Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its urbanness and modernity, often leaves its residents yearning for a quick escape from the grind. Luckily, Malaysia with its diverse landscapes, rich cultural tapestry and proximity to Singapore offers an array of enticing weekend getaways. In this guide we’ll explore the 7 destinations that will provide those that seek respite a rejuvenating break.
Johor Bahru – The Gateway to Malaysia
Just a bridge away from Singapore, Johor Bahru serves as the perfect getaway for Singaporeans. This thriving city is a treasure trove of attractions, from the vibrant shopping districts like Johor Premium Outlets to the historical charm of Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque. For those seeking a cultural immersion, exploring the bustling Pasar Karat flea market or indulging in local delicacies at Jalan Dhoby is a must.
Malacca – A Melting Pot of History
Filled with history and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Malacca is a compelling destination for a weekend retreat. Journey through the cobbled streets of Jonker Walk. Lined with antique shops and vibrant street art. Immerse yourself in the city’s colonial past at the A Famosa fortress and St Paul’s Church. While you are there don’t forget to savor the unique Nyonya cuisine which is a fusion of Chinese and Malay flavors.
Kuala Lumpur – The Bustling Metropolis
For those who crave the energy of an urban hub, Kuala Lumpur entices with its iconic skyscrapers and diverse offerings. Spend your weekend exploring the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, indulging in retail therapy at Bukit Bintang and savor the large variety of street food at Jalan Alor. Kuala Lumpur has it all as it effortlessly blends modernity with tradition, offering a unique urban experience.
Penang – Culinary Haven and Cultural Gem
Nicknamed “Pearl of the Orient” , Penang is an island of gastronomic delight brimmed with culture. Scroll through George Town’s UNESCO listed heritage area, adorned with colonial architecture and vibrant street art, Indulge in the endless street food options, some even recently been recognized by the Michelin Guide and explore the intricate Clan Jetties for a dose of history.
Cameron Highlands – Nature’s Retreat
Escape the tropical heat of Singapore by heading to the cool embrace of Cameron Highlands. Known for its lush tea plantations, rolling hills, and cool climate, this retreat is a haven for nature lovers. Embark on scenic hikes through the mossy forests, visit the renowned Boh Tea Plantation, and relish the tranquility of the Rose Centre. The crisp mountain air and stunning vistas make Cameron Highlands a refreshing getaway.
Langkawi – Tropical Paradise
For those yearning for sun, sea, and sand, Langkawi offers a tropical paradise just a short flight from Singapore. Explore the pristine beaches, go island hopping to Pulau Payar Marine Park, and ascend the Sky Bridge for panoramic views. Langkawi’s laid-back atmosphere, duty-free shopping, and diverse outdoor activities make it an ideal destination for a relaxing weekend escape.
Tioman Island – Scenic Seclusion
If seclusion and natural beauty are on your weekend wish list,Tioman Island is a gem waiting to be discovered. With its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs teeming with marine life, and lush rainforests, Tioman provides an idyllic setting for relaxation. Snorkel in the marine-rich waters, trek through the tropical jungles, and unwind on pristine beaches. Tioman Island offers a serene retreat away from the hustle and bustle.
In conclusion, these seven weekend getaways from Singapore to Malaysia present a diverse tapestry of experiences, catering to every traveler’s preferences. Whether you seek cultural immersion, culinary adventures, or the soothing embrace of nature, Malaysia’s proximity offers an array of options. So, the next time you feel the need for a quick escape, consider these enchanting destinations for a weekend filled with culture, adventure, and relaxation. Elevate your weekends by exploring the wondersthat Malaysia has to offer, just ashort journey away from the vibrant city of Singapore.
Any travel-savvy folk keen on exploring Malaysia will have Malacca in their bucket list!
For a small city, there’s surprisingly a lot of things to do in Malacca.
It’s easy to get around on foot or one of the colorful trishaws around once you’re in this vibrant city!And even if you have been here before, there are new Melaka attractions that you may not be aware of!Malacca is accessible from all over Malaysia.
People even come over from Singapore to Malacca!
