[Updated 11 February 2022]
Malaysia is blessed with some amazing islands with white sandy beaches and beautiful waters. While there are many islands located across the country, for those in peninsular Malaysia, there's a special appeal to the islands located on the east coast in Pahang and Terengganu. From the popular Redang and Tioman islands to other gems like Perhentian and Kapas islands and other more unknown places like Tenggol and Gemia islands, there's so much beauty to explore. We've rounded up a list of East Coast islands you need to tick off your bucket list!
P.S. Do note that visits to all East Coast islands are dictated by the yearly monsoons, which happen roughly from around late October to early March. During this time, given the severity of the weather, many of the island resorts are closed to guests and not ideal for tourists.
Credit: @the_sakura on Instagram
One spot on Perhentian Kecil that has become popular is the old jetty near the windmills that have been installed on the island. Known as Windmill Point or simply windmill Perhentian (or in Malay, kincir angin Perhentian), getting there requires a 30-minute uphill hike from Long Beach (Pantai Panjang). It's a moderate workout, but the view at the top will be worth it! You'll find a long series of stairs descending down to sea level - there's an abandoned jetty at the end. Do note that the condition of the stairs and jetty is pretty unsafe as it hasn't been maintained, so you're not advised to take the stairs down. But even just the view from the top will be magnificent!
The nearest jetty to the Perhentian islands is in Kuala Besut, and the journey takes about 30 - 45 minutes by speed boat and 1.5 hours by slow boat.
East Coast Islands In Peninsular Malaysia
1. Tioman Island (Pahang)
Starting our list is the sole non-Terengganu entry, Pulau Tioman! This island off the coast of Pahang is a much-loved travel destination for locals and international visitors alike. Formerly a monsoon shelter for fishermen, pirates, merchant ships and naval ships, this idyllic nature reserve is a stunning attraction, with its own mountain (Mount Kajang) and clear waters ? What makes Tioman so appealing is probably the great mix between stunning waters and other beautiful nature spots - from snorkelling and diving and other water activities like kayaking to jungle-trekking, cycling on the islands wide trails, or checking out the beautiful Mukut waterfalls, there's plenty to do. The island is mainly accessible by ferry from Mersing. The ferries make different stops around the island, so ensure that the crew knows which stop you should be dropped off at. There are resorts on various beaches around the island, so do check with the resort on the boat arrangements!2. Redang Island (Terengganu)
Famous for the marine park where you can swim with fish and other sea creatures, there's hardly a reason not to spend a few nights in Redang if you ever head up to the East Coast. The common misconception around Redang is that it's a lone island but it's actually an archipelago! It consists of nine islands, namely Lima, Paku Besar, Paku Kecil, Kerengga Besar, Kerengga Kecil, Ekor Tebu, Ling, Pinang and the main Redang island itself. Redang is definitely a family-friendly island, with the marine park (or more specifically, Pinang island) suitable for snorkelling or playing by the beach for kids. In addition, the island is a little more developed than the other nearby islands so you can look forward to more comfortable accommodations instead of the usual wooden chalets. Redang is home to The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort, famous for being a luxurious haven to enjoy the beauty of the island. But there's also a wide variety of other resorts that cater to every budget! To get to Redang, most travellers head to the Shahbandar jetty or Merang jetty in Kuala Terengganu. Some resorts operate their own ferries which usually leave from Merang jetty and brings you directly to the resort. Other resorts will make use of the public ferry which leaves from Shahbandar jetty to the Kampung jetty in Redang, after which you will transfer to other boats heading for the resorts.3. Perhentian Besar & Perhentian Kecil islands (Terengganu)
Split into two islands - Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil, the Perhentian islands are quickly becoming a popular island destination after the likes of Redang and Tioman. Perhentian is known as one of the top diving destinations in West Malaysia, and it's no surprise why. The array of marine diversity and clear visibility makes it a haven for scuba divers and underwater photographers. The island also gets visits from turtles all year round! There are accommodations available on both islands, ranging from backpacker resorts to more mid-range offerings.
Credit: @the_sakura on Instagram
One spot on Perhentian Kecil that has become popular is the old jetty near the windmills that have been installed on the island. Known as Windmill Point or simply windmill Perhentian (or in Malay, kincir angin Perhentian), getting there requires a 30-minute uphill hike from Long Beach (Pantai Panjang). It's a moderate workout, but the view at the top will be worth it! You'll find a long series of stairs descending down to sea level - there's an abandoned jetty at the end. Do note that the condition of the stairs and jetty is pretty unsafe as it hasn't been maintained, so you're not advised to take the stairs down. But even just the view from the top will be magnificent!
The nearest jetty to the Perhentian islands is in Kuala Besut, and the journey takes about 30 - 45 minutes by speed boat and 1.5 hours by slow boat.
