Kuala Lumpur or KL is a glamorous city in the country of Malaysia flaunting magnificent skyscrapers, charming locals, colonial architecture, and several natural attractions. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, famous for its cultural diversity, and shopping hubs. One more thing which adds beauty to its tourism is the number of beautiful islands near Kuala Lumpur, which the tourists enjoy visiting on their trip to KL. Islands are a perfect place where you can relax your body and souls gazing at a tranquillizing blue sea. Islands are beautiful destinations featuring lush green jungles, glittering beaches, cultural jewels and a crystalline blue sea as a cherry on the top. Islands are a great escape from your mundane daily life, close to nature’s comfort.
11 Islands Near Kuala Lumpur
You can make your trip to KL more memorable, by adding these best islands near Kuala Lumpur to your travel list.
1. Rawa Island
You will find plenty of white doves on this Island, and as “Rawa” is a local term for white doves, you get the idea why this island is named Rawa. For experiencing royalty or having an isolated vacation, this Island owned by the Sultanate of Johor is the best place to visit. Rawa is an absolute delight for a weekend getaway. Furthermore, this idyllic tropical island is a heaven for those wishing to have a good time with their family. Rawa is a beautiful private island with stunning landscapes. This place is situated 263 kilometres away from Kuala Lumpur. Tourists can take a taxi from either Kuala Lumpur to Mersing. After reaching Mersing, you can take a speedboat or a ferry to reach the Island in 30 to 60 minutes. This place is mostly known for its white doves, this coral island has scenic beaches & pathways in place of roads.
Ideal For- Family, Friends, Couples.
Ideal Time To Visit- Rawa Island is at its best during the months between March and September.
Things To Do-
- Snorkelling
- Water slides
- Play beach games
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2. Kapas Island
Kapas is given this name because of Island’s beautiful white beaches. This Island is amongst the most beautiful and relaxing places you will ever visit. This Island does not those luxurious and glamorous restaurants, but it has so beautiful scenic views that will make you stay here longer than you have planned. It’s a very minimalistic island, which is what makes it so unique. The beaches here are so magnificent That you’ll be left speechless once you visit them. This place is 290 kilometres away from Kuala Lumpur. Tourists can ake a flight from KL to Kuala Terengganu and then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Marang. Upon entering the Marang Jetty, take a boat till the Island, which would take only 15 minutes. This place is best known for its beautiful white beaches. Temperature is hot throughout the year with a little chance of rainfall.
Ideal For- Family, Friends, Couples
Ideal Time To Visit- The Best Time to Visit Pulau Kapas is from April – August
Things To Do-
- Snorkelling/ Scuba Diving
- End-To-End Beach Walk
- Indulge in Turtle spotting
- Go for jungle trekking
- Day Trip To Gem Island
3. Tenggol Island
Tenggol Island is like a home away from home. It not only lets you enjoy privacy, but it also provides you comfort. This place offers you a beautiful memory to cherish for lifelong. If you are seeking internal peace, then this is one of the best Malaysian islands. This place is 288 kilometres away from Kuala Lumpur. Take a flight from KL to Kuala Terengganu, and then Hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kuala Dungun. From there, take the 50-minute boat ride to reach the Island. This is the best Island in Malaysia for those looking to escape the crowds. The highest average temperature on Tenggol is 31°C in May, and the lowest is 27°C in January. The weather and climate of Tenggol are suitable for a sunny vacation.
Ideal For- Family, Friends, Couples
Ideal Time To Visit- The best time to visit is from February to August when you will have a warm temperature and little rainfall.
Things To Do-
- Diving.
- Play beach games.
- Spot the sharks.
- Soak in the panoramic views of the Island.
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4. Redang Island
Redang Island is located on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. This Island is famous for its crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. If white-sand beaches are not something that fascinates you, rest assured as this Island has a lot more than that. With plenty of wildlife and luxury resorts around, Redang is the best Island to visit. This place is 388 kilometres from Kuala Lumpur. Visitors can take a ferry to reach the island directly. This place is known for its natural beauty, crystal clear waters, and white sandy beaches. The temperature here feel hot all year with little chance of rainfall.
Ideal For- Family, Friends, Couples
Ideal Time To Visit- The best time to visit Redang Island for typical weather are December 24th to October 21st
Things To Do-
- Trekking
- Diving
- Snorkelling
5. Tioman Island
Known as one of the most beautiful islands around the world by 1970’s Time Magazine, this Island has more to offer than what comes across. This Island houses a wide diversity of flora and fauna. Situated 278 kilometres away from Kuala Lumpur, the only way to reach Tioman Island is by taking a direct ferry from Mersing Jetty or Tanjung Gemok Jetty. It is one of the nearest island to Kuala Lumpur. The weather here stays warm all year round. Tioman is an ideal holiday place for those who love travelling without worrying about the budget.
Ideal For- Family, Friends, Couples
Ideal Time To Visit- The best time to visit Tioman Island for perfect weather are December 3rd to October 21st
Things To Do-
- Sunbathe on Paya Beach
- Indulge in diving and snorkelling
- Visit a turtle farm
- Swim under the waterfalls
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6. Perhentian Islands
Image Credit: Fahmi Rosli for Wikimedia Commons
Perhentian Island is a hideaway waiting to be explored. The stay here is very pocket-friendly. This Island has very beautiful beaches and tropical jungles. This place is 545 kilometres away from Kuala Lumpur. The only way to get here is by taking a boat from Kuala Besut. Take a flight from KL to either Kuala Terengganu or the Kota Bharu, take a flight from these to airports to Kuala Besut. The Island is perfect for budget travellers. The rains are a lot heavier here. Some of the resorts remain closed during monsoon, re-opening in March.
