Most Beautiful Beaches in Malaysia to Visit in 2024

Malaysia, the beautiful country where all Asian cultures and people come together to become truly Asia, is blessed with some of the most stunning beaches. There are many islands around the mainland where you can enjoy amazing beaches. So, if you are about ‘the beach life’ and are planning to vacation, be sure to check out these beautiful beaches in Malaysia.

Malaysia’s Top Beautiful Beaches 

1. Mersing

The southernmost point in the Malay peninsula, Mersing is a popular departure point for boats and ships headed to Pulau Rawa. However, Mersing town also has many clean and beautiful beaches surrounded by sparkling blue waters. These beaches are close to the central town but are still far away from the crowds. Air Papan is the beach to see in Mersing as it barely has any crowds and is dotted with Casuarina trees for shade and a few beach shacks for food. Beaches in Mersing are a place to relax.

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2. Perhentian Island

If you want to do more than relax on the beach, Perhentian Islands are the places to be. Here, you can enjoy activities like scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, turtle-watching, and even jungle trekking. Although there are 7 islands, only 2 are habitable – Pulau Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar. Both have excellent staying options, one more affordable than the other. This is an excellent place for any beach lover.

3. Batu Ferringhi

Batu Ferringhi is the place for thrill-seekers. From adrenaline-pumping water sports to brilliant nightlife, this place has it all. Located 12kms from Penang Island’s city centre, this place is the place visitors come to feel alive and have a good time. The beaches are beautiful and the people are amazing. What else could you ask for?

4. Rawa Island Beach

Rawa Island is a place that is teeming with wildlife. The island is surrounded by coral reefs that are full of exotic fish. This natural beauty of the place also attracts many scuba divers from nearby Asian countries. You can also enjoy activities like sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, beach volleyball, and more. The unspoiled nature of Rawa Island is why people love Malaysia’s beaches and islands.

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5. Kota Kinabalu

Comprising 5 islands, Kota Kinabalu is a unique place where you can enjoy white sand beaches, coral reefs, tropical forests, caves & cliffs. You can go hiking, scuba diving, and cave exploring. Kota Kinabalu isn’t a place for staying as there are very few options to stay and eat. But it is a place where you can come to get away from the hectic life and still have a lot to do and enjoy.

6. Tioman Island

One of the few duty-free islands in Malaysia, Tioman Island is a popular place for many reasons. It has a tropical forest that you can explore through jungle trekking. It also is surrounded by coral reefs which you can explore through scuba diving. This island is perfect for nature lovers as it has become a protected island since 2010.

7. Pantai Irama

Located in the Bachok area near the South China Sea, this island comes alive during the weekends as it hosts many events and parties. Usually, the beach is packed to the hilt, but during the weekdays, there’s barely a soul. You can have all the beach to yourself and relax like a king. You can also check out nearby Pantai Bisikan Bayu where there are museums and a palace.

8. Redang Island

Redang Island is the place for the best Malaysia beach resorts and is an out-an-out tourist island. It has many luxurious beach resorts where you can have a great stay. The islands are closed during monsoons but are packed the rest of the year. Despite the crowds, the island’s beaches, Pasir Panjang Beach and Teku Dalam’s waters host endangered coral reefs and turtles. This is a protected island where you can have a luxurious stay.

9. Mataking Island Beach

The epitome of unspoiled beaches, Mataking Island is one of the most unique places in the world. The island has an underwater world, including an underwater post office. The island is divided into two beaches, but both beaches host a plethora of activities like scuba diving, snorkelling, and water sports. Mataking Island is a place where you can come with your friends and family and have a great time.

10. Langkawi Islands

This is one of the biggest clusters of islands hosting some of the most beautiful beaches in Malaysia. There are 104 islands in the archipelago and each island has something unique to offer. Some islands are unspoiled and peaceful while others are packed with international tourists. Some islands don’t have staying options while others host the most luxurious beach resorts. Langkawi is a place where you can spend all your days holidaying and still not get bored. It is a must for all who come to Malaysia.

Tips for Visiting the Beaches of Malaysia

• Be prepared for tropical weather – Malaysia is hot and humid year-round. Pack light, breathable clothing along with hats and sunscreen. The rainy season brings heavier rain in the afternoons.
• Get waterproof bags – Protect cameras, cell phones and valuables when doing water activities with waterproof pouches and gear.
• Watch out for jellyfish and stingrays during certain seasons. Wear protective footwear in coastal waters.
• Try local cuisine on the beaches like coconut water, fresh seafood BBQs and unique tropical fruits. Street food sold at beach shacks can be inexpensive and authentic.
• Respect Muslim customs if visiting conservative areas – dress modestly away from beaches and hotels. Remove shoes before entering mosques or Malay homes.
• Buy insect repellent – Mosquitoes and sand flies can be an annoyance on some small tropical islands.
• Check the tide schedules before swimming or doing other water activities. High tide comes twice daily.
• BYO snorkel gear instead of renting equipment. Ensure gear fits properly for safety and hygiene.

These are the top 10 most beautiful beaches in Malaysia. Once your Malaysia tourist visa is ready, be sure to have them all on your itinerary.

FAQ’s About Malaysian Beaches