This year, I plan to visit as many as possible islands around Malaysia that I've never been to. As it is almost always sunny in this country, there is always island that can be visited at any given time of the year. When it is the monsoon season on the east coast, there's always the west coast and vice versa. Anyway, here are top 5 islands that are in my travel bucket list for this year, all around Malaysia:
1. Lang Tengah Island (Terengganu)
Lang Tengah (Malay for "the eagle in the middle") Island is situated between Perhentian Islands and Redang Island on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia. As you can probably tell, the name comes from its location, squeezed between the two bigger islands. There is no road on the island and there is not much to do, except....bumming around on its sandy white beach! Well, if you insist, you can go either snorkeling or diving or kayaking. I don't dive, but I'm always up for some snorkeling, or kayaking around the island. I read that jungle trekking is also possible, particularly recommended if you're a sunrise catcher. As it is located in the east coast of peninsular Malaysia, it's closed from November to February due to monsoon season.
2. Gemia Island (Terengganu)
Another island off the east coast of peninsular Malaysia! Gemia Island is very tiny and relatively unknown compared to its neighbour, Kapas Island. There is only one resort, Gem Island Resort and again, there is not much to do here apart from lazing around in the sun and relaxing. Also, snorkeling is its most recommended activity as the water is clear and calm. For the divers, the surrounding water is home to some excellent wreck dive sites. Turtles is another attraction as they sometimes come to lay eggs on the beach of the island. I think it's a perfect short weekend getaway from the bustling activities of Kuala Lumpur.
3. Sibu Island (Johor)
This one has been on my list since forever, and I mean...forever! Since it is quite out of the way and there is no public transport direct to the jetty, it's been pushed to the back of my list for many many times. This year, I'm determined to make it to cross it off my list.
Sibu Island is located off the eastern coast of Johor and accessible via Tanjung Leman jetty. However, there is no public ferry and all transfers need to be arranged in advance with the resort of your choice. There is no road on the island. Main activities are basically scuba diving and snorkeling, activities fit for an island that was designated a marine park in 1993. There is a small fishing village and if you feel adventurous, you can arrange for kelong fishing trip (I've been on one in Malacca Straits and it was quite an experience). And of course, what better place to rejuvenate than by a beach side, lulled by the occasional gush of wind from South China Sea?
4. Rawa Island (Johor)
Rawa is another island off the eastern coast of Johor. The access is via Mersing jetty and the speed boat ride will take 30 minutes. Owned by the Johor sultanate, there has not been much development on the island with just two small resorts. If you are seeking a secluded, cozy and quiet weekend getaway, this island is perfect for you! Given it's small size, there is no road on the island and that's why it's perfect. You can take a nap under the coconut trees in a hammock while enjoying the sea breeze. For more adventurous soul, sailing and windsurfing are available. Then, there are also the usual activities like snorkeling and swimming around the island.
5. Layang-Layang Island (Spratly Islands)
Layang-Layang Island (commonly known in English as "Swallow Reef") is located 300 km north of the coast of Sabah. Part of the disputed Spratly Islands, it serves as Malaysian claim to the disputed area. The access is via chartered flight from Kota Kinabalu, arranged with the only resort on the island, Avillion Layang-Layang Island Resort. This is a must visit place if you are an avid diver. There are twelve or so dive sites, all accessible by boat and within 15 minutes away from the dive centre operating at the resort. For non-divers, there is not much to see but it's a good place to learn diving. You can also go snorkeling and bird watching. Since my boyfriend is an avid diver and he is planning to come here, why not?
TA!
Disclaimer: I do not own any of the pictures above.
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