Malaysia is the world’s melting pot, with a multitude of Asian ethnicities who have lived side by side for centuries and who bring their own distinct cultures and traditions to this beautiful country. For those seeking a laid-back retreat where they can relax and get away from it all, Malaysia boasts some of the finest beaches in the world, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and powder white sands.
In this article, we explore four stunning Malaysian vacation resorts.
1. The Datai Langkawi
Located in a lush tropical rainforest, the Datai Langkawi is a beach resort that blends sustainability, nature, and wellness. Featuring an array of villas, rooms, and suites with private balconies, this luxurious venue features views of Tarutao Island and the Andaman Sea. In addition, guests can enjoy a meal at the resort’s award-winning restaurants.
The Datai Langkawi has a spa located by a winding stream. Seeking to connect nature and wellness, the spa offers treatments drawn from the herbs and plants from the rainforest. In addition, the resort offers a range of experiences for its guests that include golfing, cooking classes, and opportunities to explore the rainforest.
Nestled on the island of Langkawi, the Datai Langkwai provides guests the chance to view nearby waterfalls, secret waterways, and picturesque paddy fields.
2. Pangkor Laut Resort
Situated on its own private island, Pangkor Laut features a collection of villas perched on stilts in the sea and dotted around the ancient rainforest. This award-winning venue boasts fragrant jungle trails, as well as an extensive stretch of white-sand beach, making it the perfect spot for nature lovers to while away the day, soaking up the sun and watching the mighty sea eagles circling on the thermals. With a full spectrum concierge service, nothing is too much trouble for the resort’s discreet staff, whether guests seek to arrange an off-island excursion, or a lobster dinner on a private beach under the stars.
Described as “paradise” by Luciano Pavarotti, and named the number-one resort in the world by Condé Nast, Pangkor Laut Resort invites visitors to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, tastes, and cultural heritage of the region, presenting PURE, a trekking experience that involves traversing rainforests believed to date back more than 2 million years.
A variety of watersports are available locally, as well as island-hopping opportunities and deep-sea fishing trips, where anglers can try their hand at catching a variety of challenging species, including queenfish, giant trevally, barracuda, and bigeye tuna.
3. The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort
Situated on scenic Redang Island, this extensive resort is located just off the east coast of mainland Malaysia. Surrounded by a turquoise ocean and incorporating a protected marine park, the Taaras Beach & Spa Resort is a popular option for snorkelers and scuba divers.
With crystal clear waters and abundant tropical fish just 50 feet from its white sandy beaches, Redang Island is one of Malaysia’s most popular diving resorts. With visibility of up to 20 meters and light penetrating down to 30 meters, the island’s reefs incorporate an elaborate assortment of hard and soft coral.
Species commonly spotted by divers at Redang include moray eel, stingray, giant grouper, barracuda, giant ray, clownfish, and yellow snapper. With 30 dive sites in total, there are plenty of choices for divers of all abilities, from beginners to divemasters.
4. Eastern & Oriental Hotel
Located in the heart of George Town on Penang Island, the Eastern & Oriental Hotel has been serving guests for more than 125 years, serving as host to some of the world’s most famous artists, writers, and dignitaries. Today, this opulent venue continues its pedigree for classic elegance and world-class service, with most suites incorporating stunning views across the decorative garden and Andaman Sea beyond.
Internationally renowned for its heady mix of eastern cultures, Penang Island is a land of contrast, with vendors selling world-class street food from the roadside and national parks teeming with wildlife.
George Town is a UNESCO-listed site famous for its colorful heritage houses. Here, glittering glass high rises overlook ancient gilded temples.
The city’s museums showcase ancient Malaysian treasures, with Khoo Kongsi featuring prominently among the city’s must-see attractions. The ornate Chinese clan house is laden with gloriously ornate carvings. Nearby Penang Hill features Southeast Asia’s oldest British hill station, dating back to the late 1700s.
Penang Botanical Gardens is another popular George Town attraction. Created on an old quarry site by the British in 1884, the attraction is divided into 12 separate sections, including the Tropical Rainforest Jungle Track, Formal Garden, Lily Pond, Cactus House, Fern Rockery, and Orchidarium.
David Geithner 