Did you know, there are as many as 878 islands in Malaysia?
While not all of these islands are inhabited, and some of them in remote waters, there are still plenty of islands to visit for a fun vacation with your family.
Islands on the east coast are known for their pristine beaches and crystal clear waters.
However, it is not advised to visit them during the wet months of the monsoon season.
The islands on our western coastline are less affected by the monsoon though, and can be visited most months of the year.
Here are some of our top picks for family-friendly islands to explore with your troop.
Redang Island
One of the most popular islands in Malaysia, Redang Island is known for its soft sandy beaches and sparkling waters filled with beautiful marine creatures.
It is easily accessible by ferry and boat, and has many snorkelling spots that are suitable for even the young ones.
Children can learn about turtle conservation too at the turtle sanctuary located on the island.
Highlights:
- Great destination for a laidback vacation
- Beautiful snorkelling and dive spots
- Turtle sanctuary
Best time to go: Late March to October
How to get there:
- 2 hour ferry ride from Shahbandar Jetty
- 45 minute boat ride from Merang Jetty
Langkawi Island
Langkawi is a convenient destination when traveling with kids as you can take a direct flight into the island’s international airport.
Besides the multitude of water sport activities you can take part in by the beach, there are also plenty of other kid-friendly activities around the island for your family.
The Langkawi cable car and skybridge is an adventure that lets you have a panoramic view of the island from up above.
Highlights:
- Lots of kid-friendly activities
- Water sport activities
- Duty-free shopping
- Langkawi cable car and skybridge
Best time to go: Unlike islands in the east coast, Langkawi is not as affected by the monsoon season and can be visited any time of the year. However, the best time of the year to go is November to March during the driest months.
How to get there:
- By flight to Langkawi International Airport
- By ferry from Kuala Kedah, Kuala Perlis or Penang
Pangkor Island
Fishing is one of the main trades of Pangkor Island and there are some fishing villages that you can visit with your family besides enjoying the beaches on the island.
There’s also some historical places to explore like the old Dutch fort and Batu Bersurat.
If you’re lucky, you may even be able to spot a hornbill or two on the island!
Highlights:
- Best beaches on the western coastline of Malaysia
- Visit fishing villages
- Explore old Dutch fort and Batu Bersurat
- Kayaking around the island
- Duty-free shopping
Best time to go: Like Langkawi, Pangkor is not as affected by the monsoon season and can be visited any time of the year. However, the best time of the year to go is November to March during the driest months.
How to get there: 30 minute to 45 minute ferry ride from Lumut Jetty
Rawa Island
One of the most exciting things to do in Rawa Island is to take a ride down the giant water slide and splashing right into the sea waters.
Besides that, kids will enjoy snorkelling in the crystal clear waters and spotting some familiar sea creatures too.
It’s only a 30 minute speed boat ride from Mersing Jetty, making it easily accessible for traveling with kids.
Highlights:
- Pristine beach
- Clear waters for snorkelling and diving
- Giant water slide into the sea
Best time to go: March to October
How to get there: 30 minutes by speed boat or 1 hour ferry ride from Mersing Jetty
Tioman Island
Tioman Island is one of the most beautiful islands in Malaysia.
It is well-known for its snorkelling and diving spots for you and your family to get up close with the marine life.
Tioman Island also offers plenty of other activities for adventure seekers too like surfing, jungle trekking and hiking to the nearby waterfall.
Highlights:
- Great for adventure seekers
- Duty-free shopping
- Fishing trip
- Turtle conservation activities
- Get up close and personal with fishes
Best time to go: March to October
How to get there: 1.5 hours to 2 hours ferry ride from Mersing Jetty
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