1. Perhentian Islands
Once sparsely populated and mainly home to fishermen, the Perhentian Islands have become an important tourist destination in Malaysia-and while hotels and transportation are much better today than they were just a few decades ago, the islands are developing slowly, providing a very natural and still unspoiled beauty.
Deep turquoise waters, palm-fringed shorelines, and coral reefs rich in marine life (sea turtles, blue-spotted rays, and clownfish abound here) are found everywhere, and trails cut through the thick jungle, connecting the different stretches of beach around the island.
Of the seven Perhentian islands, only the two larger are permanently inhabited. Scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking tours leave from these, and you’ll also find organized jungle trekking and a number of accommodations to fit any budget. Some of the best beach resorts are located here as well. The modern Alunan Resort offers majestic rainforest and ocean views over its own section of private beach, but it also runs its own conservation effort through a coral adoption project for visitors who want to do their part to help Malaysia’s coral reef recover.
The uninhabited islands offer some of the best snorkeling and softer sand and can only be reached via private boats and tours.
2. Kota Kinabalu
The capital of Sabah in the northern tip of Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is right on the water and surrounded by the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, itself home to five islands with stunning sandstone outcrops, virgin tropical forest, and white sandy beaches that gently slope into the sea.
Gaya Island and Manukan Island are surrounded by beautiful healthy coral reefs that are perfect for snorkeling and diving. Sapi, one of the smaller islands, is quite busy during the day, but those camping there overnight will basically have the remote beach all to themselves.
Hiking trails crisscross through the islands and allow access to caves and forested cliffs.
If you’re expecting high-end resorts and amenities, this is not the destination for you. The islands’ facilities include a diving center, 20 bungalows, and a few places to eat-and while there’s running water and electricity available, the connections aren’t always stable.
For those looking for rustic beach life, however, the islands won’t disappoint-and the relatively untouched beauty of the area is more than worth the small inconveniences.
