Malaysia is famous for its iconic Petronas Towers and bustling capital city, but there’s much more to discover beyond the skyscrapers. Some of the best Malaysian islands offer stunning secluded beaches and laid-back atmospheres, rivaling those in Thailand, Indonesia, and The Philippines.
Many Malaysian islands remain relatively unknown, while others are popular honeymoon or getaway destinations, known for their blend of luxury, food, and culture in a tropical setting. With so many islands to choose from, finding the perfect one for your needs and budget can be overwhelming. After exploring these beautiful islands for weeks, I’ve compiled this helpful list.
Tioman Island is one of my favorites. With its relaxed vibe and beautiful sandy beaches, it’s a perfect escape. Surrounded by lush jungle, I sometimes felt like I had the whole island to myself, even during peak season. If you love deserted beaches with clear waters, stunning waterfalls, and a laid-back village life, Tioman is ideal. There are various accommodations to suit all budgets, from luxury resorts to beach chalets. Tioman is accessible via a 2-hour ferry ride from Mersing Jetty.
Pulau Mabul, located off the coast of Sabah in Borneo, is famous for snorkeling and diving. It’s renowned for muck diving, attracting macro photographers. Though small, you can walk around the island in about an hour. Despite less impressive beaches, the vibrant marine life makes it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. Mabul is accessible by boat from Semporna in Sabah.
Penang is a popular destination for expats, remote workers, and tourists. George Town, the island’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famed for its diverse street food, unique architecture, and quirky street art. While George Town lacks island vibes, nearby areas like Batu Ferringhi and Tanjung Bungah offer seaside resorts and beaches. Monkey Beach is quieter on weekdays, making it a perfect escape. Penang is well-connected by bus, train, plane, and ferry.
The Perhentian Islands, consisting of Big Island and Small Island, cater to different crowds. The smaller island is popular with backpackers, while the larger island is more family-friendly. Their beautiful beaches and clear waters offer excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Popular among locals and backpackers, it’s best to book in advance for peak season (June – August). The Perhentians are reachable by boat from Kuala Besut.
Pangkor Island, with its pretty beaches, fishing villages, and dense jungle, is perfect for a quiet getaway. Best explored by motorcycle, the island offers fresh seafood and a serene environment during the week. A 40-minute ferry ride from Lumut Jetty brings you to Pangkor.
Langkawi, an archipelago with Pulau Langkawi as its largest island, caters to all budgets, from hostels to luxurious resorts. It’s a top honeymoon destination with exclusive resorts and vibrant nightlife in Pantai Cenang. Activities include jungle trekking, waterfall swimming, and beach fun. Langkawi is accessible by international airport or ferry.
Kapas Island, my personal favorite, boasts pristine beaches and a relaxed vibe. The soft white sand and clear waters make it an ideal place to unwind. Accommodations lean towards backpackers, with options for camping or dorms. Kapas is accessible by ferry from Marang Jetty.
Redang Island offers upscale resorts and excellent snorkeling and diving. Public transport is nonexistent, so guests usually stay around their resorts. The coral reefs are beautiful, and kayaking is available for exploration. Redang can be reached via speedboats and ferry boats from Merang Jetty.
Sipadan is world-renowned for scuba diving, surrounded by rich coral reefs. Snorkeling is also great for non-divers. Since it’s a protected area, you cannot stay on Sipadan itself, but accommodations can be found on nearby islands or mainland Semporna. Planning is crucial due to limited daily divers and stay durations.
Pulau Tenggol is a top diving destination with around 20 dive sites and beautiful white sand beaches. Small and secluded, the island offers all-inclusive dive packages. It’s quieter compared to other islands, giving you a scenic landscape and amazing underwater experiences. Transfers can be arranged through your resort.
With so many wonderful islands in Malaysia, choosing the right one can be tough. Hopefully, this list helps you find the perfect spot for your dream vacation!
