10 Best Beach Holidays In Malaysia - Updated 2024

beach holidays in malaysia
Richard Dean
Richard Dean 
Updated
| 5 min read

Malaysia consists of 878 archipelagos and islands, which means magnificent beaches are easy to find. It’s not surprising why a lot of beach lovers choose to include Malaysia on their bucket list. With its natural beauty, friendly locals, unique accommodation, wildlife - this paradise is nothing short of splendid. Pahang and Penang offer relaxation under the sun. Langkawi and Labuan present an exciting and exceptional diving experience. There’s more on our list. Whether you are a beach lover or not, it is easy to fall in love with Malaysia’s water. Read this article and explore the best beach holidays in Malaysia.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) host status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on March 28, 2024.

1. Tanjung Rhu (from USD 552)

Tanjung Rhu, Langkawi
Source: Photo by user Dean Bromley used under CC BY 2.0

Another Malaysian gem that must be on your bucket list is Tanjung Rhu. Serene, crystal clear water, fine sand - in other words, this paradise is perfect for your Instagram stories. Kidding aside, here, all day is filled with adventure - water sports, catching the sunset, reading a good book on a beach lounger, or eating mee gulung (locals’ favorite). Complete your escapade by staying at Four Seasons Resort Langkawi! This resort is a combination of traditional and modern comforts, plus excellent service and hospitality. It features amazing pavilions, villas, a spa, restaurants, and a bar.

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Four Seasons Resort Langkawi

Wifi Available

Address: Jalan Tanjung Rhu, Langkawi
627.84 km (390.2 mi) from Pusat Taman Laut Tioman

Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court Fitness centre

2. Penang (from USD 69)

Hands down to Penang! Situated in northwest Malaysia, Penang takes pride in giving you the best experience ever. In here, Batu Ferringhi Beach is one of the top picks of water sport enthusiasts. Parasailing is the name of the game of this place. Why not experience it for yourself? On a remote and secluded location, Kerachut Beach is waiting for you. If you love green turtles, you surely don’t want to miss this beach. On the other hand, Golden Sands Resort by Shangri-La will help you achieve your Penang adventure to the fullest. It boasts a mini waterpark, three gorgeous outdoor pools, two slides, and one whirlpool. This is a four-star resort packed with everything you need.

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Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: Jalan Batu Feringgi
523.88 km (325.6 mi) from Pusat Taman Laut Tioman

Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court Fitness centre

3. Perhentian Island (from USD 337)

Perhentian Island Malaysia - panoramio
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Tabraiz Feham used under CC BY 3.0

In Besut District, you will find another gem in Malaysia - the Perhentian Island. It boasts two main islands, the Perhentian Kecil (“Lesser Perhentian”) and Perhentian Besar (“Greater Perhentian”). Both islands are blessed with natural beauty, gorgeous turquoise water, fine sand, water activities, to name a few. If you love to party and meet new friends, Long Beach in Perhentian Kecil is the place to be. The beach is known for nightlife and happy hour. Luckily, Bubu Resort, which is located along Long Beach, is here to keep you upbeat. This is a beachfront accommodation which boasts plenty of recreational activities and two superb dining options.

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Bubu Resort

Wifi Available

Address: Long Beach, Perhentian island
378.58 km (235.3 mi) from Pusat Taman Laut Tioman

Restaurant Room service Bar Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Airport shuttle Fishing

4. Labuan (from USD 181)

Tanjung Kubong Lighthouse, Labuan
Source: Photo by user Jason Thien used under CC BY 2.0

Indeed, Labuan is popular for duty-free shopping and for being a financial center in Southeast Asia. But soon, you’ll discover that the real drawcard here is its natural beauty, which promises a blasting adventure. Labuan Island boasts unspoiled beaches, World War II military attractions, and shipwrecks diving, which makes Labuan the most sought-after destination in Borneo. It’s now time to unfold each wreck’s story (American Wrecks, Blue Water, Cement, and Australian). After an exhausting escapade, Tiara Labuan is your refuge. It features great rooms, a fitness center, a restaurant, and a bar, plus the service is outstanding.

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Tiara Labuan Hotel

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: Jalan Tanjung Batu, P.O.Box 80537 F.T
1260.61 km (783.4 mi) from Pusat Taman Laut Tioman

Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Sauna Fitness centre

5. Sabah (from USD 123)

Labuan Ferry Cruising Off Borneo
Source: Photo by user Jason Thien used under CC BY 2.0

The northern part of Borneo should never be missed, all thanks to Sabah - a tourist destination that has plenty of surprises. Coral reefs, rich wildlife, rainforest, pristine beaches - everything you are looking for adventure is here. In here, Sipadan Island promises superb diving experience. Meanwhile, Tanjung Aru Beach is great for lovers - this area is famous for sunsets. To experience all of these, finding a convenient and comfortable accommodation is the key. Don’t look further! The Magellan Sutera offers modern suites and everything you need. If you love golf, Sutera Harbour Golf & Country Club is within reach.

