5 Malaysian islands that should be in your trip calendar

Pristine nature, white sand beaches, turquoise water, and lots of exciting activities – you can get all this while exploring the heavenly islands of Malaysia. Each has its secrets and hallmarks, but every island is welcoming and absolutely family-friendly. We decided to help you plan your vacation and made a list of 5 Malaysian islands that should be on your trip calendar by BusyKidd.

Are you ready?

Langkawi

Image Credit: Crocodile Adventureland Langkawi via Facebook

What comes to your mind first when you think of Langkawi? We bet it is the picture of the Langkawi Sky Bridge with breathtaking views of the island and the sea on the horizon. Yes, it is the island’s hallmark, known all around the world, and the Sky Bridge walk alone is absolutely worth visiting the island. However, Langkawi offers many other interesting places to see and exciting things to do. But first thing first.

Langkawi is the main island of the same-named archipelago of 99 islands. With its pristine beaches, wild nature, impressive waterfalls, fascinating museums, and many exciting things to do, Langkawi deserves to be considered among the world’s most popular tourist destinations.

Of course, the best way to get acquainted with the island is to take a bird’s-eye view of it. And, of course, the best way to do this in Langkawi is to get on the world’s steepest cable car (Panorama Langkawi SkyCab) and find yourself 660 meters above sea level by that world-famous SkyBridge. Take a leisurely walk across the bridge. Don’t hurry. Enjoy the moment. Catch every detail of the scenery around you. It is a lifetime experience.

The island is famous for its waterfalls. Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls, Temurun Waterfall, and Durian Perangin Waterfall – each deserves attention and a hike.

Be sure to visit Dataran Lang (or Eagle Square) in Kuah Town with a giant 12-metre tall statue of the red-backed Eagle, another hallmark of the island. A picture with the Eagle is mandatory.

And beaches. Cenang Beach is the island’s most famous beach, with many cozy cafes and activities for every taste. Tengah Beach is much quieter, although it also offers several dining venues and watersports. And for complete tranquility, head to Tanjung Rhu Beach – a great place to relax and unwind while enjoying beautiful views.

Your kids will be thrilled by the Crocodile Adventureland Langkawi, which offers a great entertainment and educational experience. Remember to take as many pictures as you can.

Be sure to visit The Night Market for local food and tour the island’s museums and art galleries, including the Art In Paradise museum, the Underwater World Langkawi aquarium, and Galeria Perdana.

Did we mention that Langkawi is a duty-free island?

• How to get there: The fastest and the most comfortable way to get to Langkawi with kids is by air. A direct flight from Singapore to Langkawi takes about an hour and a half. Connecting flights with a stop at Kuala Lumpur International Airport are also available.
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Manukan

Image Credit: Adventures In Borneo via Facebook

Manukan is the second-largest (and best-developed) island of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, so you can already imagine its main highlight, right? Yes, we are talking about the island’s incredible marine life, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and more. Welcome to the island of Manukan!

The choice of watersports and other activities you can try in Manukan is impressive. However, the main thing that allures hundreds of thousands of visitors is snorkeling. Turquoise water, beautiful corals, colorful fishes, and other underwater inhabitants – well, you can spend days exploring Manukan’s coral reefs. There’s also a Dive Center that offers various courses, tours, Stay&Scuba packages, and more. Yes, it’s perfect for families with kids since the Manukan Dive Center also has many exciting activities for little travelers.

The island’s long white-sand beach is perfect for walking, relaxing, swimming, dreaming, and building sandcastles with your kids – it’s ideal for having the best moments in your life.

Finally, the sunset that won’t leave anyone indifferent, as well as the way to the Sunset Point tip. You can get there either by the path or by the jungle. The first way is much easier and faster. However, the second one provides an excellent opportunity to merge with the island’s wildlife (birdwatching is included). There is a lovely little beach at your destination point and one of Malaysia’s best spots to admire the sunset.

Escape from crowds, merge with wild nature, and dive into the fantastic underwater world. Heaven on Earth exists. You’ll find it here.

• How to get there: There is a direct flight from Singapore to Kota Kinabalu City. Then, you have to take a 10-minute ferry ride to the island.
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Penang

Image Credit: Escape Penang via Facebook

Penang is Malaysia’s fourth largest island and is a mix of bustling streets and tranquil beaches, colonial architecture and pristine nature, historic neighborhoods and amusement parks. What is Penang Island famous for? Without a doubt, for its UNESCO World Heritage site at Georgetown, street food, beautiful temples, and beaches. And for the mind-blowing views. Let’s take a tour of the island’s best things to do.

