15 Most Beautiful Islands in Malaysia

1. Lankayan Island: A Snorkeling Paradise

Situated in the Sulu Sea, this is one of the best Malaysian islands, which is a haven for refreshing oneself amidst the beauty of nature. Apart from offering elegant wooden chalets to spend your holiday, it is also becoming one of the hottest diving spots in the world. This is amongst the most famous islands in Malaysia.

Best For: This tiny jewel-like island is an ideal holiday spot for families with kids, and also for divers. Things To Do:

1. Stay at the luxurious Lankayan Island Dive Resort

2. Indulge in snorkelling or diving

3. Savour the gorgeous views around

4. Explore Gomantong Caves

5. Visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation centre

Best Time To Visit: March – October and June – September (For watching turtles) How To Reach: Upon reaching the Sandakan Airport from Kuala Lumpur, wait to get transferred to the jetty from where you can take the boat and reach the island in 75 to 90 minutes.

2. Layang Layang Island: Spot Some Whales

Also known as Swallow Reef, Layang Layang is just the perfect place to be if ‘eat, sleep, and dive’ is all you are looking for. While this island is not too cheap, it is definitely a beauty worth witnessing. Make sure to stop by one of the most peaceful Malaysia islands.

Best For: Located in the middle of deep waters, this island is home to rich marine life and refreshing breeze, which makes it a must-visit for nature lovers. Things To Do:

1. Enjoy the underwater world

2. Spot whale sharks

3. Indulge in sunbathing or bird watching

Best Time To Visit: March – August How To Reach: Take a flight from Kuala Lumpur to the Kota Kinabalu Airport, and then a chartered flight from there to reach the island in around two hours.

3. Selingan Turtle Island: Take A Look At The Little Creatures

Located some 40 kilometers away from Sandakan, the Selingan Island offers unique experiences and extraordinary sights that no other Malaysia islands does. With turtles swimming around on the beaches, it is nearly impossible to take both your eyes and camera away from them. It is touted as one of the best Malaysia islands.

Best For: Of all the Malaysia islands, this place is worth visiting with your family, partner, and even friends. Things To Do:

1. Witness the turtles laying their eggs

2. Indulge in scuba diving and snorkeling

3. Spend time at the beaches

Best Time To Visit: March – July and July – October (Turtle breeding period) How To Reach: Take a direct flight from either Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu to reach the Sandakan city, and then get on board the 60-minute boat ride to reach the island.

4. Sipadan Island: Enjoy Scuba Diving

One of the top islands in Malaysia, Sipadan is home to exotic species like sea turtles, reef fish, and hammerhead sharks. While the island doesn’t offer any accommodation, it is still the best place to escape for a quick getaway. This is one of the most astounding places to visit near Malaysia.

Best For: Being one of the best diving spots in the world, this gorgeous island near Malaysia is a paradise for divers. Things To Do:

1. Indulge in scuba diving

2. Experience the thrill of snorkeling

3. Take a tour of the island via Sipadan Liveaboard

Best Time To Visit: April – December How To Reach: Fly to Tawau from either Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu, take a taxi to the town of Semporna from there, and upon reaching Semporna, take a fast boat to reach the island.

5. Mabul Island: Go Try Kayaking

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A hidden island in Malaysia, Mabul is one of the best Malaysian beach holiday destinations. The island boasts pristine beaches with coconut trees, soft white sand, and emerald water. Thanks to its seclusion, it is still an untouched bit of beauty, which makes a visit here absolutely worthwhile. It is counted among the best Malaysia islands.

Best For: This island is one of the world’s best destinations for muck diving, which makes it a great place for adventure seekers. Things To Do:

1. Explore the island in a transparent kayak

2. Visit the Bajau Laut Village

3. Witness the gorgeous golden hues of the sunrise

Best Time To Visit: May – October How To Reach: After reaching the town of Semporna from Tawau, take a speedboat to reach the island in 30 minutes.

