Malaysia is truly blessed with an abundance of natural wonders, from scenic beaches to beautiful islands. If there's one island in Malaysia that you should visit this year, let it be Pulau Kapas. Situated in Terengganu, there's more to this island paradise than its crystal clear water and white sandy beaches.
Pulau Kapas
- Pulau Kapas (Kapas Island) is an island situated on the eastern side of Marang in Terengganu
- How to get there: From Marang Jetty in Terengganu, take a 15-minute boat ride to Pulau Kapas, which departs four times daily.
- The best time to visit Pulau Kapas is between March and October, and the island is closed during the monsoon season from November to February.
Bukit Singa (Lion's Hill)
Besides snorkelling and kayaking, one of the best things to do in Pulau Kapas is hiking at Bukit Singa (Lion's Hill). Surrounded by steep cliffs and coastal rocks, this popular hiking spot in Pulau Kapas is perfect for beginners.
While some adventure seekers have attempted to hike up Bukit Singa on their own, we recommend first-timers to hire a guide or join a tour group, which can be arranged at the resort or tour agencies at Marang Jetty. Once you're ready, follow the guide's lead as they'll take you up the staircase. The steps can get slippery on rainy days, so make sure to wear sneakers or proper footwear.
While some parts of the staircase have also collapsed due to the strong waves, the hike to Bukit Singa requires you to walk along the coastal rocks, wade through the waist-deep water or slide down the steep trails. Just to be safe, you can wear a pair of work gloves to avoid scratches. There are no clear directions along the way, so here's where your guide's expertise comes in.
Once you've reached your destination, make sure to take a gorgeous snapshot of Bukit Singa! The lion's head formation is not visible from the peak, and it's said to be clearer when viewed from the side. Still, the sweeping landscape of the South China Sea is a sight to behold. It's very windy here too, and remember not to stand or sit too close to the edge.
A hidden gem to many, there's a secret blue lagoon that's located at the bottom of Bukit Singa, which can only be seen during high tide. Some locals have warned that there are many sharp rocks around the area, and it's best not to walk around barefoot or in sandals. Remember to ask your guide to show you the way too!
If you're planning to visit Pulau Kapas in the coming months, we hope you've found the perfect activity to do after spending the afternoon snorkelling and kayaking in the sea! For more beach and island getaways, get inspired by our recommended reads below.