Pangkor Islands and Beaches

Pangkor
Laging off Perak on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, this tranquil island with its white sandy beaches and charming fishing villages will enthrall you.

The name Pangkor may have originated from the Thai word Pang Ko meaning beautiful island. How everothers believe it may have been a memorial to Pang Kui, a legendary Chinese adventurer said to have lent his skills in seamanship to the bands of pirates this island once sheltered.

Pangkors main attractions are undoubtedly the wonderful offering of its pristine beaches on the western coastline. Named after a legendary lovelorn princess, Golden Sands Beach or Pantai Puteri Dewi is one of the most popular beaches on the island. Located on the northwest of Pangkor, this 1.2 km strech boasts warm turquoise water fringed with tall swaying coconut palms. There beach here is ideal for sunbathing and recreational activities such as bird watching. Look out for hornbills said to roam the area.

Pasir Bogak Beach, a snorkeling site with an extensive reef and shallow waters, faces the channel between Pangkor and Pangkor Laut. Located nearby Pangkor town, this popular destination is a favourite haunt for picnickers due to its shady trees. Here, visitors can enjoy a kayak run or the simple pleasure of beachcombing.

Teluk Nipah is where tourists can enjoy both solitude and excitement by the beach. Take in the soothing lush greenery or browse the open-air stalls by the beach. A walk across to Giam Island at low tide will reward you with a treasure trove of marine life.

Head to the Pulau Sembilan groups of islands, 27 km south of Pangkor for a superb diving experience. The nine islands (sembilan means nine in Malay) are uninhabited with an abundance of colourful marine life.

Eating out in Pangkor is a delight as there are restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Alternatively head to Pangkor town to enjoy fresh seafood.

Pangkor Laut

Pangkor Laut is a world-renowned tropical island destination. A 20 minute boat ride from Pangkor, it boasts one of the finest beaches in the Straits of Malacca. Sunset cruises can be specially arranged upon request. Couples can choose to have dinner by Emerald Bay which affords scenic views for a truly romantic experience.

Pangkor Laut houses an exclusive resort named after the island. For those seeking complete rejuvenation, pamper yourself at he luxurious Spa Villages.

Lumut is the staging point to Pangkor if arriving by road or rail. Located 83 km from Ipoh, the state capital, it is home to the countrys principal naval base and a port which services the hinterland. Teluk Batik, south of Lumut is popular for camping, boating and windsurfing. Nearby is Teluk Rubiah, another fine beach with a golf course. The Lumut International Yacht Club is a stopover whilw sailing the Straits of Malacca. Lumut is a 3-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur via the North-South Highway. It can be reached by taxi or bus from Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur or Butterworth.

Getting there

By Sea
Pangkor is a 40-minutes ferry ride from Lumut. There are departures every half hour.

By Air
The private carrier, Berjaya Air flies five times a week from the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport nearby Kuala Lumpur to Pangkor.

Pangkor Laut Resort was rated as the best among the best by Conde Nast Traveller in 2003. Actress Joan Collins and renowned tenor Luciano Pavarotti have graced the resort.