Looking for a list of relaxing weekend getaways from Kuala Lumpur? As a local with a passion for travel, I’ve rounded up my favourite stays to help you plan your trip.

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One of the biggest perks as a teacher expat in KL are all the knockout holidays. With bags of beach retreats, tropical islands, zen-busting jungle escapes and culture trips, Malaysia doesn’t fall short on epic vacations. And what’s equally awesome, is that you don’t need to travel far to enjoy them.

For those lazy weekends or week-long staycations where you don’t fancy travelling that far or want the option to just jump in the car and head somewhere green or blue, I thought I’d round up all my favourite trips on the Malay Peninsula, aka West Malaysia.

In this post you’ll find a carefully curated, 2-years-in-the-making list of getaways from Kuala Lumpur that I recommend to my friends. And just for you guys I’ve added some inspiring bonus breaks still on my bucket list (in case you get there before I do), plus a handful that come highly-rated by fellow expats.

Ready for some quality Malaysia juice for your holiday planning? Grab a cuppa because this one’s pretty meaty! 🤙🏻

What to expect

From the rainforest to the reef, the highlands to the islands, Malaysia offers a bit of all the good stuff.

On the east coast, you’ll find the most beautiful islands on the Malay Peninsula, and there are many. Ideal for a flop-and-drop holiday, they’re lined with incredible beaches and diverse marine life. I’ve experienced better snorkelling from just off the beach here than many islands on the Great Barrier Reef.

The west coast islands are generally not as striking, but offer more diversity in terms of culture, sightseeing, and better value stays. They’re also conveniently close to Kuala Lumpur, making them very accessible for weekend getaways.

If you’re feeling more bush than beach, the mainland has a number of lush rainforest retreats with access to hiking trails, waterfalls and a diversity of wildlife. And when things get too steamy in KL, you can head upcountry to cooler climes in the highlands, which are rich in heritage and tea plantations.

Compared to other countries in the region, I find travelling in Malaysia a lot easier and pretty stress-free. Communicating and getting around is simple as most Malaysians speak good English, the infrastructure is more developed and car travel is easy (tips below). I’ve always found the locals to be very fair and honest too, so I’ve never had to worry about being overcharged for services, unlike quite a few experiences elsewhere.

It may not be as cheap to holiday in Malaysia compared to other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand or Vietnam, and prices have risen everywhere since Covid. Don’t expect it to be as cheap as chips, but you’ll still get a lot of bang for your buck. Generally, a 5* resort will cost about half that of the UK, with a decent array of no-frills budget stays.

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My Favourite Short Getaways From Kuala Lumpur

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This list includes both regions to explore, and amazing resorts that warrant their own getaway. Most stays I’ve recommended are independent hotels, boutique resorts or homestays, instead of huge hotel chains.

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1. Country Retreat : Mangala Resort & Spa

Location: Gambang, near Kuantan on the east coast
Getting there: 2h30 drive from KL

This is one of the nicest, most relaxing stays I’ve had in Malaysia. After an easy drive from KL, it was nice to escape the big smoke and arrive to a nature haven, with 60 acres of gorgeous wetlands, lakes, and fruit farms.

Our luxury suite was spacious and beautifully kitted out with a private pool- it was such as bonus to have total seclusion when we wanted it.

I thought I’d miss being by the beach staying here, but I didn’t at all. It’s just as chilled, if not more, and you’re surrounded by water all the time anyway.

Days can be spent lazing around your private pool or the communal infinity pool and jacuzzi, which overlook the lake. Alternatively, you can grab a free bicycle and leisurely pedal through the palm trees before heading to the spa for a heavenly massage (highly recommended!).

Since I last visited, Mangala Resort has gone on to be listed on the SLH website (Small Luxury Hotels of the World), which you gain from offering high-quality accommodation in a tranquil setting. As such, the prices have risen since we went, but I think it’s still worth it for something special.

I booked the Armani Suite via Booking.com with a Genius discount. Check out the reviews and book here, or you can read more about our experience in this article.

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2. Private Island Escape: Pangkor Laut Resort

Location: West coast in Perak, off Pangkor island
Getting there: 3-hour drive north of KL, followed by a 15-minute speedboat ride

This is, by far, the most luxurious resort I’ve ever stayed at. I don’t do them often! But when a 5* resort on a private island is on your doorstep, it’d be rude to turn it down. Especially when it costs less to stay here than a bog-standard hotel in London’s Notting Hill.

Pavarotti once described this island as a paradise, and I’d say he was bang on. Pangkor Laut island is made up of 300 acres of lush virgin rainforest, which has been virtually untouched by the resort. Wild hornbills roam freely, the jungle hums loudly, and eco-tourism is encouraged here. That’s my perfect kind of cocktail.

