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From Langkawi to Borneo: The 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Malaysia (Travel Guide & Deals)
Malaysia is a land of contrasts — bustling cities, ancient rainforests, and, most importantly, some of the most beautiful coastlines in Southeast Asia.
Forget the crowded beaches you might picture. The true magic lies on remote islands off the east coast and the untouched shores of Borneo, where vibrant reefs, powdery sand, and crystal-clear water await. Whether you're a diver, a family traveler, or a beach lover searching for paradise, this list is for you.
This isn’t just a list — it’s your complete guide. We show you how to get there, where to stay, and how to book your trip using our recommended partners so you can plan with confidence.
Let’s dive into the crystal-clear waters of Malaysia’s most stunning beaches.
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Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Malaysia
1. Tanjung Rhu Beach (Langkawi, Peninsular Malaysia)
The Vibe: Dramatic Karsts & Hidden Sands
Langkawi’s coastline is vast, but Tanjung Rhu stands out. It’s quiet, expansive, and framed by ancient limestone karsts jutting out of the Andaman Sea. The surrounding area is protected, meaning no noisy jet skis, just peace, Casuarina trees, and stunning low-tide views that let you walk to nearby islands.
How to Go There
- Fly directly into Langkawi International Airport (LGK) — book flights via Trip.com.
- From the airport, it’s about a 30-minute taxi ride to Tanjung Rhu on the island’s northern tip.
Where to Stay
- Luxury Escape: Four Seasons Resort Langkawi — unparalleled service and world-class luxury.
- Beachfront Tranquility: Tanjung Rhu Resort — a peaceful hideaway with stunning views.
2. Cenang Beach (Langkawi, Peninsular Malaysia)
The Vibe: Lively, Social & Packed with Island Energy
Cenang Beach is Langkawi’s most energetic coastal strip — bustling with cafés, bars, duty-free shopping, and water sports. It’s ideal for travelers who want convenience, nightlife, and a lively beachfront atmosphere without sacrificing natural beauty.
How to Go There
- Fly directly into Langkawi International Airport (LGK) — book flights via Trip.com.
- Cenang Beach is just 10 minutes away by taxi.
Where to Stay
- Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa — reliable, comfortable beachfront stay.
- PARKROYAL Langkawi Resort— boutique, romantic, and right on the sand.
- Plenty of budget hostels available steps from the beach.
3. Perhentian Islands (Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia)
The Vibe: Backpacker Paradise Meets Family Haven
A perfect blend of laid-back charm (Kecil, the smaller island) and family-friendly serenity (Besar, the larger one), the Perhentians boast some of the finest powdery white sand in the country. The shallow, brilliant turquoise waters are perfect for snorkeling right off the beach, often with sea turtles and black-tip reef sharks.
How to Go There
- The gateway is Kuala Besut Jetty.
- Fly to Kota Bharu Airport (KBR) — search flights via Trip.com.
- Take a short taxi ride to the jetty.
- Ferries depart multiple times daily to both islands.
Where to Stay
- Besar (Quiet & Scenic): Perhentian Island Resort — great beachfront access and peaceful surroundings.
- Kecil (Lively & Social): Mimpi Perhentian — a popular pick along Long Beach.
4. Pulau Redang (Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia)
The Vibe: Pristine Sands & Upscale Island Bliss
Redang is one of Malaysia’s most beloved island getaways, known for its long stretches of powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. More refined and resort-oriented than the Perhentians, it offers spacious beaches, excellent snorkeling straight from shore, and an overall polished island experience—perfect for couples, families, and travelers seeking comfort with natural beauty.
How to Go There
- From the airport, transfer to Merang Jetty (about 45 minutes).
- Board a speedboat to Redang Island (resorts typically coordinate this).
Where to Stay
- Luxury Escape: The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort offers an exclusive beach, turquoise bay views, and one of the most beautiful private coastlines in Malaysia.
- Redang Divers Resort - beachfront hideaway designed for those who love the ocean and the simple pleasures of island life.
5. Teluk Cempedak (Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia)
The Vibe: A Scenic Urban Beach with Boardwalk Views
Teluk Cempedak combines convenience and beauty — located just minutes from Kuantan city, this picturesque beach features soft sand, dramatic rock formations, and a scenic boardwalk that winds along the coastline. It’s great for families, joggers, and sunset seekers.
How to Go There
- Fly to Kuantan Airport (KUA) — search flights on Trip.com.
- Take a 20-minute taxi to the Teluk Cempedak area.
Where to Stay
- Hyatt Regency Kuantan Resort — a classic beachfront favorite with modern facilities.
- The Zenith Hotel Kuantan — convenient city stay near malls and restaurants.
