The Perhentian Islands, once sparsely populated and primarily inhabited by fishermen, have grown in importance as a tourist destination in Malaysia–and while hotels and transportation are far superior today than they were just a few decades ago, the islands are still developing slowly, preserving their natural and unspoiled beauty.

Deep turquoise waters, palm-fringed shorelines, and coral reefs teeming with marine life (sea turtles, blue-spotted rays, and clownfish abound) can be found all across the island, and pathways cut through the dense jungle, linking the many stretches of beach.

Only the two largest of the seven Perhentian Islands are permanently populated. There are scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking tours available, as well as guided jungle treks and a variety of lodging options to suit any budget. There are also some top beach resorts in the area. The modern Alunan Resort not only offers breathtaking rainforest and ocean views from its own private beach, but it also conducts a coral adoption program for those who want to contribute to the recovery of Malaysia's coral reef.

Location: Northeast of Peninsular Malaysia

Batu Ferringhi, a beach resort just outside of George Town, is best known for its water activities (sunset horseback riding and parasailing are still popular), but the beachfront and its stunning long stretch of white sand have become a popular destination for all sun lovers.

The location attracts many local residents searching for a weekend escape due to its proximity to a big metropolis, but it's also a terrific site to visit for travelers who want to catch some waves but don't have time to drive to the islands.

The well-developed beach here has a variety of dining options, a calm nightlife centered on live music and laid-back cafés, and a bustling night market selling anything from cheap trinkets to traditional batik fabrics.

Location: George Town in Penang, Malaysia.

Coral Beach will not disappoint you if you enjoy soaking in fine white sand, dreaming on a hammock under the shade of coconut trees, and swimming and snorkeling in clear warm water. This little, tranquil beach (just 500 meters long) is regarded as the island's greatest snorkeling spot.

Coral Beach's underwater coral world is teeming with glowing mollusks, strange algae species, holothurians, and a diverse range of fish. You can rent a kayak or a jet ski to explore the nearby bays and the island of Giam, which is located directly across the channel from Coral Beach. If you enjoy surfing, go outside the beach and away from the shore to get enough wave action. Walking down the beach's northern edge, you'll come to a Chinese relic: Lin Je Kong's most exquisite temple.

Tourists may enjoy wonderful seafood, cool drinks, and complimentary sun loungers at beach cafés. Every evening on the beach, you can enjoy magnificent sunsets. It's no surprise that islanders and tourists alike enjoy overnight picnics at Coral Beach.

Location: Pangkor, Malaysia

The island of Redang has its own special offer. And this is Taaras Beach, one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Malaysian coast. The water is incredibly clear here, allowing for thrilling underwater walks.

The beach sand is white and nice to the touch. Close to the coast, there is a coral reef that draws snorkeling aficionados. They have a one-of-a-kind opportunity to witness barracudas, giant stingrays, and marine echinoderms. On Taaras beach, visitors will find loungers, change cabins, and beach towels, among other services. The staff is available to assist visitors with any problems they may have.

Divers who are new to diving have a fantastic opportunity to improve their abilities under the guidance of skilled instructors. Hiking enthusiasts will not be disappointed, since the area surrounding the beach has a natural beauty. Guests of Taaras Beach can stay in a cozy room, hotel staff is ready to provide guests with the first-class service: restaurant service, fitness center, spa treatments and access to the internet.

Location: Terengganu, Malaysia

Kapas Island is a Malaysian island off the coast of Kuala Terengganu. In Malay, the phrase "kapas island" means "cotton island," referring to the island's white sand beaches.

This once little-known island with its stretch of picture-perfect beach, nestled among towering palms and coconut trees, is now getting its name out there. You can expect to see native sea life, participate in a variety of water activities, and rest in a relaxing environment.

From April through August is the finest season to visit Kapas Island. Due to the monsoon season, it is closed from November to February, just like the rest of Malaysia's beaches. It may open early in February to accommodate locals on holiday for the Chinese New Year, so if you're visiting during that month, check with the resorts to see whether they're already open.

