Penang Islands and Beaches, Malaysia

Islands

Pulau Aman

Pulau Aman or 'island of peace' is about 3kms from the mainland, just off the southern coast of Seberang Prai. The nearest town is Bukit Tambun from which a 30-minute boat ride gets you to the island. Boats from Batu Maung and Batu Uban also take passengers to the island on a 45-minute journey.

The 288-acre island is an idyllic fishing village populated by some 300 residents. Fishing, water sports and jungle trekking are some of the popular activities for holidaymakers. There are some well-appointed chalets on the island and homestays at affordable rates.

Balik Pulau

The fruit orchards of Balik Pulau abound with cloves and nutmegs during the fruit season between November to January, and again in July. Visitors can also savour the durian here, a seasonal fruit, which is known as the king of Malaysian fruits. But beware of its infamous smell!

Beaches

Penang's northern shoreline is famous for its beautiful beaches. The beaches at Tanjung Bungah, Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang offer expensive stretches of glittering sand interspersed with secluded coves. It is along this famous coastline that resorts of international standard have sprouted up, offering a host of water-based recreational facilities.

If you crave for privacy, head for Teluk Duyung or Monkey Beach, Pantai Keracut and Pantai Mas. These beaches are accessible via the trails in the Pantai Keracut and Pantai Mas. These beaches are accessible via the trails in the Pantai Acheh Forest Reserve from Teluk Acheh Forest Reserve from Teluk Bahang. The Pasir Panjang Beach at the southwestern tip of the island is a good, clean stretch for swimming and can be reaches after a 25-minute hike over hilly terrain from Betong.

Beaches Penang - Pulau Pinang

Penang is one of Malaysia's most famous resort destinations. The state consists of Penang Island, and a strip of the mainland known as Seberang Prai. Georgetown, its capital, is a fascinating metropolitan city with historical building and cultural landmarks. Penang's northern shoreline, characterised by expansive stretches of golden sand and glittering waters, is a vacation spot for foreign and local visitors alike.

Batu Ferringhi, situated along the coastal road northwest of Georgetown, is most popular beach in Penang, lined with a string of international-standard hotels and resorts.

Soak in the sun or unwind on the beach and enjoy a host of aquatic thrills from banana boat rides to canoeing and jet-skiing. For a spine-tingling adventure, try parasailing to enjoy the view of the beach from the sky.

As the sun sets, Batu Ferringhi comes alive with a carnival-like atmosphere with an open-air bazaar selling anything from ornate curios to enticing souvenir items. Watch local artisans demonstrate the intricate art of craft-making and batik-painting. Dubbed the Ferringhi Walk, the bazaar offers shoppers a host of attractions.

Tanjung Bungah is another popular beach resort in Penang. The numerous luxury resorts here offer a relaxing seaside vacation. The most charming feature of Tanjung Bungah is its many secluded coves. Nestled within the shelter of overhanging cliff and gigantic rocks.

At the northwestern end of the coastal road lies Teluk Bahang. Its idyllic beach offers a solitary luxury hotel promising a tranquil ambience for those who prefer privacy. Nearby is the Tropical Spice Garden, a living collection of more than 500 varieties of flora from Malaysia and around the world. The eight-acre valley is reputedly the largest showcase of tropical herbs and spices in the region.

Further west from Teluk Bahang are several beaches which lie off the beaten track. Situated in Penang's National Park, these pristine beaches make for excellent excursions to get a glimpse into the vast variety of the island's flora and fauna.

Monkey Beach, a secluded spot in the northwest of the island, is ideal for quiet picnics under shady casuarinas. Adventure-lovers can explore the jungle trail from Monkey Beach to the Muka Head Lighthouse, perched atop a 785-feet-high cliff.

Further away, Kerachut Beach offers an unspoilt environment and picturesque views. In the hinterland, a lake containing distinct layers of freshwater and seawater is an added attraction. Both of these beaches are only accessible by boat or by hiking trails from Teluk Bahang. Enquire with the respective resorts or private boat operators. Avid birdwatchers or outdoor lovers can delight in taking the jungle trail to observe monkeys, squirrels and other small animals along the way.

Jerejak Island, off the island's east coast, makes an interesting escapade. This tiny island resort offers total privacy amidst lush greenery.

To experience the charms of Penang, take a city tour for a glimpse into its nostalgic past. The Esplanade in Georgetown is a delightful seafront for an evening stroll. A distinctive landmark here is the Fort Cornwallis, erected by Captain Francis Light in the early nineteenth century. Hawker-style dining is the norm here and further up along Gurney Drive, a popular haunt for tourists.

Little India and Campbell Street delight with an endless assortment of bric-a-brac, souvenirs and antiques.

Getting There
Penang Island is accessible by road via the Penang Bridge. A toll is levied on the mainland's side of the bridge.

By Air
Malaysia Airlines operates direct air services to Penang from London, Singapore, Bangkok, Nagoya, Medan, Xiamen and Madras.

The airlines also provides daily shuttle services between Kuala Lumpur and Penang. AirAsia flies to Penang from Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok.

By Rail
KTM or Malayan Railway provides train services to Butterworth from Kuala Lumpur. Alor Star and Padang Besar, as well as from Haadyai and Bangkok in Thailand.

By Sea
From Butterworth, ferry services are available for both passengers and vehicles. Fares are collected at the Butterworth terminal.

Useful Contacts
Tourism Malaysia Penang
Phone : 604 261 0058 / 263 4941
Fax : 604 262 3688