There's something about the beach that soothes the eyes as well as a tired soul. It's easy to see why - the wondrous scenery of calming azure waters against the wide cerulean sky, the gentle sea breeze that caresses your skin, the serene walk along the sandy beach, and not to forget the fresh seafood that awaits to be devoured. And for the ultimate beach getaway, it goes without saying that an overnight stay at a beach resort is the dream.
Credit: Giphy
Though beach resort is often synonymous to luxury, it doesn't have to be an expensive affair. Don't believe us? Then read on as we present 8 budget-friendly beachfront resorts here in Malaysia.
Disclaimer: All the prices shown are based on a search from October 2018 to February 2019 and are subjected to changes. To get the best deals at an affordable rate, early booking is recommended.
Penang
1. Lone Pine Hotel @ Batu Ferringhi
For an idyllic stylish retreat close to nature, Lone Pine Hotel is the one for you. This luxurious boutique hotel is hidden away in a secluded spot along the coastline of Batu Ferringhi and promises solitude and privacy styled in a home away from home.
Credit: @dennc on Instagram
Prided itself for its old-spirit charm combined with modern comfort, this resort has a long history dating from 1948 - and it shows from its well-preserved colonial architecture. A special feature of this hotel, each room is equipped with a plunge bath and daybed on the balcony, perfect for that much-needed rest against the beautiful backdrop of nature.
Credit: Lone Pine Hotel on Facebook
Other facilities include an open pool right next to the beach, a wellness oasis of a spa, a gym to sweat your stress away, and games room for some fun time with your kids or friends. As for outdoor activities, there are aplenty. Just take a pick from the many water sports activities of banana boating, parasailing, jet skiing or just chill down be it by the pool, by the beach, or in a hammock under a tree.
Credit: @charliecmh on Instagram
Address: 97, Jalan Batu Ferringhi, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang
Price: Starting from RM390 per night
Contact: 04-886 8686
2. Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Channel and celebrate your inner rock n' roll here at Malaysia's only Hard Rock Hotel! With busts of The Beatles in the lobby, autographed Sex Pistols albums in the corridors and the many other memorabilia from rock stars the likes of Bon Jovi, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Elton John, fans of rock music is sure to feel at home here.
Credit: Hard Rock Hotel Penang on Facebook
If you think this rock and roll themed resort is only for the young and the hip, then think again. Parents will be delighted to know that there are ample facilities and activities for your little ones. From children's play areas that include the largest free-form pool in Penang, a fun centre of arts and crafts, and a teens' space with pool, foosball, and video games consoles, to water activities of pool pillow fights, aqua-aerobics and water volleyball games, there'll be no dull moments for your kids here!
Credit: Hard Rock Hotel Penang on Facebook
With entertainment as its focus, each room comes with free Wi-Fi connection, BOSE sound system, 50-inch LED screen TV, free HD blockbuster movies on demand, and a Handy phone for 24/7 internet connectivity even outside of the hotel premise. And for you musicians, don't miss out on the hotel's Picks program for free access to a Fender Strat guitar with floor amplifiers and headphones for you to jam in your room, or by the beachside!
Address: Hard Rock Hotel Penang, Batu Ferringhi Beach, 11100 Penang
Price: Starting from RM330 per night
Contact: +604 881 1711
Kedah
3. Resorts World Langkawi
Situated at the jewel of Kedah known as Langkawi, this four-star resort is highly praised for its attentive staffs, impeccable services, and top-notch facilities - all at an affordable price.
Credit: Resorts World Langkawi on Facebook
Aiming to provide the best experience and comfort for its guests, the resort has recently underwent a renovation with the newly-built infinity pool overlooking the beautiful sea being its biggest one. Guests can now have a feel of swimming in the sea, more so that the pool is a salt water one! Not only that, their premier rooms (the newly renovated ones) are of modern and functional design and boast a spectacular view of either their lush garden or the stunning ocean.
Credit: Resorts World Langkawi on Facebook
Credit: Resorts World Langkawi on Facebook
Though the resort lacks a swimmable beach, fret not as they provide a free shuttle service to the popular Cenang beach which is only a 10 minutes drive away! Alternatively, you can also take a relaxing walk or dine along their boardwalk or take advantage of their private jetty for activities like island hopping, private boat rides, sunset cruises, and fishing.
Address: Resorts World Langkawi, Tanjung Malai, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah
Price: Starting from RM265 per night
Contact: +604 955 5111
4. Villa Danialla Beach Resort
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of modern life here at Villa Danialla Beach Resort where nature and luxurious comforts are brought together for that perfect beach getaway.
Credit: Villa Danialla Beach on Facebook
Credit: @villadanialla on Instagram
What makes this resort stands out from the rest is their selection of themed rooms. From traditional Malay-themed room (Villa Dato' Siti) and contemporary modern (Villa Sarah), to the opulent Russian-themed of Villa Russkaya and Mediterranean-style abode of Villa Ombak, your stay is sure to be an unforgettable one.
Credit: Villa Danialla on Facebook
Outdoor, take a swim in or perhaps just lounge by their Olympic-size infinity pool with a view of a lifetime. They also offer horseback riding so you can now fulfil that fantasy of riding a horse by the beach! And for you animal lovers, the furry felines at their cat hotel will most definitely warm your heart.
