2025 Pulau Kerengga Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

How do we choose the best island in Malaysia? For me it comes down to three things. Beaches, landscape, and marine life. This island has a special spot in my heart as it ticks all the boxes for it to be called the best island. The West side of the island has powdery beach sands and beautiful corals, meanwhile the East side has huge cliffs and amazing dive spots. The landscape is so unique that some would compare it to a famous location in Bali. This island also is less crowded and gives you a sense of exclusivity. Marine life on this island is abundant from seeing Black tip reef sharks in the morning, to huge schools of Bumphead Parrotfish and also blue luminiferous planktons on certain seasons. Many people skip this island thinking it's too close to the mainland but this is truly a gem #myhiddengems #malaysia #terengganu #pulaukapas

#islandtour #100waysoftravel Kapas Island is a paradise of crystal-clear seas and unique landscapes. Swim in its vibrant waters or hike the short but spectacular Bukit Singa for panoramic views. The island’s distinctive stones add a touch of magic to every exploration. Discover tranquility and adventure in one! 🏖️Ambiance/Facilities: Toilet Prayer room Cafes Kayak Hiking spot 📝 Notes: For the best experience, consider staying overnight on Kapas Island

#seascapes #100waysoftravel Kapas Island is a hidden gem that perfectly balances serenity and adventure. With its pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s a paradise for snorkelers and divers. Vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life are just a short swim away. The island’s laid-back vibe, with hammocks swaying between palm trees, makes it an ideal getaway. Don’t miss the stunning sunsets that paint the sky in hues of pink and orange—pure bliss! Whether you’re an adventure seeker or just looking to unwind, Kapas Island offers a slice of paradise that’s hard to resist.

#beachcheck #100waysoftravel Discover Kapas Island, just a quick 10 minutes boat ride from Marang Jetty. This hidden gem offers pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a serene atmosphere perfect for a tropical getaway. Dive into tranquility and explore lush landscapes on this idyllic island retreat. 📍Address: Pulau Kapas, Marang, Terengganu 🏊Things to Do: Swimming Snorkelling Kayaking Diving Jungle trekking Hiking (Bukit Singa) Island hopping Camping Stargazing #island #beachlife #camping #weekendgateway #marang #terengganu #malaysia

Looking for an island in Malaysia to visit? If off the beaten route is your idea of fun you need to check out this island called Pulau Kapas. This translates to cotton island. Don't be fooled by the name as this island does not only come with beaches that feel like cotton but also staggering cliff on the other side. You will find yourself mesmerized with the beautiful cliff and geological wonders. The island is amazing for snorkeling and diving too. Some operators even have cliff jumping activities on the island #island #malaysia #nature

#malaysia This is a private island with only one resort. This island is just next to the much bigger Pulau Kapas. The hotel rate is more expensive and budget travelers will normally go to Pulau Kapas for cheaper cost and for more happenings. Gemia Island is a nice place to relax because there are not many visitor. Getting there - Parking at Marang Jetty. It is public parking, chargeable at RM6 per night. Boat Transfer from Marang Jetty to the Resort. This is provided by Suria Link Boat Services. The boat is new and safe. Boatman is friendly too. Boat ride is about 15 minutes from Marang. Ambiance/Facilities - Snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. If you are lucky like us, you got to witness the releasing of many one month old leatherback turtles at the beach. One in a lifetime experience. Highlights - The corals were decent, especially on the South China Sea-facing coast and we saw branch & staghorn corals, shelf/plate coral, sea anemone and clown fish, boxfish, sea cucumber and sea slugs, and too many fishes to name. It was great fun kayakking around Gem island (just 30-40 mins.) and we also kayakked over to Pulau Kapas (just the beach facing Gem Island). Food - The food at Gem Island was also quite yummy. The breakfast croissant was light and buttery and the coffee was robust enough. I liked the Indian style chicken curry for dinner and I found the squid cooked in a savoury-sweet-slightly sour gravy yummy. Tips - This resort they have electricity break time in the afternoon for 3 hours and prepared to pay some extra charges at the hotel after checkout. Activities like kayaking not included. Rating - 7/10

Stay at Hotel Pelangi Marang for 1 night only and enjoyed Day Trip to Kapas Island 😍 Hotel beside Kapas Jetty..buy ticket from the agent at the jetty..take only 10 minutes in boat and you can enjoy the view 😍 kids are very excited and happy to swim in crystal clear water..we had so much fun and enjoyable moments!! 😍😍 i like this place so much! we will come again.

