Sarawak has a coastline that runs 700 km along the northwestern side of Borneo. A good place to begin discovering its beauty is Damai Beach, in Santubong. This vacation spot is embraced by the South China Sea and has majestic jungle-clad Mount Santubong as its backdrop.

Some of state’s best beach resorts located here include the Holiday Inn Damai Beach Resort, Holiday Inn Damai Lagoon, Santubong Kuching Resort and Permai Rainforest Resort. A short drive away from this beach is the Sarawak Cultural Village, aliving museum of the various ethnic cultures in the state.

Located 90 kilometres from Kuching are the pristine beaches of Siar, Semantan, Penyok, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Just a 30-minute boat ride away from Damai Beach are the Satang Besar and Satang Kecil islands, sanctuaries for green turtles. Day trips can be made to the Satang Besar Island with the permission of the Talang-Satang National park office.

Sarawak’s National Parks offers a host of adventures for eco-lovers. Tanjung Datu National park, at the western tip of Sarawak, has some of the state’s most beautiful beaches and vibrant coral life. Similajau National Park, in the northeast, features golden sandy beaches that face the South China Sea. In Bako National park, discover a sandy coastline that is ideal for swimming and sunset watching. Sightings of the long nosed proboscis monkey, a species unique Borneo will be a memorable experience.

On the northmost corner of Sarawak, the long starches of beaches in Miri are a popular weekend gateway. The Luak Bay and Hawaii Beach are among the well-known shore in Miri. Miri is dubbed the gateway to adventure as it is the take-off point to exciting destinations such as Mulu Caves, Niah Caves, Lambir Hills and Borneo Highlands.

Sabah is caressed by the South China Sea on its west and the Sulu Celebes seas on its eastern coastline.

Kota Kinabalu, Sabah’s capital offers top-notched properties such as Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort and the Sutera Harbour Resort and Spa. Both resorts offers spectacular views of the South China Sea and the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park islands. The Sutera Harbour Resort offers a full range of recreational facilities, including a golf course, marina and spa.

In the vicinity of the airport, the Tanjung Aru beach is a popular spot to watch the beautiful sunset and relax at the beachside cafes. Tanjung Aru is also the gateway to explore several of Sabah’s delightful attractions. Go on ride in the North Borneo tourist steam train and take in the scenic countryside.

A treasured marine heritage, the five islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park surrounded by extensive coral reefs. Its proximity to Kota Kinabalu makes it a popular playground for water sports enthusiasts, sun-seekers, swimmers, and snorkellers.

Just a 30-minute drive from Kota Kinabalu is the Nexus Karambunai, a fabulous resort offering six kilometres of soft sandy beach. Indulge in idyllic days of swimming and sauntering by the beach or try out exciting pastimes such as 18-hole par 72 course design by Ronald Fream. The Lagoon Park , a recreational centre situated 10 minutes away, abounds with thrills such as jet-skiing, kayaking, wake-boarding, mangrove cruises and sunset firefly cruises.

The Sangri-La Rasa Ria, located nearby, is a splendid gateway surrounded by 400 acres of lush tropical vegetation. An idyllic, white sandy beach stretched over three kilometres awaits swimmers, beachcombers and windsurfers, Guests can delight in kayaking, jet-skiing, banana boat rides and catamaran excursions, or enjoy a round of golf in the 18-hole championship golf course designed by Ted Parslow. For a glimpse of Borneo’s animal kingdom, visit the resort’s nature reserve which houses Orang Utan and deer.

For some privacy and seclusion, try the Paka Beach in Tuaran where a six-kilometer shoreline, hugged by coastal vegetation glitters invitingly. The glorious beach offers pristine nature with no intrusions of modernity. Delight in a picnic, take leisurely strolls along the shore or enjoy hours of swimming. The beach will also be an excellent retreat for sunbathing as it ensures a quiet environment.

