Dreaming about an island getaway in the South Pacific? Well, you’re not alone! Here are of some of the best Malaysian Islands to consider for your next trip.
You may not know much about Malaysia, but you should know more. This small, South Asian country has a population of thirty-one million and has been inhabited for more than 40,000 years.
Malaysia only about the size of New Mexico. The majority of the land of this country is in two parts. The first half is at the bottom of a peninsula it shares with Thailand, and the other half is on an island it shares with Indonesia.
However, in addition to these two large sections of land, there are hundreds of smaller Malaysian islands. Malaysia is known especially for these islands and water and the ocean, in general, are both a huge part of the culture of this nation.
Read on to learn more about some of these dreamy islands. Each of them has a different personality; if you have the opportunity to visit several, do so.
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Penang Island
One of the larger Malaysian islands is Penang. It is located in the north and is rather metropolitan but it is still quite beautiful. It is the home of Penang National Park.
This island is considered the food capital of Malaysia and there is a great deal of delectable cuisine to be had. The capital of Penang, Georgetown, was once controlled by the British and many beautiful colonial buildings remain today.
Many visitors enjoy visiting Habitat Penang, a rainforest nature preserve located at the island’s highest point.
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The Perhentian Islands
These two islands feel like a nearly-deserted island paradise. Perhentian Kecil (Perhentian Small) and Besar (Big) draw beach lovers, scuba divers, and snorkelers. There are no roads here and movement around these islands is accomplished entirely on foot or by water taxi.
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Manukan Island
Another great spot for diving and snorkeling is Manukan Island. This is one of five islands that make up the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. The water here is a translucent blue-green and the clouds roll by lazily in the breeze.
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Redang Islands
If high-end luxury is your thing, you’ll want to check out the Redang Islands archipelago. This is where celebrities vacation while enjoying some of the classiest resorts that the Malaysian islands have to offer.
This was once a secret destination, but in more recent years it has become more popular. It’s still a wonderful getaway, though.
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Pangkor Island
Pangkor is a small island; its land area is only eight square kilometers. However, this island is very popular with locals. If you enjoy spending time with the local people when you go on vacation, then Pangkor might be the right choice for you.
There is not much nightlife on Pangkor, but this small island is home to a number of beautiful, uncrowded beaches and some of the best Malaysian food that money can buy.
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Selingan Turtle Island
If wildlife watching is your thing, then you will love Selingan Turtle Island. This island is rich with sea turtles and you can see them everywhere. They swim close to shore and during the right time of year, you can even see them laying their eggs – or better yet, you can watch tiny turtles hatch from those eggs. Many people count Selingan Turtle Island as their favorite of the Malaysian islands.
Safe Travels to the Malaysian Islands
These are just a few of the many amazing Malaysian islands that you should check out if you ever visit Malaysia. Each is different and unique and they all will provide you with an unforgettable island vacation experience. Don’t delay; plan a trip to Malaysia today!