So don’t let transport be the limiting factor for you to make a trip down to Malacca!
27 Best & Cheap Things To Do In Malacca
We’ve got quite a long list to get through so without further ado:
Here’s 27 things to do in Malacca – the new, old and everything else that’s worth checking out!
Aside from the usual touristy things, here are some other things to do in Malacca that are a little more unorthodox:
1. Immerse Yourself In Culture At Encore Malacca
If the outside exterior of the building doesn’t impress you, the theatrical shows here will!
Encore Malacca has daily 70-minute shows that will delight your visual and auditory senses!
Their stories take inspiration from local heritage, diversity and culture told through intricate dances by their 200 local performers that combine traditional and contemporary moves.
Walk away with a greater appreciation for performing arts and Malaysian culture!
Tip: They have family packages for sale on their website!
Encore Malacca Highlights:
State of the art theatre – The multi-stage auditorium can rotate 360 degrees
Good view of the Malacca Strait!
Address: No. 3, Jalan KSB – Impression 8 Impression City @ Kota Syahbandar, Impression City, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia Contact: +606-270 7700 Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday: 5:30pm & 8:30pm
Sunday: 10:00am – 2:30pm & 5:30pm Entrance Fee: Standard tickets cost RM148 Facebook
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2. See Malacca From Up High At The Shore Melaka Sky Tower
If you can deal with heights, you might want to check this place out:
With 43 floors in total, Sky Tower Malacca is the tallest building in Malacca’s skyline.
From the top, you can have fantastic views of the city that stretch for up to 50 kilometers all around!
It’s one of the most exhilarating things to do in Malacca!
And you can go either in the day time or night time!
Other sources of entertainment in the same building (e.g. Oceanarium, Toy Museum, etc)
Address:http://bit.ly/ShoreSkyTower Contact: +6016-380 6774 Opening Hours:
Sunday to Thursday: 9:00am to 10:30pm
Friday to Saturday: 9:00am to 11:30pm Entrance Fee: RM25 (Adult), RM18 (Child) Facebook
3. Pet And Cuddle Huskies At The Huskitory
Huskies are arguably one of the world’s most sought-after dog breeds.
They can be more than a handful to look after even for the inexperienced dog owner!
So if you can’t afford to look after one but really enjoy their accompany, you can meet the 17 huskies at this unique dog cafe.
Reservations are required as this place is usually packed.
Note: You cannot bring your own husky over for a visit anymore.
The Huskitory Highlights:
2 outdoor feeding sessions (6:00pm to 7:00pm and again at 9:00pm-10:00pm)
Visitors can purchase treats to vie for the attention of the dogs!
They have a Golden Retriever and a Japanese Spitz too!
Address: 27, Jalan Taman Asean, Taman Asean, 75250 Melaka, Malaysia Contact: +606-334 2602 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 11:00am to 8:00pm Closed On: Monday Entrance Fee (and a free drink): RM25 (Adults), RM20 (Child below 90cm) Facebook
4. See More Than Fish At The Shore Oceanarium
The Shore Oceanarium is another reason to make a trip to the Sky Tower Malacca.
There are 12 different zones to explore! The main highlight is the sea turtle zone where you can see live sea turtles!
And if you like, you can snap a photo of yourself with one of the life-sized replicas of giant shark jaws!
The Shore Oceanarium Highlights:
Ocean Journey
Living Fossil
Ocean Theatre
Fun Freakish
Interactive Touch Pool
River Story
Jungle Quest
Dangerous Marine Species
Shark Quest
Kampung Penyu (Turtle Village)
Sea Shell Madness
Magic Aquarium
5. Stroll Down Kee Ann Food Street
Kee Ann Food Street is a relatively new attraction in Melaka!
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Every Friday to Sunday, Kee Ann road (Jalan Kee Ann) in New Chinatown will be car free allowing vendors to set up their stalls.
International visitors will get to experience the atmosphere of open-air street dining here.
You can try all sorts of local fare here from char keow teow, wan tan mee, rojak, radish cake, duck mee, sugar cane drink, roti canai and many others!