En route, visit the Bajans, pamed as ‘Sea Gypses’ and enjoy a boat ride through the mangroves. For a trip to this beach, prior arrangements can be made with tour operator.

To the north of Sabah is Kudat Beach, where visitors can enjoy crystal-clear waters and picturesque scenery while visiting the Rungus tribe who live in longhouses.

For the exhilarating feeling of standing on land’s end, visit the Simpang Mengayan Bay, at the tip of Borneo. Located north of Kudat, this stretch of beach is excellent for swimming and to watch the sunrise and sunset.

Sabah has a host of captivating islands among which is Pulau Tiga park, better known as ‘Survivor Islands’, featured in the TV reality show ‘survivor’.

The islands of Layang Layang, Turtle Island, Mabul, Kapalai and Sipadan are outstanding dive sites in the region.

Labuan, known as the ‘International Garden Island of Borneo’, is a major destination as well as the site of several World War II memorials.

Redang, situated 45 kilometers off coast of Kuala Terengganu, is the largest of all Terengganu’s islands. From the very first glance, Redang will enchant visitors with its compelling beauty. Its incredibly azure waters fringed by white sand, against the backdrop of verdant jungle-clad hills make picture postcard views.

The island boasts two beautiful beaches, the Long Beach or locally known as Pasir Panjang, situated on the east coast and Teluk Dalam Kecil, a sheltered cove tucked away on the northest of the island. Teluk Dalam Kecil is the location of the Berjaya Redang Beach Resort, a five-star accommodation on the island.

Stretching over 800 m, Pasir Panjang is a dream come true for sun-seekers. Here, underneath the clear blue sky, one can spend hours by basking in the sun, or strolling by the beach and feel the sensation of soft sand sinking under the feet. The beach is lined by a number of resorts overlooking the sea, offering various styles of accommodation.

A myriad of surprises await beneath the bewitchingly blue sea. The waters teem with a wealth of marine life and corals, and the good visibility makes it ideal for snorkelling and diving. At The Marine Park Centre friendly wrasses, sergeant majors and breams swarm around snorkellers. Divers can look forward to thrilling encounters with black-tip sharks. Rare giant clams and hawksbill turtles too have sighted here.

Perhentian, another breathtaking island in the state, lies about 21 km off Terenggam’s coastline. Made up of two islands, Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil, they about with exciting activities for sun-seekers. The waters around Perhentian offer some of the best dive sites in the country. Fusiliers, Scorpionfish, Rabbitfish and Christmas Tree Worms are among the sights which will leave snorkellers spellbound.

Lang Tengah, a 30-minute boat ride from Redang, is one of the states’s best kept secrets. Located midway between the islands Tedang and Perhentian, its sparkling white sand and aquamarine waters are simply irresistible. The varieties of hard and soft corals and prolific marine life here make it a perfect destination for divers.

The smaller islands of Kapas and Tenggol are delightful gems for divers with their scenic beaches, underwater rock formations and plethora of marine life. Its mainland has several spots that feature scenic palm-lined beaches and luxurious resorts. The Awana Kijal Beach & Golf resort, Sutra Beach Resort and The Aryani charm visitors with their rustic architecture and impressive facilities.

Located 17 kilometers north of Kuantan, the capital of Pahang, Cherating is home to the world famous Club Med. A number of water sports such as catamaran sailing and kayaking can be enjoyed here. The excellent wind conditions in Cherating make it perfect windsurf and kite flying.

Hire a bicycle and explore the beach surroundings. Look out for small eateries by roadside selling inexpensive local favourites and interesting stalls selling souvenirs.

Experience the rustic and laid-back atmosphere at the Cherating Village and take home a handicraft or batik souvenir.

Chendor Beach just a few minutes from Cherating is a favourite spot for turtle watching. The turtle sanctuary here is where turtles come to lay eggs during the nesting period.

