Darren YeohDreaming of a relaxing island escape? Picture this: the sun dipping below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the sand as you sip a refreshing drink. Malaysia offers a wealth of stunning islands and beaches, from the renowned beauty of Langkawi and Pangkor to hidden gems like Lang Tengah. This list showcases 15 incredible Malaysian destinations that rival the world’s most celebrated tropical paradises, all without the hefty price tag.
Also read: 7 Gorgeous Malaysian Islands You Can Reach From Mersing Jetty
1. Kapalai Island, Sabah
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Okay, let’s talk paradise. Kapalai Island, a tiny speck in the Celebes Sea off the coast of Sabah, is basically a picture-perfect postcard come to life. Think overwater bungalows, pristine white sand, and coral reefs teeming with marine life. Seriously, the underwater world here is insane. You can easily spend your days diving, snorkeling, and kayaking, exploring vibrant coral gardens and encountering everything from sea turtles to manta rays.
Getting there: Getting there involves a short flight to Tawau followed by a boat transfer, but trust me, it’s worth it.
2. Lang Tengah Island, Terengganu
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Looking for an escape from the crowds? Lang Tengah Island is your answer. This gem off the coast of Terengganu offers a more laid-back vibe compared to some of its more popular neighbors. The beaches are stunning, with soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. You can relax on the beach, go snorkeling or diving, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet.
Getting there: Getting to Lang Tengah involves a scenic boat ride from the mainland.
3. Pangkor Island, Perak
Image credit: Arne Museler
Pangkor Island is a charming blend of laid-back beaches and local culture. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a relaxed island getaway without breaking the bank. You can find everything from secluded coves to bustling fishing villages here. Don’t miss the chance to explore the island’s interior, visit the traditional fishing villages, and sample some delicious seafood at local restaurants.
Getting there: Getting to Pangkor Island is easy – ferries depart regularly from Lumut on the mainland.
4. Batu Ferringhi, Penang
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Okay, Batu Ferringhi isn’t technically an island, but this stretch of coastline on the northwest coast of Penang deserves a spot on this list. It’s a popular tourist destination with plenty to offer. You’ll find beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Take a stroll along the beach, try some delicious local food, and maybe even visit the Penang National Park.
Getting there: Getting there is easy, as Batu Ferringhi is easily accessible from George Town, the capital city of Penang.
5. Cenang Beach, Langkawi Island, Kedah
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Cenang Beach is the most popular beach on Langkawi Island, and for good reason. It’s a long stretch of golden sand with plenty of resorts, restaurants, and bars. You can rent jet skis, go parasailing, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. The nightlife here is also quite lively, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from.
Getting there: Getting to Cenang Beach is easy, as it’s located near the Langkawi International Airport.
6. Layang-Layang (or Swallow Reef) Island, Sabah (more or less)
Image credit: Matthew Lee
Layang-Layang Island is a remote atoll in the South China Sea, known for its incredible diving and snorkeling. This is a serious destination for divers, with pristine coral reefs, strong currents, and the chance to encounter hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and other pelagic species.
Getting there: Getting to Layang-Layang involves a short flight from Kota Kinabalu.
Also read: 12 Destinations in Malaysia for Your Next Weekend Getaway
7. Rawa Island, Johor
Image credit: Phalinn Ooi
Rawa Island is a small, idyllic island off the coast of Johor. It’s known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. You can spend your days snorkeling, diving, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the beach. Rawa Island is perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Getting there: Getting to Rawa Island involves a boat transfer from Mersing on the mainland.
8. Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan
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Port Dickson is a popular beach destination for locals, offering a mix of beaches, resorts, and historical attractions. You can find everything from family-friendly beaches to secluded coves here. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Royal Malaysian Navy Museum and Fort Lukut.
Getting there: Getting to Port Dickson is easy, as it’s located just a short drive from Kuala Lumpur.
9. Mataking Island, Semporna, Sabah
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Mataking Island is a small, private island paradise in Semporna, Sabah. It’s known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. The island offers a luxurious and exclusive experience, with overwater bungalows and a focus on relaxation and rejuvenation.
Getting there: Getting to Mataking Island involves a boat transfer from Semporna.
10. Sapi Island, Sabah
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Sapi Island is a popular day trip destination from Kota Kinabalu, offering beautiful beaches, excellent snorkeling, and a chance to spot monkeys. You can rent snorkeling gear and explore the underwater world, relax on the beach, or hike to the top of the island for panoramic views.
Getting there: Getting to Sapi Island is easy, as there are frequent boat transfers from Kota Kinabalu.
11. Redang Island, Terengganu
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Redang Island is one of the most popular island destinations in Malaysia, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. It’s a great place for diving, snorkeling, and other water sports. You can also explore the island’s interior, visit the local villages, and enjoy the laid-back island atmosphere.
Getting there: Getting to Redang Island involves a boat transfer from the mainland.
12. Mantanani Island, Sabah
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Mantanani Island is a group of three small islands off the coast of Kota Belud, Sabah. They offer a more secluded and off-the-beaten-path experience compared to some of the more popular islands in Sabah. You can enjoy pristine beaches, excellent diving and snorkeling, and a chance to experience local village life.
Getting there: Getting to Mantanani Island involves a boat transfer from Kota Belud.
13. Perhentian Island, Terengganu
Image credit: Arne Museler
Perhentian Island is actually a group of two islands – Perhentian Besar (Big Perhentian) and Perhentian Kecil (Small Perhentian). Both islands offer beautiful beaches, excellent diving and snorkeling, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Perhentian Kecil is more laid-back, while Perhentian Besar offers more accommodation options and a wider range of activities.
Getting there: Getting to the Perhentian Islands involves a boat transfer from the mainland.
14. Tioman Island, Pahang
Image credit: Peter Gronemann
Tioman Island is a large island with a diverse landscape, ranging from lush rainforests to stunning beaches. It’s a popular destination for divers, with a variety of dive sites to explore. You can also hike through the rainforest, visit waterfalls, and relax on the beach.
Getting there: Getting to Tioman Island involves a ferry ride from Mersing on the mainland.
15. Sipadan Island, Sabah
Image credit: Yusmar Yahaya
Sipadan Island is a world-renowned diving destination, considered one of the best dive sites in the world. It’s a small island with a unique ecosystem, home to a diverse array of marine life, including sharks, turtles, and manta rays. However, due to its fragile ecosystem, the number of visitors to Sipadan Island is strictly limited.
Getting there: Getting to Sipadan Island involves a short flight to Tawau followed by a boat transfer.
So that concludes our little mini-gallery here. Of course, I’ll be the first to admit: I must have missed or left out quite a few islands or beaches that deserve a spot on their own. There are simply too many of those beautiful places in Malaysia to remember them all in one go. In fact, Sabah, Penang and Terengganu can all have articles of their own dedicated to the beaches there!
Also read: 10 Secret Islands in Sabah for Your Next Tropical Getaway
But the point is, there are many beaches and islands in Malaysia that are ideal places for a quick getaway! So find that piece of paper in which you jot down your bucket list and maybe, just maybe, change Bora-Bora to one of the islands above!