Outdoor Activities In Melaka
Many of the places on this list are within walking distance from each other!
Which is completely doable during the early morning or evening when the heat is more tolerable!
Else, you can always hop on one of the many eager trishaws hanging around the historical city center.
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6. Browse The Jonker Street Night Market
Most first-time visitors to Malacca will definitely include Malacca’s Chinatown on Jonker Street somewhere in their itinerary!
Walking distance from the Red Square, this is possibly the most touristy street in Malacca with lots of shops and eateries to pique your interest!
If you’re here during a weekend, you’ll have a chance to see the night market on Jonker Street! Street performers and hawker stalls will ensure a fun night out!
The Melaka River Cruise is the most effortless way to see Malacca’s finest architecture of Portuguese, Dutch, and Britishheritage along the river banks of the Malacca River.
Each boat trip takes about 45 minutes to complete, including the return journey.
Note: If you go during the daytime, make sure you bring your hat, sunglasses and put some sunscreen on!
Melaka River Cruise Highlights:
Sail underneath landmark bridges
Enjoy the evening breeze and lights of the city
Walking distance to the Red Square and Jonker Street
10. Ride A DUKW For The First Time With Melaka Duck Tour
Why duck, you say?
A DUKW (or “duck”) is an unusual truck from World War 2 that was developed by the United States as a means for transporting supplies and their troops over both land and water!
It was later replaced by another model due to its lack of power and vulnerability to rust.
The duck boat in Malacca has its origins back in September 2008 and has the maximum capacity of 33 passengers.
Each trip takes about 45 minutes.
Melaka Duck Tour Highlights:
Beautiful seaside mosque along the route from Menara Taming Sari to Melaka Island
Malacca has its own little Portugal with a community that has Portuguese roots!
There’s even a replica of the famous landmark of Rio De Janeiro by the seaside – the Christ the Redeemer statue!
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You can try Portuguese and Malaysian food at the food court and have a beer at one of the pubs while enjoying the sunset too!
The atmosphere here is particularly lively as Christmas or the San Pedro Festival (mid-June) approaches!
Portuguese Settlement Melaka Highlights:
Portuguese-style homes
The Portuguese Square
Excellent sea views
Seafood
12. Rent A Bicycle Around Melaka
Bicycles are another way to get around Melaka and take in the sights!
Some hotels offer bicycle rental services for their guests.
Otherwise, you can also rent from any bicycle rental shop around the city.
The downside of cycling is that you have to take extra care because there are no dedicated lanes for cyclists.
Museums & History In Melaka
Malacca has a rich history due to its geographical advantages as a port.
Many ships stopped by Malacca to take refuge from the monsoons and to re-supply before heading back out to the Straits of Malacca.
Furthermore, Malacca was under the colonial rule of Portuguese, Dutch and the British.
13. Learn About Admiral Cheng Ho At The Cheng Ho Cultural Museum
Chinese history buffs will love this one:
Cheng Ho Culture Museum dedicates the majority of its galleries to Admiral Cheng Ho’s fleet and travels.
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If you didn’t know, Cheng Ho is an extremely prominent figure in the Ming Dynasty history of Chinese exploration and trade!
You’ll see how Malacca was developed by trade at this museum!
Cheng Ho Cultural Museum Highlights:
Display gallery showcasing the life of Cheng Ho and his world voyages.
Close to Jonker Walk
Different sections in the museum – Old Malacca Village, Treasure Ship, Ship Gallery, and the Antique Gallery
Address: 51, Lorong Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia Contact: +606-283 1135 Opening Hours: 9:00am to 6:00pm Entrance Fee: RM20 (Adult), RM10 (Child)
14. Visit A Real Peranakan Home At The Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum
Malacca owes its Nyonya heritage to the Peranakans – descendent of the Chinese settlers who made Malaysia their home and integrated with the local Malay community.
As the former home of 4 generations of a true Peranakan family, you can imagine the family’s opulent lifestyle as you wander through the ancestral home.
Note: This elaborate museum requires advance bookings, especially during busy periods.
Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum Highlights:
They have self-guided tour books in four different languages – English, French, Japanese and Chinese
Photo books of the house and an illustrated biography for the family are available for sale as souvenirs
Address: 48-50, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia Contact: +606-282 1273 Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 10:00am to 5:00pm (last admission at 4:15pm)
Friday to Sunday: 10:00am to 6:00pm (last admission at 5:15pm) Entrance Fee: RM16 (Adult), RM11 (Child) Guide Tour: Additional RM4 per adult Facebook
15. Experience Pre-Colonial History At Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum
Made without any nails, the Melaka Sultanate Palace is a direct replica of Sultan Mansur Shah’s extraordinary wooden 15th-century palace with a copper and zinc roof.
Inside the three-storey museum (also called Muzium Kebudayaan), are various galleries.
One of which is a depiction of a royal meeting back in the time of pre-colonial rule.
There are around a thousand historical and cultural artifacts here!
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Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum Highlights:
Signage in both Malay and English
Galleries with dioramas featuring famous local legends (like Hang Tuah and Hang Jebat)
At the Red Square, you can see the Malacca clock tower with a small photogenic fountain in front, and also the former office of the Dutch governor, Stadthuys and Christ Church.
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Red Square Highlights:
There are museums inside the Stadthuys (e.g. Museum of History and Ethnography)
Architecture from the Dutch colonial rule
18. Visit Malaysia’s Oldest Church – St. Paul’s Church, Malacca
In addition to Christ Church at the Red Square:
You might want to check out the well-preserved ruins of St. Paul’s Church on the top of St. Paul’s Hill too!
A statue of catholic missionary, St Francis Xavier stands in front of the church while his empty tomb lies inside.
Do expect a lot of tourists to be here too. Unless, you come early in the morning!
St. Paul’s Church Highlights:
Oldest church in South-east Asia
Hilltop view of the city
Stairs are a must to get up the hill
Free entrance
19. Sail Through History At The Flora de la Mar Maritime Museum
You might think it’s strange that there’s a ship next to the Malacca river.
This is actually a replica of a Portuguese galley but half the size!
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It houses the Melaka Maritime Museum where you can learn about Malacca’s trading history.
Model ships and dioramas help to paint a picture of the historical trading scenes in Malacca!
Note: Be careful if you have small kids with you – the stairs have narrow rails and are quite steep!
Flora de la Mar Maritime Museum Highlights:
Three museums in one – Royal Navy Museum, Flora del Mar and the Maritime museum
You can walk around the ship deck for a view of the Malacca river!
Address:http://bit.ly/FlorDeLaMar Contact: +606-283 0926 Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 9:00am to 5:00pm
Friday to Sunday: 9:00am to 6:30pm Entrance Fee:
Malaysian: RM5 (Adult), RM3 (Child)
Non-Malaysian: RM10 (Adult), RM6 (Child)
20. Go Back In Time At The Villa Sentosa
Over at Kampung Morten are over 50 traditional Malay-style houses.
The name, Morten comes from the British administrator, Frederick Joseph Morten.
You can actually visit the inside of one of these houses!
Villa Sentosa (or the Malay Living Museum) is a private museum but visitors can come to see it every day.
An open-air courtyard is the main component of the house. Which is essential for keeping the house cool!
Villa Sentosa Highlights:
Fully furnished with many antiques
Guided tours
Well-preserved
Address:http://bit.ly/VillaSentosa Contact: +606-282 3988 Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 10:00am to 5:00pm
Friday: 10:00am to 12:00pm and 3:00pm to 5:00pm
Saturday to Sunday: 10:00am to 5:00pm Entrance Fee: By donation Facebook
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Art & Indoor Activities In Melaka
If you have time to spare, you can visit these unexpected art galleries!
21. Be Bamboozled At The Illusion 3D Art & Upside Down House Melaka
It’s a 15 minutes’ walk between these two places:
Illusion 3D Art has more than 35 hand-painted 3D murals that will bring out the child in anyone!
Image credits: luvfeelin.com
Image credits: luvfeelin.com
Upside Down House Melaka meanwhile, is close to Parameswara Jetty.