I like this place very much..friendly guide tour at island..nice environment, good facilities and suitable for family trip.Really enjoyable trip with beautiful scenery and many places so beautiful and love so much.Hiking at Bukit Singa so much more adorable 😊 ❤️ #staycation #hiking #camping

📅 Day 1 – Kickstart with Kopi & Canai Power Morning • Touchdown in KT and zoom straight to Roti Canai Pok Ripin Warning: Crispy outside, fluffy inside. Might ruin all future roti for you. • Snap some OOTDs with teh tarik foam moustache ✨ Afternoon • Chill at Kopi Payong, Batu Rakit – retro vibes, iced kopi, and enough TikTok-worthy corners to keep you busy • Try not to buy all the kuih near the counter (no promises) Evening • Sunset sesh at Masjid Terapung (Floating Mosque) You + silhouette pose + glowing sky = influencer level • Dinner at Pantai Batu Burok or drive-thru keropok lekor + coconut shake combo ⸻ 📅 Day 2 – Island Life Choose You: Pulau Kapas Edition Morning • Early boat to Pulau Kapas – clear waters, white sand, and “I’m never coming back” energy • Snorkel, swim, or just lay there and question all your life decisions (peacefully) Afternoon • Lunch by the sea: fresh grilled fish + sambal belacan = beach therapy • Optional kayak session or nap under a pokok kelapa with your waterproof speaker blasting Yuna Evening • Back to the mainland with salty hair and sun-kissed face • Dinner somewhere local and chill (or just crash and dream of turtles) ⸻ 📅 Day 3 – Coffee Waves & Santai Days Morning • Breakfast round 2: Canai again? Yes. You’re in Terengganu. • Explore a bit more of Batu Rakit coastal views — it’s giving “fishing village meets IG aesthetic” Afternoon • Santai Cafe, Setiu time: beachfront chilling with chocolate frappe & pastry Bonus: pretending you’re in a music video while staring at the ombak like it owes you money Evening • Free & easy: firefly hunting? Night picnic by the beach? Or… just more keropok lekor? • Optional: bring your own speaker, play Siti Nurhaliza, and slow-mo your way through the shoreline ⸻ 📅 Day 4 – One Last Kopi, Then Ciao Terengganu 😭 Morning • Coffee pit stop: Kopi Payong again, because goodbyes taste better with ice cubes • Quick last-minute hunt for batik, keropok, or kuih as souvenirs (read: snacks for the ride home) Afternoon • Final view of the Masjid Terapung — say goodbye with peace in your heart and sambal in your bag • Head home, already planning the next trip back ⸻ 🌴 Terengganu Tips 🌴 ✅ Bring your appetite ✅ Sunscreen + powerbank = must ✅ Always say yes to second rounds of roti canai ✅ Don’t fight the ombak, vibe with it ##summervacay #terengganu #terengganufood #staycation #travel #beachlife

📅 Itinerary Day1: Hiking At Bukit Singa and Watching Fire Show at night Day2: Snorkelling at Taman Laut Pulau Kapas Day3: Walk around Kuala Terengganu city 🏨 Accommodation Kapas Coral Beach Resort Am Transit Inn Hotel 🍴 Food Recommendations Ikan Bakar Arang Berasap D'stadium 📌 Tips Wear sunscreen and drink more water to keep hydrate #thingstodo #travel #summervacay