Pangkor Laut Resort also features in the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Our villa here was insane. So much so, that the Sailor and I were taking pictures for about half an hour when we arrived! It was well kitted out with his and her sinks, an outdoor bathtub and incredible views from our hilltop verandah. Morning coffees with that scenery were made extra special with hornbills that perched above us in the trees.

Mostly, you come here to flop-and-drop. But there are a few things to do on the island, like hiking through the rainforest to Emerald Bay Beach (which I’d highly recommend), renting a kayak or SUP, or going on an island hopping trip.

This place is one of those getaways from Kuala Lumpur you should experience [at least] once. Staying here isn’t cheap, but definitely worth it for a treat or a special occasion.

The resort has a number of accommodation options. For our stay, I booked the Hill Villa on the resident’s package- check out my article to find out more details.

For non-residents of Malaysia, or those of you preferring a pay later & free-cancellation option, check out their reviews and book through Booking.com here.

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3. Quick Beach Getaway: Langkawi

Location: Off the northwest peninsular, in Kedah
Getting there: 1-hour flight from KL, or a 6-hour drive to Kuala Perlis + a 1.25hr ferry

To be truthful, I wasn’t a big fan of Langkawi when I first visited. Compared to other large holiday islands in Thailand like Koh Phangan and Koh Chang, I thought it was a bit plain Jane. This was probably because I stayed in a really crappy apartment (which wasn’t at all as described in the reviews) in an area of the island that was a bit run down. And that was the last time I let the Sailor book a holiday! 😆

The second time was a completely different experience. I booked a nicer stay in a better part of the island and got to experience those chilled island vibes that KLites eat up for breakfast. I guess, you’ve just got to know where to go.

If you want an island escape a mere hour’s flight from KL and land [almost] on the beach, then Langkawi is probably the only place you’re going to get it. I had many teacher friends who regularly visited the island and one who went 12 times in three years! Needless to say, it’s a convenient beach getaway.

Cenang Beach is the main tourist spot and can get a little commercial (although it’s still relatively quiet by Thai standards), but has the goods to back it up with powder-soft white sand and turquoise water. It’s a pukka sundowner spot or place to beach-bum for the day.

There’s quite a bit to explore on the beach and in the jungle, which I unfortunately didn’t have much time for. You should check out Langkawi blogger Vanessa Workman at This Island Drum for some good recommendations.

Langkawi is also a great one for families due to the easy transfer, more family-friendly hotels and developed infrastructure. If you’re a luxury resort seeker, then the island houses many high-end stays.

I stayed just south of Cenang at Aloft Hotel, which is a 5-minute walk from Tengah Beach. This spot is a just south of Cenang and a more peaceful alternative.

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4. Small Island Vibes: Koh Lipe

Location: Near the Thai-Malaysian border on the west coast (Adang-Rawi Archipelago)
Getting there: Head to Langkawi (see above), then take a 1h30 boat ride

Often described as the Maldives of Thailand, this little gem oozes those small island vibes that Langkawi misses and offers affordable luxury. The beaches here are a real melt- the powdery white sand is served up extra-fine and crunches between your toes, and just look at that show-stopping crystalline water. Once you’ve experienced Koh Lipe’s coastline you might, just might, run the risk of becoming a bit of a beach snob!

Idle days here are best spent catching up on beach time or kayaking to secluded ones on neighbouring Koh Adang. This equally beautiful island is also a good spot for some jungle hiking, offering a waterfall in the wet season and a top-to-toe lookout of Koh Lipe.

However, it’s worth noting that Koh Lipe is still continuing to grow in popularity and can get relatively busy during peak seasons. I was quite surprised at how much busier it was the second time I visited.

Whilst it’s still not as bad as many Thai islands in the Andaman Sea (as it’s the farthest south, and harder to reach from Puket), we can still do our little bit to help ensure our stay doesn’t put unnecessary strain on this little island.

When coming here, I’d recommend staying at Castaway Resort which is right on Sunrise Beach. Although we didn’t get to stay here in the end (not for the lack of trying, but because they were always booked out!), the accommodation looks like great value for money and the restaurant was always my go-to for delicious Thai food.

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5. Rainforest Haven: The Dusun

Location: Seremban, opposite the Berembun Forest Reserve
Getting there: 1h30 drive, just south of KL

I love this little place. There are plenty of jungle stays near KL but The Dusun ticks all the boxes for me. Immersed in a beautiful pocket of Seremban, it offers complete privacy, peace, and undisturbed views of the rainforest.

Our cabin was minimalist but had everything we needed, including panoramic views of the jungle. As the front of the living space was open, it felt like we were connected to the forest. Honestly, I came here feeling under the weather and was miraculously well again after 10 minutes of checking in… this place has healing powers!

There’s not much to do here apart from pool hang, wind down and let the scenery do the talking – which is why its such a chilled getaway. You’re willingly encouraged to slow down and be at one with nature, and yourself.