The rooms inside look like a normal contemporary home but upside down!
Regardless of which place you choose, prepare to have tonnes of fun taking photos with friends and family!
Illusion 3D Art Museum Address: F2-29, Second Floor Jalan Merdeka Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia Contact: +606-221 3002 Opening Hours: 10:00am to 10:00pm Entrance Fee:
Malaysian: RM34 (Adult), RM17 (Child)
Non-Malaysian: RM50 (Adult), RM25 (Child) FacebookUpside Down House Melaka Address: G12 & G14 & G16 Jalan PM7 Plaza Mahkota, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia Contact: +6011-1072 2260 Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 10:am to 7:00pm
Friday to Sunday: 10:00am to 9:00pm Entrance Fee:
Malaysian: RM18 (Adult), RM12 (Child)
Non-Malaysian: RM22 (Adult), RM16 (Child) Facebook
22. Hang Out At The Orangutan House
It’s hard to miss the huge mural of an orangutan on the outside of the yellow building along Jonker Street.
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This is the art gallery of the local-born artist, Charles Cham.
You’ll be tempted to get a couple of original graphic tee-shirts or canvas bags with his prints due to their reasonable prices and high quality!
Note: This isn’t the only outlet in Malacca.
The Orangutan House Highlights:
The artist himself is very friendly and up for a chat if he happens to be at the store!
Prices in the shop are cheaper than online
Prints available for sale
Exclusive tee shirt prints available only at the shop
Address: 59, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia Contact: +606-282 6872 Opening Hours: 10:00am to 6:00pm Facebook
Melaka Food
One of the things in Malacca that you absolutely cannot miss out on, is the food!
And lastly, they have a superb coffee menu to be proud of!
This is a cozy spot to do some people-watching!
Calanthe Art Café Highlights:
13 states’ coffees of Malaysia are available here
Homemade desserts
Creative beverages
They serve many other drinks besides coffee
Excellent laksa
Alcoholic beverages – try their royale Bailey cocktail
Address: 11, Jalan Hang Kasturi, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia Contact: +606-292 2960 Opening Hours:
Sunday to Wednesday: 9:00am to 11:00pm
Thursday: Closed
Friday to Saturday: 9:00am to 12:00am Facebook
25. Pick Out The Perfect Souvenir Melaka
Whether you’re looking for a unique item to take back home or wanting suitable gifts for your family and friends, there are plenty of souvenir shops to sift through in Malacca!
Gula Melaka, pineapple tarts, Chicken Floss Tou Sar Kok, Dodol, and handmade beaded shoes are some of the things you can find!
Tip: Packaged pastries are usually a failsafe option if you don’t know what to get!
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Here are some of the best ones:
San Shu Gong (三叔公)
Jing Yuan Biscuit and Bakery
Jonker Gallery
Nyonya Story Enterprise
Tan Kim Hock Product Centre
Ah Lan Beaded Shoes & Accessories
LW Nyonya Pineapple Tarts House
Nyonya Story Enterprise
Orangutan House
Sweet Summer Cottage
Melaka Shopping Mall
Sometimes, it’s nice to splurge on yourself.
Or maybe, you just need to escape the heat for a bit!
26. Bargain-hunt At Melaka Premium Outlet (Freeport A’Famosa Outlet Village)
Ever been to an outlet village before?
This one has an open-air concept complete with a lake, fountains and a windmill.
Obviously inspired by Malacca’s Dutch heritage.
They have more than 1,500 spaces in their free carpark.
You’ll find dozens of different fashion brands spread over 180,000 square feet, including some renowned sportswear titans like Nike.
And if you happen to run out of cash, the ATM machine is at the entrance opposite the Customer Service office.
Address: Jalan Kemus / Sempang Ampat, 78000 Alor Gajah, Melaka, Malaysia Contact: +606-552 8961 Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 12:00pm to 9:00pm
Friday to Sunday: 11:00am to 10:00pm Facebook
27. Catch A Movie Or Shop At Dataran Pahlawan & Mahkota Parade Shopping Mall
When you want a break from the touristy things to do in Malacca:
You can hop over to any of these two multi-storey malls that are across from each other in the historical center of the city.