Best Things to Do in Kapas Island

• Beach bum
• Snorkeling
• Kayaking
• Scuba diving
• Explore the beaches on foot
• Take photos of the rock formations
• Day trip to Gem Island

Location: Kapas Island, Malaysia

Juara Beach is located on the east coast of Pulau Tioman, right across the island from Tekek, in a secluded bay. This tranquil community is surrounded by lush flora, wide beaches, and a warm sea abounding with coral reefs at its deeper end. The Juara Turtle Project oversees a sea turtle hatchery on this beach. The most popular activity is snorkeling, which is followed by diving, beach sports, surfing, duty-free shopping, eating, and other activities.

Because the boats do not stop here, 4WD taxis provide transportation from Tekek to Juara along a paved route that runs across the island's central mountain range. These taxis can be booked through resorts in Juara or hailed spontaneously in Tekek, depending on availability. Traditional cabins, located along the 2km shoreline or hidden inside gardens, provide largely cheap lodging.

Location: Pahang, Malaysia

Tanjung Rhu is a 1,5-kilometer-long beach on Langkawi's north shore. The resort is quiet, secluded, and uncrowded.

The beachfront is covered in coarse white sand, with casuarina trees growing alongside. The water is shallow and the descent is easy. The breathtaking panorama of the azure water and neighboring islands is breathtaking. Tourists come to Tanjung Rhu for leisure and the stunning scenery.

Tanjung Rhu is separated into three zones visually. The first zone belongs to a fashionable hotel with all the essential comforts. The second zone will stun guests with several restaurants and an ice rink. The third zone is the most tranquil, making it ideal for unwinding. On the beach, there are no inexpensive bungalows or guest homes. Scuba diving and underwater swimming are popular activities on Tanjung Rhu.

Location: Langkawi, Malaysia

Pulau Tiga, located in the district of Kuala Penyu, West Coast of Sabah, the drive itself takes about 2 hours to reach the jetty of Pulau Tiga, 103 km from Kota Kinabau city. The boat transfer to the Pulau Tiga Island takes another 40 minutes as the island is located 16 km from the jetty.

Pulau Tiga, dubbed 'Survivor Island' after being featured in the popular reality TV show Survivor, first rose to notoriety in the 1980s when a mud volcanic eruption resulted in a small chain of islets.

The pristine South China Sea surrounds Pulau Tiga, which literally means "three islands" in Malay. Despite the fact that Pulau Tiga is no longer in the show business, its name is familiar to visitors from all walks of life who come to experience the solitary pleasure that Pulau Tiga has to offer. Beautiful views of the enormous ocean, white sand beaches to sink your toes in, and a soothing soak in the mud pools will undoubtedly relieve tension and generate a few giggles among your group. If you're looking for some excitement, go on a short jungle trip, visit the adjacent snake island for some wildlife encounters, or camp in the wild!

Location: Sabah, Malaysia

The Tanjung Aru Beach is stretched on the west coast of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia. It is close to the International Airport of Kota Kinabalu. This beach has succeeded in winning the hearts of its visitors with a 1.3 mile stretch of silky golden beach gleaming in the sun. People visit this beach to behold the most renowned sunsets and pose for sunset selfies. The peaceful atmosphere of this location makes it easy to unwind in the most magnificent natural setting.

Tanjung Aru Beach is split into four sections: First Beach, Prince Philip Park, Second Beach, and Third Beach. From the entrance here, one can view the beach beginning at the northernmost point and then turning southward. The First Beach refers to the entire area. This place is an abode to the best beach sports activities, hawker stalls serving lip-smacking Malaysian food and exquisite hotels. The first beach has practically everything a visitor looks for in a holiday, making it the most popular site on the Tanjung Aru beach.

Location: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Manukan Island is part of Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, Malaysia’s first marine national park. It is the park's second largest island and the most popular among Kota Kinabalu residents. Among the five islands, it also boasts the best tourist infrastructure.

Manukan Island offers a wide range of aquatic activities for water sports lovers, including snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, and other water sports. Sunset Point, at the extremity of the island, is one of the greatest places to see Borneo's famous sunset. All premium villas and suites overlook the turquoise seas of the South China Sea, providing a tranquil setting.

With water so clear that you can see the tropical fish you're swimming beside, it's popular for snorkeling and swimming. The name of Sabah's most visited island is well-deserved.

Location: Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, Malaysia