As you already know, seeing Penang from the highest point is the best way to start your vacation here. Penang Hill, with its numerous lookout points, is perfect for this. Hop on a funicular, enjoy hiking, admire the view of Georgetown (the capital of the Malaysian state of Penang), take a tour of historic buildings, watch wild nature, and refresh yourself in Kopi Hutan, Penang’s highest café.

Penang is an excellent destination for history and culture geeks. Here, you’ll find lots of history in its museums, mansions, and temples. Take a walk along Armenian Street, full of beautiful architecture, street art, and lovely places to have a snack. Be sure to tour Pinang Peranakan Mansion and The Blue Mansion. Don’t miss the Dhammikarama Burmese Temple and Khoo Kongsi clan house and museum.

Kek Lok Si Temple is colorful, powerful, and majestic. It is a must-visit place on any tour of the island. It is Malaysia’s largest Buddhist site, full of beautiful architecture, nice gardens, statues, art, and fascinating stories.

Nature lovers will enjoy walking through the Entopia Tropical Sanctuary, the Tropical Spice Garden, and the Penang Botanical Gardens.

For amusement, take your kids to the Escape Theme Park, which has lots of rides and attractions but is designed with nature in mind. No matter how old you are, no matter how trained or extreme you are, each of your family members will find something to their taste. Get ready for a day full of emotions and impressions!

Well, we just cannot help but talk about Penang Street Food since the island is deservedly considered one of Southeast Asia’s best places for street food. Char Kway Teow, Laksa, Tau Sar Piah, Nasi Lemak, and Oyster Omelette are just a tiny part of the delicacies you should definitely taste while enjoying your stay in Penang.

• How to get there: Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Penang from Singapore with kids. The quickest flight from Singapore Changi Airport to Penang Airport takes only 1 hour and 15 minutes.
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Redang

Image Credit: The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort via Facebook

Redang is deservedly considered one of the world’s most beautiful islands thanks to its white-sanded beaches, crystal clear water, lush greenery, and inspiring views. However, despite its popularity, Redang is still a place where you can forget about your problems, take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, and just relax and enjoy this moment.

Redang is a heavenly destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming. Numerous diving sites are available for both beginners and advanced divers. Two shipwrecks are also nearby, so you’ll have unforgettable memories.

Redang is a turtle nesting site, and there’s no better place to observe turtles in their natural habitat. Be sure to visit SEATRU Turtle Lab at the Taaras Resort – it is a perfect way for small travelers to learn about nature and the importance of protecting sea turtles. Your kids will definitely love this part of your travel.

Besides, you can explore the jungle, go canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and even learn batik crafting – Pedang offers a wide range of exciting family activities.

• How to get there: You can fly to Kuala Terengganu and take a ferry to Redang. Another option is to fly to Kuala Lumpur and fly on to Redang.
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Tioman

Image Credit: Adventure With John via Facebook

The Malaysian island of Tioman is surrounded by numerous coral reefs and is a popular spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing. You’ll find untouched nature, tranquil beaches, and all sorts of activities for families with kids here.

The island’s marine life is diverse and colorful. You’ll even get a chance to see the rare whale shark here. Approach any of the island’s numerous dive shops to rent gear, find out about the best snorkeling spots, and start your adventure.

Adventure With John offers several exciting snorkeling packages to choose from. Your kids will definitely have their lifetime experience and lots of fascinating stories to share with their friends upon returning home.

Are you looking for a secluded beach? Head towards Monkey Bay (by speedboat or jungle trail). It is believed to have the most tranquil water on the island. Nipah Beach is also a great escape from reality. If you want something more lively and civilized, spend a beach day on Air Batang Beach, Tekek Beach, or Salang Beach.

Most of the island is covered with lush, pristine forest, so jungle trekking is another popular activity to enjoy while staying in Tioman. Beautiful waterfalls, magnificent mountains, powerful limestone formations, and incredible flora and fauna are waiting for you here. However, observe your bags since you’ll meet many curious monkeys on your way.

And, yes, Tioman is a duty-free island.

• How to get there: The best way to get to Tioman from Singapore is to take a car or bus ride to Tanjung Gemok Jetty or Mersing and then take the ferry to Tioman Island.
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We bet you’ve got enough inspiration to start planning your adventure and packing your bags.

Bon Voyage!

Cover Image Credit: Adventures In Borneo via Facebook