Great food, a bustling city, idyllic villages, little island paradises, beautiful beaches, and amazing hilly rainforests, Malaysia has it all!
If you are starting to plan for your honeymoon, Malaysia should be number one on your list! There are many ideal honeymoon destinations in Malaysia, and you definitely won’t be disappointed with what the country has to offer. Whether you love adventure or calm peaceful getaways, Malaysia has just the right place for you.
Surrounded by luxury resorts, this country houses resorts that offer 5-star quality service right at your doorstep. While these may sound expensive, some high-end hotels and resorts have great honeymoon packages to offer which are affordable and within anyone’s price range.
So put away your travel blues and read our list of 5 must-visit honeymoon destinations in Malaysia!
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Where the old meets new — Kota Kinabalu is a mix of modern malls and expensive apartments surrounding old markets selling fresh seafood by the fishermen themselves. It is an exciting culinary scene that spans street stalls to high-end cuisine, along with burgeoning art and music culture! All while fiery sunsets watch over this exciting bustling seaside city.
If you are a couple who’s up for an adventure - exploring new cultures, trying out new things - then Kota Kinabalu will not disappoint!
Yes, the beach is great but what if you want to try something different? Visit Mount Kinabalu, a World UNESCO heritage site valued for its biodiversity. Along the way visit the Mountain Garden to gain insight into its many flora and fauna and then head on to the Canopy Walkway for a bird’s eye view of the surrounding rainforest. You can even enjoy a warm local lunch before taking a dip in the Poring natural hot springs.
(Disclaimer: If you're feeling extra pumped up, trek the 13,435 ft Mount Kinabalu. Just note that it is not a few hour's hikes. Most trekkers have been trained beforehand prior to the hike. It definitely takes a lot of mental and physical strength.)
Head over to Sepilok to pay a visit to the Wild Man, commonly referred to as the Orangutan, these great reddish-brown-haired apes are peaceful and shy, living mostly in the treetops and are sadly critically endangered due to mass deforestation. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre offers a close-up view of the Orangutans in their natural habitat.
Interested in exploring new cultures? Mari-Mari Cultural Village is the place to go. Mari Mari showcases the cultures and lifestyles of the various indigenous peoples of the Borneo region – the Bajau, Lundayeh, Murut, Rungus, and Dusun. You will witness their traditional handicrafts such as blowpipe making and tattooing, their different types of homes, and their culture as a tribe. You might even enjoy some tasty local nibbles along the way!
What better way to experience Kota Kinabalu than to stay at a nature resort, one of the best in the area is the luxurious Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort and Spa. Set amidst a nature reserve and overlooking the South China Sea, the resort offers the best of both sea and rainforest.
Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort and Spa’s relaxing rooms are furnished with earthy-toned elegant furniture inclusive of all the standard amenities such as a flat-screen TV, minibar and tea/coffee making facilities as well as bathroom toiletries and bathrobes. Guests can choose between the rainforest view, garden view or sea view rooms, with private balconies, offering you a private calm and relaxing view to enjoy with your partner.
The hotel also offers a secluded beach area as well as an outdoor pool area which offers stunning views of the sea and the hotel. With a calm and relaxed atmosphere surrounding the hotel, it is the ideal resort for a couple’s retreat. You can approach their 24-hour front desk to inquire about activities such as horse riding and jungle trekking.
Address: Pantai Dalit, PO Box 600, Tuaran, Sabah, 89208 Malaysia
Contact No.: (60 88) 797 888
If you are looking for a budget-friendly vacation, Borneo Beach Villas is definitely a great option. Offering all the basic hotel facilities such as WiFi at the lobby and cafe, pool as well as a beach area with white sands, the hotel is ideal to accommodate you for your honeymoon in Malaysia.
Their Spa Suites include a private steam bath and hot tub, whilst the villas include a private lap pool, all guest rooms and villas include satellite TV along with a DVD player, inbuilt bathrooms with toiletries. The room furnishings are minimal and comfy and provide sea views. The hotel gardens are well kept and lead you towards the white beach with lazy waves lapping against the sand.
All the suites and villas include a fully equipped kitchen which would be ideal if you're thinking of whipping up a meal with your partner. The hotel is surrounded by seafood restaurants and groceries, this is a great option if you are trying to stick to a budget or you could order a la carte from the hotel cafe.
Address: 163, Pool Villa & Locked Bag 100, Karambunai, 88993 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Contact number: +60 16-832 9302 / +60 16 832 9340
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Penang is where all Eastern cultures converge to create one big melting pot of thrills. A cosmopolitan city dappled with old world charm, Penang is a perfect romantic setting for a couple looking for adventure!
This city has much to offer with a thriving art scene and culinary delights at almost every street corner this island has an adventure at every turn!