However, should you have the energy to peel yourself away from the resort, they’ve made a couple of short walking trails, and you can organise a longer guided treck to a waterfall.

It was also really great that the resort is self-catering, with a kitchen in each bungalow (including a BBQ), making it feel like a home away from home. But if you can’t be bothered, you can also pre-order meals.

I booked the Lanai House which was nicely secluded and not overlooked. It was slightly more expensive but totally worth it. You can read more about our time at The Dusun Resort in this post.

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6. Awesome Value For Money Islands: The Perhentian Islands

Location: On the northwest coast, in the state of Terengganu
Getting there: Take a 1-hour flight to Kota Bharu, then a 1-hour taxi ride to the jetty, followed by a 40-min boat ride to the islands. See more details in my article.

In Peninsular Malaysia, you have to head to the east coast islands for Maldivian-style beaches. Thankfully, the Perhentians have many, and it offers some of the best island snorkelling I’ve experienced.

Both coral-fringed isles (Besar ‘big’ and Kecil ‘small’) are lined with serene turquoise seas and powdery white sand. Nowhere is too far, and nothing runs too fast.

These were the first inhabited islands I’ve visited that don’t have roads. Forget Uber guys, just sink your toes in the sand and leisurely hop from bed to beach, or take a cheap boat taxi to explore the islands. This place is barefoot luxury.

Other than beach lounging, snorkelling, and eating your weight in fresh seafood BBQ’s (head to Tuna Bay Resort for that goodness), it was fun to leave the bathers behind and take a peaceful jungle hike- check out my hiking route for Kecil and Besar.

The Perhentians are great value for money compared to many other touristy islands along this coastline. Thankfully, it’s maintained its relaxed, local charm and resisted the presence of huge 5-star resorts. That is, until very recently anyway. As of last year, The Marriott Resort & Spa opened up on Besar, and it looks like its taken out a huge chunk of rainforest to accommodate it. I’m hoping a resort of this size will at least give back to the local community, and take the lead with sustainable initiatives.

We stayed in a few places during our time here. Check out my article to find out more.

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7. Culture Trip: Penang

Location: This ‘Pearl of the Orient’ is located on the northwest peninsular
Getting there: Drive in about 4hrs, or take a 1 hr flight

Penang is like Melaka’s bigger and better brother and by far Malaysia’s food and culture capital.

And nope, it’s not where the Penang curry originates, and it’s nothing like Phuket (just me that had those assumptions? 🤷🏻‍♀️ ..the cheese stands alone!). In fact, if you haven’t been, it’s probably quite different to anywhere you’ve visited before.

This UNESCO World Heritage city often stops tourists in their tracks. If you’re not marvelling at the street art and impressive architecture (think Chinese clan houses and grand colonial builds), then you’re being sucked down pretty lantern-lit lanes.

George Town is Penang’s relaxed, semi-sleepy hipster capital. It’s one of the only places you can stroll around in half an hour and experience multi-faith and multicultural Malaysia ~ from Chinatown, to Little India and an array of mosques, shrines and temples.

While most visitors head to Penang for the culture, for Malaysians, it’s more about the food.

The locals I’ve spoken to say the food is different and better in Penang. Whilst fancier restaurants are available, most of the best food is undoubtedly on the street at hawker stalls, so don’t be afraid to explore them. My Lonely Planet book came in handy in recommending some to try, as did my guesthouse. Otherwise, a safe bet is just to pull up a chair anywhere that’s busy.

Penang isn’t Malaysia’s best beach destination (there’s not many of them, and they’re not all great), but you can still find a few decent spots to chill in Batu Ferringhi or Monkey Beach.

If you’re looking for more to do, I’d recommend hiking through the National Park which has a few well-maintained tracks that leads to secluded beaches. Or you should gander around the charming Tropical Spice Garden and make a stop at their tasty Thai restaurant. 😋

The Sailor and I booked our hotel for a few days, but ended up extending our stay for a week. George Town is a must-see if you’re living in KL.

Where to stay in Penang

George Town

I enjoyed staying close to the action in George Town and being able to walk everywhere, as this was where we mainly hung out. There’s a mix of guesthouses here in cute, traditional Chinese shophouses that are good value for money, as well as larger hotels with all the mod-cons. Here’s some I think you’ll like.

• Heritage Hideaway Retreat: I had a great stay at this family-run guesthouse. The room was well-styled and spacious, located in a quiet part of George Town but close enough to all the best bits. I think they’ve changed owners since we visited but the reviews are still great. Check them out here.
• East Indies Mansion: A charming, beautifully restored heritage mansion with all the mod-cons and friendly staff. See what people are saying here.
• Campbell House: This place looks delightful- tastefully decorated with traditional furnishings and set inside a historic building. It’s a little more pricey but appears to be great value for what you get, with small touches like a coffee machine in the room that will be appreciated. See their property here.
• Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion: Yet another hotel in a striking, characterful historic building, which almost doubles up as a museum. It has extra perks like a dipping pool for those steamy days, a peaceful courtyard area, and a restaurant & bar. Read what folks are saying here.
• Eastern and Oriental Hotel: Located at the edge of George Town, this hotel is a good choice if you’d like the additional luxury of ocean views and an infinity pool, of course, still in a heritage building (it’d be rude not to in George Town). See their reviews here.

