Tucked away in the northwestern part of Malaysia, Penang is a wonderful state characterized by ornate temples and soft sandy beaches. These make it one of the most popular destinations for religious pilgrimage and beach vacations in the country. One of the most iconic landmarks in the state is Penang Hill, which offers a mountainous park with panoramic views and hiking trails, and there are lots of other things you can do alone. Penang National Park is a popular attraction, featuring a canopy walkway and pristine beaches such as Pantai Kerachut, Monkey Beach, and Teluk Kampi. If you are planning to visit and want to be near the water, check out the top beach resorts in Penang, Malaysia.
Upcoming events in George Town
George Town is the capital of Penang and hosts many important festivals. The multicultural city is home to a significant Chinese and Indian diaspora and is also home to a bustling culture of art, which trickles down to its traditions and celebrations. Here are a few events that piqued my interest:
Hungry Ghost Festival: Popular all across Penang, the Hungry Ghost Festival is celebrated according to the Chinese calendar and is particularly important to those of the Buddhist faith. Customs revolve around the appeasement of ancestor spirits through offerings of food, entertainment, and prayers. In George Town and many other places, temporary stages are built where Chinese opera performances and music concerts are held. Make sure to check out the Clan Jetties on Pengkalan Weld in George Town during the festival! It is usually held in the month of August.
George Town Festival: Coinciding with George Town World Heritage Day, the George Town Festival is held in celebration of the city’s cultural and artistic drive and heritage. The festival invites collaboration from local and international artists, and it’s a great time to visit the city if you’re an art enthusiast. George Town Festival is typically hosted in the month of July.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) 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 April 12, 2024.
Beach life in Penang, Malaysia
As a state made up mostly of an island, Penang promises many beautiful beaches. Batu Ferringhi Beach is perhaps the state’s most popular beach and offers watersports and horse riding opportunities. Batu Feringghi Night Market is situated right by the beach, so you’ll have plenty to do even after the sun sets. However, if you want to get away from the urban chaos, you might prefer the shores of Penang National Park. Pantai Keracut and Monkey Beach are popular options here but you might need to hike or boat across the national park to get to these tranquil shores.
Penang’s seafood scene is exemplary, and George Town is the best place to experience its diverse culinary traditions. I’d love to try out Hokkien mee if I ever get down here, and Penang’s version of the dish has fried shallots and spicy prawns beside the pork and prawn soup base. Make sure to try out Penang rojak as well!
Rains arrive in Penang with the Southwest Monsoon which extends from April to September, so it would be best to avoid taking a beach vacation in these months. It is the warmest in January and February, and you can also catch the Chinese New Year if you visit during this time.
Beach resorts in Penang, Malaysia
1. PARKROYAL Penang Resort, Batu Ferringhi (from USD 156)
Situated in front of Batu Ferringhi Beach, PARKROYAL Penang Resort boasts a romantic tropical vibe and fantastic views. It features beautifully decorated contemporary rooms with an LED TV, in-room movies, and coffee-making facilities.
The property also offers a lovely tropical garden with two swimming pools, a water slide, sun loungers, and umbrellas. Kids can have fun in the indoor play area while adults engage in board games. Families can also enjoy bonding time while playing in the games room.
If I’m ever staying here, I’d love to check out the nearby Batu Ferringhi Iron Waterfall, situated just a 20-minute drive from PARKROYAL Penang Resort.
- What's special: St. Gregory spa will elevate your stay with treatments such as traditional Malay massages, balneotherapy, and Balinese massages.
- Nearest beach: Batu Ferringhi Beach is situated just behind the resort.
- Beach access: Public
- Beach amenities: Sun loungers, parasols, watersports facilities, and horse riding.
- Suggested room/unit: Francis Light Suite is great for those who prefer a luxurious experience, and the suite has a large balcony with views of the sea.
- Activities/tours: If you crave something other than lounging in the pool or exploring the beach, you can head out on a fun tour of some of the other beaches in the area.
- Ideal for: Families will love it here with the resort's splash park and special child-friendly packages. Curated packages are also on offer for couples.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Close proximity to the beach, loads to do for kids (Amazonia splash pool, kids club), comfortable room with strong A/C, nice Italian restaurant" - Yan (Malaysia)
PARKROYAL Penang Resort
Address: Batu Ferringhi Beach
4.42 km (2.8 mi) from Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
2. Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang, Batu Ferringhi (from USD 145)
Bring your family to Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang, for a thrilling beachside escapade. This lovely 4-star resort offers excellent family-friendly amenities, including three outdoor pools, a mini waterpark, two water slides, and a whirlpool, and guarantees a perfect staycation.
The resort is on the iconic Batu Ferringhi Beach, where you can spend your afternoons basking on the sand or swimming in the turquoise waters. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to help you have a relaxing time on the sand.