Started the day feeling adventurous—ended it sunburnt, salty, and completely in love with nature (and mildly at war with my calves). ⛰️ Hiked up Bukit Singa like a champ—or at least like someone who regrets not doing more squats. The view at the top? Unreal. Cliffside drama, turquoise waters, and me wheezing in every selfie. 🌴 Then headed to Kapas Island and instantly forgot how sore I was. 🚣♀️ Kayaking around crystal-clear waters with fish that are clearly living their best lives. I, meanwhile, was trying to steer in a straight line like it was a driving test from hell. ☀️ Sun: aggressive. 💪 Arms: weak. 🧘♀️ Vibes: immaculate. Finished the day with 327 photos, 2 liters of sweat, and a new respect for nature (and SPF 50). Highly recommend if you love good views, sea breezes, and humble pie served with a side of sore legs. 🌊 Kapas Island, Terengganu #summervacay

#favouriteitinerary #seascapes #beachlife #terengganu If there’s one place that embodies the perfect beach escape, it’s Gem Island. Set against a backdrop of rolling waves and lush greenery, this island retreat offered a much-needed break from the rush of daily life. I spent my days exploring the vibrant marine life with a bit of snorkeling, while the peaceful atmosphere of the resort allowed for uninterrupted relaxation. The beach, with its soft, white sand, was the ideal place to unwind, whether basking in the sun or enjoying a quiet walk at sunset. The resort’s villas, perched along the waterfront, offered a blend of modern comfort and island charm, making every moment feel special. Gem Island is more than just a getaway; it’s an immersion in luxury and nature. Each sunset, each wave, and each moment on this island felt like a treasure I could hold on to forever.

#favouriteitinerary #malaysia #seascapes #beachlife Nestled on a private island, far from the clamor of everyday life, Gem Island offers a rare kind of tranquility that’s hard to find anywhere else. From the moment I arrived, I was enveloped by the beauty of the turquoise waters and the serenity of the beachfront villas. The resort's luxurious waterfront villas provided an unparalleled view of the ocean, creating the perfect backdrop for a truly relaxing stay. Days drifted by with nothing to do but relax, swim, and explore the island’s pristine beaches. At Gem Island, every detail—from the cozy villas to the world-class service—was designed to make you feel like you’ve discovered your own personal paradise. It's a true escape, where time slows down and the beauty of nature becomes the ultimate indulgence.

#favouriteitinerary #seascapes #beachlife Imagine stepping out of your villa to find yourself on a secluded stretch of pristine white sand, with the sound of waves gently breaking along the shore. This was my experience at Gem Island Resort & Spa, where luxury meets tranquility. The island, with its crystal-clear waters and serene environment, is the perfect haven for anyone seeking a peaceful escape. Mornings were spent lounging by the beach, immersing myself in the beauty of the surroundings. The afternoons melted away with indulgent spa treatments, while evenings were reserved for romantic dinners by the water, with sunsets painting the sky in vibrant hues. Gem Island Resort & Spa isn’t just a place to stay; it’s an experience that captures the essence of beachfront luxury. A true gem for anyone looking to unwind and reconnect with nature in the most exquisite way.

My dears, today I am going to share the seventh stop of our self-driving tour on the east coast of Malaysia🎉! There are disappointments and surprises along the way. On the way to Kuala Terengganu, we passed by Petronas in Kerteh, Terengganu. The natural gas pipeline that was constantly spewing fire was really spectacular🔥! It's like a super-large lighter, constantly spewing fire, making people unable to help but slow down and appreciate it. If you want to enjoy a more exciting and spectacular scene, it is recommended to come at night. I believe the night view will be more shocking. Then we came to Paka, wanting to see the legendary Paka fishing village. But when we got there, we saw only a dilapidated fishing village with only a few residents left there. In front of the village, a straight road is under construction. The former appearance of the fishing village no longer exists, which really makes people sigh at the passage of time😔. However, when I drove to the edge of the coastal road, the endless coastal scenery along the long straight road made up for my lost mood. The vast sea and soft beach seem to be comforting us gently🌊. Going further up, we passed Dungun. I heard that this was once a place where the police exiled criminals, with the aim of isolating them from their gang friends and keeping them from doing evil. It's quite magical. After years of baptism, many people who were exiled here chose to settle down and work here, and are unwilling to return to the big city. 🧐 Finally we arrived in Marang County, where we deliberately turned into narrow paths and came to the Marang Pier and fishing village, which is said to be very beautiful. This is also one of the piers for taking a boat to Pulau Kapas. In addition to the seawall built with odd-shaped wave-breaking bricks, it is quite unique! Cotton Island is a pristine island that is worth a visit, but due to limited time, we took a few photos and left. However, this experience also allowed us to see a different side of the east coast of Malaysia.