Nearer to the town of Kuantan are the beaches of Teluk Chempedak and Balok. Sailing, windsurfing and waterskiing can be enjoyed when wind and sea conditions are favourable. Beserah, less than ten minutes from Kuantan is a fishing village. An interesting sight here is water buffaloes on the beach transporting fish to the markets at certain times of the years.

Tioman is the largest and most developed of volcanic islands that form the Tioman Marine Park. According to legend, the island is the final resting place of a beautiful dragon princess. Till today, the island bears startling resemblance to a sleeping dragon.

A sense of peace tranquillity and simplicity embraces visitors upon arrival.

The waters around Tioman are ideal for a host of water sports activities, including swimming, boating, kayaking or windsurfing. Its warm water and good visibility make it a paradise for underwater explorations. Discover astounding sights such a colourful gorgonian sea fans, staghorn corals, nudibranchs and beautifully sculpture sea sponges. Marine life such as Napoleon fish, golden striped trevally, buphead parrotfish and shoals of fusiliers swim playfully in the depths.

Those without a strong affinity to water can still enjoy these sights in a glass-bottomed boat. Divers will enjoy trips to outlying islands as it provides opportunity to encounter harmless back-tip sharks, murray eels and other pelagic species.

For a touch of adventure, take a boat ride to Monkey Beach, or the uninhabited of Tulai and Renggis for swim and a picnic.

There are several villages scattered around the island’s coastline, the larger ones being Salang, Tekek, Genting, Paya and Juara. Each village offers a different atmosphere and will be unique experience to enjoy.

Salang, situated on the northest of the island, enjoys immense popularity for its crystal-clear waters and colourful corals close to the shoreline. Spend a day exploring the vibrant underwater gardens or enjoy a nap in a hammock while hearing the shooting sound of gentle waves. A stroll by the beach in the evenings will reward visitors with a spectacular view of the sun setting against the horizon.

Tekek, located midway on the island’s western coastline, has the longest stretch of beach on the island. This village is the gateway to Tioman by air and sea. It is also the closest village to the Berjaya Tioman beach on the island. This village is the gateway to Tioman by air and sea. It is also the closest village to the Berjaya Tioman Beach, Golf & Spa Resort, the island’s only five-star accommodation. The Genting village, further south of Tekek, is enveloped by a serene and rustic atmosphere. The tranquil beach boasts stretches of golden sand ideal for long strolls by the shore.

Juara, on the east coast of the island, is a secluded hide away boasting a wide beach with fine spots for swimming, sunbathing or camping. Marvellous views of sunrise can be seen from Juara.

The island’s southernmost village, Mukut, is surrounded by nature at its purest form. Towering against its skyline are Twin Peaks or Dragon’s Horns, an unmistakable landmark of the island.

In Desaru, you can enjoy thrilling adventures such as learning how to fly an ultra-light aircraft or take part in a go-kart race. Other forms of recreation include jungle trekking, horseback riding, archery and off-road adventures. Accommodation here includes hotels as well as budget chalets, dormitories and camping grounds.

The Desaru International Triathlon is held here annually. The Tanjung Balau Fishermen’s Museum, a few kilometres away, features exhibits on the lifestyle of the local fisherfolk.

Like a necklace of glittering jewels, the islands of Sibu, Rawa, Pemanggil, Aur, Tinggi, Besar, Tengah, Mensirip and Hujung lay nestled off johor’s eastern coast. They are accessible from Mersing, a charming coastal town and the jump-off point to the world-renowned Tioman Island.

Lush Vegetation and endless stretches of golden beaches characterise the Sibu Group of Islands. They are accessible from the Tanjung Leman jetty, 60 km from Mersing. The islands abound with water sports activities such as, snorkelling, windsurfing, sailing and kayaking. Opt for a visit to the nearby kelong, where anchovies are caught or head for the villages on the island of Sibu Besar to see how the natives live. For some adventure, hike through the jungle trails to unspoilt mangrove swamps.