6. Mataking Island: Get Pampered

Located in the Celebes Sea, this gorgeous one among the Malaysia islands is the perfect reflection of sheer beauty, luxury, and serenity. The top-notch resorts here surrounded by sparkling blue waters make it an enchanting place for having a one-of-its-kind experience. It is one of the best Malaysia islands all over the world.

Best For: Home to first ‘Underwater Post Office’ and connecting two islands via a sandbar, this island is best for both honeymooners and families. Things To Do:

1. Indulge in diving, and explore the famous gardens and viewpoints

2. Pamper yourself at Jamu Spa

3. Take a leisurely walk to the Mataking Kecil Island

Best Time To Visit: February – November How To Reach: Fly to the city of Tawau and then take a taxi or minivan to Semporna. After reaching Semporna, take a speedboat to reach the island in 45 minutes.

7. Rawa Island: Try Beach Volleyball

Rawa Island is a beautiful coral islandlocated in the east coast of Malaysia. For experiencing royalty or having a secluded vacation, this island owned by the Sultanate of Johor is the best place to be. Also, one of the top Malaysian islands near Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, Rava is an absolute delight for a weekend getaway.

Best For: This idyllic tropical island is a haven for those in pursuit of peace and wishing to spend some good time with their family. Things To Do:

1. Indulge in snorkeling

2. Enjoy the fun of water slides with your loved ones

3. Try your hands on fishing, or at a game of beach volleyball

Best Time To Visit: March – September How To Reach: Take a taxi from either Kuala Lumpur or Singapore to Mersing. After reaching Mersing, take a speedboat or a ferry to reach the island in 30 to 60 minutes.

8. Kapas Island: Go For Jungle Trekking

With soft white sandy beaches, palm trees, and colorful flora and fauna, Kapas is a marvel worth witnessing. Out of all the islands of Malaysia, Kapas has the most laid-back and rustic ambiance, which makes it an ideal retreat for a relaxing holiday. This is among the most beautiful destinations for honeymoon in Malaysia.

Best For: Also known as Cotton Island, this is a perfect holiday spot for beach lovers. Things To Do:

1. Indulge in Turtle spotting

2. Enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving

Best Time To Visit: March – September How To Reach: Take a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu, and from there hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Marang. Upon reaching the Marang Jetty, take a boat till this one of the most beautiful Malaysia Island. It would take only 15 minutes the destination.

9. Tenggol Island: Relax On The Tranquil Beaches

Tenggol Island is one of the best islands in Malaysia for a tropical beach vacation. Loved by both locals and tourists, the Tenggol Island is like a home away from home. It not only lets you enjoy privacy, but also comfort, making your holiday a beautiful memory you would cherish for lifelong. If you are seeking tranquility then this is one of the best Malaysian islands.

Best For: Offering the vibes of a private tropical island, this is the best island in Malaysia for those looking to escape the crowds. Things To Do:

1. Enjoy diving at this hidden island in Malaysia

2. Spot the whale sharks

3. Soak in the panoramic views of the island from the hilltop

Best Time To Visit: April- September How To Reach: Take a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu, and from there hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the small town of Kuala Dungun. After reaching the Kuala Dungun Jetty, take the 50-minute boat ride to reach the island.

10. Redang Island: Witness Coral Reefs

Malaysia in July would the best time if you are planning a vacation there and If white sand beaches is not something that pleases your eyes, rest assured because this island offers a lot more than that. With plenty of wildlife and luxury resorts around, Redang island is the best island to spend your money and invest your time. This coral island in Malaysia is known for offering memorable experiences!

Best For: Lying amidst the crystal clear marine waters, this island is ideal for those who love every bit of luxury during their summer holiday. Things To Do:

1. Witness the pristine coral reefs while diving

2. Take a nature walk

3. Stay at a luxurious resort

Best Time To Visit: April – early October How To Reach: Head for Shahbandar jetty or Marang jetty from Kuala Terengganu, and take a ferry from there to reach the island directly.

