Malaysia Holidays

Which side of Malaysia will you choose to explore?

Experience multiple holidays in one when you jet off to Malaysia, divided by the South China Sea, this fascinating country has so much to offer holiday makers and travellers alike. A holiday to Malaysia enables you to trek through a rainforest, relax on a white powdery beach and stay on top of a mountain if you so wish, there are so many amazing landscapes and activities available to anyone wanting to explore this beautiful country.

From the hustle and bustle of Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, to the serene and naturally beautiful Maliau Basin in Sabah there truly is something to satisfy every different taste. Whether you’re after a super relaxing holiday on Malaysia’s east coast, consisting only of sun, sea and sand or a jam-packed getaway to Borneo, you’re guaranteed to discover the perfect destination for you in Malaysia. Check out holidays to Penang with lastminute.com and holidays to Lankawai.

Travellers will be in paradise with Singapore, the Philippines and Hong Kong on their doorstep. Well, almost! If you are island hopping however, be prepared to find yourself in Malaysia a little longer than planned due to the sheer amount of things to see, do and taste. As for what you’ll be eating on a holiday to Malaysia, well where do we start? The many different cultural influences are definitely reflected in the food, and although you’ll find many dishes that relate back to familiar cuisines, such as Chinese, Indian and Thai, you’ll definitely notice a Malaysian stamp on them. Tantalise your taste buds with a smorgasbord of food on offer to you and soak up the abundance of culture while you’re at it.

This beautiful Asian country is definitely worth a visit if you’re travelling, if you can decide which areas to go to, that is! To experience everything that a holiday to Malaysia has to offer however, we’d suggest dedicating a whole trip to this beautiful part of the world. Why choose whether to go to a beach resort, have an activity packed holiday or a getaway full of culture and history, book a great value holiday to Malaysia with lastminute.com and experience a bit of everything.

Beaches in Malaysia

Malaysia boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia, offering pristine sands, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical settings. Whether you're looking for a tranquil escape or a lively beach scene, Malaysia has something to offer every traveller. Here are some of the top beach destinations to explore during your holidays in Malaysia.

Langkawi

Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands, is renowned for its stunning beaches and luxury resorts:

• Pantai Cenang: The most popular beach in Langkawi, Pantai Cenang features soft white sand, clear waters, and a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars and restaurants. It's ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

• Tanjung Rhu: Known for its secluded and serene atmosphere, Tanjung Rhu offers pristine beaches with powdery sand and turquoise waters. It's perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat away from the crowds.

• Datai Bay: This private beach, surrounded by lush rainforest, offers a luxurious and tranquil setting. It's home to several high-end resorts and is ideal for relaxation and nature walks.

Perhentian Islands

Located off the coast of northeastern Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands are a favourite among divers and snorkellers:

• Perhentian Kecil: Known for its backpacker vibe, this island features Long Beach, a lively area with a range of affordable accommodations and vibrant nightlife.

• Perhentian Besar: The larger of the two main islands, Perhentian Besar offers a more relaxed atmosphere with beautiful beaches and excellent diving spots. It's perfect for families and those looking for a quieter stay.

Redang Island

Redang Island is famous for its clear waters and coral reefs, making it a prime destination for snorkelling and diving:

• Pasir Panjang: Also known as Long Beach, Pasir Panjang is the most popular beach on Redang Island. It offers powdery white sand, clear blue waters, and a range of beachside resorts and restaurants.

Tioman Island

Tioman Island is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers:

• Juara Beach: This beach is known for its tranquil setting and stunning views. It's less developed than other parts of the island, making it perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape.

• Salang Beach: Popular among divers, Salang Beach offers vibrant marine life and several dive centres. It also has a lively atmosphere with beach bars and restaurants.

Pangkor Island

Pangkor Island, located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, is known for its charming fishing villages and beautiful beaches:

• Teluk Nipah: This beach is popular for its laid-back vibe and beautiful sunsets. It's a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying local seafood.

• Coral Beach: Known for its clear waters and coral reefs, Coral Beach is ideal for snorkeling and relaxing by the sea.

Sabah (Borneo)

Sabah, located on the island of Borneo, offers some of Malaysia's most spectacular beaches and marine parks:

• Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park: This group of islands off the coast of Kota Kinabalu features beautiful beaches, clear waters, and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. Popular islands include Manukan, Sapi, and Gaya.

• Sipadan Island: Renowned as one of the world's top diving destinations, Sipadan Island offers unparalleled underwater experiences with its rich marine biodiversity.

Whether you prefer the bustling beach resorts of Langkawi, the tranquil shores of the Perhentian Islands, or the world-class diving spots of Sabah, Malaysia's diverse beach destinations provide the perfect setting for a memorable holiday.

Sports Activities in Malaysia

Malaysia offers a wide array of sports and outdoor activities that cater to thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you prefer water sports along pristine beaches or trekking through lush rainforests, there are plenty of options to make your holiday exciting and adventurous.

Water Sports

• Diving and Snorkelling: Malaysia is renowned for its world-class diving spots. Sipadan Island in Sabah is famed for its rich marine biodiversity and stunning coral reefs. Other notable diving and snorkelling locations include the Perhentian Islands, Redang Island, and Tioman Island, all offering clear waters teeming with marine life.

• Surfing: Surfing enthusiasts can head to Cherating Beach in Pahang, known for its consistent waves, particularly during the monsoon season from November to March.

• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore Malaysia’s scenic rivers and coastal areas through kayaking and paddleboarding. Langkawi’s mangroves and the calm waters around the Perhentian Islands are popular spots for these activities.

Hiking and Trekking

• Mount Kinabalu: Located in Sabah, Mount Kinabalu is one of Southeast Asia’s highest peaks and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The challenging trek to its summit offers breathtaking views and a chance to experience diverse flora and fauna.

• Cameron Highlands: Known for its cool climate and picturesque landscapes, the Cameron Highlands offer numerous trekking trails through tea plantations, mossy forests, and waterfalls.

• Gunung Mulu National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site in Sarawak is home to some of the world's most spectacular caves and karst formations. Trekking in Mulu includes the famous Pinnacles trail and the challenging Headhunters’ Trail.

Adventure Sports

• White Water Rafting: Malaysia’s rivers provide excellent conditions for white water rafting. The Kiulu and Padas Rivers in Sabah offer thrilling rafting experiences with varying degrees of difficulty suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.

• Paragliding: Experience the thrill of paragliding over Malaysia’s beautiful landscapes. Popular spots include the coastal areas of Selangor and the hilly regions of Ranau in Sabah.

• Rock Climbing: For rock climbing enthusiasts, Batu Caves near Kuala Lumpur offers a range of climbing routes suitable for different skill levels. The limestone hills of Bukit Keteri in Perlis are also popular among climbers.

Golfing

• Luxury Golf Courses: Malaysia boasts numerous world-class golf courses set amidst stunning natural backdrops. The Els Club in Langkawi and the Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort in Perak are among the top choices for golf enthusiasts.

Cycling

• Scenic Cycling Routes: Explore Malaysia on two wheels by cycling through its diverse landscapes. Penang Island offers scenic coastal routes, while the mountainous terrain of Cameron Highlands provides a more challenging experience for avid cyclists.

With such a wide variety of sports and outdoor activities, Malaysia is a paradise for those looking to stay active and explore its natural beauty. Whether you’re diving in crystal-clear waters, hiking up majestic peaks, or enjoying thrilling adventure sports, there's something for everyone to enjoy.