The 10 Best Beach Bars in Penang, Malaysia

There are two Bora Bora’s in town, and this is the more well-known. Everyone loves this place for its fun vibe, complete with your alcohol of choice and wooden picnic-style tables. Set right on the Batu Ferringhi beach, you’ll be enjoying one of the best sea views in Penang. Culture Trip recommends coming here during sunset, between 6.30 to 7.30p.m.

Looking for a tropical sea breeze and long stretches of fine sand, with calm waves lapping on the shore? Look no further. The Frandy Beach Bar offers a commanding view of Penang’s best beach, plus a rotation of the island’s local music bands and festive decoration to amp up the vibe.

If you prefer a more upscale drinking experience, the Beach Blanket Babylon is where it’s at. With sheer white drapes, elegant wood panelling and modern furniture, this bar feels like a Mediterranean lounge in the heart of tropical Malaysia. Enjoy reasonably priced drinks and food in a beautiful nature-framed setting.

Strategically located on the Weld Quay, this is one for the George Towners. Live music happens on Fridays and Saturdays, turning the venue into a boppin’ and vibrant hub of activity. With an extensive drinks menu and delicious food (Culture Trip recommends the pizza), you can sing it out, drink it down, and check out the horizon of Penang’s nighttime skyline.

Want to sip on your favorite cocktail while overlooking swaying coconut trees, soft sand and calm waves? At the Sand Bar, this is everyone’s tropical dream come true. Have your martinis shaken, stirred or straight up, and let the evening beach party music get you going.

Operated by Golden Sands Resort, Sigi’s blends beach, beer and barbecue under one elegant marquee. Portions are generous (Culture Trip recommends the paella) and the view is panoramic. Mocktails are also available for those who prefer to forgo the alcohol.

At the Olive Kitchen + Bar, everything’s buzzing — the drinks, the music, even you. Cold draught beer, strawberry daiquiris and Chicken 65 (flavorful pieces of fried chicken) are frequent favorites. While it’s not technically situated on a beach, you’ll still be moved by the sea breeze here.

If you want good music, good people, and one of the best beef rendangs in town, the Living Room Cafe Bar & Gallery is the place to be. Portions are generous, options are cosmopolitan (including calamari rings and spring rolls), and decor is rustic-meets-palm trees.

While not technically in central George Town, this Bora Bora is relatively close to Penang’s city center. Surf boards, neon lights, and casual chairs on the beach give this place a contemporary, young vibe. Like its sister branch in Batu Ferringhi, this Bora Bora offers great food to go with your alcohol, including bruschetta, pizza and spring rolls.

Do you like white yachts, 80’s music and beer nights? If so, you’ve probably been to Healy Mac’s. This laid-back Irish pub isn’t exactly on the beach, but it does boast an extensive view of the sea from the Straits Quay. Men’s night is on Wednesday (bring on the beer!) and ladies’ night is on Thursdays (selected cocktails are free).