TRAVEL MALAYSIA: The Best Islands To Visit - My Top 3

I’m a beach person. There’s something about feeling sand and sea that fills me with pure joy. The sandier the better, I say. So it makes sense that whilst living in South East Asia, I traveled to most of the Malaysian islands. Whilst most people travel to the Thai islands, I feel Malaysia gets missed out from travellers routes all too often, which is a shame because there are so many beautiful Malaysian islands worth traveling to. One of my main reasons for this TRAVEL MALAYSIA Series, is to focus on exactly that - highlighting what Malaysia has to offer and to encourage people to travel there.
The islands are no exception. Here’s my favourite 3 islands to visit..

1. Rawa Island (Pulau Rawa)

Perfect for an island escape with friends

This small piece of land off the Mersing coast is tiny, quiet, stunningly beautiful and perfect for a getaway with a big group of friends. I first discovered this beautiful place about 6 years ago, when it was somewhat deserted. We booked around a month in advance and easily secured a beach front chalet for the 3 of us. 
Now it’s not so easy to book. As the island has become very popular, you will need to book some time in advance.

There isn’t much to do here, which is why I suggest you bring friends with you, but the white sands and clear waters should be enough to keep you mesmerised.

For accommodation I suggest Alang's Rawa, quaint, on the beach front and incredible fresh seafood! For more information about the island, click here.

2. The Perhentian Islands

Perfect for the real beach experience 

Made up of two main islands, The Perhentians are affordable, natural and still somewhat local. When I travel abroad I love to find places which the locals go to, not places overcrowded with tourists. The Perhentians certainly still has it’s charm, authenticity and real island feel. When I went, 5 years ago, it was more of a backpacking experience than a luxury resort holiday, but i've since seen there is a range of accommodation. There is  plenty to do in and around the island and even smaller islands nearby you can hop to for day trips, snorkelling, turtle watching and more!

The larger island (Besar) is more for couples, families and a quieter island experience and the smaller island (Kecil) more more partying.

Most islands in Malaysia shut during rain season, but still be mindful of when that is when booking.

For more information on The Perhentians click here.

3. Langkawi

Perfect for some island luxury

image source

image source

If you’re looking for a bit of luxury, then Langkawi is the spot for you. With stunning 5 star resorts and beautiful weather, this is the place for romantic get aways, an affordable escape or some undisturbed peace - all at a reasonable cost! Sure, it can get pricey here as it's easy to rack up bills with the tax-free alcohol, but it's possible to work to a budget too.

This is as luxury as the Malaysian island experience gets and believe me, it will not disappoint. 

With plenty of bars and restaurants, beach front bars, sun and swanky resorts, this is the perfect place to get away and truly switch off from the world.

I stayed at The Meritus which has it's own private beach, great breakfast selection and has some affordable deals if you book in advance. Read more about Langkawi here.

Other islands worth exploring include Tioman Island - incredible for diving or snorkelling, but be careful of the huge amount of sandflies!
Redang Island - near to The Pehentian Islands, a popular destination with locals and tourists. 

*all photos are my own unless otherwise stated

This is part of a series of features about Malaysia, written mainly by the Malaysian community. Expect hidden gems, local flavours, off-the-beaten-track experiences and much more. Consider this steemit's first independent guide to Malaysia! This initiative will help the local talent (the writers) and aims to inspire and inform you about this wondrous place and hopefully tempt you to journey there! The authors of these posts will benefit from most of the SBD earned here. Please do help support this local initiative by resteeming and upvoting!

What is your favourite Malaysian Island?

Yasmine