Last year I spent 3 weeks in Malaysia, and this year I returned. Having spent lots of time in this country, I can confidently say it’s a sensational Southeast Asian destination. Malaysia is known for its diverse natural wonders, and this extends far beyond its famous rainforests. The country is split into two main regions: Peninsular Malaysia, which is on the mainland and connected to Thailand, and East Malaysia (also known as Malaysian Borneo), which shares the island of Borneo with Indonesia and Brunei. Both regions boast some of the most stunning islands I’ve ever visited, each offering crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and incredible beaches. The islands in Malaysia are a dream come true for anyone looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Depending on when you visit and the type of island experience you’re looking for, there’s a perfect destination for everyone. Here are six of the best islands in Malaysia that you absolutely need to add to your bucket list.
1. Perhentian Islands
Best for: Beach lovers, snorkelers, and divers
Best time to go: April to September (during the dry season).
How to get there: Fly from Kuala Lumpur (KL) to Kota Bharu, then transfer to Kuala Besut Jetty for a speedboat to the islands. Most upscale hotels will arrange the boat transfer for you.
The Perhentian Islands completely stole my heart during my visit. I stayed on Kecil Perhentian Island, but there’s also Besar—the larger of the two, though not significantly bigger. The Perhentians are home to breathtaking beaches, including Long Beach, Romantic Beach, and Turtle Bay. The nightlife is simple—think fire shows on the beach followed by chill beach parties—but that’s exactly what I loved about it. Accommodations here can fill up quickly, so I recommend booking early. My top picks are Bubu Villa, Bubu Resort, and the Marriott Perhentian. These islands are a dream for beach lovers, snorkelers, and scuba divers. Keep in mind there are no ATMs on the island, except for one bar on Long Beach that exchanges money for credit card payments at a steep commission. For the full scoop, check out my complete guide to the Perhentian Islands.
2. Redang Island
Best for: Families, couples, scuba diving, and beach lovers.
Best time to go: April to September.
How to get there: Fly into Redang’s airport or fly too Kuala Terengganu then get a transfer to Merang Jetty + speedboat to Redang Island
Redang Island is another gem off the coast of Terengganu, like the Perhentians. As the biggest island in the area, Redang even has its own airport, making it a bit more accessible. While I only spent a day here island hopping, I was blown away by its beauty. Tsaras Beach, in particular, is stunning—you can even spot turtles here! Redang’s sandbanks give you that perfect “paradise found” moment. While the beaches are breathtaking, the food at the resorts is renowned for not being as memorable as on the Perhentian Islands. But with those views, who cares, right?
3. Lang Tengah Island
Best for: Snorkelers, divers, solitude seekers, and nature lovers.
Best time to go: April to September.
How to get there: You can take a boat from the nearby islands like Redang or the Perhentians.
Lang Tengah is an island tucked between Redang and the Perhentians. Despite being smaller, its beauty is undeniable. I went island hopping here, and I have to say it’s one of the most pristine spots I’ve ever seen. It’s less touristy than the Perhentian and Redang Islands. There’s only one resort on the island, so your stay will feel private and peaceful. The marine life here is sensational—baby sharks, needlefish and even Nemo! If you’re island hopping like I did, make sure you visit in the morning when the tides are higher, as the afternoon tides can make it less enjoyable.
4. Semporna Islands
Best for: Scuba divers, snorkelers, hikers, and nature lovers.
Best time to go: April to September.
How to get there: Fly from KL to Tawau, then transfer to Semporna for a speedboat ride to the resort islands.
I recently visited the Semporna Islands in Sabah, Borneo, and they were absolutely mesmerizing. These islands are a dream for passionate snorkelers and scuba divers, with some of the clearest waters I’ve ever seen. If you love snorkeling, this is the place for you. I hopped between Timba Timba, Mataking, and Pandanan islands—all stunning, but the most breathtaking spot was the Tun Sakaran Marine Park. We hiked up Bohey Dulang, and the view from the top was straight out of a movie—think Avatar. The climb takes around 40 minutes, and while it’s not the easiest, if you’re a good hiker, it’s totally worth it. When you first arrive by boat, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into paradise. The water is probably the most beautiful I’ve ever seen in my life, and the marine life is extraordinary. However, I have to be honest—Sabah is Malaysia’s poorest state, so while you can find resorts on atolls, the food options aren’t catered for the Western market yet, and there’s an unfortunate plastic issue. Still, if you’re a nature lover and adaptable, put it on your itinerary for a two night trip. For my full experience, check out my complete guide to the Semporna Islands.
5. Sipadan Island
Best for: Advanced scuba divers, big marine life enthusiasts, and nature lovers.
Best time to go: April to September
How to get there: Stay at a resort in the Semporna Islands, then take a boat trip to Sipadan
Located off the coast of Sabah, Borneo, in East Malaysia, Sipadan Island sits within the Coral Triangle, a region celebrated for its rich marine biodiversity. It’s one of the top dive sites in the world, offering the opportunity to swim alongside Green and Hawksbill Turtles, barracudas, hammerhead sharks, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with life. The clear waters and thriving marine ecosystems make Sipadan a bucket-list destination for advanced scuba divers. Due to its fragile ecosystem, the Malaysian government strictly limits the number of daily dive permits, with only 120 permits issued each day. This ensures the protection of Sipadan’s unique environment, so it’s crucial to plan in advance to secure your spot. If you’re staying at a resort in the Semporna Islands, such as Kapalai Diving Resort, they can help arrange the trip, but be sure to book early. A typical day trip to Sipadan includes three dives, and to dive here, you’ll need at least Advanced Open Water (AOW) certification. Snorkelers can also explore the island, but Sipadan’s deeper waters are what truly set it apart. With its exclusive access and unmatched biodiversity, Sipadan is a diver’s dream destination.
6. Langkawi
Best for: Families, honeymooners, luxury travelers, and adventurers.
Best time to go: November to April (dry season).
How to get there: Fly from Kuala Lumpur or Penang directly to Langkawi.
Langkawi is an island located off the northwest coast of Malaysia, near the border with Thailand. It’s the perfect spot for those who want a mix of luxury resorts, stunning landscapes, and diverse activities. One of the island’s highlights is the Sky Bridge, which offers spectacular views of the rainforest and turquoise waters. While the waters here aren’t as clear as in the Perhentians, Langkawi is still a paradise for luxury travelers looking to unwind. The island offers everything from waterfalls to wildlife, and the sunsets are something special. Whether you’re interested in relaxing or exploring, Langkawi has something for everyone.