🤿 Pom Pom Island Best time to visit: April to September A little-known island with a quiet and comfortable environment. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, this is the place for you. - 🤿 Semporna Best time to visit: All year round One of the most popular diving destinations, known as the "God's Aquarium." You can stroll along the beaches of Semporna, and diving enthusiasts can get up close and personal with sea turtles and other marine life. · 🤿 Swan Island Best time to visit: March to October A great place to watch whale sharks and experience fish storms. Known for its tropical jungle and white sandy beaches. Its pristine coral gardens and rare marine life make it one of Malaysia's top diving destinations. - 🤿 Redang Island Best time to visit: April to October Known as the "Heart of the Ocean" due to its unique shape, the island has golden sandy beaches and blue waters. It is the filming location of the famous movie "Summer Holiday." · 🤿 Lang Tengah Island Best time to visit: March to October The "Blue Tears" here are the most unique. The island is small, with few tourists, making it perfect for a vacation. The main modes of transportation are by boat, kayaking, or snorkeling. · 🤿 Perhentian Island Best time to visit: April to September Located on the east coast of Malaysia, the island is divided into two main islands, Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar, covered with pristine forests. You can also explore the fascinating tropical rainforest. · 🤿 Kapas Island Best time to visit: March to October The island is mostly untouched, with some areas overgrown with wild grass. Known for its clear emerald waters and white sandy beaches, the waters here are unpolluted, making it perfect for diving. · 🤿 Tioman Island Best time to visit: March to October Located on the east coast of the Malaysian Peninsula, you can see 13 meters deep into the sea with the naked eye. It is a famous diving paradise in Malaysia. It is also a duty-free paradise, meaning you can enjoy cheap drinks here. · 🤿 Mermaid Island Best time to visit: All year round Named after the wild sea cows that once lived in the nearby waters. The waters here are crystal clear, and the beaches are fine and white, making it a great place for a vacation and diving. -

#outdooradventure #hiking Hiking in Bukit Singa, Pulau Kapas, Terengganu offers an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This trail leads you through lush greenery and rugged terrain, culminating in spectacular views of the South China Sea. Bukit Singa, named after its lion-shaped rock formations, is one of the island’s hidden gems, combining the thrill of hiking with breathtaking scenery. The hike is relatively short and suitable for beginners, taking around 30-45 minutes to reach the summit. Along the way, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and surrounding islands. The highlight is the dramatic cliffside viewpoint, perfect for photography and soaking in the serene atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an Instagram-worthy adventure, Bukit Singa is a must-visit when exploring Pulau Redang. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty to the fullest! #bukitsinga #pulaukapas #friendtrip

#100 Ways to Travel Malaysia's Cotton Island, we drove to Terengganu and stayed overnight, and took a 30-minute boat ride to the island the next day. The island has basically retained its original appearance. There are not many hotels. This place is suitable for snorkeling and hiking, it is really a treasure. If you don't want to travel to some more commercial and touristy places. Then I recommend going to Cotton Island. The average cost per person is about 200🐎 per day, including food and accommodation. Stay three days and relax.

