11 Must-Visit Islands for Your Malaysia Travel Adventure
Malaysia’s got over 800 islands—big and small—scattered across its two peninsulas and around Borneo. Nearly a million folks live on the mainland, with a handful chilling on wooden rafts out at sea. Beyond pristine beaches and top-notch diving, Malaysia’s a paradise for travelers itching to explore jaw-dropping islands. Before you kick off, pack smart: passport, cash, and skip overloading on clothes to keep it light. Toss in skincare, and don’t forget sunscreen! Here’s my rundown of the 11 best islands to experience in Malaysia.
1. Langkawi Archipelago – Kedah’s Gem
Langkawi’s one of Malaysia’s prettiest and most-visited islands, with endless beaches, mountains, and mangrove forests. Fun stuff to do? Hit up the UNESCO-listed Pregnant Maiden island, feed eagles, watch monkeys swim for grub, or soak up the sun at Pantai Cenang—not a bad pick!
2. Penang’s Colonial and Urban Vibe
Penang might not wow with beaches, but it’s got this old-school urban and colonial charm—colorful temples, nostalgic shophouses, and buildings unchanged for over a century. Top it off with a breezy escape to Penang Hill for some fresh air.
3. Kapas Island
This one’s off the radar for most tourists, so you can bask in quiet nature and snap dazzling pics. One of Malaysia’s loveliest islands, it’s all about kicking back on the beach all day, feeling that peaceful vibe.
4. Pangkor Island
Close to Perak’s coast, Pangkor’s a cool spot to explore—jungles all around, Dutch colonial forts, and classic wooden piers. Lounge under palm trees by the waves, then feed hornbills at Sunset View Chalet.
5. Perhentian Islands
Off northeastern Malaysia’s Terengganu coast, this archipelago’s a diver’s dream. The stars? Perhentian Kecil (small) and Besar (big)—hotspots for pro divers and sea-loving travelers. It’s also home to Southeast Asia’s cheapest dive schools. Gear up with safety stuff for diving or other activities. Didn’t pack sporty gear for Malaysia? Check out Decathlon for a full-on experience at these two gems.
6. Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
This marine park’s got 5 small islands off Kota Kinabalu’s coast, a quick 15-minute boat hop apart. Gaya, the biggest, draws crowds with its floating village and epic coastal hikes.
7. Sipadan Island
Another diver’s haven, Sipadan—near Semporna in Sabah—is ranked among the world’s top dive sites. Don’t miss the limestone pinnacle, but since 2002, it’s been under protection, and permits are tough to snag for visitors.
8. Mantanani Islands of Sabah
Love diving but short on time? This is your day-trip pick. Folks flock here for dive certs, swimming with seahorses and rays across 20+ sites—including 3 shipwrecks. Don’t skip the legendary Bornean sunset—it’s the missing piece of your Malaysia trip.
9. Redang Island Marine Park
This park bundles 9 islands near Terengganu and the Perhentians. It’s a magnet for resort-style travelers, with stunning coastlines and Malaysia’s ritziest getaways. Bonus fame? The 2000 Hong Kong blockbuster Summer Holiday shot here.
10. Sultan’s Private Island
Pulau Rawa, off Johor’s coast, is the Sultan’s private island, owned by Johor’s Islamic royal family. Two resorts sit on its dazzling sands, hosting just a trickle of visitors yearly. It’s a honeymoon heaven, but book max three months ahead.
11. Pulau Tiga Island
Dubbed “Survivor Island,” it’s where the first season of the hit reality show Survivor was filmed. Its fame and wild emptiness spark curiosity for explorers. Chill on the beach, hike to mud volcanoes, or unwind at luxe resorts.