All set for an island getaway? Pack your swimsuits, don your beach hat and hit these amazing islands in Malaysia- many with vibrant resorts, few with diving spots and a handful of them still hidden to locals.
Malaysia is a country with sprawling beaches, rich cultures and glitzy architecture. It is a staple honeymoon or holiday destination because of its untouched beauty, luxurious staycations, gastronomical delights and a humungous number of islands.
How many islands are there in Malaysia?
Boasting 2905 miles of coastline, Malaysia holds many exotic islands in its boundaries. The exact number rounds up to 878.
They are flushing with turquoise water, tropical rainforests, palm-fringed beaches and admirable climate. Also, availability of different entertainment options and water sports keep you happily engrossed for the vacation and spend a pleasant time with family and friends. Islands are synonymous with beaches and bays, cliffs and caves, ruins and reefs.
Whatever your idea of paradise is, these 8 top islands in Malaysia will deliver more than expected.
Here is the list of top 8 Islands in Malaysia
1.Langkawi: The one for luxury
It is not an island, it is an archipelago- a group of 100 islands, that too duty-free. Many remain uninhabited but few of them are opened to tourists. And these are the best-equipped islands- also easily reachable as it is linked with International airports. Not just that, it exhibits some fantastic beaches, mountains, rainforest, and mangrove wetlands.
Best features :
- Get onto the cable car ride to explore the bird-eye view of the place.
- Go island hopping on the most densely populated Pulau Langkawi or get yourself a motorbike.
- Drop off at picturesque Pantai Cenang for memorable nightlife and bewildering beachfront bars.
- Langkawi Sky Bridge, Dataran Lang, Underwater World are few iconic landmarks. You can learn about the Langkawi Sky Bridge facts here to amp up the experience.
- With great accommodation and places to eat, the trip is perfectly made.
Best time to visit : November to April
Best for :
- Pampering yourself at five-star beachfront resorts
- Indulging in world-class dining and high-end shopping
- Lounging on gorgeous silky sand beaches
- Immersing in mystical rainforest landscapes
- Witnessing stunning island vistas from the cable car
Things to do :
- Ride the cable car over lush forests to walk across the sky bridge
- Tour magnificent waterfalls nestled deep in dense vegetation
- Island hop to secluded beaches, coves and exotic sites
- Join nature and wildlife expeditions through protected geo forests
- Paddle vibrant mangroves teeming with diverse life
2.Tioman: The adventurers’ loved
One of this biggest and dreamy island-Tioman is a beautiful destination for someone who seeks to dive and go deep into the ocean. Located in the South China Sea and surrounded by a vast bed of coral reefs, this is an enchanting blend of culture, adventure and wilderness.
Best features :
- You can participate in blissful scuba diving and snorkelling at the Tioman Dive Centre.
- There are spots to go adrenaline pumping with jungle trekking.
- Visit the ecological park of Taman Laut Tioman.
- Cover the highest peak on the island, Gunung Raya.
Best time to visit : February to October
Best for :
- Riding waves on a surfboard at renowned breaks
- Hiking through dense jungle to gorgeous viewpoints
- Diving coral reefs teeming with marine biodiversity
- Spotting unique wildlife species found only on Tioman
- Embarking on heart-pumping adventure excursions
Things to do :
- Trek deep into ancient rainforest across challenging trails
- Snorkel radiant coral gardens with sea turtles and sharks
- Visit traditional fishing villages for cultural insight
- Tackle adventurous activities like surfing and rock climbing
- Unwind on secluded golden sand beaches
3.Penang: It’s about food and heritage
Referred as the Pearl of the Orient, it is one of the most popular destinations in Malaysia’s islands. On Malaysia’s efficient transport system of buses, you can reach this fascinating and touristic location in George Town. The lively capital is itself a king hub of culinary and cultural diversity.
- Rising 821 meters above sea level, Penang Hill captures the best image of the island.
- You can shop till you drop by the multiple branded malls.
- Bow down at the largest Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia, Kek Lok Si Temple.
- Explore the Penang National Park.
Best time to visit : July to September
Best for :
- Embarking on epic street food and culinary tours
- Absorbing a unique tapestry of cultural influences
- Exploring architecturally impressive temples and landmarks
- Learning about the island’s World Heritage designated history
- Appreciating vibrant festivals, architecture and art
Things to do :
- Sample mouthwatering specialties at hawker stalls
- Tour elaborately ornamented places of worship
- Visit historically and culturally significant museums
- Join guided walks revealing heritage sights and stories
- Experience colorful cultural and religious celebrations
Also Read: How Expensive is Malaysia
4. Pangkor: The island that is beach-beautiful
Now, this is something all the beach bums would hail for. It is something quieter than tourist hotspots. Remarkable in its looks, this ultimate appealing island has some of the prettiest beaches. You will be startled by an impressive combination of fishing villages, lavish resorts and dense jungle, which offers a peaceful place to unwind and relish nature. You get up close to the local culture and cuisine.
Best features :
- Sunbaking is the best pastime for visitors on the beach.
- Let your hair down on the banana boat ride around Bogak beach and Nipah beach.
- Check out the jungle trails at Teluk Segadas Hill and Titi Ganung.
- Explore the beauty of the wilderness at great vantage points.
- Relax and rejuvenate at Pangkor Laut.
