The Ultimate Guide to Pahang: A Tropical Wonderland

Pahang, Malaysia's largest state, is rich in natural wonders and stunningly serene beaches. From the laid-back charms of Cherating to the pristine beauty of Pulau Tioman and Kuantan, Pahang offers a diverse range of experiences to suit every traveller. Let us take you on a journey through this tropical paradise and discover the very best it has to offer.

Cherating

Cherating is a small coastal town in Malaysia known for its idyllic village beaches and natural attractions. It is popular with tourists seeking a seaside getaway and offers the perfect combination of relaxation and eco-adventure. From tranquil river cruises through mangrove forests to witnessing sea turtles at a local sanctuary, Cherating offers visitors nothing less than a uniquely unforgettable adventure.

Day Trip to Pulau Ular : A Hidden Gem

Tucked away in the village of Sungai Ular, Pulau Ular (Snake Island) is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This undeveloped island offers a pristine coastline that feels very much like your own private retreat, which is perfect for those seeking a tranquil day-trip or a scenic picnic spot. As you step onto the island, you will be greeted by a clean beach with stunning white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water.

Pulau Ular offers more than just picturesque views. It is also a habitat for sea turtles, giving visitors a chance to witness baby turtles hatching and making their first journeys to the sea at the Rimbun Dahan Turtle Hatchery. 

The island’s intriguing name comes from a legend about a giant snake that protects the island from human interference, adding an air of mystery to your visit. Keep in mind that you’ll need to bring your own picnic supplies as there are no food services available. If you plan to swim around the island, always prioritise safety by wearing a life jacket.

To get to Pulau Ular

• Driving: Pulau Ular is an 11-minute drive from Cherating Beach. To reach the island, take a short 5 to 10-minute boat ride from the Sungai Ular jetty. During low tide, it is also possible to walk to the island.

Learn Surfing at Cherating Beach

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Since the 1990s, Cherating Beach has become a popular surf spot, with Cherating Point as the top location to catch waves. Supported by the local tourism and cultural ministry, the area has hosted regional and international surfing competitions, drawing surf fans from around the world.

For the best surfing conditions, visit during the North-East Monsoon season (October to March), when waves can reach over four feet and roll up to 500 metres from the break point, offering a thrill for experienced surfers. Beginners can also enjoy Cherating’s gentler waves throughout the year, making it a great spot for surfers of all levels.

To get to Cherating Beach

• Cherating beach is situated at Kampung Cherating Lama, about 45 km north of Kuantan and 300 km east of Kuala Lumpur. 
• By bus: Take the KLIA Transit from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to TBS Bus Station. From there, get on a bus to Kemaman Town, which passes through Cherating. Tell the bus driver you are getting off at Kampung Cherating Lama, just after the Petronas station and Cherating bridge.
• Driving: If you are driving, simply follow the eastbound highway in the direction to Kuantan and Kemaman from Kuala Lumpur. The journey typically takes around 3 hours to reach Cherating. 

Further Information

• Address: Jalan Kemaman, Jalan Kampung Cherating Lama, 26080 Kuantan, Pahang.

Where to stay in Cherating

Royale Chulan Cherating Villa

Located along the beautiful shores of Cherating, the Royale Chulan Cherating Villa offers a luxurious getaway in Malaysia’s surfing hotspot. Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the South China Sea, it’s the perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure.

The resort features 29 accommodation options to suit different preferences, from luxurious villas with private pools to Ocean Suites. Guests can enjoy fine dining, relax by the infinity pool, try exciting water sports, or use the well-equipped meeting facilities. It’s an ideal destination for both leisure and business travellers.

Photo Credit: Website Royale Chulan

To get to Royale Chulan Cherating Villa

• Driving: The resort is easily accessible from Cherating Beach, which is roughly a 5-minute drive away.

Further Information

• Address: Royale Chulan Cherating Villas, 26100 Balok, Pahang.
• Contact: +609-584 7333
• Room types: 5 room types available including the VIP Villas, Family Villas, TAB Suites, One-Bedroom Villas and Ocean Suites.

The Kasturi Resort

The Kasturi Resort is a 5-star beach resort located on Chendor Beach in Pahang, offering an exclusive escape surrounded by rainforest and the sea. With just 23 accommodations spread across 15 acres of lush land, it provides a peaceful retreat from daily life.