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The Magellan Sutera Resort

Wifi Available

Address: No 1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard
1364.36 km (847.8 mi) from Pusat Taman Laut Tioman

Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court Sauna

6. Redang Island (from USD 418)

Redang Island, Malaysia
Source: Photo by user projectNADA used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Featuring pristine waters and white sandy beaches, Redang Island is another treasure in Kuala Nerus District. It is one of the biggest and beautiful islands in Peninsular Malaysia’s east coast. If you love diving and snorkeling, Coral Beach is the place you should head to. It presents turquoise waters and plenty of tropical fish. Meanwhile, The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort will surely add to your memorable experience. It is a luxurious resort, which offers superb service, modern suites, four dining options, and a lovely swimming pool.

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The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort

Wifi Available

Address: C-O Lot GL-04 Lapangan Terbang Sultan Mahmud
351.88 km (218.7 mi) from Pusat Taman Laut Tioman

Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court Fitness centre Garden

7. Sarawak (from USD 58)

Similajau National Park, Golden Beach, Borneo
Source: Photo by user Paul White used under CC BY 2.0

Experience nature at its finest only at Sarawak. This Malaysian state on Borneo extends along the northwest coast island, including plenty of beautiful beaches on the South China Sea. Mangrove river cruises, water sports, wildlife adventure - everything in Sarawak promises a great adventure for all. Beach lovers will probably go to the Golden Beach. The golden-hued sand of this beach is spectacular, combined with clear water and warm sun. Damai Beach, on the other hand, offers spectacular views over Santubong mountain. Meanwhile, The Culvert is a great choice for accommodation, which offers convenience and comfort at the same time. It features great rooms, a restaurant, a fitness center, and an outdoor swimming pool.

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The Culvert

Wifi Available

Address: Lot 285, Off Jalan Sultan Tengah, Block 2 Salak Land District
694.39 km (431.5 mi) from Pusat Taman Laut Tioman

Parking Restaurant Meeting/banquet facilities Bar Sauna Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Non-smoking rooms

8. Johor (from USD 98)

Pulau Rawa
Source: Photo by user Mohd Fazlin Mohd ... used under CC BY 2.0

Situated in the south of the Malay Peninsula, Johor (formerly Johore) boasts Rawa Island Beach - an enchanting coral-covered reef. The beach is blessed with white sand and crystal clear water, which is also a great spot for water sports like diving and snorkeling. Meanwhile, Forest City Phoenix Hotel is a great base to start your Johor escapade. It presents a lovely outdoor pool and a fitness center. It also encourages you to venture out as the LEGOLAND Malaysia and Sanrio Hello Kitty Town are just 11 km (6.84 mi) and 16 km (9.94 mi) away respectively.

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Forest City Marina Hotel

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: Jalan Forest City 1 Pulau Satu,
178.22 km (110.8 mi) from Pusat Taman Laut Tioman

Parking Restaurant Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Garden

9. Pahang (from USD 28)

Beach Pulau Tioman
Source: Photo by user Theo Crazzolara used under CC BY 2.0

Another treasure that should not be missed is Pahang, which is Peninsular Malaysia’s biggest state. Everything you are looking for a wonderful vacation is already here. It features plenty of outstanding beaches - Balok Beach is popular for its crystal clear blue seas, Chendor Beach is a great spot for windsurfing, and Lanjut Beach is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Pahang is also the home of tons of entertainment establishments and recreation activities. If you want to experience all that Pahang has to offer, TIOMAN Zaidi is here for you. It is a one-star accommodation, which offers comfort and convenience. All air-conditioned rooms come with a balcony - the best spot to enjoy your breakfast.

Stayed at this property?

TIOMAN zaidi

Wifi Available

Address: kampung genting pulau tioman kampung genting pulau tioman
8.64 km (5.4 mi) from Pusat Taman Laut Tioman

Restaurant Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Terrace Family rooms Internet services Spa and wellness centre Massage

10. Langkawi (from USD 81)

Langkawi
Source: Photo by user Mohd Fazlin Mohd ... used under CC BY 2.0

Nightlife, culinary reward, a fantastic beach experience - that’s only a fraction of what you can get in Langkawi. Known as the “Jewel of Kedah”, this paradise is a combination of outstanding jungle-clad hills, scenic paddy fields, and beautiful shoreline with powder-fine sand. This island is recommended also for diving and holiday opportunities. Pantai Cenang is a great starting point to visit the rest of Langkawi’s beauties. Here, you can watch the breathtaking sunset while drinking tax-free beers. It’s now time to experience the best of Langkawi with The Andaman, a Luxury Collection Resort. This is a fantastic resort with a private beach situated in the rainforest. It features a lagoon-style outdoor pool and six eateries.

Stayed at this property?

The Andaman, a Luxury Collection Resort, Langkawi

Address: P.O.Box 94, Jalan Teluk Datai, Pulau Andaman
637.9 km (396.4 mi) from Pusat Taman Laut Tioman

Snack bar Daily housekeeping Garden Spa and wellness centre Barber/beauty shop Free WiFi Laundry Valet parking

Best beach experience in Malaysia

Perhentian Besar, Malaysia, Tropical beach
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Vyacheslav Argenberg used under CC BY 4.0

With plenty of islands and archipelagos in Malaysia - there’s no shortage of water adventure and fun under the sun. Pristine beaches, white sand, coconut trees - that’s the game here. Luckily, we have a list of the best beach holidays in this paradise.

Stayed at this property?
Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Richard, a writer and traveler, is also passionate about biking. When not immersed in bike parts or computers, he can be found at the market, hunting for ingredients to fuel his love for...Read more

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