Make your way to George Town to witness the amazing and interactive murals and wire art. Be sure to find the legendary Bruce Lee mural and snap a few badass pics with your partner! Most of the artworks can be found along Armenian Street and Acheh Street.
George Town as a whole is going to be a memorable experience, with colonial buildings and old houses as well as a myriad of hawker stalls. Some of the must-try dishes are Penang Assam Laksa, Nasi Kandar, and Penang Teochew Chendul which is a sweet treat!
Another popular destination is Penang Hill which is 2733 feet above sea level, and has the steepest tunnel track in the world! Take the funicular train ride to the top of the hill and enjoy the panoramic view of George Town, the day and evening views are equally stunning, however, when dusk sets in and George Town begins to light up, it adds a sense of romance – enjoy the spectacular view of Penang at night and if you want to stay longer the last train leaves the top of the hill at 11 pm!
Also, be sure to explore the 1.6km nature trail of Penang Hill. It features suspended walkways amongst the canopies and, viewing platforms as well as pocket gardens. With its exquisite flora, you and your partner will not get bored.
Buildings and houses in Penang have uniquely styled architecture, so where can you get the full experience of living in the colonial times? At none other than Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion!
A beautiful 1880s mansion known for its iconic blue-hued walls which are a result of an indigo-based limewash was which common in George Town at the time. The boutique hotel has 18 personalized rooms divided into four categories – the Liang Collection, Ming Collection, Tang Suites, and Han Suites.
The staff are friendly and will take you through all the amenities included in the rooms, the rooms themselves are beautiful with intricate detailing and colonial era style furniture you can experience the true essence of a time gone by. All the rooms include basic amenities such as cable TV, an attached bathroom with a bathtub, air-conditioning, etc. The Tang and Han suites include direct pool access.
The hotel has two restaurants, the main restaurant being Indigo, which offers a west meets the east cuisine, while the Courtyard offers anything from Nutella crepes to Nasi Lemak. Spend the day lounging with a cup of coffee at the Courtyard and make a surprise dinner reservation at the Indigo restaurant for a romantic candlelit dinner with your loved one.
Address: 14, Leith Street, 10200 Penang, Malaysia
Contact number: +604 262 0006
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If you want a more contemporary stay at Penang head over to Hotel Jen, located at the bustling center of George Town, close to the commercial area of the city. Their rooms include all the basic amenities, the hotel also offers a 24-hour gym and a free shuttle service to the beach. The hotel is located close to Penang’s markets and commercial shopping centers.
Address: Magazine Road, George Town, Penang, 10300, Malaysia
Contact number: (60 4) 262 2622
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An archipelago of 99 islands, Langkawi is surrounded by turquoise waters with white sandy beaches lined with swaying coconut trees. The inland landscape is made up of picturesque paddy fields and jungle-clad hills.
Have your perfect romantic getaway in one of the three famous beaches in Langkawi – Pantai Cenang, if you are looking to try water sports, Tengah, Tanjung Rhu which is more secluded beach and great to take a walk along with your partner.
Looking for something more thrilling? Why not go for a walk on the 124 meters long, 700 m above sea level Sky Bridge? It offers spectacular views of some of Langkawi’s main attractions, the only way to get there is by cable car! A little fun fact: a scene from the 2006 Bollywood movie ‘Don: The Chase Begins Again’ was filmed on this bridge.
If you truly want to experience nature, hike Gunung Raya, the highest peak in Langkawi. Standing at 881m the hill offers panoramic views of the island; the legend behind the island is that it is the cursed form of the giant Mat Raya who once inhabited the mountain. The hill forest houses some of Malaysia’s exotic wildlife like the flying foxes, great hornbills, leaf monkey, and macaques as well as other forest dwellers.
Once you have covered the land sky why not go for an underwater walk, and no, it does not involve diving. Head over to Underwater World, and take the 15m underwater tunnel where you can get a close-up view of sharks, turtles and other sea life.
Why not have a fairytale ending to your stay at Langkawi? Visit Taman Lagenda, a folk-lore themed park which is an open-air garden museum that is sure to whisk you away from reality and would make a perfect setting for a nice romantic walk.
To truly experience tropical tranquillity choose to stay at the Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort and Spa in Langkawi. Their 355 rooms are clustered into wooden chalets all including private balconies which open to stunning views of the property and island. All rooms include the basic amenities that are expected at a five-star hotel.
The hotel has two restaurants; Spice Market which is the main restaurant is inspired by the ancient spice route – combining the East with the West. The second restaurant called CBA will offer you the perfect tropical dining experience. The hotel grounds are beautiful and are great for an early morning walk after breakfast, before heading to the secluded beach.
Address: Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah Darul Aman, Malaysia
Contact number: +60 4 952 8888
If you are looking for a more pocket-friendly place check in at the four-star Holiday Villa Beach Resort and Spa located only 15mins away from Langkawi international airport. The hotel is a vast property, offering great views of the beach and surrounding islands. All the rooms include the basic hotel room amenities. Be sure to check their romantic getaway offers on their website.