The resort has 800 meters of private beach access, stretching another kilometre to the north. Guests may spot otters along the riverbanks, sea eagles in the sky, and fireflies along the walkway. The beach is also known for stingray fishing. Most notably, it is an important nesting site for endangered green turtles, with their eggs safely protected in the hatchery.

Photo Credit: Website The Kasturi

To get to The Kasturi Resort

• Driving: The Kasturi Resort is located at Chendor Beach, and is easily accessible by car. It is just an hour's drive from Kuantan Airport or a 3-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, and approximately 5 hours from both Singapore and Penang.

Further Information

• Address: KM 32.5, Jalan Kuantan, Kemaman, 26080 Cherating, Pahang.
• Contact: +609-582 5000
• Room types: 8 room types available including the Attic Studio, Corner Studio, Ocean View Suites, Penthouse Suite King/Queen, Beach Front Villas, 2-Bedroom Beachfront Family Villas and 3-Bedroom Forest Family Villas.

Pulau Tioman

Pulau Tioman is a duty-free island off Malaysia's east coast, known for its tropical beauty and rich biodiversity. Located 32 nautical miles from the mainland, it’s easily reached by ferry. The island boasts warm beaches, clear waters, and lush rainforests. As a marine park, Tioman is surrounded by colourful coral reefs and abundant marine life, making it a hotspot for diving and snorkeling. Its pristine rainforest is home to unique wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers. With its natural wonders and relaxed vibe, Tioman attracts visitors from all over the world.

Immerse in Mukut Village Life and Asah Waterfall Adventure

In the secluded village of Kampung Mukut, experience a slower pace of life along with one of Tioman’s natural wonders, Asah Waterfall. Begin by exploring the village’s serene beaches and traditional setting, where time seems to stand still, allowing you to soak in the raw beauty of island culture. 

Photo Credit: Instagram @ayie.fikhri

Then, follow the rainforest trail to Asah Waterfall, Tioman’s tallest cascade, with its powerful waters flowing over moss-covered rocks. Along the path, you’ll be surrounded by rich biodiversity, making the journey as rewarding as the destination itself. This adventure combines cultural immersion with nature, perfect for disconnecting and recharging.

Photo Credit: Instagram @izzirf4n

To get to Mukut

To reach Kampung Mukut and Asah Waterfall, disembark at Genting Jetty if coming from Mersing, as Mukut jetty isn’t directly accessible by ferry. From Genting, you can take a water taxi or arrange for your Mukut lodging to pick you up. Once in Mukut, the scenic Asah Waterfall is a 1.5-hour hike away, or, for a shorter journey, locals can take you by boat to Warisan Eco Asah Camp Pier, reducing the hike to just 30 minutes.

Hike at Monkey Bay

Monkey Bay is a beautiful, secluded beach tucked behind Salang Village on the west coast of Pulau Tioman. This sweeping bay features a pristine beach with calm waters, and is embraced by lush rainforest, creating a picturesque tropical scene.

Photo Credit: Website asianwanderlust.com

Photo Credit: Instagram aehr101m

Photo Credit: Instagram mbalek_around_the_world

Reaching Monkey Bay is an adventure in itself, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a tranquil oasis where the calm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. But watch out, monkeys might be hiding in the trees!

To get to Monkey Bay

• As a snorkeling spot, it is accessible via round-island tours by speedboat from any village, or via a 1-hour hike from Salang.
• Alternatively, you can hike for about two hours on the trail from Air Batang (ABC Village) through Panuba Bay and Monkey Beach. The trail can be obscure, so follow the path nearest the electric poles.

The Juara Turtle Hatchery

Located in Juara Village on Pulau Tioman, the Juara Turtle Project (JTP) educates visitors about endangered sea turtles at its conservation centre. Through interactive talks and activities, JTP helps visitors understand the challenges sea turtles face and the importance of eco-friendly practices.

For a more hands-on experience, JTP offers a volunteer program where participants can join conservation efforts. During nesting season, from March to October, volunteers may help collect turtle eggs or release hatchlings into the ocean. This experience creates lasting memories and fosters a deeper appreciation for protecting these remarkable marine animals.