Ideal For- Family, Friends, Couples
Ideal Time To Visit- April to September
Things To Do-
- Try scuba walking
- Chill at Tupai Beach Bar
- Spot whale sharks and octopuses while diving with Turtle Bay
7. Penang Island
This colourful island offers all kind of unique experiences. Penang island is popular for its cultural diversity, heritage and cuisine. This place is 366 kilometres away from Kuala Lumpur. While you can reach the Penang Island by train, air, and even road. Take a flight from KL to the Penang International Airport and then take a direct taxi to the Island. Here the temperatures feel hot all year with little chance of rainfall. This is a a gorgeous destination for those who are a foodie at heart or have an interest in heritage.
Ideal For- Family, Friends, Couples
Ideal Time To Visit- November to January
Things To Do-
- Explore the Penang National Park
- Shop at Komtar
- Indulge in Penang’s street food
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8. Pangkor Island
The people here are friendly, and the cuisine is lip-smacking, with resorts that offer the best of luxury. With its remarkable beauty, a holiday on this island would be worth it as it is one of the best islands near Kuala Lumpur, situated only 174 kilometres away. It is the nearest island from Kuala Lumpur.
Pangkor Island can be reached by taking a direct bus from Kuala Lumpur to Lumut, and then a ferry to the main Island. The temperatures here feel hot all year. If your heart beats for local culture and lifestyle, Pangkor Island is the place for you.
Ideal For- Family, Friends, Couples
Ideal Time To Visit- The best time to visit Pangkor Laut for perfect weather are January 29th to February 25th or June 11th to July 8th.
Things To Do-
- Take a stroll on the beaches
- Relish the delicious seafood
- Stay at the Pangkor Laut Resort
9. Langkawi
Langkawi is Malaysia’s best known holiday destination. Langkawi has the most beautiful beaches and forests which adds so much to its scenic beauty. Situated 515 kilometres away, Langkawi beach can be accessed by taking a direct flight from KL. This is one of the Malaysia islands near Kuala Lumpur. Though an adventurous way to get to the Island is by train from KL and then ferry from there. This place is an epitome of luxury, this Island is a hotspot for both honeymooners and families.
Ideal For- Family, Friends, Couples
Ideal Time To Visit- October to April
Things To Do-
- Enjoy the mesmerizing views from the cable car.
- Visit Gunung Raya, the highest peak on the Island.
- Go beach shopping.
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10. Port Dickson
Image Credit: jeniffertn for Pixabay
Port Dickson beach is the name given to a group of many beaches that stretch along the Port Dickson district’s coastline. Some of the nicest beaches close to Kuala Lumpur can be found along the lengthy sandy shoreline; some of the more well-known ones include Blue Lagoon, Tanjung Tuan, Saujana Beach, and Cahaya Negeri Beach. During the vacation season, the area is typically packed with visitors. Here, the beaches are almost usually well-maintained and provide both diving and watersports. Along the sand, there are also chaises and sunshades that are perfect for sun bathers.
Ideal For- Family, Friends, Couples
Ideal Time To Visit- October to May
Things To Do-
- Walk down the beautiful coastal line.
- Enjoy the views from the beach
- Go sunbathing
11. Lang Tengah Island
Lang Tengah Island is situated between the two trendy tropical islands Perhentian and Redang northeast of Peninsular Malaysia. Compared to Perhentian and Redang it is a small island. It is situated 324 kilometres away from Kuala Lumpur. Visitors can take a boat to reach this island. This Island is mostly known for its tropical beauty.
Ideal For- Family, Friends, Couples
Ideal Time To Visit- Between the end of October and the end of February
Things To Do-
- Diving
- Snorkelling
- Water Sports
Further Read: Places To Visit Near Dayabumi Complex Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
If you are traveling to Malaysia anytime soon, do not forget to visit these exotic islands near Kuala Lumpur to make your holiday all the more better. So, plan a trip to Kuala Lumpur with TravelTriangle and venture on a beautiful journey.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Islands Near Kuala Lumpur
Which is the time to visit Kuala Lumpur and nearby islands?
To make your travel experience safe, convenient and memorable, you should consider planning your Malaysia trip in the months of November, February and March, as this way you’ll be able to save yourself from heavy rainfalls.
How many islands are in Malaysia?
Malaysia has more than 800 islands. Many of them are still unexplored. Some of the popular ones which you cannot miss visiting are Langkawi, Perhentian Islands, Redang Island, Pangkor, and more.
Which is the best island to visit near Kuala Lumpur?
Penang has an amazing historical past and the architecture, while Langkawi is a popular spot for those who like the beachy feel and not so much into history etc.
How many days do you need in Malaysia in order to make the most out of your trip?
In order to make the most of your trip to the Southeast Asian country of Malaysia, you need a minimum of 7 days. On a 7-day trip, you can cover most of the mesmerizing spots in the country, taking back lifelong memories.
Which is the most beautiful island to visit in Malaysia?
Perhentian Island is the most beautiful island in Malaysia. However, Langkawi, Sipadan, and Redang islands are also impressive when it comes to natural beauty.
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