Penang beaches are divided into two large pools of secluded beaches without amenities and popular easy-to-access beaches that provide all the fun activities.
Dotted along Batu Ferringhi’s coasts and within minutes walk from the beachfront resorts and holiday apartments are Tanjung Bungah and Batu Ferringhi that draw a steady crowd of tourists and locals throughout the year. With downtown Georgetown just 30-minute drive away, these locales are situated along the northern coastline of Penang. Here, you can choose between an iced-cold cocktail or activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and windsurfing.
For those who love a hike, it is all worthwhile to check out some of the beaches located within the circumference of Penang National Park. Monkey Beach, Pantai Kerachut and Teluk Kampi may well be some of the quietest beaches on the island. While Pantai Kerachut boasts as the most remote beach on the island, it also serves as a nesting ground for green turtles, hawksbill turtles, and olive Ridley turtles between the months of September and February. This area is also home to monitor lizards, crabs, stock-billed kingfishers, and mousedeers as well as the home to one of only four meromictic lakes in Asia. Known also as Teluk Duyung, Monkey Beach is part of the bay area with miles of white sand, clear water, campsites and numerous fishing spot. It is also suitable for snorkeling and swimming.
If for any reasons, you are staying closer to the airport, then Gertak Sanggul would be the ideal one-day trip away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located on the southwest coast of Penang, this fishing village is known for its breathtaking sunset views and seafood offerings accessible within a 15-minute scenic drive from Bayan Lepas or via the Rapid Penang Bus #308. Don’t forget to check out its locally-owned fresh seafood restaurants and enjoy the swinging hammocks.
For those intending to have a long-term stay on the island, Pasir Panjang is definitely meant as an excursion or off-road trip for those longing for some peace and quiet. The stretch of sandy beach, quiet most days, is secluded and does not provide too many recreational activities apart from a picnic by the beach and swimming. If you should decide to hike, starting from Gertak Sanggul is a two-hour trail through verdant jungle and rubber estates to Pasir Panjang Beach or take a 30-minute stroll along the beach towards Pulau Betong village.
There are many more secluded beaches located around the southwestern parts of Penang. Be sure to take along sufficient amount of water just in case it’s a warm sunny day. Alternatively, there’s enough tarred road for an extended bicycle trip. Be warned that the island isn’t a flat land.
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