Address: Lot 385, Kandis, Jalan Tok Bali, Bachok, 16310, Kota Bharu, Kelantan
Price: Starting from RM868 per night
Contact: +6013-9616000/+6013-9283878
Website | Instagram | Book now
Johor
5. Paya Beach Spa & Dive Resort
Located right at the shores of Tioman Island, this casual beachfront resort is a popular island retreat for seekers of adventure, be it on the ground or under the sea.
Credit: @payabeachresort on Instagram
Tioman island is known as a diver's heaven and following that, a PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) Dive Centre is just within the vicinity of the resort! So for those who're looking to get that scuba-diving license, this is just the place for you. Aside from that, you can also opt for a snorkeling tour around the island and discover the otherworldly marine life of Tioman. For some fun time with friends, go for a thrilling ride of banana boating or rent a canoe and venture out on an adventure around the sea. You can also explore the jungle of Tioman either by jungle trekking or an ATV ride, or both!
Credit: @payabeachresort on Instagram
With more than 3 decades of resort experiences, your stay here is in good hands. The rooms are well-equipped with basic amenities and come with a balcony as well as a view. As for their dining space, it's a diner of dreams as it is right by the sandy beach overlooking the serene sea.
Address: Kampong Paya, Pulau Tioman.
Price: Starting from RM250 per night
Contact: 1800-818-848
6. Berjaya Tioman Resort
Who says a luxury getaway has to be costly? Embark on a perfect seaside escaped at this tropical paradise of Berjaya Tioman Resort.
Credit: Berjaya Tioman Resort on Facebook
This four-star hotel is the largest one on the island, spanning over 200 acres of land and is fully-equipped with first-rate facilities which includes a swimming pool, four tennis courts, a basketball court, children's playground, a well-equipped gymnasium, and did we mention a golf course? You can now practice your swing against the beautiful backdrop of sea, sky, and the surrounding greenery.
Credit: Berjaya Tioman Resort on Facebook
For some de-stressing, their Ayura Spa will not disappoint you. Using only natural ingredients, they offer an array of massage treatments from full body massage, facials, hands and feet, to body scrubs as well as body wraps. Whichever you choose, both your body and spirit is sure to be reenergized and rejuvenated after a session of their relaxing massage.
Credit: Berjaya Tioman Resort on Facebook
As for the lodgings, they feature traditional Malaysian-styled architectures and are thoughtfully furnished for maximum comfort and convenience. The rooms come well-equipped with contemporary amenities including a mini bar, in-room safe, and a hair dryer.
Address: Berjaya Tioman Resort, P.O. Box 4, 86807 Mersing, Johor, Malaysia
Price: Starting from RM620 per night
Contact: + 609 419 1000
Sabah
7. Palm Beach Resorts and Spa (Labuan)
For an excursion away from it all, where the yesteryear of a simple life of just man and nature is observed as well as cherished, look no further than this hidden gem of Palm Beach Resort.
Credit: Palm Beach Resort and Spa on Facebook
Set on the beachfront of Labuan with lodgings just steps away from the scenic beach, expect a lazy laid back vacation of pure peace and tranquillity.
Credit: Palm Beach Resort and Spa on Facebook
Take a much-needed break at the swimming pool, and enjoy the gentle calm breeze. Or perhaps pass the time away swinging on their beach swings, basking in the scenery. If staying idle is not your thing, there are lots of activities you can do here.
Credit: Palm Beach Resort and Spa on Facebook
Address: Jalan Batu Manikar, Labuan, Sabah.
Price: Starting from RM170 per night
Contact: +608 741 8700
Sarawak
8. The Culvert (Santubong, Kuching)
If you're looking for a perfect space of calming greenery and breathtaking expansive sea view, this one-of-a-kind, eco-friendly resort called The Culvert is the one for you.
Credit: @weechaihui on Instagram
Credit: The Culvert on Facebook
Housing 43 rooms of a concrete culvert, each guestroom is stylishly furnished and comes with modern comforts of a tablet, Wi-Fi, air-conditioner, toiletries, shower, and hairdryer. As the culvert is designed with a tasteful installation of transparent glass (with curtains for privacy), one can enjoy nature's offerings in their own culvert sanctuary. Big fan of large space? Their sunset deck will feast your eyes with a stunning vast view of the ocean (as well as the sunset!) amidst the towering trees.
Credit: The Culvert on Facebook
How about the beach, you ask? Well, worry not as the Santubong Damai beach is just a short walk down from the resort. Sequestered and pristine, the beach can only be accessed by the Culvert's guests and boasts a wondrous spectacle of the famous mountain Santubong and Satang islands.
Address: Lot 285, Off Jalan Sultan Tengah, Block 2 Salak Land District, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak
Price: Starting from RM125 per night
Contact: +6019 889 9925
Website | Instagram | Book now
So what are you waiting for? With these amazing beachfront accommodations all at an amazing price, there's no more excuse to hold you up from going on that ultimate beach getaway! So pack up your bag and have a wonderful time lying by the sea, savouring every moment of your vacation, with no worries of breaking the bank.