Island Hopping: 10 Malaysian islands to explore

1/10
Pulau Langkawi
Pulau Langkawi is the largest island of the Langkawi archipelago, and also the most popular tourist destination when it comes to island retreats in Malaysia. It plays host to a huge variety of attractions, such as 5-star resorts, lush scenery and amazing beaches. It even has its own airport, proving how convenient and accessible this place is. In addition, this island is kid-friendly, so feel free to bring the whole family along!
2/10
Pulau Payar
This island is one of the only locations you are allowed to snorkel and dive in the Western peninsular of Malaysia, and is a great option for you if you want to venture out from the Langkawi islands. Since there is no accommodation available on Pulau Payar, tourists usually make a day trip here to enjoy the beautiful coral and marine life.
3/10
Pulau Pangkor
Pulau Pangkor is a mountainous island that houses many resorts and tourist attractions like the Chinese Fu Lin Kong Temple. Water sports are aplenty in this area, which is good news for the adrenaline junkies out there. The best way to explore the island is by renting a motorbike, since it is cheap and efficient. You can also go on some jungle treks to explore the history of this beautiful island (which is also the meaning of its name).
4/10
Pulau Ketam
An interesting place to visit that differs from the usual notion of 'island' would be Pulau Ketam, an island most famed for fishery. If you love seafood, and especially crabs ('ketam' directly translates to 'crab'), this is the place for you. Observe the village life while indulging in the freshest catches from the sea. This makes the perfect place for a day trip to escape from the bustling city noise of Kuala Lumpur.
5/10
Pulau Tenggol
If you enjoy white sandy beaches surrounded by clear blue pristine waters and gorgeous coral formations, you'd probably want to give this island a visit. Very popular among scuba divers, this place is the perfect solution if you need a tropical escape just to enjoy your own private dive.
6/10
Pulau Sipadan
If you're a scuba diver yourself, you're probably already familiar with this name. Pulau Sipadan is home to one of the greatest diving spots in the world, most famous for its Barracuda Point where you get to swim with sharks and barracuda. To preserve the balance of nature, tourists are no longer allowed to stay on this island overnight, so you'll have to make a reservation on one of the neighbouring islands like Pulau Mabul.
7/10
Perhentian Islands
The Perhentian Islands make an amazing tourist destination for budget travellers and beginner divers, as accommodation and food are available at very affordable prices, and waters are clear and calm to learn diving for the first time. There are plenty of diving schools on shore offering the cheapest prices in the world to obtain your diving licence. If you're not into diving, there are a few light trails available for hiking, and various kayaking options as well.
8/10
Pulau Tioman
Considered as one of the most beautiful islands in the world, Pulau Tioman is one of the most popular tourist spots in eastern Malaysia. Even though it is very commercially developed, the natural diversity is still highly preserved. Famous for diving, snorkelling and its gorgeous waterfalls, don't miss the opportunity to visit this amazing site when you can! What's more, Pulau Tioman is a duty-free island, which means prices are definitely lower than on other islands - especially for alcohol.
9/10
Pulau Mataking
Honeymooners love this small island for a private and tranquil getaway. Arrangements can even be made to hold your wedding on this lovely island. However, this is quite a luxurious location if you want to stay overnight. There is only one resort here whose prices start at RM1,235 per person, per night. Nevertheless, the sights and the experience will be worth it.
10/10
Pulau Selingan
Also known as Turtle Island, this place is renowned for the many turtles that swim in the waters surrounding this island. At night, they come ashore to lay their eggs, and is a rare sight to behold. There will be marine park rangers on site to alert you when turtles are laying their eggs, and to guide you to put them in a place out of reach of predators. You can even release young hatchlings into the sea, under supervision! Since this is an extremely popular tourist destination, make sure to reserve a room months beforehand to avoid disappointment.

If you’re planning a beach getaway this holiday, you won’t have to go very far. Malaysia is teeming with islands to explore, especially if you just want to enjoy a good dive in a beautiful coral reef. Not only that, some of these islands house the most luxurious resorts and beautiful historical sites and temples for the whole family to enjoy. No more spending unnecessary money to travel to crowded tourist spots like Bali or Phuket – just head on down to a tranquil beach right in your own home country!

From commercially developed beach destinations, to amazing diving and snorkelling locations, and even to small fishing villages, we’ve got just the list for you to complete your dream holiday or a simple day trip out of the city. You’ve definitely got to visit these islands and experience them for yourself, and make sure to take lots of photos to remember how beautiful your country can be!

Dione Chen

Photos: Getty Images

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