6. Pulau Rawa (Johor, Peninsular Malaysia)
The Vibe: Private-Island Bliss with White-Powder Sands
Often nicknamed the “Maldives of Johor,” Pulau Rawa is a pristine private island blessed with impossibly white sand, swaying palms, and clear turquoise water. With only two resorts on the entire island, Rawa offers an intimate escape perfect for honeymooners, families, or anyone craving tranquility far from the crowds.
How to Go There
- Travel to Mersing Jetty (approx. 2 hours by taxi).
- Take a 30-minute speedboat to Rawa Island (pre-booked through your resort).
Where to Stay
- Bayu Lestari Island Resort— ideal for families and those seeking comfort and calm.
- HeyBlueee Homestay - near Mersing Jetty
7. Desaru Coast (Johor, Peninsular Malaysia)
The Vibe: Luxury Resorts, Family Fun & Endless Golden Sands
Desaru Coast has fast emerged as one of Malaysia’s top premium beach destinations. With a massive waterpark, championship golf courses, world-class resorts, and a 17 km stretch of golden sand, it’s perfect for families and couples seeking upscale comfort.
How to Go There
- From Singapore: Take the direct ferry via the Desaru Link Ferry Terminal (check schedules on Pelago).
- By Air: Fly into Senai Airport (JHB) using Trip.com, then enjoy a 1-hour drive to the coast.
Where to Stay
- Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast — family-friendly with easy access to Adventure Waterpark.
- The Westin Desaru Coast Resort — stylish and relaxing beachfront luxury.
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8. Tanjung Aru Beach (Sabah, Borneo)
The Vibe: Iconic Sunsets & Laid-Back Coastal Charm
Just minutes from Kota Kinabalu city, Tanjung Aru is the go-to spot for jaw-dropping sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant shades of orange, pink, and purple. It’s lively, accessible, and lined with local food stalls—perfect for an effortless evening by the sea.
How to Go There
- Take a 10–15 minute taxi to Tanjung Aru.
Where to Stay
- Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu — the area’s flagship beachfront luxury resort.
- Stay in Kota Kinabalu city for budget-friendly options and quick Grab rides to the beach.
9. Pulau Sipadan (Sabah, Borneo)
The Vibe: One of the Planet’s Premier Dive Destinations
Sipadan is less a beach destination and more an underwater kingdom. Ranked among the top dive sites on Earth, this oceanic island is a sanctuary for turtles, reef sharks, barracudas, and thriving coral walls. Access is limited (only 120 permits daily), so you must stay nearby on Mabul or Kapalai and join a day trip.
How to Get There
- Fly to Tawau (TWU). Search Tawau flights on Trip.com.
- From the airport, take a taxi or private transfer to Semporna Jetty (1.5 hours).
- From Semporna, take a resort-arranged speedboat to your island stay.
Where to Stay
You cannot stay on Sipadan itself.
- Luxury Diver Stay: Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort
- Budget Friendly: Nature Resort
10. Mataking Island, Semporna Region (Sabah, Borneo)
The Vibe: Overwater Bungalow Escapes & Crystal-Clear Seas
The Semporna archipelago is a gateway to some of the most breathtaking waters in Malaysia. Islands like Pom Pom, Mataking, Mabul, and Kapalai boast shimmering turquoise seas, soft white sand, and dreamy overwater villas that rival the Maldives. Whether you're here to dive, snorkel, or simply unwind in paradise, Semporna offers some of the most idyllic island experiences in Borneo.
How to Go There
- Take a 1–1.5 hour taxi or pre-arranged transfer to Semporna Jetty.
- From the jetty, your resort will typically arrange the speedboat transfer directly to your island.
Where to Stay
Most accommodations here are island resorts offering full-board packages and overwater stays. Popular choices include:
- Pom Pom Island Resort — serene, romantic, and surrounded by marine life.
- Mataking Island Resort — luxury meets postcard-perfect scenery.
- Kapalai Dive Resort — iconic overwater chalets on stilts above clear reefs.
Plan Your Perfect Malaysian Beach Holiday
Ready to feel the sand between your toes? Booking your essentials ahead of time takes the stress out of travel.
✈️ Flights & Hotels
We partner with Trip.com to bring you competitive prices on flights across Malaysia and a wide selection of hotels, from budget chalets to 5-star resorts.
- Search All Flights to Malaysia on Trip.com
- Browse Beach Resorts & Hotels on Trip.com
- Need ground transport? Find bus or train tickets within Malaysia easily on BusTicketOnline.com.
🎫 Experiences & Essentials
- Once your travel is sorted, make sure your trip is seamless with Pelago, a platform by Singapore Airlines Group for curated experiences and travel essentials.
- Stay Connected: Grab a reliable Malaysia Data eSIM from Pelago so you have internet from the moment you land.
- Book Activities: Look for snorkeling trips around the Perhentians or dive packages in Sabah via the Pelago Activities Platform.
Malaysia's beaches are calling. Use this guide to find your perfect stretch of paradise and book your unforgettable escape today!
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