Spilling the Beans About Malaysia’s 7 Secret Islands (That You ABSOLUTELY Must See!)
When it comes to finding Malaysia’s most beautiful beaches, the best thing you could do is go island hopping. These islands house some of the most pristine beach fronts in the country, featuring beautiful cerulean waters and pure white sand.
The question is, however, which islands should you start your journey in? Well, since you were kind enough to click on our blog, we’ll let you in on some secrets.
More specifically, we’re here to highlight some of Malaysia’s “secret” islands that you wouldn’t typically find in brochures and travel guides. We’ll highlight everything you can expect from each of them, from activities to sights and more, so read on!
Pulau Rawa
Media credit: rawaislandresort
Things to do: Snorkelling, kayaking, jungle trekking
Location
We still can’t wrap our heads around how Pulau Rawa is ignored by tourists because it’s one of the most pristine islands of the Malaysian peninsula. We’re not complaining though, as it makes it a great private getaway destination—perfect for honeymooners!
It’s a great option for families as well, as it offers various fun activities that people of all ages can enjoy. For instance, you can meet beautiful sea creatures and admire their breathtaking coral homes through snorkelling!
If that’s not enough nature for your heart’s desire, you can also go trek the island’s jungle! Here, you’ll get to experience a total disconnect from civilisation and be surrounded by beautiful lush vegetation throughout your journey.
Pro tip:
Since the Pulau Wawang is more exclusive compared to other islands, it’s best to arrange your stay with one of the resorts. They’ll arrange everything for you including the jetty transfer from Mersing to the island itself.
Pulau Gemia
Media credit: wanderlus.tinus
Things to do: Snorkelling, scuba diving, swimming, sunbathing
Location
Pulau Gemia is often overshadowed by its larger neighbouring island, Pulau Kapas. It truly is a shame, as tourists are missing out on some of the most pristine beaches we’ve seen in Malaysia thanks to Gemia Island’s untouched nature.
Furthermore, being overshadowed by the aforementioned island gives a more secluded vibe that couples will surely appreciate. Additionally, there’s only one resort on the island so you won’t encounter crowdedness ruining your precious alone time with your loved ones.
As for activities, the main highlight here is snorkelling thanks to the healthy marine life that surrounds the island. If you want to be even closer to the friendly sea creatures, you can also choose to scuba dive for an additional cost.
Pro tip:
We recommend treating Pulau Gemia as a side trip destination for your island hopping experience as opposed to choosing it for your overnight accommodation. The neighbouring Kapas Island offers more resorts for different budget types.
Pulau Pom Pom
Media credit: pompomislandresort
Things to do: Snorkelling, swimming, sunbathing, turtle watching
Location
Pulau Pom Pom is a living testament to why Sabah is one of the best beach destinations in Malaysia. The island epitomises a beach getaway, featuring beautiful cerulean waters, pure sands, breathtaking views and a bustling marine life.
You’ll be in awe of the 500 different species of corals surrounding the island and its marine life inhabitants. Luckily for you, there’s a PADI Dive Centre on the island so you can admire these beautiful sea creatures up close without worrying about safety!
The island is also home to a conservation centre that features a turtle nesting site and if you’re lucky, you can witness baby turtles being born! Furthermore, this centre is responsible for restoring the reefs as well as conserving the marine life surrounding the island.
Pro tip:
Book a stay at the Pom Pom Island Resort if you want to experience a luxurious overnight stay. It features both beach and water villas, the latter of which are built on stilts so you can have the view of the majestic view of the glistening sea 24/7.
Pulau Tinggi
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Things to do: Kayaking, jungle trekking, snorkelling, badminton
Location
Pulau Tinggi caters to both laid-back and adventurous tourists. For starters, it offers beautiful beachfront resorts that give you 24/7 access to the sea where you can go swimming and kayaking anytime you want!
One of the things that makes Pulau Tinggi special is that it houses the only extinct volcano in the entire Peninsular Malaysia. What’s even better is that you can climb its peak and get a majestic 360-degree view of the island and its surrounding waters.
There are also various jungle trekking trails that you can follow to be at one with nature and enjoy the beautiful natural landscapes. If that’s not enough to satisfy the adventurous fire in you, there are also various underwater cave systems that you can explore!
Pro tip:
If you love to go fishing, you can request a charter boat ride with your resort! They’ll provide you with everything you need from the fishing rods down to the baits you need to get the best catches!
Pulau Tenggol
Media credit: bakizainal
Things to do: Snorkelling, scuba diving, island hopping, sunbathing, beach volleyball
Location
Pulau Tenggol may still be a mystery for newbies but it’s long been a premier diving destination for enthusiasts around the world. It comes as no surprise though, as the waters surrounding this island are home to hundreds of colourful coral types as well as different species of fish.
Meanwhile, if you prefer to stay closer to the shore, you can try your hand at snorkelling. Granted that you won’t get to see stingrays and sharks as you would with diving, it’s still a great way to observe the bustling marine life.
Lastly, you can’t go wrong with simply spending time by the beaches of this island and sunbathing or swimming for the ultimate relaxation experience. There’s even a beach volleyball court if you want to try something active!
Pro tip:
If you’re looking to stay overnight on the island, the best place to choose is Tenggol Coral Beach Resort. Aside from offering high-quality beachfront rooms, they can also arrange different activities such as scuba diving!
Pulau Aur
Media credit: scubaace
Things to do: Snorkelling, scuba diving, island hopping, coastal hiking
Location
As with other pristine islands on this list, the premier activity in Pulau Air is scuba diving and it’s partly because of its mostly untouched nature. This secluded island features crystal-clear waters that will let you admire its reefs and their respective inhabitants without any obstruction.
The island also features a lush forest that’s great to explore if you want to experience an unspoiled paradise like no other. Furthermore, you’ll also be in awe of the beautiful rock formations scattered across the island!
Pulau Aur’s resorts will also allow you to arrange sport fishing trips, which is one of the most therapeutic things you can do in the open waters.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the opportunity to stop by Dayang Island during your visit to Pulau Aur! It’s a quick boat ride away and it’s most likely included in an island hopping package.
Pulau Kapas
Media credit: lacalledecerca
Things to do: Snorkelling, stargazing, kayaking, diving, turtle spotting
Location
Pulau Kapas should be on your radar if you love water activities. For starters, it features numerous spots that are great for snorkelling and diving—plus, the waters are crystal clear so you’ll get full visibility!
Meanwhile, if you want to get away from all the tourists, you can rent a kayak with a plus one and explore the surrounding waters of the island! The same effect can be achieved if you explore the jungles.
When in doubt, you can always chill by the beach and watch the sunset bleed over the horizon. If you’re lucky enough, you can even see some turtles swimming around the beaches!
Pro tip:
If you’re looking for a more secluded stay on the island, we recommend choosing Kapas Turtle Valley Chalets. It’s tucked away from the main beach while still offering an accessible location.