities, a wonderful environment, delicious cuisine, and a wide range of city and beach hotels.
2. Langkawi
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Located north of Penang, near the Thai border, Langkawi has gorgeous beaches (including Cenang beach and my son, Tanjung Rhu island), a mountainous interior and gorgeous hotels. The key beaches offer several seaport opportunities. Further inland, head to the cable car and Skybridge for spectacular island and Andaman Sea views. Furthermore, the duty-free status of Langkawi signifies great bargains for common duty-free goods.
3. Redang
Redang Island is one of Peninsular Malaysia’s main islands off the east coast. Clean and sandy beaches, with ice clear water. The island is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs which make it a popular destination for snorkelling/diving. There are a few other trails which cross the interior of the jungle of the island. Moreover, thanks to its airstrip the island is easily accessible from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Boat services are also available on the mainland from Merang.
4. Perhentian
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Perhentian consists of two islands (Besar Perhentian and Kecil Perhentian). Often voted among the world’s most attractive, the islands feature spectacular sandy cliffs, palm-fringed cliffs, crystalline water and vibrant coral reefs. There are a number of hotels on the islands of Perhentian that fulfil different budgets.
5. Lang Tengah
Situated between the islands of Perhentian and Redang, Lang Tengah is a true gem. The small scale means that there’s not anything to do except lazing on one of the gorgeous beaches or dipping into the emerald water. I witnessed my first shark experiences off Lang Tengah so I won’t quickly forget it’s one island!
6. Sipadan
Sipadan is one of the world’s most popular dive places. Sipadan, Malaysia’s only oceanic island, is situated off the east coast of Sabah. Essentially, the island is an old volcanic crater, overgrown with corals. Tortoises, hammerhead sharks, barracudas and Parrothead fish are only a few of the various aquatic animals to be found here. Because of its popularity – divers from all over the world visit the island per year – the number of dive groups each day is small, and it is advised to book ahead of time. Sipadan is reachable by boat from Semporna town.
7. Lankayan
This small island in the Sulu Sea, north of Sandakan’s Sabah city, is a great place to spot tortoises and whale sharks (March-May). Its sandy beaches and Sandakan ‘s simple accessibility make it a local favourite.
8. Layang
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Layang – this atoll is part of the vast Spratly Archipelago, about 300 km off the Sabah coast in the South China Sea. The atoll consists of a lodge, a navy base, an airstrip and some of Asia ‘s finest diving spots. The marine life is abundant due to its solitude, and the corals are in excellent condition. Many divers frequent the island to see whale sharks and hammerheads. Kota Kinabalu makes to reach Layang Layang by sea.
9. Rebak
Rebak is a remote, private island part of the archipelago of Langkawi. Its seclusion – on the island there is a single 5-star resort run by the Taj Company – is ideal for those who are looking for a relaxing moment. There is nothing but rich greenery, beautiful white beaches and waving palm trees.
10. Pangkor Laut
It is recorded that the renowned tenor Luciano Pavarotti cried when he saw how magnificent the island was. Pangkor Laut is beautiful too. A remote, isolated island just off the West Malaysian coastline. The luxury resort of Pangkor Laut has enough to impress even the most jaded traveller. The resort’s main attractions are the cosy overwater bungalows, the magnificent pool and the scrumptious cuisine
I’m sure these beautiful islands would build memories forever! Finding this guide useful? Check some of the best Malaysia honeymoon packages with Pickyourtrail and book your dream honeymoon getaway now!