Batu Ferringhi

Families and folks who want to be by the beach may prefer chilling at Batu Ferringhi. Don’t expect crystal-clear water (this isn’t the Perhentians), but it’s a good option if you’re after a lazy getaway. There are plenty of places to choose from here- other expats with families have recommended the Hard Rock Hotel and Shangri-La. I’d also consider Angsana or By The Sea which look like comfy, highly rated options.

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Short Getaways From Kuala Lumpur: The Bucket List

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8. Where the Locals & Expats Go: Kapas Island

Location: On the northeast coast (about 95k south of the Perhentians)
Getting there: Take a 55 min flight from KL to Kuala Terengganu, then a 30-min taxi ride to Marang jetty (not to be mistaken for Merang in the north!), followed by a 15-min boat ride (your guesthouse will let you know the departure times and which boat to get).

Kapas is a small, less-touristy island where the locals and expats go for a quiet escape. Being an east coast isle, the beaches hit the spot (although they’re perhaps not as striking as the Perhentians and Redang), and the marine life offers an abundance of fish species, turtles and even reef sharks.

Where to stay: I’m super bummed that I didn’t make it here before I migrated from KL, but the accommodation I was after was booked out. Kapas only has a handful of guesthouses and not all are reviewed favourably. If you’re looking for luxury then you won’t find it here, but there are a couple of low-key, rustic places offering a comfortable stay at a reasonable price.

• Kapas Boutique Chalets (KBC): My teacher friends recommended this place and have stayed on a number of occasions (it might appear a bit confusing online as there’s two KBC’s- one is good and one isn’t- this is the good one!). It’s run by a Dutch man called Hans and the rooms are a really good rate. Bookings can be made by contacting him via Whatsapp (+60 19-343-5606) and he’ll send you pictures and all info via text. Note, there’s a 2-night minimum stay.
• Kapas Turtle Valley Resort: This place is also owned by a Dutch couple and the reviews are good. Rates vary from RM 270 for a beach Bungalow (2-3 pax) to RM 560 for the Hornbill Beach Family Bungalow (6-7 pax). Check out their website.

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9. Cave Hideaway: The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Location: Ipoh, 200k north of KL
Getting there: 2h30 drive

This place has been on my radar for ages, but I’m only allowed one luxury resort a year! 😔 (First world problems eh).

The Banjaran sits pretty on a 23-acre valley, around ancient limestone hills bordering the rainforest. Similarly to Pangkor Laut Resort and Mangala, this is the place you come to indulge and completely relax. Except when you’re chilling here, you’ve got geothermal hot springs as dipping pools and rock formations to gawp at around them.

Jeff’s Cellar (one of their three restaurants) is even set inside a cave and looks like a date set-up on The Bachelor if it was sucked into a Harry Potter film – dreamy and mystical.

Plus, each villa (choose from the garden, water or lake) has its own private pool and hot tub. I had a friend who visited and was of course, in the zen den the whole time.

As The Banjaran is located in Ipoh, it’s a good opportunity to explore this George Town-esque, quaint old mining town, popular for its street art, food and cave temples (check out Kek Lok Tong and Perak Tong). It’s also right next to the Ulu Kinta Forest Reserve, which has heaps of scenic rainforest trails if you’re up for a hike.

This place isn’t cheap, but worth it for something special. Check out their reviews and book here.

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10. Rafting, Caving & Hiking: Adventure in Gopeng

Location: In Perak (20k south of Ipoh & 180k north of KL)
Getting there: 2-hour drive from KL

Located just outside of the old tin-mining town centre are local kampungs (villages) and rainforest lined with eco-guesthouses. As well as relaxation in cooler climes, people come to Gopeng for white water rafting and caving adventures. It’s also just 20k south of Ipoh, so it could be a part of a longer road trip.

There are multiple companies to take adrenaline junkies out on the rapids, which is even suitable for kids when the water level is low. Check out recommended operators Riverbug or NomadAdventure, who also offer a range of other fun activities in the area, like abseiling at Geruntum Falls.

For added stoke, taking a ‘wet’ tour at Tempurung Cave is highly rated. It will get you down and dirty, crawling through dark tunnels in the largest cave system in Malaysia; not for the faint-hearted! Scaredy cats (or those less agile) can do the easier ‘dry’ tour, which is a relatively easy 45-minute walk. Check out some reviews, or book a tour here.

