Summer holidays in Malaysia offer a showcase of unparalleled beauty, exhilarating activities and jaw-dropping attractions.

However, while you may think you know all of the hotspots for your bucket list adventure, we’re here to highlight the hidden gems that often go unseen or forgotten about. Whether you’re enjoying a city break in Kuala Lumpur, a private island holiday in Pangkor Laut, embracing cultural encounters in Penang or on a wildlife tour in Sabah, you’ll find a myriad of scintillating experiences waiting off the beaten track. To help you uncover these delights, we’ve curated a list of must-visit attractions and unmissable activities that you’re unlikely to find in the regular travel brochures. There’s so much more to this intriguing and magical destination than what’s on the surface. Uncover the hidden wonders of Malaysia for yourself on the summer holiday of a lifetime.

Search our Malaysia holidays.

Beaches

Soak up the tropical sunshine during your summer holiday in Malaysia with a spot of beach bliss away from the crowds. While Pangkor Laut’s picturesque Emerald Bay is regarded as the most beautiful, you’ll find plenty of more secluded options on this exclusive island, including Squid Bay. Located at the very southern tip, you can experience bliss and a true sense of Malaysian island life. Pantai Keracut, a similarly hidden beach, is waiting if you traverse Penang National Park, where you’ll hear the relaxing sounds of waves and find nesting turtles. If you want a tranquil beach that’s rooted in myths and legends, Langkawi’s Pasir Tengkorak, also known as Sandy Skulls Beach, boasts a history of piracy, as well as providing spectacular mountain views from its white sands. For postcard-perfect shorelines that will take your breath away, Sabah’s Pantai Kalampunian is where the South China Sea meets the Sulu Sea in northern Borneo.

Culture

Malaysia oozes a rich and diverse culture, with many sites of importance regarded as hidden gems. The capital, Kuala Lumpur, is home to an array of famous landmarks that showcase this destination’s heritage, but there’s also plenty that you’ll miss if you don’t keep your eyes peeled. The Sin Sze Si Ya Temple is the oldest Taoist temple in this city but it’s easy to overlook this hub of spirituality as it's nestled between two shops. The Foo Lin Kong Temple, another Taoist place of worship in Pangkor Island, is a treat for the senses due to its brightly coloured architecture, whimsical gardens that are perfect for strolling around and its mini Great Wall of China. Mahsuri’s Tomb on the island of Langkawi tells the story of an ancient curse that supposedly affected the island for seven generations and you can visit the museum and resting place of this legendary woman to learn more about her story and the history of Langkawi.

Cuisine

Prepare for a culinary journey unlike any other when you travel to Malaysia. While you can dine in the finest of Michelin-starred restaurants or walk down the famous Petaling Street to grab a bite of delicious street fare, there’s also plenty of unsung hidden venues and markets. Kuala Lumpur may be a futuristic metropolis but at its heart is the traditional Malay village, Kampung Baru. Wooden houses and authentic food stalls offer exotic flavours while you take in the views of iconic structures like the Petronas Towers from a new angle. Venture to the historical island of Penang, where you’ll find a host of divine eateries like the Ayer Itam Market. The morning market promises a once-in-a-lifetime breakfast of koay kak or chai kueh. If you’re visiting Sabah, you can sample traditional Bornean dishes like hinava, bambangan and penjaram with the lush rainforest as a backdrop, as well as enjoying cooking classes to make you an expert, too.

Activities

Langkawi is renowned for stunning natural beauty and mesmerising scenery. Visit the cascading Temurun or Durian Perangin Waterfalls to listen to the sounds of the jungle, take a picnic and wade in the rock pools to cool off from the glorious Malaysian sunshine. Kayaking through the verdant mangroves of the Kilim Geoforest Park is the perfect way to feel serene and get close to some of the local flora and fauna. Sabah is another sublime destination if you’re seeking to get lost in nature as you’ll have plenty of choices when it comes to exploring national parks. The Kinabalu Park is a firm favourite among holidaymakers but if you’re searching for somewhere different, the Tawau Hills Park is nonetheless enchanting with its giant trees and waterfalls. The city will provide differing activities, with Kuala Lumpur hiding a number of speakeasies, like Marchant’s Lane and PS150, the first cocktail bar in Chinatown.