Address: Lot 1698, Pantai Tengah, Mukim Kedawang, Daerah Langkawi, 07000 Kedah Darulaman, Malaysia
Contact number: +60 4 952 9999
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The biggest and most popular island in the Eastern Peninsula of Malaysia, Tioman Island is a thrill seekers' paradise!
Famous for Diving and snorkeling, Tioman offers the best underwater experience to tourists. Most resorts on the island have a house reef, where you can snorkel right in front of your cabana, also snorkeling is a great option for non-divers!
Tioman Island almost has no roads so you’ll have to do a light trek through the jungle to get from place to another, if you are a nature lover this definitely the right spot for you. The two most popular treks are the Tekek to Juara which is two hours and the trek from Tekek all the way to Monkey Bay. For activities like kayaking, jet skiing and other water sports Tekek beach, slang beach and genting beach are your best options.
Tioman also has some beautiful waterfalls and these can be accessed by a light trek or a short boat ride, one the most famous waterfalls is the Mukut Waterfall, the largest waterfall on the Island is the Asah waterfall which is a 45 minute trek away from Mukut village, if trekking isn’t your thing opt for the boat ride.
Make your Tioman Island, Malaysia, dreams come true! Choose to stay at the Tunamaya Beach Resort and Spa for a luxurious tropical island experience. They also promise a great honeymoon experience so do check their honeymoon offers!
They have a total of 54 villas which are built to offer the utmost privacy to their guests; you have the choice of choosing between the garden view, rainforest view and the sea view villas. The villas come equipped with all the basic hotel room amenities ensuring that you are comfortable and at home during your stay.
Address: Lot 20 & 21, Sarang Burung, Kg. Mukut, 26800 Pulau Tioman, Pahang, Malaysia
Contact number: +607-7668886/ 8887/8888
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Looking for a place that offers great service for affordable prices? Opt for the Paya Beach Resort, which also offers a great romantic getaway offer for couples. The resort offers villas and chalets as well as lodges as accommodation for guests, the villas are recommended for a romantic getaway.
Address: Kampong Paya, Pulau Tioman, Malaysia
Contact number: +65 6733 4333 (Overseas)
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Pangkor translates to ‘beautiful island’ in Thai, and it definitely lives up to its name. The island is mostly mountainous and has rocky history due it being a center for piracy in the past! However, these days it’s just an idyllic tropical island where the main livelihood is fishing.
If you are interested in water sports, head over to Bogak or Nipah beach, you can try out banana-boat rides, and jet skiing. Pangkor town is the place to go if you want to try some authentic Pangkor cuisine as many local restaurants serving the most delectable dishes can be found. Go for a jungle trek to burn off the calories after eating all that food, the best hike is the Pangkor Hill hike.
If you want to do something a little more Zen pay visit to Fu Lin Kung, a Taoist temple built at the foot of Pangkor hill. You can also pay a visit to the Kali Amman temple, which is the only Hindu temple on the island. Don’t forget to check out the Dutch Fort as well, built in the 17th century to regulate tin trade form foreign ships. Another interesting historical spot is the Batu Bersurat (Tiger Rock), the large boulder has historical inscriptions referring to a child and tiger with the initials of the Dutch East India Company engraved into it as well.
Book a boat ride to Pulau Jarak, a secluded island with great Marine life, and it would be a great activity to experience with your partner. You can even rent a boat for the day and explore the surrounding scenery of the island if you are more adventurous hire a canoe!
One of the most famous resorts in Pangkor and possibly Malaysia is the Pangkor Laut Resort, named after the island itself and ranked number 1 in the World by Condé Nast Traveller and referred to as a paradise by the late Pavarotti!
Offering comfort, warmth and contemporary elegance the villas are situated amongst the hills, lush gardens and on wooden stilts over the tropical sea. The villas are fully equipped with the usual amenities found in guest rooms assuring you have all the comforts you need during your stay. They have a great honeymoon offer so be sure to check it out!
Address: Pangkor Laut Island, 32200 Lumut, Perak, Malaysia
Contact number: +60 3 2783 1000
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If you want to go for a more budget-friendly option the Sandy Beach Resort will be ideal for your stay on Pangkor Island. Nestled on the golden sands of the beach you can choose between rooms or chalets, the chalets are ideal if you are looking for privacy and they face the Pasir Bogak beach, who doesn’t want to wake up to the blue waters of the sea lapping against the sandy beach?
Address: 30, Jalan Pasir Bogak, 32300 Pulau Pangkor, Negeri Perak
Contact number: +605 6853027, +605 6853037
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Hopefully, this list gave you some insight for planning your Malaysia honeymoon itinerary.
Are you excited for your Malaysia honeymoon?!