Hikers can also take a relatively easy self-guided trek through Bukit Batu Putih, and enjoy panoramic country views. For more adventurous trails, you’ll probably need a guide to take you deeper into the jungle. Popular 5km+ treks are through the thick and hilly forests of Ulu Geroh to spot the carnivorous Rafflesia flower. Many tour operators offer this trip (including Riverbug & NomadAdventure).

Where to stay: There are a couple of good options in Gopeng. Sementra Hot Spring Nature Resort looks very idyllic. It’s built around a lake with a rainforest backdrop, has a hot spring on site and a waterfall swimming pool. Check them out here.

Otherwise, I’d consider a traditional kampung house called Bagas Zakariah Orchard Lodge (which looks seemingly like a traditional Queenslander), perched on a 5 acre durian orchard next to a stream. They’re well-reviewed on Booking.com.

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11. Fairytale Farm Stay: Bentong Rainforest

Location: In Bentong, 50k north of KL
Getting there: A breezy 1-hour drive

Keeping things a mere stone’s throw away from the big smoke, Bentong is one of the easiest short getaways from Kuala Lumpur. It’s home to the oldest rainforest in Peninsula Malaysia, so your leisurely mornings here can be spent strolling along the pretty river to a waterfall, or hitting a hiking trail in the arvo. The climate here is also pleasantly cooler than KL, dipping below 20 degrees at night, so it’s a popular recreation spot for hikers and cyclists.

Bentong’s speedy access from the city and lush surroundings have meant that the region is becoming quite a hub for eco-resorts, farm stays and wellness retreats (yes, KL-sites, you’re a lucky, lucky lot). So there are a few stays you may want to consider here, including a relatively new and unique lodging that would stop Bilbo Baggins in his tracks.

Misty Mountain is a tranquil farm stay perched in the Janda Baik rainforest. They offer 4 cozy hobbit houses and 4 rainforest rooms, all with green views. The acreage holds a range of cute farm animals to interact with, fruit trees and chill-out zones. Weather permitting, they put on an evening bonfire, and are in the process of adding a pool (although they’ve partnered up with neighbouring resort Kahaani, so you can use theirs for 35RM in the meantime). It sounds like a great pad to unwind and de-city for a few nights.

One thing to note is that their private bathrooms are separate, so it’s got slight glamping vibes about it, however, they’re well-maintained and clean spaces (unlike camping!).

This place is family-owned and run, and you can tell they’ve put their love into it, adding homely touches to make guests feel comfy. They prepare brekkie, which is included- usually Nasi Lemak and Kopi-O, or they offer pre-booked kampung meals, BBQs and picnics if you don’t fancy your own cook-up.

Check out the Misty Mountains website for more details, which includes their WhatsApp number to book.

Here are a couple of other stays you may want to consider in Bentong:

1. Kebun Rimba Private Estate Hotel: Set on almost 100 acres, this estate has a 6-bedroom villa and three traditional, wooden Malay-style kampung houses that have been respectfully furnished to evoke local heritage. They have all you could need for a chilled getaway, including two pools, a private yoga deck, gym, and just a 20-minute walk through their estate is Lata Tampit 7-tier waterfall. Check them out here.

2. Rimbamama Farm: Located in a secluded valley, this humble homestay offers a peaceful nature retreat by the river for a reasonable price (ask about their seasonal homegrown jams and teas when you’re there). Contact them on Facebook for more details.

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12. Blissful Beaches: Redang Island

Location: On the northwest coast (in between the Perhentians and Kapas)
Getting there: Take a 55-min flight from KL to Kuala Terengganu, then a 15-minute taxi ride to Shahbandar Jetty, followed by a 40-min boat ride.

I was always keen to visit Redang but wan’t a fan of the price tag, considering I could book a decent beachfront cabana for as low as RM200 in the Perhentians. But if you have a slightly bigger budget, then the island is meant to house some of the best beaches in Peninsular Malaysia.

Redang doesn’t really have the backpacker crowd that’s visible on Perhentian Kecil, which is probably a reflection of the resort costs. But it does have multiple beaches to frolic around in, with the most popular being Long Beach where most resorts are located. Otherwise, grab a kayak and find some others, like Teluk Dalam Besar or Teluk Kalong.

Other popular pastimes on Redang is snorkelling and scuba diving. You might even be lucky enough to spot turtles, as the island is home to the most amount of nesting green turtles in Peninsula Malaysia. Chagar Hutang Turtle Sanctuary is located on the northwest end of the island, and whilst the beach is off-limits to tourists, it’s open for volunteers in the morning from May to September (see their website for further details.)

Where to stay: Redang is the type of place where you’ll want to be based on the beach to make the most of it. Sadly, there are not many stays offering value for money here, and some seem to have continued to spiral downhill since Covid or closed altogether.