- What's special: The property has a nine-hole golf course with a practice area and reception where you can store your equipment.
- Nearest beach: The resort is situated on Batu Ferringhi Beach.
- Beach access: Public
- Beach amenities: Sun loungers, parasols, watersports, and horse riding.
- Suggested rooms/units: The Executive Seaview Room option has a balcony that offers views of the pool and sea. If you're traveling with a large group, you can opt for one of the connecting rooms.
- Activities/tours: Weekly scheduled activities such as yoga, floaties races, water volleyball, and croquet are held at the resort.
- Ideal for: With the resort's splash zone, kids' club, and adventure zone, the children will have an unforgettable vacation.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Good place to relax and enjoyed the pool. Location on beach very good." - Douglas (United Kingdom)
Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang
Address: Jalan Batu Feringgi
5.13 km (3.2 mi) from Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
Penang Tour Guide
Ang Chin Boon
Hello...I am ANG. Licenced Tourist Guide by Ministry of Tourism Malaysia. I was born and raised in George Town, Penang. I just love Guiding !I have been actively doing guiding all these years. Drive my guests to interesting places in Penang Island, Sharing my knowledges & experiences of George Town. I wish their trip becomes story worth sharing.Will you be one of my esteemed guests ?
Tours by Ang
Penang Tour Guide
Vincent Fong
I am a licensed tourist guide of Malaysia specialising in the English language, though I am also able to communicate in the Chinese dialects of Mandarin, Cantonese, Taishanese, Hokkien and my country's national language of Malay. I do all tours inbound of Penang island such as walking tours, food tours, drive tours, historical tours, hill & temples, etc. I am a tourist guide with passion an... Read more
Tours by Vincent
Penang Tour Guide
Hon Seng Phuah
Hello. I am Hon Seng Phuah from Penang. I am a freelance tourist guide since 2013. My tour service includes Penang around island and George Town heritage walking tours. You may experience the Penang multi-culture and best foods like Penang assam laksa, nyonya cuisine, nasi kandar and to name a few, traditional business activities, colonial buildings, modern living city and last least the greene... Read more
Tours by Hon seng
Penang Tour Guide
Jenny Wan Kim Lim
Hi, I'm Jenny! I love showing people around Taiwan and Malaysia. I grew up in Penang and spend a lot of time in Tainan too. For the past few years, I've been a licensed tour guide for these 2 countries , sharing my passion for exploring. Being a guide isn't just a job to me, it's what I love doing. I enjoy finding hidden spots, introducing you to tasty local food, and making sure you have amazi... Read more
Tours by Jenny wan kim
Penang Tour Guide
Beth Chong
My interest in travel started from childhood and when I was a teenager, I went for my first solo backpacking trip to Paris and London. It resulted in my working in the Tourism Industry and eventually becoming a nationally licensed Tourist Guide of Malaysia. I managed to go to almost to every corner of my country and now, have become a trainer of Tourist Guides imparting knowledge and experience... Read more
3. DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Penang, Batu Ferringhi (from USD 65)
Staycation Your Way at DoubleTree Resort PenangHave the perfect getaway your way, with your soul mate and create happy memories together! : @anerlyfang
Posted by DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Penang on Friday, April 22, 2022
Make reservations at DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Penang for a memorable beach escape in Batu Ferringhi. This property is a majestic 5-star resort situated near Miami Beach. Guests will have access to two outdoor pools, one for kids with pool toys. Kids can enjoy delicious meals and buffets in the on-site restaurant.
There is a wellness center that offers body therapies and beauty services, and you can stay active at the on-site fitness center.
- What's special: The property offers unique amenities to appeal to children such as the splash pool, game room, and teddy bear museum.
- Nearest beach: Miami Beach is right across the street from the property.
- Beach access: Public
- Suggested rooms/units: The Presidential Suite is the most luxurious option you can get here and has a balcony fitted with a bathtub. If you're traveling just with your partner, it might be best to opt for the King Suite with a balcony and bathtub.
- Activities/tours: If the children get tired of the splash pool, you can take the whole family out on a guided private tour.
- Ideal for: With the resort's delightful child-friendly amenities, a fun family vacation is guaranteed.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Breakfast was amazing... staff were friendly and location was good. Very easy to get a taxi there. Beach access was easy via a bridge across the highway..." - Imraan (South Africa)
DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Penang
Address: 56 Jalan Low Yat
6.89 km (4.3 mi) from Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
4. The Bayview Beach Resort, Batu Ferringhi (from USD 55)
Reasonably priced dining and amenities, but breakfast is expensive compared to local options.
Multiple pools, private beach access, well-stocked hotel shop, and convenient car parking.
Convenient access to the beach, local eateries, and tourist shopping areas, but a bit far from the night market.