The island of Rawa is perfect for snorkelling, kayaking, and windsurfing. Famed for its tall palm trees, white sand and secluded coves, this is the ideal gateway. Get close to the marine life as neon-coloured fish swim close to shore, right below the jetty and between your ankles! Rawa was among the earliest islands here to be developed as a tourist destination.

Pemanggil is the largest among the cluster of islands of johor. Squid fishing is an enjoyable seasonal sport here. Other popular activities are jungle trekking, snorkelling and diving.

The unspoilt island of Aur is the perfect dive destination. Encounters with pelagic including jacks, barracudas and black tip sharks are a big draw. The best time to dive is between April and October when the sea is calmer and visibility is at its best.

The islands of Tinggi, Besar, Tengah, Mensirip and Hujang are idyllic secluded gateways. These island boast beautiful beaches with shady cool tress and clean waters. Perfect for simply working on nothing, but a fun.

Mersing is the main  staging point to Johor’s islands in the South China Sea. It is 138 km north of Johor Bahru or a two-hour drive from there. Life here moves at a casual pace as trawlers prepare to sail out to sea from this fishing town. Tourists can also make travel arrangements with tour operator stations here.

Port Dickson has an almost unbroken coastline stretching up to 18 km. Its sunny beaches, lined by tall palm trees and shady casuarinas, are washed by gentle waves of the straits of Malacca. Teluk Kemang and Blue Lagoon beaches are popular tourist spot here.

Teluk Kemang, situated on the 9th mile of the coastal road, is one of the longest stretches in Porth Dickson. Enjoy a splash in the warm waters, or delight in activities such as canoeing, parasailing, yachting or speed boat rides. The Blue Lagoon, 11 km south of Port Dickson town, is tucked away from the main road and offers hours of fun in undisturbed setting.

The Port Dickson Fest and the international Port Dickson Ironman Triathlon are two exciting annual events in these beaches.

A string of five-star resorts, hotels, and private bungalows occupy the Port Dickson coastline. Alternatively, camp out by the beach for pleasant night under the stars.

Port Dickson holds the distinction of being the first place where competitive sailing was introduced in the country. The Admiral Marina and Leisure Club offers excellent and comprehensive facilities for yachters including moorage, full club services, brokerage and boat repairs. The Royal Port Dickson Yacht Club has extensive facilities for members and is able to accommodate Optimist and Laser crafts.

This charming coastal town has a variety of attractions, from nature-based temptations to historical moments. Close to Blue Lagoom is Cape Rachado or Tanjung Tuan Lighthouse. Built in the 16th century, this lighthouse was used to guide vessels sailing to Melaka, then a thriving port-of-call in the region.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline from this vantage point. To the northeast of Port Dickson is the Lukut Fort, erected to protect the tin-rich town of Lukut. The museum here offers glimpses into the history of the town.

Dining out at the local restaurants in Port Dickson provides a delightful choice of delicious fresh seafood, exotic local dishes as well as Western fare.

Pangkor main attractions are undoubtedly the wonderful offerings of its pristine beaches on the western coastline. Named after a legendary lover on princess, Golden Sands Beach or Pantai Puteri Dewi is one of most popular beaches on the island. Located on the northwest of Pangkor, this 1,2 km stretch boasts waters fringed with tall swaying coconut palms. The beach here is ideal for sunbathing and recreational activities such as bird watching. Look out for hornbills said to roam the area.

Pasir Bogak Beach, a snorkelling site with an extensive reef and shallow waters, faces the channel between Pangkor and Pangkor Laut. Located nearby Pangkor town, this popular destination is favorite haunt for picnickers due to its shady trees. Here, visitors can enjoy a kayak run or the simple pleasure of beachcombing.

Teluk Nipah is where tourists can enjoy both solitude and excitement by the beach. Take in the soothing lush greenery or browse the open-air stalls by the beach. A walk across to Giam Island at low tide will reward you with a treasure trove marine of life.