However, if you have the budget, then I’d consider The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort. I had friends stay before who really enjoyed it, and it’s been consistently highly-rated since then. Taaras has its own secluded beach, spacious and modern rooms (with a private balcony), and four dining options. Guests here can also take a 1.5-hour speedboat ride directly from the airport. Check out their reviews on Booking.com.

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13. East Coast Traditional Luxury: Tanjong Jara Resort

Location: Northwest coast, in Dungun (Terengganu)
Getting there: 4 hr drive, 370k from KL

Tajong Jara is another YTL hotel (the same owners as Pangkor Laut Resort) and a Small Luxury Hotel of the World, so you can expect the same quality. It’s also about 1/3 less in price compared to Pangkor Laut Resort, and if you go for the residents package then you’ll have brekkie, lunch and dinner included. Life’s little wins.

This 5* luxury resort sits at the end of a long, crescent beach. It won’t boast crystal clear water (you’ll have to go on a snorkelling trip to Tenggol island for that) but it’s still lovely and clean, providing endless bucket-and-spade fun for the kids.

Also on offer here are two pools (both with bars), three restaurants, plus a range of experiences like jungle trekking to Chemerung Waterfall, diving or bike touring.

For a bit of fauna, there’s a turtle hatchery next to their Nelayan restaurant in collaboration with Lang Tengah Turtle Watch. Between May and October, guests are welcome to view the daily nest inspections, and if you’re lucky, you may be able to witness baby turtles being released into the ocean.

Otherwise, you’re likely to find monkeys around the resort (don’t forget to shut your terrace doors!), as well as the odd peacock and monitor lizard.

To book with a Genius discount, free cancellation & a pay-later option, head to Booking.com. Or if you live in Malaysia and want the resident’s package, you can book directly with the resort.

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Extra Getaways from Kuala Lumpur 🤙🏼

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14. Island Staycation: Tioman Island

Location: Off the southeast coast, in Pahang
Getting there: A bit of a pain as the nearest airport in Johor is a 2-hour taxi ride away (although that should mean fewer tourists). The easiest way is a 4-hour drive to Mersing Jetty (or get a bus, but this will take even longer), followed by a 1.5-2-hour ferry ride. Do take note of ferry times, as most seem to leave before midday and are subject to delays due to tides and storms.

If you’ve already ventured to the Perhentians, Kapas and Redang, then you might be ready for a different east coast island.

Due to its generous size and low-scale development, Tioman is said to be even more laid-back than those ☝🏼 mentioned. It also sounds a bit more basic and rustic, but the highlights are the relaxed beach vibes, snorkelling and rigorous jungle hikes.

Where to stay: Tioman has quite a few well-rated stays. Generally, the accommodation comprises of more simplistic chalets (with poor wifi), but there are a couple of fancier stays with their own bit of beach, if you’ve got the budget for it. Here’s a few you may want to consider:

• Bushman Tioman: If I was visiting, then I’d go for Bushman as it looks like great value for money. The rooms are basic beach huts, all with a balcony and it’s right on the beach. Note, they now have a 5-night minimum stay. Check them out here.
• 1511 Coconut Grove: Also keeping things casual, Coconut Grove is just south of Bushman. They have a similar setup with simple chalets and manicured gardens, and it’s bang on the beach. See their pics and reviews here.
• Japamala Resort: If you’re coming to Tioman for a special occasion, then Japamala is the place to be. They have a range of accommodation options, from treetop chalets, to seaview suits with a private plunge pool. (Note, you’ll need to leave the rugrats at home as its adults only.) The resort is highly rated Booking.com.

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15. Cooler Climes: Cameron Highlands

Location: Pahang Highlands
Getting there: 3 hr drive, 205k north of KL

I was really excited to visit Cameron Highlands before coming to Malaysia, but unfortunately, our visit didn’t really do it justice. Our hotel ended up being a two hour drive away (that was the second to last time the Sailor booked our holiday), and we went on a bank holiday weekend so the traffic was a nightmare. Plus, we had a car accident on the way back from our hotel, which wasn’t the Sailor’s fault. 🤦🏻‍♀️

But that’s the way the cookie crumbles sometimes, don’t let my sorry tale off. If you book a hotel actually in the highlands, outside of a public holiday, then you should have a great stay. Although avoiding weekends altogether would be ideal as it’s said to get busy regardless.

Charming Cameron Highlands is characterful and rooted in history, with intriguing colonial buildings and scenic fields of rolling tea plantations. You can find English-style pubs, visit a tea estate (we did a tour of Boh), or hit one of the many hiking trails. The cooler climate makes it easier to get out and about during the day, and evening temperatures can dip below 20 degrees.

As a Brit, the area did have a eery nostalgic air to it. Some places have tea and scones and beef wellington on the menu, and traditional pubs had all the hallmarks of ones back home, but with a very different vibe. It messed with my mind a bit!

