Malaysia may not be the foremost place that comes to mind when planning a beach vacation, but we believe it should be! Malaysia is made up of 878 islands and archipelagos, and there are exceptional beaches everywhere - it's challenging to choose which Malaysian famous beaches to visit because you could not possibly fit these all in on one trip!
While some beach areas are more well-known and thus more crowded (such as Langkawi and Penang), there are plenty of other places where you're almost guaranteed in having the place to yourself!
So, no matter whether you are staying in Malaysia with your Malaysia tourist visa or just passing through on your way from Singapore to Bangkok, make sure you stop by some of the top beaches in Malaysia, tranquil slices of paradise.
Explore the Best Beaches in Malaysia
Although the country boasts of famous beaches, some of the top beaches in Malaysia are as follows:
Mabul Island Beach
It is located in Malaysia's southeast on the Sipadan island in the Sabah state. It is regarded as the finest diving destination in the world and is well-known among both international and local divers as a muck diving location. To get to this island, fly to Tawau & then take an hour-long taxi ride to Semporna. You can ride a speed boat to the island from here. You can reserve a chalet to reside in; staying in one is a truly magical experience.
Layang-Layang
This is another island off the coast of Labuan in the East of Malaysia, situated off Kota Kinabalu, Sabah’s northwestern coast. You may believe you are amidst nowhere! Apart from the dive resort and the runway, there is little to do on this island (other than diving, snorkelling, or bird watching). A Malaysian Naval Station is located on the other end of the island opposite the Resort and serves as an observation & training ground exclusively for Royal Malaysian Navy. Because a large portion of the island has been retrieved from the sea, there isn't much of a beach on it.
Juara Beach
Tioman Island, Johor’s off the coast, is home to this beach. This beach is accessible by ferry from Mersing; driving from Kuala Lumpur/Singapore to Mersing takes approximately 5 hours. After reaching Mersing/Tanguk Gemok, you must take a 3-hour ferry ride to one of Tioman's jetties. Catch a local taxi from there to Juara Beach. It appears to be a long journey, but you will see a slice of heaven! All of your efforts will be completely worth it when you arrive in Tioman.
Perhentian Island
Perhentian Island is a lovely place to visit if you are searching for an island hideaway in Peninsular Malaysia. The island has sandy beaches and clear blue waters. There are two islands: Perhentian Besar (large) and Perhentian Kecil (small). The former is a little busier than the latter. There are many smaller beaches on Perhentian Kecil Island, but Long Beach is the most popular with tourists. Snorkelling, Turtle Bay, & Shark Point are all options. The easiest and quickest way to get to this island is to fly to Kota Bharu and then ride a cab from the airport towards Kuala Besut Jetty. To get to the island, take the ferry from the jetty.
Rawa Island
Redang is a hidden gem on Peninsular Malaysia's east coast. It is well-known among locals for its crystal clear waters, beautiful white sand beaches, and diverse aquatic life. Snorkelling & scuba diving are two activities that you absolutely must do while in Redang. The entire beach vacation experience is very gratifying & relaxing. Taaras Resort's beach is truly a treasure, and a portion of this remains open to the public and known as Pantai Awam.
Pangkor Island
To get to Pangkor Island, you can take a bus to Lumut and then a half-an-hour boat ride towards the island. You may also fly to Ipoh and then take a bus. Coral Beach is considered the finest beach on Peninsular Malaysia's west coast. The water is clear emerald green, and the beach is bleached. Coral Beach is a highly tranquil beach on the island, and it will undoubtedly take your breath away. Owing its romantic & almost empty beaches, it is just perfect for newlyweds. Anjuman Beach Resort is the closest & best place to stay near Coral Beach. Reserve your room now for the tour of a lifetime!
Gaya Island
Gaya Island, also known as Pulau Gaya in Malay, is a large Malaysian island located just ten minutes off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah’s capital. Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park includes the island. It is the National Park's largest island and the one closest to downtown Kota Kinabalu. It is densely forested with virgin tropical forests. To get to this island, try a speed boat right from the Kota Kinabalu jetty. Hiking trails on Gaya Island will undoubtedly appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.
Pulau Kapas
Pulau Kapas is among Malaysia's most celebrated beaches due to its diverse marine life. Despite the difficulty of keeping trash out of the oceans due to the climate crisis, Pulau Kapas has managed to preserve its wonderful fish, coral, turtles, and also some sharks may be here and there. This hidden gem is ideal for water adventurers, who can enjoy a variety of water sports in aquamarine blue water. Tourists and travellers will enjoy activities such as scuba diving & snorkelling, to name a few. Those who want to sail around can book a day tour to Gem Island online, where some boats will row you to a nearby island to explore more of Pulau Kapas' finest blue waters.
Tanjung Rhu Beach
Tanjung Rhu Beach on Langkawi Island is yet another popular destination. This beach can be found in Langkawi’s northeastern corner. The Pantai Tanjung Rhu is quite remote and exclusive. There are various tourist attractions in the surrounding area. The beach is well-known for its clear waters and white sand. In such crystal clear waters, many foreign films have been shot. There are regular beach activities available here. The public beach truly is lovely, but the resort's private beach is even more so.
Malaysia is a stunningly beautiful country that is both a melting pot of different cultures and endowed with incredible natural wonders. Visit the top beaches in Malaysia for seeing, experiencing, and believing it for yourself. Connect with Travel Story Post, for other travel recommendations.
