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Each coastal city possesses its own unique charm, and sometimes you'll find yourself drawn to the allure of a particular place, answering the ocean's call. Malaysia, too, has its share, especially in these 5 beautiful coastal cities.
Kuala Terengganu
Situated approximately 500km northeast of Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Terengganu is a tourist haven boasting a long coastline adorned with silky, inviting stretches of sand. A magnificent mosque stands proudly against the deep blue sea, captivating numerous travelers.
If you fly from the capital, Kuala Lumpur, it takes just 50 minutes to reach this coastal gem. The allure of this place lies in its expansive coastline, adorned with pristine white sandy beaches and warm, crystal-clear waters. Among the many islands, the favorites are the beach parks: Redang, Kapas, Perhentian Kecil, Perhentian Besar, and Tenggol.
Particularly enchanting is Redang, with its numerous fantastic diving spots, dazzling and majestic coral reefs, surrounded by a rich and surprisingly diverse marine life. For those who love the sea, appreciate nature, and seek a perfect vacation, Tanjung Jara is a must-visit—a resort designed resembling a traditional Malay castle.
Tranquil Life Amidst Offshore Oil Activities in Terengganu
Penang
Penang, acclaimed as one of the top 10 street food destinations in Asia, is a culinary haven you can't afford to miss when in Malaysia – the Culinary Capital. The vibrant activities run from 5 pm the day before until 5 am the next day.
Penang is also UNESCO-recognized as a world heritage site, once a crucial island on the sea route through the Malacca Strait, colonized by the British quite early on.
Today, Penang is a melting pot of various cultures: Malaysians, Chinese, Indians, and even Thais. If you're a food enthusiast, Gurney Drive's open-air food haven is a must-visit spot on Penang Island. Don't miss the Asam Laksa with its tangy fish broth.
The piping hot noodle dish, harmonizing sour, spicy, salty, and sweet flavors, ranks 7th on CNN Travel's list of the 50 most enticing dishes globally. Penang not only boasts delicious cuisine but also awe-inspiring architectural wonders. Highlights include the Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang Hill, Tanjung Bungah, Peranakan Museum, Penang Bridge, and more.
Discovering Langkawi's Archipelago Charms
The Langkawi archipelago, nestled in the Andaman Sea, comprises 99 islands. It boasts pristine beaches, upscale resorts, and a plethora of nature-related activities. Langkawi, a duty-free island with diverse offerings, offers excellent shopping opportunities in Kuah town and at Langkawi International Airport.
Langkawi's most striking features are its natural spaces and tranquility. The island is adorned with limestone caves nestled in a lush tropical forest. Exciting adventures await, from boat trips through mangroves to thrilling experiences of feeding eagles, exploring tropical rainforests, or embarking on a unique jungle trek.
Visitors can stroll to the Seven Wells Waterfalls (Telaga Tujuh) and swim in the refreshing mountain pools. There's a cable car system leading to Gunung Mat Cincang at 700 meters above sea level. During the cable car ride, you'll have the opportunity to admire the islands and even glimpse neighboring Thailand.
Langkawi is an ideal destination for year-round sailing, offering luxurious motor yachts or sailboats for sunset cruises. Top beaches like Pantai Cenang, Burau Bay, Pantai Kok, and Pantai Datai are complemented by world-class resorts such as The Datai and The Andaman. Additionally, budget-conscious travelers can find charming wooden houses for rent.
Johor Bahru
Johor Bahru may not be as bustling as the capital Kuala Lumpur or as historical as the ancient city of Malacca. Positioned at the southern gateway to the Malaysian peninsula, connected to Singapore by road and rail.
This place holds its own allure for travelers with the simple charms of a bustling industrial city. It won't overwhelm you with towering skyscrapers like Kuala Lumpur, nor will it awe you with ancient relics tied to a history-rich journey in Malacca.
In Johor Bahru, visitors find a harmonious blend of a laid-back lifestyle and the dynamic energy of a rapidly developing industrial city. Playing a crucial role in Malaysia's economic growth, Johor Bahru gives a palpable sense of the land beneath your feet, a connection felt intimately.
Stopping in Johor Bahru, you can explore the Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque – considered one of the country's most beautiful mosques. Other notable attractions include the Sultan Abu Bakar Royal Palace Museum, City Hall, Orchid Valley, and more.
Kota Kinabalu
If you seek a friendly city with beautiful beaches, serene islands with pristine coral reefs, tropical rainforests, and the towering Kinabalu peak at over 4,095 meters, then Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah state in East Malaysia, is an ideal destination.
Kota Kinabalu boasts diverse ecosystems, rich cultural heritage, and a vibrant urban lifestyle. The flight from the capital, Kuala Lumpur, to Kota Kinabalu takes just over 1 hour, offering refreshing sea-scented air to escape the summer heat. Pristine beaches and islands dotting the turquoise sea with white sandy shores provide various beach services catering to every traveler's needs, from surfing and kite flying to snorkeling and more.
CNNgo once voted this place as having the most beautiful beaches on the planet. Remarkably, on these islands, there are few to no vendors, only a handful of immaculate restaurants lining the beach, offering seats for visitors to enjoy the breeze while dining. Despite the crowds, tourists here maintain cleanliness, refrain from littering, and create a peaceful and orderly atmosphere.
Don't miss out on a seafood feast at the city's largest night market right by the waterfront. For around 20 RM per person (approximately 150,000 VND), you can indulge in grilled fish, prawns, squid, and more. With cold beers beside loved ones or friends, you're sure to create unforgettable memories in Kota Kinabalu.
By Huy Ban
