The one thing the heat wave is good for? Beach trips! Along the Eastern coastline of Malaysia lies some of the best beaches in Malaysia, and this article includes both popular and lesser-known beaches that you should definitely explore. Sandy white beaches, warm sun rays on your skin, cool tropical breezes, there’s so much to love about these coastal havens. If you’re up for more exciting beach activities, why not try your hand at surfing, beach volleyball, or even horseback riding? Terengganu is famous for their gorgeous islands, but the mainland has some incredible beaches, too. Continue on reading as we explore some of the best beaches in Terengganu, because you deserve some vitamin sea.
Staying Safe at the Beach
1. Swim in designated areas
Most beaches in Malaysia aren’t watched over by lifeguards, so be sure to tell somebody if you’re going into the water alone, and always watch over your kids. Be sure to stay in the areas that are designated for swimming, and always watch your step as the sand can suddenly drop-off and the water levels can go really high.
2. Check water and weather conditions
Definitely don’t go to the beach when it’s raining, and only swim when the water is calm. Never go into the ocean when the currents are strong, especially if you have children.
3. Wear sun protection
Always wear sunscreen, and don’t forget to reapply every three to four hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Wear a hat, too!
4. Stay hydrated
Always have a bottle of water with you, and try to sip on it every so often. Avoid consuming alcohol as it can impair judgement so you can avoid any accidents.
5. Be careful of marine life
There are tons of aquatic animals in Terengganu beaches, such as jellyfish, and they can really hurt you if you’re not careful. Be aware if the beach that you’re going to has any potential marine life hazards, and make sure you know what to do in case of an emergency.
6. Be mindful of your surroundings
Always watch your step in case of broken glass both on the beach and in the ocean, and definitely don’t contribute to littering as it can really injure others.
7. Bonus: Be respectful
Apart from being respectful towards the environment, remember to be respectful towards the culture, too. Terengganu is a conservative state, so be mindful of your attire, and dress appropriately.
Best Beaches in Terengganu
1. Pantai Penunjuk Kijal
Pantai Penunjuk Kijal has got it all – soft white sands, calm waters, towering cliffs and rock formations. It’s also got a ton of stalls that serve tasty snacks and refreshing drinks that make the perfect accompaniment for when you’re laying on the beach. There’s also beach activities like volleyball, surfing, and horseback riding! It even has a great foodcourt within a stone’s throw away that serves up delicious local dishes like keropok lekor and ICT (ikan celup tepung), which is essentially deep fried fish, squid, or prawns that are made to order. If you feel like staying more than a day (we can’t blame you, we love this beach), there are a few chalets right on the beach that will make for a great staycation.
| Address: | Jalan Pantai Penunjuk, 24100 Kijal, Terengganu |
2. Pantai Teluk Kalong
Another amazing beach in Kijal, Pantai Teluk Kalong is the spot for you if you’re looking for a beach to just laze around at,It’s the perfect beach to have a picnic at with your family, watch the sun rise, or maybe have a jog along the shores. You could even set up a camp along the shade of the trees, or drive to the rocky end of the beach and fish! You have to bring your own fishing gear, however. The waves are also strong enough to surf, and if you’re the sporty kind, there’s also a futsal court right by the beach.
| Address: | Teluk Kalong, 24100 Kijal, Terengganu |
3. Rantau Abang Beach
One of the most popular tourist spots in Terengganu, it was made famous because of the turtles! It used to a place for giant leatherback turtles to lay their eggs, but you can hardly see them anymore. You can still learn all about turtles at the nearby Turtle Information Centre, managed by the Department of Fisheries. Definitely still one of the best beaches in Terengganu, this beach has crystal clear waters that’s amazing for swimming, and soft sand so you can laze about while the breeze cools you down.
| Address: | Rantau Abang, 23050 Kuala Dungun, Terengganu |
4. Pantai Penarik
If you’d rather go to someplace more lively, this is just the beach for you. Located in Setiu, it’s been a filming location for tons of local films and shows, like Polis Evo, Lagenda Budak Setan, and Pulang. It’s a gorgeous beach to watch the sunset, have some evening treats like the famous ICT with teh Peng (basically iced teh tarik, but they make it really strong), and just chill out. There’s also tons of homesteads and chalets in the area, so if you’re up for a staycation in Terengganu, Setiu is definitely the place to go, and Pantai Penarik is definitely the beach to be at.
| Address: | Pantai Penarik, Kampung Penarik, 22120 Permaisuri, Terengganu |
5. Teluk Bidara Beach
How gorgeous is that water? One of Malaysia’s most well-kept secrets, Teluk Bidara is one of the best beaches in Terengganu. It’s a little difficult to get to this quiet beach, but the crystal clear water and the soft white sands make it absolutely worth it. At the end of the beach, you’ll even find a lighthouse and even a cave that’s definitely worth exploring. There aren’t many tourists in this area, so be careful and always be mindful of your surroundings.
| Address: | Pantai Teluk Bidara, Terengganu |
6. Kelulut Beach
Nestled between Kuala Terengganu and Kuantan lies one of the best beaches in Terengganu, and one of the most underrated ones, too! Kelulut Beach is a hidden gem, with waters that are perfect for swimming, a beach that’s perfect for lounging about, even tropical trees to complete the beach vibes. There are a few homesteads and chalets to stay at, and you can’t miss out on ikan bakar (grilled fish) if you’re there. Kelulut Beach is definitely one of our favourite beaches in Terengganu.
| Address: | Kelulut Beach, Jalankelulut Kelulut, 21600 Lumpur, Terengganu |
7. Batu Rakit Beach
Popular yet deservingly so, Batu Rakit Beach is a gorgeous place if you’re thinking about where to stay for your next beach staycation. There’s tons of resorts, hotels, and chalets in the area so you’ll be spoilt for choice, and the beach itself is worth taking the trip for. In the early morning, you can watch the fisherman bring in their catch of the day, and in the evening, you can catch the majestic sun dip down the horizon. The beach is also really well-maintained, and it’s great spot to enjoy the ocean.
| Address: | 152, T145, Kampung Batu Rakit, 21020 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu |
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