Mahkota Parade Shopping Mall Address: No. 1, Lot B-02, Mahkota Parade, Jalan Merdeka, Taman Costa Mahkota, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia Contact: +606-282 6151 Opening hours: 10:00am to 10:00pm Facebook
Experience paradise underwater at these top 15 best dives sites In Malaysia.
Malaysia has long been a notable destination for diving, renowned the globe over for clear waters, diverse marine life and competitive dive rates.
Whether you want to try diving yourself or already an experienced diver, we’ve gathered these destinations below, that’ll truly appeal to the underwater adventurer in you.
Here are our top picks according to the overall experience. Discover and target your next diving destination, let’s discover one of the best short trips from Singapore!
15 Best Dive Sites In Malaysia
1. Sipadan Island & Mabul Island
The east of Malaysia, not to be confused in reference to diving in the East Coast of Malaysia, sits the lush island of Borneo, home to the top trio.
Our number one pick of best dive sites in Malaysia is hard to dispute as the trio of islands holds immense beauty above and underwater; we’re sure these islands will get you snorkelling and diving in no time after your arrival.
Also read: Pulau Aur
Image Credits: tashggw
Accessibility: Fly into Tawau, Sabah or into Kota Kinabalu, Sabah then a land transfer is required to Semporna before a boat into the islands. Boats between the islands are available via resorts and the local dive operators, or if you’re staying in Semporna, day trips are available as well.
Good to know: You can visit these islands all year round, though special permits are required
2. Kapalai Island
Kapalai island isn’t far from Sipadan, with a mere 15km between them. This island isn’t at all big and has one resort operating on it.
A big bonus to Kapalai is that you get to snorkel and shore dive for free, not inclusive of any equipment, making it great if you’ve a party mix of divers and non-divers.
Image Credits: Leisure Tan
Accessibility: Similar route to Sipadan and Mabul above
Good to know: The island is technically a sand bar, and walking along the sand is possible during low tide.
3. Layang Layang Island
Layang Layang proudly takes our third spot as the island is known for spotting of hammerhead and whale sharks, as well as its history; it was a former marine base.
What you won’t find here are beaches but the island more than makes up for it with the 12 dive spots around it.
Diving in Layang Layang however does not require permits and currently there is only one dive resort operating on the island.
Also read: Pulau Harimau
Image Credits: avillionlayanglayang.com
Accessibility: Access point is via a chartered flight on board small cargo plane into the island from Kota Kinabalu. Do check weight limitations if you’re bringing along your diving gear and other equipment.
Good to know: Island is open from March to August; remainder months closed during monsoon season
4. Pom Pom Island
A small gem, measuring less than 3 km in circumference, Pom Pom Island holds its own, largely due to its white sandy beaches and being a hatching ground for Hawksbills and Green turtles, and even one resort on the island doubles up as a turtle sanctuary and conservation centre.
If you’re visiting during turtle hatching season, ask locals how you can lend a hand.
Accessibility: Fly into Tawau and a land transfer to Semporna before taking a boat out to Pom Pom
Good to know: Pom Pom North Point is also known as ‘Mini Sipadan’
5. Mataking Island
Also in Sabah, Mataking is known for having the one and only underwater post office in Malaysia.
Image Credits: aeriazlan
It is a base for turtle hatching with an active team running an eco-conservation program.Diving here is possible under the Sipadan diving permit.
Also read: Pulau TinggiAccessibility: Find your way by land transfer from Semporna and hop on a 40 minute boat ride inland
Good to know: Mataking has a peacock sanctuary, open for visitors
6. Tenggol Island
Tenggol Island which is situated in the state of Terengganu, the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia. One of best diving in Malaysia here is you can see the whale shark if you’re very lucky.
Image Credits: rattachain
This island is popular among more experienced divers as the waters surrounding it are wreck dive spots, and has only one resort on it. Consider the option to book via individual dive operators for best all-inclusive packages.
