Ten islands to visit in Malaysia

Blog: velvet escape's blog - 17 January 2012

By: velvet

Lang tengah island

Malaysia is known the world over for its cultural diversity, expansive tropical forests, mouthwatering cuisine and yes, its glorious beaches. I’ve had the privilege of visiting many Malaysian islands to laze on the blinding white sands, swim in the crystal-clear water and say ‘hi’ to the amazing marine life. Malaysia comprises two parts: Peninsular Malaysia (or West Malaysia) which is the southernmost stretch of the Asian continent, and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo (the world’s third largest island), often referred to collectively as East Malaysia. Though the mainland of both West and East Malaysia have beautiful sandy beaches, the best beaches and coral reefs can be found on the many islands off the coast. The largest islands, Penang and Langkawi, offer a lot more than just beaches. Here’s my list of ten fabulous islands in Malaysia, categorised by (level of) activity.

More than just beaches

 1. Penang– my favourite Malaysian island boasts stunning colonial buildings, atmospheric temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site (Georgetown) and some of the best food in the country. The beaches aren’t great but they’re more than compensated by the diverse array of sightseeing options, the food and a wonderful variety of stunning hotels. Read more about things to do in Penang. Search for hotels in Penang.

Langkawi Island

2. Langkawi – located north of Penang, near the border with Thailand, Langkawi has lovely beaches (including Cenang beach and my favourite, Tanjung Rhu beach), a mountainous interior and gorgeous hotels. There are many seasport options at the main beaches. Further inland, head for the cable-car and Skybridge for stunning views of the island and the Andaman Sea. In addition, Langkawi’s duty-free status means great bargains for popular duty-free items. Search for hotels in Langkawi.

Both Penang and Langkawi have international airports.

Exploring the undersea wonders

Redang

3. Redang – Redang island is one of the largest islands off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The beaches are white and sandy and the water is crystal-clear. The island is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs, making it a popular snorkelling/diving destination. There are also several trails that crisscross the island’s jungle interior. In addition, the island is easily accessible from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore due to its airstrip. There are also boat services from Merang on the mainland. Search for hotels in Redang.

Perhentian Island

4. Perhentian – Perhentian consists of two islands (Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil). Both islands boast stunning sandy, palm-fringed beaches, crystalline water and colourful coral reefs. There are a variety of hotels on the Perhentian islands that cater to different budgets.

Lang tengah island

5. Lang Tengah – situated smack in between Perhentian and Redang islands, Lang Tengah is a true gem. Its small size means there isn’t much to do aside from lazing on one of the stunning beaches or diving into the emerald sea. I experienced my first shark encounters off Lang Tengah so it’s one island I won’t easily forget! Search for hotels in Lang Tengah.

Redang, Perhentian and Lang Tengah islands are located in the northeast corner of Peninsular Malaysia. Redang and Perhentian islands can be accessed by boat from Merang whilst Perhentian islands are reachable by boat from the town of Kuala Besut. The islands are typically closed during the monsoon season (November – February).

Sipadan

6. Sipadan – Sipadan is one of the most celebrated dive sites in the world. The only oceanic island in Malaysia, Sipadan is located off the east coast of Sabah. The island is basically an ancient volcanic cone overgrown by corals. Turtles, hammerhead sharks, barracudas and parrothead fish are just a handful of the many marine species that can be viewed here. Due to its popularity – divers from all around the world visit the island every year – the number of dive groups per day is limited so it’s advisable to book way in advance. Sipadan is accessible by boat from the town of Semporna.

7. Lankayan – this little island in the Sulu Sea, north of the Sabahan town of Sandakan, is a great place to spot turtles and whale sharks (March – May). Its pristine beaches and easy accessibility from Sandakan make it a local favourite.

Layang Layang

8. Layang Layang – this atoll, located 300km off the coast of Sabah in the South China Sea, is part of the sprawling Spratley archipelago. The atoll consists of a lodge, a navy base and an airstrip, and some of the best diving spots in Malaysia. Due to its isolation, the marine life is abundant and the corals are in excellent condition. Most divers visit the island to see hammerhead and whale sharks. Layang Layang can be reached by air from Kota Kinabalu.

Sipadan, Lankayan, Mantanani and Layang Layang are situated in Sabah, on Malaysian Borneo. Read more about things to do and see in Sabah. The capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, has an international airport with flights to major cities in Southeast Asia, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea and Japan.

Indulgence

Emerald Bay, Pangkor Laut (image courtesy of Phalinn)

9. Rebak – Rebak is a small, private island that’s part of the Langkawi archipelago. Its seclusion – there’s a single five-star resort on the island managed by the Taj Group – is perfect for those looking for a quiet time. There’s nothing but lush greenery, gorgeous white beaches and swaying palms. Combine that with the luxuries of the five-star Rebak Island Resort and you have the perfect opportunity for plenty of relaxation and indulgence.

Pangkor

10. Pangkor Laut – The famous tenor Pavorotti reportedly cried when he saw how beautiful the island was. Pangkor Laut is indeed stunning. A small, secluded island just off the coast of West Malaysia. The upscale Pangkor Laut Resort has everything to spoil even the most jaded traveller. The romantic overwater bungalows, the splendid spa and the scrumptious cuisine are the star attractions of the resort. However, the island has its own attraction: Emerald Bay, simply one of the most beautiful coves I’ve ever seen.

View Malaysia islands in a larger map

Ten islands to visit in Malaysia is a post from: Velvet Escape travel blog

Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/travelblogs/57/142029/Ten+islands+to+visit+in+Malaysia?destId=356948#ixzz2CKt0ItrE