Best time to visit : November to March
Best for :
- Finding your own secluded stretch of pristine golden sand
- Staying in sleepy fishing villages for a peaceful experience
- Exploring thickly forested interior jungle landscapes
- Enjoying incredibly affordable island escapes
- Total relaxation away from crowded tourist hotspots
Things to do :
- Beach hop to find your perfect uncrowded paradise spot
- Hike forest trails to spot unique wildlife and waterfalls
- Sample ultra-fresh seafood straight from the sea
- Snorkel and island hop to deserted beaches
- Enjoy a budget-friendly island adventure
5.Perhentian: The ultimate escape from luxury to backpacker
With two main islands of Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil, Perhentian is the Maldives of Malaysia. The former one is famous for luxury villas, resorts and tempts the richer visitors while the later is more of casual tourism, rustic accommodation and breezy services and makes it one of the cheapest islands in Malaysia. Touched by the gorgeous tropical essence, this is an island with almost no roads.
Best features :
- Discover the island alone by kayaking.
- In the crystal clear water and magnificent marine life, enjoy the adventure of snorkeling and scuba diving.
- Covered with tropical rainforest, here you can devour into great jungle trekking experience.
Best time to visit : March to October
Best for :
- Meeting fellow backpackers and travelers
- Finding romance on long stretches of powdery sand
- Trying beachfront camping under the stars
- Throwing impromptu beach parties into the night
- Adventuring on a shoestring budget
Things to do:
- Snorkel beyond blue to witness sharks and turtles
- Beach hop to find the ultimate party stretch
- Blaze jungle trails by backpacker camaraderie
- Volunteer at sea turtle or shark conservation programs
- Enjoy water sports from budget paddleboards to diving
6. Sipadan: A legend island of divers
Named as the real diving destination, Sipadan has a treasure of majestic marine animals flowing around you. From exotic fish & hammerhead sharks to sea turtles, you’ll be entranced by the entire ecosystem and foreign species. You do not have established accommodation as the resorts have been shut down in 2004 for the protection of fragile marine life.
Best features :
- Tour the island via Sipadan Liveaboard.
- Indulge in the best scuba diving and snorkeling which is enchanting as well as life-changing experience.
Best time to visit : April to December
Best for :
- Exploring world-famous, adrenaline-pumping dive sites
- Diving again and again, with unlimited world-class options
- Snorkeling vibrant, healthy corals with huge fish schools
- Spotting marine megafauna like sharks and sea turtles
- Witnessing majestic tropical island views above and below
Things to do:
- Scuba dive at Barracuda Point and South Point sites
- Snorkel-spot giant sea turtles and reef sharks
- Join rare island jungle walks to spot unique life
- Observe magnificent migratory birds stopping by
- Drift dive along strong currents amid reef walls
7.Redang: An island with interesting marine life
Location- East coast of Malaysia
What was once a hidden island in Malaysia, is now famous after being pictured in ‘Summer Holiday’ for its world-class resorts, perfect snorkeling and exotic species. A perfect holiday destination, Redang is brimming with nicest marine family. The coral reefs are flourishing with baby sharks, jellyfish and so much more and the beaches are looking magical with fine white sand and crystal clear waters
Best features :
- It is popular for diving and snorkeling.
- You can swim with the inspiring range of fishes, sharks and turtles you would have never seen in your life
Best time to visit : March to October
Best for :
- Snorkeling over colorful coral gardens
- Spotting sea turtles in crystal clear waters
- Lazing on secluded stretches of white sand
- Diving wreck sites enveloped in marine life
- Getting back to nature completely off the grid
Things to do :
- Snorkel house reefs right from the beach
- Dive submerged wrecks covered in coral
- Kayak out to floating village communities
- Join sunset dolphin or turtle watching tours
- Trek jungle trails to serene waterfall pools
8.Tenggol: All about tranquility
If you are searching for an island that is an escape from the crowd, an idea of peace and a space of relaxation, you are going to love Tenggol, the famous private island in Malaysia. This not only supports your privacy but is comfortable enough to feel like a home away from home. It is in abode to several pristine beaches and gives a very laid-back vibe.
Best features :
- Be wowed by the panoramic view of the island from the hilltop.
- Get the sight of whales and sharks.
- Disconnect from the world and enjoy diving in utter isolation.
Best time to visit : February to October
Best for :
- Achieving total relaxation away from everything
- Having island beaches entirely to yourself
- Snorkeling vibrant coral reefs with few others
- Embarking on diving and jungle expeditions
- Reconnecting with nature and simple island life
Things to do:
- Snorkel radiant coral gardens right off shore
- Dive deeper reef walls and wrecks
- Beachcomb and birdwatch for hours undisturbed
- Hike jungle trails to hidden waterfall pools
- Enjoy world-class marine life with few divers around
Keep following the space to find out more about Malaysia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Malaysia boasts over 878 idyllic tropical islands, many of which make for the ultimate peaceful island vacations. Here we answer some frequently asked questions about visiting Malaysian islands.
Q: Which are the best islands in Malaysia for a peaceful vacation?
Q: When is the best time to visit Malaysian islands?
Q: How long should I stay on the islands for an enjoyable vacation?
Q: What type of accommodation is available on the islands?
Q: Is it safe for a solo female traveler?
Q: What activities are popular on Malaysian islands?
Q: Is WiFi available on all Malaysian islands?
Q: Can I use credit cards or do I need to carry cash?
Q: Can I drink alcohol?
We hope this gives you a great starting overview for planning your dream island vacation in amazing Malaysia! Let us know if you have any other questions.