5 Terengganu Islands You Won’t Regret Exploring [+ Why We Love Them!]
Malaysia is home to several beaches and islands that will make you feel like you’re in paradise, but what if we told you that a handful of them are clumped in one area? The place is Terengganu, and it’s the perfect island-hopping destination!
Whether you’re looking for thrilling water sports or laid-back experiences, you’re guaranteed to find what you’re looking for in the Terengganu Islands. Don’t book that ticket yet, though, as we’re here to tell you everything you need to know about these islands before visiting!
From activities you can try to the best places you can stay, we’ve covered everything to give you and your family the most memorable getaway. Let’s get started!
Perhentian Islands
– Media credit: perhentian.islands
The Perhentian Islands are among the most famous vacation spots in Malaysia due to their pristine condition and postcard-like appearance. It consists of two islands: Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil.
Besar is great if you’re visiting with family or you simply want to experience a nature retreat away from all the noise and enjoy a more laid-back experience. Meanwhile, Kecil is the party island, featuring beach bars and bonfires—perfect for friend groups and backpackers.
Due to its pristine waters, this place is frequented by diving enthusiasts to witness its vibrant coral reefs and diverse sea creatures, including sea turtles and reef sharks.
Pro tip:
If you’re on a slightly limited budget, you’re most likely to find affordable accommodations at Pulau Kecil, as it caters to backpackers. Take Sealife Inn Perhentian, for example.
Best Place to Stay – Perhentian Island Resort
– Media credit: perhentianislandresort
Address: Pulau Perhentian Besar
Contact: +60 3-2144 8530
Cost: $$$
The Perhentian Island Resort is among the premier places to stay because of its premium and spacious suites that come complete with modern hotel amenities. Furthermore, it’s located by the beachfront!
It also offers a wide array of rentals for their water sports, such as surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. If you’re looking for something more laid-back, you can also chill by their outdoor swimming pool!
Redang Island
– Media credit: redangislandresort
Pulau Redang is one of the most picturesque islands in Terengganu, with its powdery white sands and crystal clear teal waters. It looks straight out of a postcard, but trust us, it’s more than just a looker!
For starters, it’s a hotspot for diving and snorkelling because of its perfectly protected and preserved waters and coral reefs. Aside from fish and their colourful homes, however, you’ll also find that this area is teeming with cute turtles!
Another highlight in Redang Island is Long Beach, which is a long strip of pure sand that’s dotted with resorts, both affordable and luxurious. It’s the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, or simply sightseeing.
Pro tip:
If you’re planning on diving, we recommend visiting from April to October for the best weather and visibility underwater.
Best Place to Stay – The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort
– Media credit: thetaarasmalaysia
Address: Peti Surat 126
Contact: +60 9-630 8888
Cost: $$$
The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort is hands-down one of the best honeymoon destinations in Malaysia. It’s nestled in its own private beach, and it offers over a hundred stylish and luxurious suites that either overlook the cerulean waters or the garden.
Families are welcome here as well, as it features multiple villas that have their own swimming pools! Speaking of, the hotel also features a massive outdoor pool that overlooks the beach!
Lastly, the hotel also offers a wide array of recreational activities such as diving, snorkelling, kayaking, etc. If you’re feeling fancy, you can also opt for their yacht cruise or get a drink or two at their floating bar!
Kapas Island
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Kapas Island is one of the more underrated islands out of the bunch in Terengganu, and that’s part of its charm! It features fewer crowds, big resorts, bars, and restaurants, which is perfect for those who are looking to disconnect and enjoy an off-the-grid experience.
The island doesn’t fall short on activities to try as well, thanks to its five separate beaches and multiple trekking trails. Starting with its waters, they’re virtually untouched, so you can expect to encounter bustling marine life during snorkelling and diving.
You can also rent kayaks to explore the sea further. Meanwhile, if you want to test your cardio, you can hike towards Lion Hill, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of natural rock formations.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on the scuba diving experience here! Aside from bustling marine life, one of the highlights of this experience is a shipwreck that dates back to WWII!
Best Place to Stay – Kapas Coral Beach Resort
– Media credit: kapascoralbeachresort
Address: Lot 81, Mukim Rusila
Contact: +60 9-618 3166
Cost: $
Kapas Coral Beach Resort is a fantastic budget-friendly accommodation located along the shores of a pristine white sand beach. Even with its affordable price tag, however, the rooms don’t feel cheap, as they’re spacious, neat, and complete with amenities.
It also features a buffet-style restaurant that serves a wide array of local and international dishes. Of course, it’s also where you can try the freshest seafood on the island!
Lang Tengah Island
– Media credit: ewechoot
Lang Tengah Island is also a hidden gem, as the neighbouring Perhentian Islands often overshadow it. Still, it’s an island worth visiting for those who truly want a remote experience with untouched nature.
It has also become an “if you know, you know” among divers. This is because its few crowds and protected waters make it a haven for exploring its rich marine biodiversity.
Also, since it features far fewer resorts compared to other islands, it immediately gives off a more private feeling of a getaway. One of the biggest highlights, however, happens at nighttime during the blue tears phenomenon.
Pro tip:
Make sure to bring cash, as there are no ATMs available on the island.
Best Place to Stay – Summer Bay Lang Tengah Island Resort
– Media credit: princeng
Address: Lot 52, Lang Tengah Island
Contact: +60 19-934 4666
Summer Bay Lang Tengah Island Resort ticks all of the boxes you’d want from a beachside resort, from lavish suites to amazing dining options, and world-class facilities. Starting with the rooms, they’re impressively spacious and feature modern hotel-like amenities.
We also love how the resort is a one-stop shop for all water activities, offering experiences and rentals for kayaking, diving, fishing, snorkelling, and more. Also, since it’s located by the beachfront, you’ll have the luxury of accessing the sea anytime you want!
As for dining options, the resort features multiple laid-back cafes, restaurants, and a mamak stall where you can enjoy some of Malay cuisine’s famous comfort food. If you’re looking for the ultimate chill vibe, we recommend grabbing your favourite coffee at the Seaview Cafe.
Tenggol Island
– Media credit: tenggolcoralbeachresort
Tenggol Island is a quiet patch of land off the coast of Kuala Dungun and is considered by many as the best-kept secret of Terengganu. It replaces big resorts and nightlife hubs with untouched nature and protected diving spots.
These dive sites offer a combination of coral walls and schools of fish, ranging from clownfish to butterflyfish, angelfish, and more. You may also come across large species like reef sharks and stingrays.
The beaches of Tenggol are also well-protected, with multiple trees and vegetation found throughout the land. Plus, the shallow and calm waters make for the best swimming conditions.
Pro tip:
If you’re an experienced diver who wants a bit of a challenge, we recommend choosing Tokong Timur as your dive site. It features strong currents that are perfect for drift diving or underwater flying.
Best Place to Stay – Tenggol Coral Beach Resort
– Media credit: lengyein
Address: Tenggol Island
Contact: +60 3-4251 8332
Tenggol Coral Beach Resort ditches traditional hotel rooms in place of charming chalets, which are more appropriate for the rustic and untouched setting of the island. Don’t be fooled, though, as these chalets are as modern as suites, as they come with complete amenities!
It’s also a diving resort, so you can book your experiences straight from their lobby! Plus, you’ll be in good hands, as all of their instructors are PADI certified.
Lastly, the resort also features an outdoor swimming pool for those who just want to relax by the beach.