Photo Credit: _pawlowska

To get to Juara Turtle Hatchery

• Upon arriving at Tioman by ferry, get off at the Tekek village stop. From there, take a taxi across the island to Juara, which costs around RM50-60 per person, or RM30 per person if shared with others.

Further information:

• Conservation talks are held between 10:00AM and 5:00PM, with a donation fee of RM10 per person.

Where to stay in Pulau Tioman

Japamala Resort

Japamala Resort is carefully crafted over a decade to harmonize with its natural surroundings, embodying a rustic-luxe design philosophy that pays homage to the island's inherent beauty. There are no two villas that are alike here — wooden chalets, hillside sarangs (nests), and beachside villas are thoughtfully positioned to avoid disturbing the existing landscape, ensuring that no rocks were moved and no trees were cut down in the process.

The resort's commitment to sustainability is evident in every detail; reclaimed timber from old kampung houses form the backbone of the structures, while bamboo and other natural materials are sourced from the Orang Asli. This considerate approach allows guests to indulge in luxury while feeling deeply connected to the nature of Tioman.

Photo Credit: Japamala Resort

To get to Japamala Resort

• Option A: Sailing from Tanjong Gemok to Japamala Resort. Sail on a private Japamala boat for about 1.5 hours, covering 93 km. The charter costs RM1,180 nett return per person, with a minimum of two people.
• Option B: Via Kuala Lumpur-Mersing Jetty. You can also request a chauffeur to drive from Kuala Lumpur to Mersing Jetty, which takes about 4.5-5 hours, covering approximately 270 km. The private car transfer costs RM1,500 nett one way, accommodating up to three persons per trip.

Further information:

• Address: Kampung Lanting, 26800, Pahang
• Contact: +609-419 7777
• Room types: The resort features wooden chalets, hillside sarangs and beachside villas.

Berjaya Tioman Resort

Spanning 200 acres of lush tropical rainforest, Berjaya Tioman Resort is the largest resort on Pulau Tioman. This four-star resort spans a vast area that stretches from the edge of the jungle to the pristine beachfront, blending natural beauty with modern amenities. The size of the resort enables it to offer an outstanding array of facilities catering to all travellers including function halls, a dive centre, an 18-hole golf course, an outdoor team building circuit, various restaurants and more. Renggis Island, a beautiful small island with fringing reef is one of the famous dive and snorkelling spots at Tioman, is located near to the resort just about 50 metres from the Berjaya Tioman Resort beachfront.

Accommodation at Berjaya Tioman Resort is inspired by traditional village architecture, which includes quaint chalets and duplex structures. The variety of accommodation options makes it ideal for family vacations, honeymoons, or corporate retreats. The resort offers a comprehensive island experience that combines the natural charm of Pulau Tioman with the conveniences of a full-service resort.

Photo Credit: Berjaya Tioman Resort

To get to Berjaya Tioman Resort

• Travel to Terminal Feri Tanjung Gemok or Mersing Jetty. From there, take a two-hour ferry ride or you can also opt for a direct flight from the Subang Airport or Johor Bahru to Tioman Island.

Further information:

• Address:Kampung Tekek, 26800 Tioman Island, Pahang.
• Contact: +609-419 1000
• Room types: Featuring eight room types including the Garden Chalet/Terrace, Garden Premier Chalet/Terrace, Beach Terrace, Two-Bedroom Garden Chalet, Executive Suite, and Beach Front Suite.

Kuantan

Kuantan, the capital of Pahang, is a historic city on Malaysia's east coast, situated at the mouth of the Kuantan River and facing the South China Sea. Founded in the early 1850s as Kampung Teruntum, it has since grown into the largest city on the east coast and is blessed with scenic rivers and beaches that surround the area.

Picnic at Teluk Chempedak

Teluk Chempedak, also known as Palm Beach, is a public beach just 5 kilometres from the Kuantan city centre, offering 1.1 kilometres of coastal beauty. The beach is lined with pine trees that provide natural shade and a peaceful vibe.