Good variety at breakfast and dinner, but pricey compared to nearby dining options.
Set right on Batu Ferringhi Beach, this is a splendid place to bring your significant other for a romantic getaway. You can enjoy romantic sundowners on your private balcony admiring the stunning views of the sea and hills. Surprise your sweetheart with a bottle of champagne for an additional charge.
The Bayview Beach Resort features live music and an on-site spa for entertainment and relaxation.
- What's special: The resort has a watersports center that organizes jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing.
- Nearest beach: The property is right beside Batu Ferringhi Beach.
- Beach access: Public
- Beach amenities: Sun loungers, parasols, watersports, and horse riding.
- Suggested rooms/units: The four-bedroom penthouse has exceptional; views of the sea from the large balcony and is perfect for housing groups. The Seaview Suite option is perfect if you're traveling with your partner.
- Activities/tours: Besides the watersports center, the property also offers a kids' play area.
- Ideal for: With its spa, outdoor hot tubs, and massage huts, the resort is the perfect place for couples to unwind. With the many activities and child-friendly amenities, families can also have a great time here.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "It’s a lovely hotel on the beach but close to local amenities. The staff are very friendly and courteous and the service was excellent." - Howes (United Kingdom)
The Bayview Beach Resort
Address: Batu Ferringhi Beach
3.59 km (2.3 mi) from Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
5. Hard Rock Hotel Penang, Batu Ferringhi (from USD 172)
Reasonable pricing for Roxity suite at around 2400 for 4 days 3 nights.
Great facilities for kids and families, including a large pool with slides and kids' activities.
Beautiful location with ocean-facing rooms, near the beach and national park, and a short walk to town for restaurants.
Buffet breakfast with many options, great fish buffet on Saturday nights, and enjoyable Hard Rock Cafe entertainment.
Beach lovers will be thrilled to stay at Hard Rock Hotel Penang. This is an excellent 5-star establishment sprawled on Batu Ferringhi Beach, offering you unfettered access to the white sand and turquoise waters. ESCAPE Penang is a fun theme park that I’d love to check out, and it’s within a 10-minute drive of Hard Rock Hotel Penang.
The property boasts a stunning outdoor pool, water slides, and luxurious poolside cabanas for the ultimate water experience. There are elegant guest rooms with designer furnishings, a 50-inch LED TV, and free HD blockbuster movies. Free Wi-Fi is also available.
- What's special: As the name suggests, everything about this resort is Rock music themed, and you can get your own Fender® guitar or dabble in DJing at the property. Live music shows are also organized on Fridays and Saturdays at Hard Rock Cafe Penang.
- Nearest beach: Batu Ferringhi Beach is right by the resort.
- Beach access: Public
- Beach amenities: Sun loungers, parasols, watersports, and horse riding.
- Suggested rooms/units: The Seaview Studio Suite offers great views of the sea from the balcony. If you want something more luxurious, there's the Rock Star Suite and King Suite for you to choose from.
- Activities/tours: The resort's live entertainment shows will entice you to stay indoors, however, if you want to head outdoors, you can opt for a tour of the city's attractions.
- Ideal for: With teens', kids', and infants' clubs, the resort ensures a fun stay for everyone. Couples can also have fun here with the romantic getaway packages on offer here.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "We loved being on the beach and the water slides were a lot of fun for our 2 young children. The room was also spacious and comfortable. The staff were lovely and friendly." - Praks (UAE)
Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Address: Batu Ferringhi Beach
3.71 km (2.4 mi) from Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
6. Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang, Batu Ferringhi (from USD 164)
Good value for money with complimentary extras like afternoon tea and cocktail hour.
Beautifully maintained grounds, large pool area, and private beach access.
Convenient proximity to Batu Ferringhi Beach and local attractions, but slightly isolated from Georgetown.
Generous and diverse breakfast spread, with some areas for improvement in dinner options and service.
Are you planning to take your loved ones to Penang for a beach holiday? Shangri-La Rasa Sayang can be a great place to set up camp. This is a gorgeous 5-star resort situated a few steps from the popular Batu Ferringhi Beach.
Set on 30 acres (12.1 hectares) of tropical gardens, the property comes with two outdoor pools, a picnic area, and a sun terrace. You can unwind on the outdoor furniture admiring the towering seafront palms.
- What's special: The Spice Market Café themed buffets are bound to make you keep coming back for more, and beyond offering local and international favorites, the eatery has seafood live cooking displays.
- Nearest beach: The property opens to Batu Ferringhi Beach.
- Beach access: Public
- Beach amenities: Sun loungers, parasols, watersports, and horse riding.
- Suggested room/unit: For brilliant sea views, you can opt for the Rasa Wing Premier Suite with a balcony that faces the waters.
- Activities/tours: The property schedules regular daily activities such as golf putting competitions, cooking demonstrations, and water volleyball.
