From the white sands of the east coast to the black textured seafront of Pantai Pasir Hitam and the smooth pebbles of Pantai Batu Kerikil, Malaysia's beaches are as diverse as they are beautiful. In many areas, lush tropical forests roll down to the ocean and surprisingly few of the countries beaches are lined with buildings. Malaysia's islands are the undoubtedly the best choice for lovers of sand and sea. Pangkor Island is a low-key destination off the west coast, boasting wide stretches of unspoilt sand and Emerald Bay, on a small, privately owned island near Pangkor has often been chosen as one of the top ten best beaches in the world. Langkawi's beaches are equally renowned. Beaches like Datai, Kuah, Pantai Cegang and Tengah not only offer an idyllic seaside escape but also provide excellent diving or snorkelling opportunities. The Palau Payar Marine Park, just 45 minutes boat ride from Kuah is a widely considered one of the region's top underwater experiences.
Tioman Island, off the south-east coast of Malaysia is also known as one of the most spectacular islands in Malaysia. Despite recent development, the beaches remain pleasantly unspoilt and attract nature lovers, golfers and underwater enthusiasts thanks to colourful offshore reefs and crystal clear waters. Redang Island is another largely undiscovered jewel, with Pasir Panjang on the east side of the island the most popular beach. The nearby Perhentian Islands have long been a must for beach lovers, particularly the smaller of the two, Perhentian Kecil. In fact, the five islands within the Radang Island Marine Park boast what many would aregue are some of the world's most breathtaking beaches. Then, of coure, there is Sarawak, and the Similajau National Park, where Turtle Beach and Golden Beach are part of 30 kms of perfect sand, backed by jungle coverd cliffs and abundance of wildlife.
Posted by Wayne Hue