Aside from cultural, gastronomical and historical sites, Penang is also known for its natural beauty. Thanks to its location, the Pearl of the Orient has quite the tropical vibe. What better way to prove this than a quick jaunt to one of its many beaches?
While most people imagine Batu Feringghi to be the only beach worth visiting, that’s not the case. There are many beaches that Penang has to offer, some of which are lesser-known than others. That’s a good thing, as it means they are less congested with tourists.
So, here’s a handy list for you to check out these beaches for your next holiday getaway:
National Park beaches
- Monkey Beach (Teluk Duyung)
Image Credit: Rafiq on Google Review (Left), Isuru Gayan on Google Review (Right)
Are you aware that in the north of Penang island, there’s a national park to be explored? The park houses one of Penang’s better beaches.
This is Monkey Beach, a secluded, quiet seaside inhabited by troupes of macaques. There are no roads leading here. Instead, you will have to hike through the jungle or take a boat. Boat rides can be arranged at the park ticketing booth.
For the adventurous, there is a hiking trail in the west. This leads to the Muka Head Lighthouse, which can sometimes be climbed up. The view from the top is amazing, offering a 360° view of the surrounding landscape.
Location: 108, Teluk Bahang, 11050 George Town, Pulau Pinang
- Turtle Beach (Pantai Kerachut)
Image Credit: Zuhdi Mi on Google Review (Left), Deniss R on Google Review (Right)
Just like Monkey Beach, Turtle Beach is located within the national park and can only be accessed via hiking or boat ride. The journey here is more than worth it though, as Turtle Beach is among the most undisturbed spots in Penang.
If you hiked your way to Turtle Beach, you are likely to spot a lake along your way. This is a merimotic lake, a rarity in Asia. It is a natural phenomenon observed when a lake has both saltwater and freshwater, creating two separate layers of water.
For nature lovers, observing this lake can be a treat. Luckily, there is a bridge built across the lake which lets you look at it up close. Just be warned that if it has rained recently, the lake gets rather muddy.
Location: Teluk Bahang, Tanjung Bungah, Penang
Quiet seasides
- Pantai Tropika
Image Credit: Eevonn Ng on Google Review (Left), Peini on Google Review (Right)
This stretch of beach outside the Tropical Spice Garden may be small, but size isn’t everything! Pantai Tropika is a quaint little cove with minimal human development. There is a small-scale family-run eatery where you can chill out while enjoying the sea breeze.
With nothing but the seabreeze blowing past your face, Pantai Tropika might end up on your list of underrated beaches. Not to mention, unlike the previous two beaches, this one is much more accessible, whether via private or public transport.
Location: Opposite Tropica Spice Garden, Jalan Tanjung Bungah, 11050, Penang
- Pantai Pasir Panjang
Image Credit: SL T on Google Review (Left), Jacky Choo on Google Review (Right)
Most of the beaches listed here are on the north side of the island. Pantai Pasir Panjang is the rare exception, being located in the southwest. It is more obscure than the famous beaches in the north, but this has its pros and cons.
For one, there is a lack of maintenance at this beach, with litter found in abundance. This is likely due to the fact that the beach is not considered a tourist site. With few tourists, there is less incentive to keep it clean.
That said, the beach still has its charms. It is so isolated that getting a phone signal here is difficult. All the more reason to put away your mobile devices and just enjoy the sea lapping at your toes.
Location: Pulau Betong, 11000 Balik Pulau, Penang
Famous beaches
- Tanjung Bungah
Image Credit: Andy Truong on Google Review (Left), Mark Brown on Google Review (Right)
Originally a fishing village, Tanjung Bungah has since become one of the more developed seaside areas in Penang. This is not necessarily a good thing, but some of its beauty still remains.
Tanjung Bungah is the site of many of Penang’s resorts and hotels. For that reason, there are often many tourists here at any given time of the year. Many are drawn here by the view as well as the array of seaside activities available.
Location: 11200 Tanjung Bungah, Penang
- Batu Feringghi
Image Credit: Sweety Bhosure on Google Review (Left), Globetrekker Sarah on Google Review (Right)
Fine, we will list Batu Feringghi here too. Just because it is popular doesn’t mean it doesn’t deserve a spot on this list of beaches. Batu Ferringhi is the polar opposite of Pasir Panjang. Busy, famous and developed.
It still is beautiful though, which is why so many high-end hotels and resorts set up shop here. The sunset view here is without compare. Not to mention, aside from the white sands and blue seas, you have the green hills behind you.
Before you jump into that blue sea though, be warned that Batu Ferringhi’s waters are home to jellyfish. Swim at your own risk, if you really want to. Otherwise, just check out the many bars and restaurants which line the shore.
Location: Jalan Batu Ferringhi, 11100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
You should also check out: 10 things to do in Butterworth when you are too lazy to cross the Penang Bridge to George Town
Feature Image Credit: YH Loon on Google Review (Left), Arnaud Lefloc’h on Google Review (Right)