Where to stay: There are quite a few cute colonial hotels with great reviews, although I’d be mindful of those that cater for big groups so as to avoid them! Here’s where I’d recommend.

• The Smokehouse Hotel: Set inside an extremely quaint, traditional Tudor-style building with views of its award-winning gardens. I stopped by the restaurant before, which is a well-preserved, old English country pub. Even if you don’t stay here, you should definitely stop by. See more details here.
• The Lakehouse: We passed this place on the way to the centre and also stopped by for a bevvy (when in Rome). It’s a 15-minute drive away from the main strip, but it’s a charming resort with pretty gardens, perched in a really scenic spot by the lake. It’s a good choice for those who don’t need to be in the thick of the action and prefer a bit more peace and quiet- see their reviews here.
• Cameron Highlands Resort: This resort is a Small Luxury Hotels of the World, in yet another beautiful heritage building. It’s been beautifully restored, with stylish interiors and colonial nods. Check out their reviews and book here.

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16. Escape the Crowds: Sibu Island

Location: Off the southeast coast (63k south of Tioman)
Getting there: 5-hour drive to Tanjung Leman Jetty, then a 30-40 minute boat ride.

What, you haven’t had enough of the east coast islands yet? Okay, here’s one more.

I realise travelling this far down the coast is a bit more of a sacrifice, but sometimes the rewards are greater when you go those extra miles. It should mean that Sibu offers a more authentic island experience and won’t be heaving with big groups from KL, although it’s quite popular with Singaporeans due to its close proximity.

The island itself is teeny with a population of fewer than 100 in the main kampung. It has a rugged coast, golden beaches and jungle engulfs the rest of this 6km by 1km isle.

As with most other east coast islands, it’s all about the simple life- snorkelling, diving, and jungle hiking. There’s only a couple of resorts here, a couple of homestays, and not much else. Sibu is a bit Castaway and where you come to get away from it all.

Where to stay: There’s only a couple of simple resorts here. Expect fans, no AC’s or hot water.

• Rimba Resort: Simplistic chalets with a fan and balcony, situated on its own bit of beach. Minimum stay of two nights (like you would do less anyway), check them out here.
• Sea Gypsy Resort: I’d stay here if I were to visit. I’ve been following them on socials for years, and they look like a fun place, often working on sustainable initiatives at the resort. They have traditional Malay chalets and A-frames, are eco-friendly, family-friendly and even doggo friendly. Their nightly rates include 3 daily meals, and for 2025 they’re offering 3 nights for the price of 2 between Sunday and Thursday; check their website for more details.

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17. Low-Key Hideout: Lang Tengah Island

Location: Off the northeast coast
Getting there: Take a 55-min flight from KL to Kuala Terengganu, then a 30-min taxi ride to Merang jetty, followed by a 45-min boat ride (check here for boat times).

Here’s another alternative island on the East Coast (the last one I promise!)

Lang Tengah is situated between the Perhentians and Redang (its name means ‘eagle in the middle’), so it boasts white sandy beaches, crystal clear water and a rich marine life that’s synonymous with the region.

Unlike its two neighbours, Lang Tengah is said to be more low-key, but slightly more upmarket than Kapas because of the accommodation provisions (although note, this isn’t a luxury island). There are three resorts and a B&B spread over four beaches, and each is easily accessible on foot or via boat taxi.

Marine life includes rays, reef sharks and turtles. Or for impressive views, there’s a 25-minute hiking trail through the jungle to Batu Kuching.

Lang Tengah Turtle Watch operate on the island too (the guys who have teamed up with Tanjoong Jara Resort) and offer a volunteer programme between May and October, with a minimum stay of 1-week. Turtles also occasionally nest near D’Coconut Lagoon.

Accommodation: A couple of stays here seem to have gone downhill since Covid, sadly. However, there are still two stays that are well-reviewed by guests. This isn’t a luxury island, and the accommodation here is still relatively modest, but expect AC and hot water (unlike Sibu) and warm smiles. Here’s where I’d recommend staying.

• Dewati Chalet: A simple chalet but right on a beautiful beach, and reasonably priced. Due to its low-key vibe and value, I’d choose this place if I were to visit. They’re well-reviewed on Google and Booking.com.
• Summer Bay Resort: Summer Bay offers more frills if you need more comfort during your stay, and their Padi dive centre is said to be great. Rooms look comfy and spacious, plus they have a pool, gym and spa. As a bigger resort, expect them to frequently cater for large groups. If you stay, try to arrange one of their nicer refurbed rooms. Book via their website.

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Wow, that was epic. Well done if you read till the end!

You may have noticed my penchant for tropical islands, but I think a lot of the lesser-known East Coast isles get overlooked, so I wanted to show them some love.

