Top 7 Must-Visit Beaches In Penang, Malaysia

When visiting the beaches in Penang, Malaysia, you will feel like you are lost in a fairy-tale world with countless things to discover. Only a 30-minute drive away from Georgetown, most of these peaceful locations are located in Penang's northern part, with a small number scattered over the western, southern, and southwestern coasts. 

Tanjung Bungah and Batu Ferringhi are two of the most well-known beaches in Penang, Malaysia; both offer five-star hotels and beachside resorts with stunning views and lots of dining options. Sports like windsurfing, jet skiing, and parasailing are popular in the crystal-clear waters. 

Keep reading before grabbing your beach towel and sunnies, since we share the top 7 must-visit beaches in Penang, Indonesia below.

Best Beaches In Penang Malaysia For Your Next Vacation

However, the beach in Penang, Malaysia has much more to offer than just swimming in the sea. Take a stroll along the shoreline, enjoy some laksa while watching the sunset, or spread out your towel to soak up the sun with a good book.

Here are the best beaches in Penang, Malaysia for your next vacation:

1. Batu Feringghi

Batu Feringghi is one of Penang's most modern beaches. The long, soft, white sand beach is home to a vibrant night market with hundreds of vendors selling a wide range of discounted goods, as well as high-end oceanfront resorts, reasonably priced hotels, and local and international restaurants.

Many consider Batu Ferringhi to be the best beach in Penang, Malaysia. Indeed, after a day of visiting colonial buildings, colorful street art, and centuries-old temples, Batu Feringghi is the perfect retreat. This beach in Penang, Malaysia is also great for thrilling water sports - you can try windsurfing, parasailing, and jet skiing, or simply relax by the beach and watch the sunset.

Many consider Batu Ferringhi to be the best beach in Penang, Malaysia

2. Monkey Beach

If Batu Ferringhi is a bit too touristy for you, then let us share with you our favorite beach in Penang, Indonesia: Monkey Beach. There are a few improvised shacks as restaurants and bars, creating a very laid-back backpacker vibe.

Monkey Beach is located on Penang Island's northwest shore, on the fringe of Penang National Park. This remote location, also called Teluk Duyung, is accessible by boat from Batu Ferringhi in 20 minutes or by challenging hiking from Teluk Bahang in 2 hours. There are two islets nearby, including Pulau Song Song and Pulau Coral, which are great spots for swimming and snorkeling.

Monkey Beach offers campsites, clear water, and miles of white sand. It is ideal for those looking for privacy and peace away from the bustle of the city.

Monkey Beach offers campsites, clear water, and miles of white sand

3. Tanjung Bungah

Tanjung Bungah is a charming coastal suburb between Batu Feringghi and Gurney. It was originally a peaceful fishing village tucked away among verdant hills and rocky landscapes. The area has grown in popularity over time to become one of Penang's most visited destinations. The Penang Floating Mosque and Penang Toy Museum are two must-see attractions.

Water activities are the most popular activities in Tanjung Bungah. Penang Water Sports Centre offers kayak, canoe, and boat rentals at very affordable rates. You can also take part in exciting sports like soccer and beach volleyball. 

Tanjung Bungah is a charming coastal suburb between Batu Feringghi and Gurney

4. Teluk Bahang

Situated at the end of a long coastal road along the northern part of Penang Island, Teluk Bahang is a picturesque beach with a small fishing village. The Penang Forest Museum, Spice Garden, and ESCAPE Penang are just a few of its must-see attractions.

You can camp there and enjoy a starry night under the sky. You can also go jungle trekking in the morning or witness local fishermen unloading their catch of the day. Additionally, the beach in Penang, Malaysia, is known for its best seafood.

5. Pantai Teluk Kampi

It is Penang National Park's longest sand stretch. The trail to Teluk Kampi Beach is one of Penang's most difficult routes, and it is great for experienced hikers. The road is frequently covered in branches and leaves from its verdant surroundings. In addition, it is quite steep in certain places and especially slick during the wet season.

You can enjoy various recreational activities, such as bird watching and swimming. Since the beach is relatively quiet all year, camping along the vast coastline to watch the sunset is a very relaxing experience. From February to April, Teluk Kampi becomes a breeding ground for green sea turtles.

6. Pantai Kerachut

Pantai Kerachut is a remote beach in Penang, Malaysia. Therefore, from September to February, it acts as a nesting site for Olive Ridley, Hawksbill, and Green turtles. From November through January, jellyfish are drawn to the coastline by the growth of kelp. This fascinating location has monitor lizards, crabs, stock-billed kingfishers, and mousedeers, with igneous rocks and quartz veins forming the majority of its geology.

Pantai Kerachut is also home to one of the four meromictic lakes in Asia, which are composed of freshwater and saltwater that do not intermix.  The top layer of freshwater is noticeably colder than the seawater beneath, a fascinating phenomenon that happens once a year. From Batu Ferringhi, this beach in Penang, Malaysia can be reached by boat in 20 minutes or a 2-hour hike from Teluk Bahang, where a suspension bridge connects the route to the beach.

Pantai Kerachut is a remote beach in Penang, Malaysia

7. Pulau Aman

Just 300 people are living in the picturesque fishing village of Pulau Aman, a peaceful island. A boat leaves from Bukit Tambun between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. to get there. 

On the island, cycling, kayaking, and trekking are some of the most well-liked pastimes. Pulau Aman offers a plethora of sightseeing options and a colorful history. See the Telaga Emas, a well that was originally drilled in 1789 and never runs out, even in the harshest drought. Pulau Gedung, its neighboring island, is home to Pirates' Cave and remnants from WWII ammo.

Just 300 people are living in the picturesque fishing village of Pulau Aman, a peaceful island

Best Time To Visit These Beaches In Penang, Malaysia

December through February are the best months to visit these beaches in Penang, Indonesia because of the relatively milder and drier weather. But keep in mind that this is also the busiest travel season, so expect greater costs and larger crowds.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Penang during the shoulder season, which is from March to May and September to November. During this time, the weather is still pleasant, and prices are more affordable.

The crown jewel of Malaysia, Penang is not only a melting pot of cultures, UNESCO heritage sites, and delicious cuisine, but also home to some of the most spectacular seascapes in the country. Always packed with tourists and locals all year round, the best beaches in Panang, Malaysia are the perfect place to relax your mind, body, and soul.

Make sure your itinerary includes these must-see locations, and your trip to Malaysia will be perfect and unforgettable. Finally, but just as importantly, remember to apply for a Malaysia visa in order to guarantee a smooth travel experience!