Malaysia's coastline spans over 4,800 kilometers, offering diverse beach experiences from developed resort areas to remote island paradises. This guide covers the best beach resort destinations, with honest assessments to help you choose the right spot for your tropical getaway.
Langkawi
Malaysia's most developed island destination offers the widest range of beach resorts, from budget-friendly options to world-class luxury properties.
Why Choose Langkawi
- Duty-free status makes dining and shopping more affordable
- Year-round accessibility (west coast avoids monsoon closures)
- Excellent infrastructure and easy island exploration
- Wide range of accommodation at every price point
- Good international flight connections
Langkawi Beach Areas
Pantai Cenang: Main tourist strip, convenient but commercialized. Best for first-timers wanting amenities.
Pantai Tengah: Quieter alternative, still accessible. Good mid-range options.
Datai Bay: Secluded luxury enclave with pristine beach. Home to The Datai and Andaman resorts.
Tanjung Rhu: Stunning beach, upmarket resorts, peaceful atmosphere.
Top Langkawi Resorts by Category
Luxury (RM 1500+):
- The Datai Langkawi: Consistently rated among Asia's finest resorts. Rainforest setting meets pristine beach. Exceptional service and dining.
- Four Seasons Resort Langkawi: Moorish-inspired architecture, private beach, comprehensive facilities.
- The Ritz-Carlton Langkawi: Overwater villas and rainforest retreats with signature luxury service.
Mid-Range (RM 300-800):
- Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort: Traditional Malay-style chalets on Cenang Beach. Great for families.
- Berjaya Langkawi Resort: Distinctive stilt chalets, rainforest setting, good value.
- Frangipani Langkawi Resort: Eco-friendly property on Tengah Beach, excellent sustainability practices.
Budget (Under RM 300):
- Adya Hotel Langkawi: Modern hotel near Cenang Beach with pool and good amenities.
- Bayview Hotel Langkawi: Comfortable mid-range option overlooking Kuah Harbor.
- Various guesthouses: Cenang and Tengah have numerous budget options; quality varies.
Personal Recommendation
For a memorable Langkawi experience, consider splitting your stay: a few nights in Cenang for convenience and nightlife, then move to Datai Bay or Tanjung Rhu for relaxation. The contrast highlights everything the island offers.
Perhentian Islands
Twin islands (Besar and Kecil) offering genuine tropical paradise vibes with crystal-clear waters and excellent marine life.
Island Comparison
- Perhentian Besar (Big Island): Quieter, more upmarket, better for couples and families seeking relaxation
- Perhentian Kecil (Small Island): Backpacker hub, lively atmosphere, budget-friendly, better for solo travelers and groups
Important: Seasonal Closure
Perhentian Islands close from November to February due to monsoon conditions. Most resorts shut completely, and boat services stop. Plan visits between March and October for reliable access.
Resort Recommendations
Perhentian Besar:
- Perhentian Island Resort: The largest and most established resort, good facilities but can feel dated.
- Tuna Bay Island Resort: Popular mid-range choice with decent beach access.
- Abdul's Chalets: Budget option with character, basic but well-located.
Perhentian Kecil:
- Bubu Long Beach Resort: Best option on Kecil for those wanting comfort with backpacker proximity.
- Various beach chalets: Long Beach has numerous basic but acceptable options from RM 80-200.
Tioman Island
A larger, more diverse island offering everything from jungle trekking to world-class diving.
Best Beaches and Villages
- Salang: Popular with backpackers, good diving, lively atmosphere
- Air Batang (ABC): Balance of facilities and natural beauty, diverse accommodation
- Tekek: Main village with airport, most developed but less scenic
- Juara: East coast, more secluded, excellent for turtle encounters
Top Picks:
- Japamala Resort: Luxury boutique resort with exceptional design and service
- Tunamaya Beach and Spa Resort: Modern comfort on a beautiful beach
- Berjaya Tioman Resort: Established resort with golf course and comprehensive facilities
Redang Island
Known for some of the best snorkeling and diving in Peninsula Malaysia, with clearer waters than many alternatives.
What Makes Redang Special
- Exceptionally clear water (visibility often 20+ meters)
- Protected marine park with abundant sea life
- Package-focused system (most resorts include meals and activities)
- Less backpacker-oriented than Perhentian
Booking Note
Redang operates primarily on package deals including boat transfers, meals, and sometimes snorkeling trips. Booking through the resort or authorized agents is essential. Walk-in rates are rare and usually poor value.
Recommended Resorts:
- The Taaras Beach and Spa Resort: The island's premier luxury option with excellent facilities
- Redang Beach Resort: Solid mid-range choice with good dive operation
- Laguna Redang Island Resort: Popular for families, comprehensive packages
Sabah and Sarawak Beaches
Kota Kinabalu Area
The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park offers island-hopping opportunities just minutes from the city.
- Gaya Island: Home to luxury resorts including Gaya Island Resort and Bunga Raya
- Manukan Island: Day-trip favorite, no overnight stays but excellent snorkeling
- Sapi Island: Budget-friendly day trips, can combine with Manukan
Other Sabah Beaches
- Semporna/Mabul: World-class diving destination, resorts cater primarily to divers
- Kudat: Tip of Borneo area, emerging destination with rustic charm
Best Season for Beach Holidays
Seasonal Guide
West Coast (Langkawi, Pangkor): Accessible year-round. Best: December-April. Acceptable: May-November with occasional showers.
East Coast (Perhentian, Redang, Tioman): Open March-October only. Best: April-September. Closed: November-February.
Sabah: Year-round destination. Slightly drier: March-October. Brief showers possible anytime.
Practical Considerations
Getting There
- Langkawi: Direct flights from KL, Penang, Singapore; or ferry from Kuala Perlis/Penang
- Perhentian: Fly to Kota Bharu, then taxi to Kuala Besut for boat
- Tioman: Ferry from Mersing (Johor) or small plane from Subang
- Redang: Fly to Kuala Terengganu, then boat from Merang or Shahbandar
What to Pack
- Reef-safe sunscreen (required in marine parks)
- Snorkeling gear (optional but often better than rentals)
- Waterproof bag for electronics
- Insect repellent for evening
- Light cover-ups for sun protection
For more information on choosing accommodation, see our hotel selection guide or check the budget guide for pricing details.
Last updated: January 24, 2026