Anyway, this article is punching 7’600 words, and I could have added more places. Needless to say, there are plenty of short getaways from Kuala Lumpur, and I’m a little bit jelly of your offerings so close to the city… I say this, editing the article for 2025 from a more concrete Ho Chi Minh City.

If you’ve stayed anywhere on this list that you’ve loved, or otherwise, comment below or drop me a line to share your experience. I’d like this post to remain as useful as possible for fellow travellers and your insight will be appreciated. Likewise, if there’s anywhere you need to rave about that’s not on this list, let me know too!

Happy travels guys.x

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Seasonal Considerations

As a tropical nation, Malaysia is year-round steamy. Thankfully, it’s not on the typhoon belt so you don’t get cyclones here, but there’s a wet and dry season to factor into your travels. When I say dry, I still mean curly hair triggering, 80% + humidity!

As a general rule of thumb, the rain here is quite predictable. Usually it comes in thick and fast around the same time every day, and then the rest of the day is pleasant with blue skies.

The east and west coast of the Malay peninsula experience opposing monsoon seasons, causing some islands close for a few months. Here’s a quick lowdown ..

Northeast Monsoon

This generally goes from November to March and mainly affects the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia, around all those lush islands like the Perhentians, Redang and Tioman. Due to heavy rain and choppy ocean conditions, most of these islands close for a few months.

Southwest Monsoon

This wet season goes from late May to October and affects the west side of Peninsula Malaysia, including Langkawi, Penang and Pangkor. As such, the ferry from Langkawi to Koh Lipe shuts off for four months, from the end of June to mid-October.

Malaysia tends to get a break from the rain in the shoulder season from March to May, where it’s also less humid.

Getting Around

Taxis

As Uber was bought by Grab in Malaysia in 2018, it’s now the go-to e-hailing platform in Malaysia. It’s an easy option for travelling to/from KL airport to KL (approx. RM 80 as a base price, or around RM 100 with tolls included), or getting to a jetty. The exact price is given upon booking, except for tolls, and expect surge pricing during peak hours.

Another option is using MyCar taxi app instead, which has fewer drivers but more competitive pricing.

Car Hire

We don’t have our own car but always rented one in Malaysia using GoCar. There are multiple GoCars dotted around KL, and we’ve found them more convenient and quicker to pick up/drop off than a regular car rental. They’re also better value.

If you’re a new GoCar user, you can register via their website and then book via the app. All you need is an internet connection to get going, which unlocks the door and gives you a code for the key in the glove compartment.

As GoCar (and most other rentals) only offer basic insurance coverage, we always purchase additional protection through RentalCover.com. Their policy insures you against all the things that car rentals do not, including zero excess. For two days cover, we paid £19.60 GBP which insured us up to £60’000 and additional drivers are free.

Navigation

We used to use Google Maps on our phone to navigate on the road, but the Waze app works much better in Malaysia! It’s great at giving you live updates (Malaysians are fab at reporting hazards), including traffic delays. Plus, the lady’s voice has an English accent that’s entertaining when she pronounces Malaysian places 😄

Don’t forget your Touch ‘n Go card!

You need this for toll roads in Malaysia, which are everywhere. The TNG card costs RM10 and you can top it up online. Most petrol stations sell them or 7-Eleven convenience stores.

Flights

For a full list of available flights to a particular destination, I always start my search using Skyscanner. Although to most destinations within Peninsula Malaysia, AirAsia is your best bet for cost efficiency and availability of flights.

Accommodation

In Malaysia and elsewhere, I usually book all hotels on Booking.com. Agoda are also pretty big in Asia, but I find their platform quite clunky to navigate, and there’s usually hidden taxed added on top just before you hit ‘book’. With Booking.com, there’s not.

If you’re a frequent Booking.com user like me, then sometimes you’ll also get the added benefit of Genius discounts, which gives you 10-15% off stays. Only hotels that have opted into this discount will show a Genius option, which I learnt after I opened up my own holiday stay.

Another perk to the platform is that you can book places with a free cancellation policy just in case something comes up, and places usually opt-in to be more competitive. Their customer support is also helpful in the event that you have any issues with your hotel.

Travel Tips

• Expats will know that traffic out of Kuala Lumpur can be a nightmare on bank holiday weekends as everyone practically leaves the city. I’d avoid a long drive during public holidays (👈🏼 get acquainted with them, there are many!) and go somewhere a flight away instead. Or you could try leaving extra early and cross your fingers.
• If you’re booking hotels in Malaysia but you’re based outside of the country, then change your VPN to a Malaysian network for cheaper rates on hotel sites like Booking.com. I noticed this when I was in Australia booking stays in Malaysia and couldn’t figure out why it was more expensive!
• For tourists visiting Malaysia, I’d reserve only 2-3 nights in Kuala Lumpur if you’re planning on spending some time in the city. Check out my article on 10 things to do in KL for when you’re here.