The Best Beaches In Penang Malaysia

The waters aren’t clean and clear (recognize the singsong line?) like on the Perhentian and Redang Islands, but the beaches in Penang are bigger, wider and more varied. So, take your pick from our list.

1. Batu Ferringhi

Natural Feature

JET SKI AND BANANA BOAT, BATU FERRINGHI BEACH IN FRONT OF GRAND PLAZA PARKROYAL HOTEL, PENANG, MALAYSIA,. Image shot 2006. Exact date unknown.

Hotels, resorts, restaurants, night markets and huge swathes of white sand pimpled by tourists bathing under the sun and water sports enthusiasts riding the waves (or the sky) – what more can you ask for? Only a cocktail, maybe, and, even in this respect, Batu Ferringhi serves up the best.

2. Tanjung Bungah

Natural Feature

Fishing boats at Monkey Beach, Tanjung Bungah, near Batu Ferringhi, Penang, Malaysia

Somewhere between tourist-dense Batu Ferringhi and shopper’s haven Gurney Drive lies this sleepy beach, unstirred except for the occasional sunset viewer. Locals swim, picnic and stroll along the shoreline, but it’s still relatively quiet, and dark enough after sundown to spot the starry constellations.

3. Gertak Sanggul

Natural Feature

Venture a little further from George Town, and you’ll find this quaint, relatively undisturbed beach on the southwestern shores of Penang Island. The fishing community here prides itself on its fresh seafood, so, even if you’re here for the sand and sea, be sure to try the shellfish, too.

5. Pulau Jerejak

Natural Feature

The largest islet in Penang sits between Penang Island and the mainland and features fine, pale sand, thick rainforests and water activities including water polo and canoeing. This is also where you can catch an unparalleled view of the second bridge.

6. Monkey Beach

Bowling Alley, Natural Feature

Monkey Beach in the Penang National Park in Penang, Malaysia.. Image shot 11/2014. Exact date unknown.

Named after the long-tailed macaques that occasionally make an appearance, this beach is located in Penang National Park. Trek the winding tree-shaded paths for 30 minutes, and you’ll arrive at this small, no-frills, no-fuss beach that tends to be pleasantly crowd-free.

7. Pantai Kerachut

Natural Feature

Another one for the national park, this remote beach is one of the cleanest you’ll find in Penang. You might want to call ahead (at Penang National Park), or ask the lady at the entrance if the beach is open.

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