It’s a perfect spot for picnics. Spread out a blanket under the pine trees and enjoy a meal while listening to the waves crash. Whether you're with family or on your own, Teluk Chempedak has something for everyone. The area is well-developed with facilities to make your visit more comfortable. With its natural beauty, great location, and nearby amenities, Teluk Chempedak is a must-see when in Kuantan.

To get to Teluk Chempedak

• By bus: Get on Line 200 Bus from UTC Kuantan to (M) Teluk Chempedak, then enjoy a 3-minute walk to the beach.
• Driving: Teluk Chempedak is easily accessible from Kuantan City Mall, and is approximately a 15-minute drive away.

Enjoy Pelindung Beach

Just 6.7 kilometres from Kuantan, Pelindung Beach is a hidden coastal gem. Unlike the more popular beaches, it remains peaceful even during peak seasons. Surrounded by mountains and cliffs, it’s a scenic retreat from the city’s hustle.

Pelindung Beach offers something for everyone – solo travellers, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a quiet spot to unwind. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, while hikers can enjoy exploring the area’s landscape. It’s a peaceful getaway from crowded tourist spots, offering a more private experience of Kuantan’s coastline.

To get to Pelindung Beach

• Public Bus: Hop on Line 200 Bus from UTC Kuantan and get off at Klinik Kesihatan Bukit Pelindung bus station. From there, you will have to take a taxi to the beach, which is about a 20-minute drive away.
• Driving: The beach is about a 30-minute drive from Kuantan City Mall.

Where to stay in Kuantan

Hyatt Regency Kuantan Resort

Situated along the stunning Teluk Chempedak Beach, Hyatt Regency Kuantan Resort is a 5-star family-friendly resort that blends comfort with natural beauty with its prime beachfront location and a breathtaking view of the South China Sea.

Photo Credit: IG sebrianshah

Some of the highlights of this resort lie in its carefully crafted amenities, designed for a memorable beach vacation, including two inviting outdoor swimming pools and a good selection of dining options that are sure to delight. Whether you are planning a family getaway filled with beach activities and poolside fun, or a romantic escape with sunset dinners and couples' spa treatments, the Hyatt Regency Kuantan Resort provides the perfect backdrop for creating new and lasting memories.

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To get to Hyatt Regency Kuantan Resort

• Driving:It is a 30-minute drive from Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport (KUA), or a one-hour and 20-minute drive from Kerteh Airport (KTE). The resort is also just a 3-minute drive from the Teluk Cempedak Beach.

Further information:

• Address:Teluk Cempedak, 25050 Kuantan, Pahang
• Contact: +609-518 1234
• Room types: The resort features 301 refurbished rooms and suites, including 12 opulent suites and 19 family-friendly rooms.

Swiss-Belhotel Kuantan

Swiss-Belhotel Kuantan is a dazzling gem on the seafront of Tanjung Lumpur, offering guests a four-star experience that seamlessly blends luxury with the charm of coastal living. More than just a hotel, this premier property is a gateway to the ambitious Kuantan Waterfront Resort City (KWRC), a sprawling 500-acre development that is set to redefine leisure and lifestyle on Malaysia's east coast.

What sets the resort apart is its integration into the larger KWRC complex, offering guests an unparalleled experience including leisure, retail, dining, entertainment and residential experiences. The development also features a marina walkway, green promenade, waterfront restaurants, duty-free shopping, water sports facilities and many more. Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, Swiss-Belhotel Kuantan and the surrounding KWRC development promise a stay that is as diverse and dynamic as it is relaxing and luxurious.

Photo Credit: Swiss BelHotel

To get to Swiss-Belhotel Kuantan

• Address:The hotel is approximately an 8-minute drive away from Kuantan City Mall.

Further information:

• Address:1, Jalan Tanjung Lumpur, Tanjung Lumpur, 26060 Kuantan, Pahang.
• Contact: +609-404 8888
• Room types: There are seven room types in the hotel, including Studio/Family Sea View, Studio/Family City View, Premier Ocean View Suite, Deluxe Ocean View and Regal Ocean View Suite.

From mangrove cruises to hidden beaches, surfing spots to turtle hatcheries, Pahang offers a wide variety of tropical experiences. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or a chance to connect with nature, this Malaysian paradise has something for everyone. So, pack your bags (and your sense of wonder) and get ready to explore the tropical beauty of Pahang!