It took us 10-15 mins boat ride to Pulau Kapas in Terengganu. Took a boat ride from Marang Jetty for RM40/adult and RM20/kid to one of the most beautiful islands in East Coast Malaysia. Spent our time at Taman Laut and the view was unbelievable.For such a good price you get to spend such a lovely time in this beautiful island. Free Toilet and Musolla provided, bring your own food and have a great time with your family here too ! It was a great weekend trip for our big family ❤️ #myhiddengems

Unplanned trip are always the best decisions 🥽🌞🌊👙

#traveldiaries #pulaukapas #hiking #bukitsinga Had an incredible day trip to Pulau Kapas where I took a short and enjoyable hike up Bukit Singa. The journey was gentle, making it accessible even for those new to hiking. Reaching the top, I was rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of Pulau Kapas that made the adventure absolutely worth it. The vibrant blue waters and lush greenery below were truly mesmerizing, showcasing the island’s natural beauty from a whole new perspective. A perfect blend of relaxation and light exploration!

#kayak #100waysoftravel Kayaking at Pulau Kapas is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The island's crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings make it the perfect spot to explore by kayak. As you paddle along the coastline, you'll be treated to stunning views of pristine beaches, lush greenery, and vibrant marine life beneath the surface. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, the calm waters and breathtaking scenery of Pulau Kapas offer a peaceful and enjoyable adventure that's perfect for a day of exploration and relaxation.

#islandtour #100waysoftravel An island tour at Pulau Kapas offers a serene and picturesque escape into one of Malaysia's hidden treasures. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery, Pulau Kapas is a tropical paradise waiting to be explored. The tour takes you around the island, where you can enjoy breathtaking views, discover hidden coves, and relax on secluded beaches. Whether you're snorkeling, swimming, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, the Pulau Kapas island tour provides a perfect day of relaxation and adventure in a stunning tropical setting.

#myhiddengems Pulau Kapas, a small island located off the coast of Terengganu, is a hidden paradise that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Known for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, Pulau Kapas is a haven for snorkelers, divers, and beach lovers looking for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The island’s main draw is its underwater beauty. The surrounding waters are home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful coral gardens, sea turtles, and various species of tropical fish. Snorkeling and diving are the best ways to explore this underwater paradise, and several dive operators on the island offer guided trips for both beginners and experienced divers. For those who prefer to stay above water, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities that allow visitors to explore the island’s coastline at a leisurely pace. Pulau Kapas is also a fantastic destination for relaxation. The island’s laid-back atmosphere, combined with its stunning natural beauty, creates the perfect setting for unwinding. Accommodations on the island are simple yet comfortable, ranging from beachfront chalets to rustic huts. With no large resorts or commercial developments, the island maintains a sense of seclusion and intimacy, making it ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking peace and solitude. Dining on Pulau Kapas is a delight, with several local eateries serving fresh seafood and traditional Malaysian dishes. The absence of nightlife means that evenings are best spent enjoying a beachside barbecue under a canopy of stars or taking a moonlit stroll along the shore. Pulau Kapas is a hidden gem that offers a serene and unspoiled retreat, perfect for those looking to escape to a quieter corner of Malaysia.

#myhiddengems Wonderful small private island with only one resort. Love the water villas, I saw sharks right on our balcony. Small island yet peaceful. You literally canoe to pulau kapas and back. Beautiful as well. The foods included in the package is nice too. I saw a turtle laying eggs on the beach! (Please do not disturb the turtles) very lucky! The staffs were very friendly and helpful. It was a lovely stay.

Here is one island people rarely talk about. When people talk about islands in Malaysia many would mention powdery beach sand, crystal clear water and marine life. Here is an island which has all of that and also an addition of huge cliffs. This island has a beach on one side and a cliff on the other. Perfect spot for those who love to try cliff jumping #islandtours #Kapas #malaysia

the best ever pulau kapas. if you guys go to Terangganu dont forget went to pulau kapas. it is very beautiful place to holiday.... its suitable for the family and confort to bring the kids.. i very enjoy it.. next time i will go again to the pulau kapas. thank you so much trip for the the best suggestion place went school holiday is coming. i will not forget to the memories at the pulau kapas...