Part of our Malaysia guide.
Malaysia’s beaches span the Andaman Sea and the South China Sea. The Perhentian Islands offer white sand, clear water, and coral reefs. Pangkor delivers a quieter, west-coast alternative with forest hikes and local seafood.
Related travel guides: Things To Do In Malaysia, Travel Experiences In Malaysia, Hidden Gems In Malaysia, and Where To Eat In Malaysia.
What To See In World Heritage George Town - Penang Island
George Town, the capital of Penang Island, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its streets blend Chinese, Indian, and Malay influences. The city’s history dates to the 18th century, and walking tours reveal clan temples, shophouses, and street art. For transport and visa details, including how long can you stay in Malaysia on a tourist pass, check the Malaysia guide.
The Perhentian Islands Travel Guide Malaysia
The Perhentian Islands sit in the South China Sea off northeastern Malaysia. The archipelago has two main islands: Perhentian Besar (Big Island) and Perhentian Kecil (Small Island). They have white sandy beaches, turquoise water, and coral reefs. Snorkeling and diving are the main draws; coral gardens start just offshore. The islands are accessible by boat from Kuala Besut, and the best visibility for diving is between March and October. You can combine them with a side trip to visit Mulu National Park - what to see there includes limestone karsts and caves.
10 Best Islands To Visit In Malaysia
Malaysia’s islands range from developed resorts to near-deserted sandbars. The ten best known include:
- Perhentian Islands – clear water and coral reefs, best for budget divers.
- Langkawi – duty-free shopping and a cable car; ferries connect it to Penang (see Malaysia guide for the Langkawi–Penang route).
- Penang – a UNESCO city plus beaches on the north coast.
- Pangkor – quiet west-coast island with fishing villages.
- Tioman – jungle-backed beaches and offshore reefs.
- Redang – marine park with protected coral.
- Rawa – small island near Johor, good for families.
- Sipadan – world-class diving (permits required).
- Mabul – muck-diving site near Sipadan.
- Kapas – tiny island reachable from Marang, no cars.
Tioman and Redang are reached by ferry from Mersing or Kuala Terengganu, while Sipadan requires a permit and is accessed from Semporna. The Malaysia guide covers transport and permits.
Secrets To An Unforgettable Trip To Pangkor Island
Pangkor Island lies off Malaysia’s west coast, a short ferry ride from Lumut. The island offers sandy beaches, forested hills, and a handful of temples, including the 17th-century Sam Kongsi. Snorkeling spots are found at Coral Beach and Teluk Nipah, while hiking trails lead to the ruins of a Dutch fort at Kota Belanda. Try the grilled fish at the night market in Pangkor Town. The island has no airport; you reach it by bus or car to Lumut, then a 30-minute ferry. Pangkor can be combined with a trip to the Cameron Highlands or Kuala Lumpur – see the Malaysia guide for connections. The island’s beaches are best between November and April; the monsoon season from May to October brings rougher seas.