11. Tioman Island: Click Pictures At The Waterfalls

Named as one of the most beautiful islands in the world in 1970 by the Time Magazine, Tioman island has more to offer than what just comes across. Its natural beauty and wildlife diversity still retains the magic of leaving one in awe.

Best For: One of the most famous Malaysia islands, Tioman is an ideal holiday place for those who love traveling without worrying about the budget. Things To Do:

1. Indulge in diving and snorkeling

2. Visit a turtle farm

3. Swim under the waterfalls

Best Time To Visit: March – October How To Reach: The only way to reach the Tioman Island by taking a direct ferry from either Mersing Jetty or Tanjung Gemok Jetty, after getting to either of the jetties from Kuala Lumpur by air.

12. Perhentian Islands: Have Fun At The Bars

One of the best islands in Malaysia for backpackers, this island is a hideaway waiting to be explored. The beaches are utterly gorgeous, and the accommodation is too cheap. Apart from diving, there’s also a tropical jungle for you to see.

Best For: The Perhentian Islands Malaysia is a shining gem amongst all the islands, and is perfect for budget travelers. Things To Do:

1. Try scuba walking

2. Chill at Tupai Beach Bar

3. Spot whale sharks and octopuses while diving with Turtle Bay

Best Time To Visit: March – November How To Reach: The only way to get to these islands is by taking a boat from Kuala Besut, which can be reached from either Kuala Terengganu or the Kota Bharu Airport. Both of these airports have direct connectivity with Kuala Lumpur.

13. Penang Island: Savour Some Local Food

If you’re looking for islands in Malaysia to visit in December, there’s nothing better than Penang island. Known for its cultural diversity, heritage, and cuisine, this large and colorful island offer all kinds of unique experiences.

Best For: Known for offering more than just beaches, Penang is one of the best islands in West Malaysia for those who are a foodie at heart or have an interest in heritage. Things To Do:

1. Explore the Penang National Park

2. Shop at Komtar

3. Indulge in Penang’s street food

Best Time To Visit: Mid November – mid February How To Reach: While you can reach the Penang Island by train, air, and even road. The best way is to either take a flight from any major city to the Penang International Airport located in Bayan Lepas, and then a direct taxi to the island. Or travel to Butterworth from the North-South Highway for four to five hours via road, and then take a ferry or the bridge to cross over to the island.

14. Pangkor Island: Relish Scrumptious Seafood

This is not another beautiful island in Malaysia. The people here are friendly and the cuisine is lip-smacking, with resorts that offer the best of luxury. With its stunning beauty, a holiday on this island would definitely leave you spoilt. The breathtaking natural beauty makes Pangkor Islandone of the must visit islands in Malaysia.

Best For: If your heart beats for local culture and lifestyle, Pangkor Island is the best place to be. Things To Do:

1. Take a stroll on the beaches

2. Relish the scrumptious seafood

3. Stay at the Pangkor Laut Resort

Best Time To Visit: January and February and June – September How To Reach: Pangkor Island can be reached by taking a direct bus from Kuala Lumpur or Penang to Lumut, and then a ferry to the main island. However, you can also drive or rent a taxi from the city till Lumut if you’re willing to spend a bit more on fuel.

15. Langkawi: Enjoy Beach Hopping

Langkawi island in Malaysia is the most popular island and Malaysia’s best known holiday destination, Langkawi flaunts the best beaches, mountains, rainforest, and mangrove wetlands. With so much to do and see here, every moment spent here would turn into a memory. And to make the best of your holiday experience here are some travel-tips for Langkawi.

Best For: An epitome of luxury, the best island in Malaysia is a hotspot for both honeymooners and families. Things To Do:

1. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the cable car ride

2. Visit Gunung Raya, the highest peak on the island

3. Go beach hopping

Best Time To Visit: January – March How To Reach: You can reach Langkawi by taking a direct flight from Kuala Lumpur if you wish to save your time. Though an adventurous way to get to the island is by taking a train from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore till Alor Setar, and then take a boat ride from there.