Diving sites are Tokong Timur, Mini Highway, Tanjung Api & many more.
Image Credits: zahryl
Accessibility: Drive up or fly into Terengannu and head on to Dungun pier, then a ferry or boat across
Good to know: If hanging out at the beach, bring coconut oil to deter sand flies
7. Perhentian Island
Still in Terengganu, the two Perhentian islands are Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil.
Accommodation choices are aplenty on both islands, from budget right up to luxury stays with the bulk of budget accommodation located on Perhentian Kecil, which is livelier come nightfall, and is the choice island for backpackers.
These islands are closed during the monsoon on the East Coast from November through to February.
Accessibility: Option to fly into Terrenganu, drive up, or take overnight busses to Kuala Besut jetty for the morning ferries
Good to know: Travellers from Singapore can opt to hop on the Transnasional business class overnight bus
8. Redang Island
This island is also under Terrenganu state administration, and almost all accommodation here are resorts. While snorkelling and scuba diving is a must, other than water based activities why not enjoy Redang’s beaches which are perfect to simply relax the day away.
Image Credits: goproprojek, Janice Tan
Accessibility: Fly, drive or bus it into into Kuala Terengganu then travel to Shahbandar jetty or Merang jetty
Good to know: Marine fees apply for entry into island
9. Tioman Island
Tioman Island in the state of Pahang is a duty free island, and an abundance of resorts around the island, with a jungle and forestation in the middle or the island.
Also read: Tioman Dive Center & Package
A small Malay village with shops and eateries is in Kampung Tekek; and to get here is only by water taxis.
Image Credits: Kai Lukoff
Accessibility: Direct flight from Subang airport via SAS airline, drive up, hire taxis and overnight busses
Good to know: One ATM machine in Tekek, but does not accept all cards- do bring sufficient cash
10. Lankayan Island
Back to Sabah Borneo, Lankayan is quite the secret among divers, and less visited due to its location in the Sulu sea.
But if you make this trip, you won’t regret it anytime soon especially if you’re lucky to spot some whale sharks!
Image Credits: fotograferen.net
Accessibility: Head to Sandakan Sabah then hop on a speedboat
Good to know: March- May for whale sharks sightings
11. Dayang Island
Situated in Johor, this island is practically unknown even to most Malaysians. The island is picking up in popularity in recent years so if you ask us, the best time to go is now!
Dayang Island attracts divers and sport fishermen namely for the Black Marlin which are native around its waters.
Accessibility: From Johor, travel to Mersing jetty and then a boat in
Good to know: Open season is from April to September
12. Pemanggil Island
Pemanggil Island is a haven for divers and fishermen, as most fishing competitions are held here and also a spot to catch Black Marlins and mackerels.
Being small, electricity on Pemanggil Island is controlled, and switched on from 1930- 0730 daily.
Accessibility: Get in to Johor then to Mersing jetty and a boat transfer
Good to know: Best to visit from March to June
13. Labuan Island
Labuan in Miri Borneo is an island with its own appeal, firstly it’s duty free throughout and offering two notable wrecks from World War II and other wrecks spots as well.
Image Credits: adlertours.files.wordpress.com
Divers with sufficient logged wreck diving experience or are certified would be able to visit some wreck spots here.
Accessibility: Fly in directly from Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu
Good to know: Great deals on duty free pearls
14. Langkawi Island
Malaysia’s largest duty free island is way up north in the state of Kedah neighbouring Thailand. There’s a lot to do in Langkawi it’s best to spend a few days, up to a week here.
Diving in Langkawi, Malaysia takes place mostly at the Marine Park and three other islands nearby.
Accessibility: Plenty of direct flights into Langkawi
Good to know: Year round diving
15. Kapas Island
Belonging to the state of Terengganu, this less visited island is a magnet for wreck dive enthusiasts, as its home to a Japanese World War II ship wreck, and offers a chance to glimpse reef sharks and turtles who favour the waters around here.
Accessibility: Fly, drive or bus it into Terengganu and on to Marang jetty followed by boat transfer
Good to know: Open year round but gets a lot of rain during monsoon season