Head to the Pulau Sembilan group of islands, 27 kilometers south of Pangkor for a superb diving experience. The nine islands are uninhabited with an abundance of colourful marine life.

Eating out in Pangkor is a delight as there are restaurants serving both local and internationals cuisine. Alternatively, head to Pangkor town to enjoy fresh seafood.

Pangkor Laut
Pangkor laut is a world-renowned tropical island destination. A 20-minute boat ride from Pangkor, it boasts one of the finest beaches in the straits of Malacca. Sunset cruises can be specially arranged upon request. Couples can choose to have dinner by Emerald Bay which affords scenic views for a truly romantic experience.

Pangkor Laut houses an exclusive resort named after the island. For those seeking complete rejuvenation, pamper yourself at the luxurious Spa Village.

Lumut is the staging point to Pangkor if arriving by road or rail. Located 83 km from Ipoh, the state capital, it is home to the country’s principal naval base and a port which services the hinterland. Teluk Batik, south of Lumut is popular for camping, boating and windsurfing. Nearby is Teluk Rubiah, another fine beach with a golf course. The Lumut International Yatch Club is a stopover while sailing the strait of Malacca.

Lumut is a 3-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur via the North-South Highway. It can be reached by taxi or bus from Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur or Butterworth.

Batu Ferringhi, situated along the coastal road northwest of Georgetown, is most popular beach in Penang, lined with a string of international-standard hotels and resorts.

Soak in the sun or unwind on the beach and enjoy a host of aquatic thrills from banana boat rides to canoeing and jet-skiing. For a spine-tingling adventure, try parasailing to enjoy the view of the beach from the sky.

As the sun sets, Batu Ferringhi comes alive with a carnival like atmosphere with an open-air bazaar selling anything from ornate curios to enticing souvenir items. Watch local artisans demonstrate the intricate art of craft-making and batik-painting. Dubbed the Ferringhi Walk, the bazaar offers shoppers a host of attractions.

Tanjung Bungah is another popular beach resort in Penang. The numerous luxury resorts here offer a relaxing seaside vacation. The most charming feature of Tanjung Bungah is its many secluded coves, nestled within the shelter of overhanging cliffs and gigantic rocks.

At the north western end of the coastal road lies Teluk Bahang. Its idyllic beach offers a solitary luxury hotel promising a tranquil ambience for those who prefer privacy. Nearby is the Tropical Spice Garden, a living collection of more than 500 verities of flora from Malaysia and around the world. The eight-acre valley is reputedly the largest showcase of tropical herbs and species in the region.

Further west from Teluk Bahang are several beaches which lie off the beaten track. Situated in Penang’s National Park, these pristine beaches make for excellent excursions to get a glimpse into the vast variety of the island’s flora and fauna.

Monkey Beach, a secluded spot in the northwest of the island, is ideal for quiet picnics under shady casuarinas. Adventure-lovers can explore the jungle trail from Monkey Beach to the Muka Head Lighthouse, perched atop a 785-feet-high cliff.

Further away, Kerachut Beach offers an unspoilt environment and picturesque views. In the hinterland, a lake containing distinct layers of fresh water and seawater is an added attraction. Both of these beaches are only accessible by boat or by hiking trails from Teluk Bahang. Enquire with the respective resorts or private operators. Avid birdwatchers or outdoor lovers can delight in taking the jungle trail to obverse monkeys, squirrels and other small animals along the way.

Jerejak Island, off the island’s east coast, makes an interesting escapade. This tiny island resort offers total privacy amidst lush greenery.

To experience the charms of Penang, take a city tour for a glimpse into its nostalgic past. The Esplanade in Georgetown is a delightful seafront foe an evening stroll. A distinctive landmark here is the Fort Cornwalls, erected by Captain Francis Light in the early nineteenth century. Hawker-style dining is the norm here and further up along Gurney Drive, a popular haunt for tourists.

Little India and Campbell Street delight with an endless assortment of bric-a-brac, souvenirs and antiques.