- Ideal for: With the kids' club and adventure zone, the resort will be a paradise for families. Couples can also have a great time with the resort's romantic accommodations, spa, and culinary offerings.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Relaxing at the beach was beyond amazing with the provided relax chairs and beach view. We were truly refreshed after our relaxing stay!" - Bryan (Netherlands)
Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang
Address: Jalan Batu Feringgi
5.58 km (3.5 mi) from Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
7. Lone Pine, Penang, a Tribute Portfolio Resort, Batu Ferringhi (from USD 101)
Reasonable pricing for spacious rooms and beachfront location.
Well-maintained amenities, spacious rooms, and serene garden space.
Strategic location close to the beach and markets, providing a tranquil atmosphere.
Varied breakfast options, though some areas for improvement in food choices and cleanliness.
The rooms at Lone Pine, Penang, a Tribute Portfolio Resort come with a private balcony for you to unwind, enjoy the fresh sea breeze, and marvel at spectacular sea views. During your free time, you can take your sweetheart for a romantic stroll at Batu Ferringhi Beach, which is just a few steps away. What gets me excited is that the resort is within a short walk of Batu Feringghi Night Market, and I’d certainly book here just to stay close to the iconic attraction.
After dining in The Bungalow, hop on one of the hammocks and enjoy a peaceful siesta. You can also take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool.
- What's special: The large pool will be a great place to unwind for the guests.
- Nearest beach: Batu Ferringhi Beach is right by the property.
- Beach access: Public
- Beach amenities: Sun loungers, parasols, watersports, and horse riding.
- Suggested room/unit: Opt for the Premier Suite if you want luxury as well as sea views.
- Activities/tours: If the on-site restaurant isn't enough to sate your cravings, you can book a culinary walking tour of George Town.
- Ideal for: The property is perfect for couples, especially with the in-room decoration package that can make the rooms even more romantic.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "The overall location is excellent, with the beach and pine trees! Breakfast is good! The game facilities are also excellent!" - Bee (Malaysia)
Lone Pine, Penang, a Tribute Portfolio Resort
Address: 97, Jalan Batu Ferringhi
5.01 km (3.2 mi) from Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
8. Mercure Penang Beach, George Town (from USD 58)
Water sports enthusiasts will love the proximity of Mercure Penang Beach to the shore. This is a trendy resort that puts you within walking distance of the water. Those who wish to enjoy a personalized view can book a room or a suite with ocean views.
What makes this resort a fantastic option for travelers is its convenient location in George Town and 4-star amenities. Top features include the tour desk, outdoor pool, and fitness center.
- What's special: The 24-hour gym makes it great for fitness enthusiasts.
- Beach amenities: Sun loungers
- Suggested room/unit: The Superior Suite option offers a great view of the sea and can accommodate a small family.
- Activities/tours: If you get bored with the pool, you can head on over to Rainbow Skywalk for mesmerizing views of the city.
- Ideal for: With the resort's romantic atmosphere and sleek eatery, couples will have a great time.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Strategic location I like how the entrance opens in both locations. The view is amazing. The beach is great. You can walk, play it is not closed also..." - Dhaffaf (Saudi Arabia)
Mercure Penang Beach
Address: 505, Jalan Tanjung Bungah
9.76 km (6.1 mi) from Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
9. Rainbow Paradise Beach Resort, George Town (from USD 45)
This 4-star resort offers suites with breathtaking sea views. Situated along Tanjung Bungah Beach, it’s a great place to enjoy quality time with your loved ones. You will have access to an outdoor pool, a tennis court, a kids’ playground, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
You can play a game of squash on the grounds or have a massage at the on-site spa. Free wireless internet connectivity and parking are free within the premises.
- What's special: The property's watersports center promises a fun vacation.
- Nearest beach: The property opens out to Tanjung Bungah Beach.
- Beach access: Public
- Beach amenities: Volleyball court, beach bar, and watersports.
- Suggested rooms/units: The Deluxe One Bedroom option offers a balcony that faces the sea, and it will be great for couples. Families and groups can opt for the Deluxe Two Bedroom options
- Activities/tours: With a watersports center, beach volleyball court, and leisure activities for adults and children, guests won't be bored here.
- Ideal for: Families and groups can have a great time here with the available leisure activities and recreational amenities.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "The room is just right; it has a nice view of the beach and the beach cafe is awesome" - Rikus (Brunei Darussalam)
Rainbow Paradise Beach Resort
Address: Jalan Tanjung Bungah
8.49 km (5.3 mi) from Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
Enjoy a splendid beach vacation in Penang
Penang is a charming state full of soft sandy beaches and balmy weather all year round, making it a fantastic destination in my book. For a thrilling water adventure, book one of the above beach resorts on this list.
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