Beach backed by rainforest with turquoise ocean and sun glare on camera.

East Coast Malaysia

The main draw for travellers to the east coast are the glorious beaches and sun-drenched coastline, much of which remains relatively undeveloped. It may not have the history and the multicultural elements offered in the west but it suggests a blend of relaxation and charm unsurpassed in many South-East Asian destinations.

The coastline is dotted with laid back towns, fishing villages and resort islands and in many of these life remains relatively unchanged for the locals, with traditional customs still observed.

Diving off this coast can be excellent with whale sharks frequenting these waters at certain times of the year. The Perhentian Islands in the north are surrounded by untouched coral reefs and the Redang Island archipelago, located within a Marine Park offers a wealth of underwater wonders.

Tioman Island, Malaysia
Tioman Island, Malaysia

Tioman Island

In the south is Tioman Island, famed as Bali Hai in the 1950’s film South Pacific and in addition to fantastic beaches, diving and snorkelling it is home to the lovely boutique hotel of Japamala.

This coastline does have distinct seasons and the best time to visit is during our summer when the weather is dry before the monsoons arrive from about November until March.

Experiences

Tell us what you love doing and we’ll curate a journey that’s perfect for you.

Turtle, Cenderawasih Bay, Raja Ampat, Indonesia
East Coast

Turtle Nesting

Stay at Tanjong Jara where every year between April and September turtle come to lay their eggs.

Suggested hotel

Traditional Malay carving on a house
East Coast

Terrapuri – Restored Malaysian Architecture

Step back in time at Terrapuri on Peninsular Malaysia’s east coast, and stay in a restored villa with stunning views towards the Perhentian Islands and Redang.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Beach withcrashing waves backed by rainforest
East Coast

Desaru Coast

Explore this little known coastline of sandy beaches and lush jungle interiors, just two hours from Singapore.

Underwater Landscape, Borneo
East Coast

Diving

Head below water to a host of excellent dive sites along the east coast of Malaysia as well as the waters off Malaysian Borneo.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Where to stay

Some of the wonderful places to stay that we frequently recommended.

Royal Steam Ship MISR £££££

  • North Africa

A small steam powered boat, the MISR Royal Steamer was originally commissioned by the British Royal Navy and launched in 1918 when she journeyed 3276 nautical miles from England to Alexandria. Steeped in history she has since served in multiple wars and been the private yacht to Egypt’s last Monarch, King Farouk before being restored and rebuilt to her original drawings in 2006.

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Sea Star £££££

  • Americas - South

Renovated in 2022, Sea Star is a 138-foot-long motor yacht that accommodates 16 passengers in eight large cabins, all with panoramic windows, four with private balconies and two of which can interconnect. Onboard facilities include two Jacuzzis, a spacious dining room, comfortable lounge and a lovely sun deck.

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Silversands Grenada £££££

  • Americas - Caribbean
  • Beach and Island Escapes

With a range of rooms, suites and villas available, Silversands Grenada is your perfect Caribbean hideaway.

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More Quarters Neighbourhood Hotel £££££

  • South Africa
  • City

More Quarters collection of converted heritage townhouses come together to create the Neighbourhood Hotel. Each of their entrances opens to a cobbled lane adjoining the main boutique hotel, Cape Cadogan, creating the feel of a secluded quarter in the suburb.

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Ant’s Hill Safari Lodge – The Ant Collection £££££

  • Africa
  • Safari Lodge

Built on the edge of a cliff, Ant’s Hill Safari Lodge is a fantastic base for a range of different travellers and is part of The Ant Collection. With an open and friendly atmosphere, guests are sure to experience a home from home feeling.

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Lepogo Noka Camp £££££

  • South Africa
  • Safari Lodge

Nestled in the heart of Lapalala Game Reserve, atop a spectacular 100 foot rock face, lies Noka Camp. Overlooking the Palala River below, Noka Camp encourages complete tranquillity with unparalleled comfort, whilst being a fantastic base from which to explore the African wilderness.

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Meet our experts

A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.

Clare Higginson

It was my passion for languages that first encouraged me to leave the UK behind and grab my rucksack. Since then, it’s been a mixture of intriguing cultures, jaw-dropping landscapes and the wonder of seeing animals in their natural habitat that sees me continuously extending my travel wish list.

Talk with our experts
  • 01285 880 980

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