Beautiful Islands In Malaysia

1. Langkawi: The jewel of Kedah

Duty-free Langkawi is one of the most visited and beautiful islands in Malaysia. The island combines stretches of glistening coastlines with mountains and mangroves. Take a day trip to the UNESCO-listed Pregnant Maiden Island, feed the eagles and watch monkeys swimming for food. Or bring your towel and sunbathe away on Pantai Cenang before drinking in a beachside bar.

Langkawi Island

2. Colonial and metropolitan Penang

While Penang might not feature with the most beautiful islands in Malaysia for beaches and snorkeling, it does offer a metropolitan and colonial air. Head to the capital George Town and stroll through buildings which look unchanged in more than a century. Or photograph the colourful temples, traditional shophouses and feel the refreshing air at the top of Penang Hill.

Penang Island

3. Empty beaches and hornbills on Pangkor Island

If you’re looking for somewhere without tourists, check out Pangkor Island. The island lies near Perak’s coast and features empty beaches, clean water and thick jungle covering the centre. Visitors appreciate the chance to sunbathe under the palm trees without another soul in sight. Check out the Dutch colonial fort, snap photos of a traditional wooden jetty and feed hornbills at the Sunset View Chalet. Click here to find out how to travel to Pangkor Island from Kuala Lumpur or Penang.

Pangkor Island

4. Learn how to dive in the Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands lies off Terengganu State’s coast in northeast Malaysia. Two islands, Perhentian Kecil (Perhentian Small) and Besar (Big), attract beach lovers, divers and snorkelers. Forget about roads: The only way to get from one beach to the next is by water taxi or trekking along jungle trails. Head to Kecil for some of Southeast Asia’s most affordable diving schools and meet other backpackers on Long Beach. Book a resort on Besar for a more exclusive getaway.

Perhentian Islands

5. Beaches, jungles and snorkeling at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Five islands near Sabah’s Kota Kinabalu form the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Speedboats connect the mainland and protected islands in less than 15 minutes. Head to Manukan for a beach and snorkeling experience. Gaya Island, the largest island, presents more opportunities for hiking and exploring a floating village.

Manukan Island

6. Sipadan Island: Malaysia’s best diving spot

The tiny island near Semporna in Sabah rates among the world’s top diving areas. After gaining protected status in 2002, fewer tourists can get a permit to visit the limestone pinnacle. This preserves its delicate ecology. You won’t find accommodation or many facilities, and you’ll need to join a tour. But it’s worth the flight from Kota Kinabalu to Semporna and a one-hour boat ride for the swarms of turtles and barracuda.

Sipadan Island