Attractions

The magnificent Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur may be on your bucket list, but don’t just be wowed by its awe-inspiring exterior and miss out on the scenic gardens behind it. Head through the circular archway to discover a fountain with water blessed by the statue of Guanyin, an incense burner, wishing well and tortoise pond. Sandakan in Sabah is brimming with colonial history, showcased through its old houses and mighty cathedrals, while also being home to the vast Speilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the limestone Gamantong Caves for an escape into nature. Seek out elusive animals on a wonderful Kingbatangan river safari. For those staying on the jaw-dropping island of Pangkor Laut, you’ll have direct access to a rainforest that’s approximately 2 million years old. Keep an eye out for the mischievous macaques as well as plenty of other exotic wildlife that resides there.

“A summer holiday to Malaysia will be all the more special when you explore the hidden gems nestled in picturesque locations.

“Venture away from the most popular beaches, despite their renowned beauty, if you’re seeking a tranquil afternoon relaxing on soft sand. Families, couples searching for seclusion and solo travellers will adore coming across the secret shorelines of Pangkor Laut, Penang and Langkawi.

“Culture is a huge part of Malaysia’s identity and it’s hard to miss some of the ornamental temples and shrines. However, if you wander off the beaten track you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the other significant sites you will uncover.

“Ensure you embark on a journey of the senses when you sample Malaysia’s diverse cuisine. Local delicacies and traditional recipes are a promise in the food markets, stalls and family-run restaurants.

“With so many hidden gems on offer across Malaysia, which area will you investigate first this summer?”

Pelangi Beach Resort

The 5-star Pelangi Beach Resort is a haven in the Langkawi archipelago, where you’ll find swaying palm trees, fresh coconuts and powdery white sand, as well as unspoilt ocean views. Follow the shaded garden path to your own secluded beachfront to while away the hours in paradise or stop by the sumptuous spa for a truly revitalizing massage. The Spice Market restaurant serves up delicious Asian fare so you can get a real taste of Malaysian flavours.

Check out Pelangi Beach Resort

The Westin Langkawi Resort and Spa

Take in the breathtaking scenery of this hotel’s luxury location beside the Andaman Sea. Palm trees sway in the breezes that make this resort a perfect choice for soaking up the sunshine and splashing in the cerulean waters. Whether you’re on a family adventure or a couple’s romantic getaway, you’ll find all of the best facilities here. Enjoy a pamper session in the spa, lounge by the pool or experience a gym session like no other in the state-of-the-art fitness studio.

Check out the The Westin Langkawi Resort and Spa

Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang

Nestled amidst tropical gardens, this divine 5-star retreat is the perfect place for your luxury holiday to Malaysia. Nature blends with the modern facilities to create a paradise oozing relaxation and rejuvenation. Take a moment on your private balcony, overlooking the lush greenery or Andaman Sea, wade in the pool, immerse yourself in a mindful yoga class or visit the spa. Little ones will also have fun here with a kids’ club and adventure playground to keep them entertained in the sunshine.

Check out Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang

Pangkor Laut Resort

Whisk yourself away to heaven on earth when you stay at the 5-star Pangkor Laut Resort. Located on its own private island, you’ll have direct access to an immaculate beachfront and emerald waters. A divine choice for couples seeking serenity on a romantic getaway or honeymoon, you can enjoy sumptuous spa treatments together, idyllic sunset boat cruises and delectable dining. Sample Malay delicacies, fresh seafood and other exotic flavours while sipping on tantalising beverages and overlooking the lush gardens.

Check out Pangkor Laut Resort

The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Luxury and charm are staples of The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia’s dazzling capital. Find bliss in the comfortable rooms and suites, some that boast four poster beds and all with beautifully-appointed décor, as well as in the fitness centre, pool or art nouveau inspired Majestic Spa. Dine in style at Contango with its modern regional cuisine or Colonial Cafe featuring a re-interpretation of the colonial dishes of the Old World. The Smoke House embodies the delicious decadence of the 1930s, featuring a lounge and bar, a private dining room with a chef on call, a cigar room, bespoke tailor and Truefitt & Hill, a world leader in gentlemen’s grooming.

Check out The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur

The Datai Langkawi

Escape to hidden paradise nestled amongst lush greenery and exotic wildlife. Idyllic moments of peace and tranquility can be found in this Malaysian haven, as well as untold entertainment, wellness and memory making. The private beachfront provides the opportunity to get active with some water sports, or you can lounge lazily by the pool soaking up the divine sunshine. Discover a host of activities, including spa treatments, guided forest walks and tennis, or golf, which can be enjoyed a short distance away.

Check out The Datai Langkawi