Many people visit only famous places in Malaysia, but the country has many beautiful hidden islands too. If you love peaceful beaches and less crowded spots, these 10 secret islands in Malaysia are perfect for your next holiday.
When people plan a trip to Malaysia, they often stick to the usual – Kuala Lumpur, Genting Highlands, and maybe a quick stop in Langkawi. But Malaysia has much more to offer, especially for beach lovers. The country is filled with breathtaking Malaysia islands, many of which remain unexplored and untouched by mass tourism. So if you’re someone who likes exploring hidden islands of Malaysia, these 10 destinations are perfect for your next trip.
If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys calm beaches, clear water, and fewer crowds, check out our Malaysia Tour Packages, you’ll love these offbeat and peaceful destinations. Let’s explore the top 10 islands to visit in Malaysia that you probably haven’t heard about.
The Perhentian Islands are located in the northeast part of Malaysia and are made up of two main islands – Perhentian Kecil (smaller and cheaper) and Perhentian Besar (larger and more family-friendly). These islands are surrounded by soft sandy beaches and clear waters. The atmosphere is laid-back, with beach cafes, budget chalets, and plenty of palm trees.
Famous for:
Snorkeling, diving, and relaxed beach stays.
Redang is one of the larger Malaysia islands, famous for its luxury resorts and crystal-clear waters. Unlike Perhentian, Redang is more upscale and suited for travelers looking for comfort. The island is covered in tropical jungle and has long beaches with clean white sand
Famous for: High-end resorts, snorkeling tours, and underwater photography.
Tioman Island is located off the east coast and is covered with thick rainforest, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It’s not just for beach lovers—it’s also great for trekkers and adventure seekers. Coral reefs surround the island, making it ideal for underwater activities. Despite its beauty, it’s still one of the more hidden islands of Malaysia, often missed by casual tourists.
Famous for: Scuba diving, jungle trekking, and wildlife spotting.
Kapas Island is a small, quiet island off the coast of Terengganu. It’s simple, uncrowded, and has no big hotels or tourist traps. The beach is just a few steps from most stays, and the vibe here is slow and peaceful. If you’re looking to disconnect and enjoy nature, this is one of the best Malaysia islands for that.
Famous for: Peaceful beaches, coral reefs, and budget-friendly stays.
Rawa Island is a private island owned by the royal family of Johor. But you can still visit! The island has just a few resorts and is known for its cleanliness and calm surroundings. The water is shallow and safe, making it perfect for families with kids or couples looking for a peaceful holiday.
Famous for: White sandy beaches, coral gardens, and relaxing getaways.
Lang Tengah sits between Redang and Perhentian but doesn’t get as much attention. That’s what makes it special. The island has only a few resorts, so you’ll often have the beach to yourself. It’s quiet, clean, and surrounded by greenery. It feels like your own private island.
Famous for: Seclusion, snorkelling, and turtle watching.
Pom Pom is a tiny island in Sabah and one of the most beautiful hidden islands of Malaysia. You can walk around the entire island in just 30 minutes. It’s peaceful, scenic, and perfect for people looking for privacy. The beach sand is white, and the sea is calm and crystal clear. It’s a top choice for honeymooners.
Famous for: Romantic atmosphere, marine life, and quiet beach walks.
Located off the coast of Kota Belud in Sabah, the Mantanani Islands are a group of three islands. They are not as popular among foreign tourists, so they still feel natural and raw. These islands are especially known for diving, where you might spot a dugong, a rare sea animal.
Famous for: Scuba diving, island hopping, and spotting sea creatures.
Layang-Layang is one of the most remote Malaysia islands in the South China Sea. It was built by reclaiming land and is mostly visited by hardcore divers. You won’t find beaches here, but the underwater life is truly unique. If you’re into deep-sea diving, this place is like a hidden paradise.
Famous for: Hammerhead sharks, deep-sea dives, and rare marine life.
Sibu Island is near the east coast of Johor and can be reached easily by boat. Despite its easy access, it’s still quiet and peaceful. The island has small bays and coves, making it perfect for kayaking or just sitting by the water. The resorts are eco-friendly and not too crowded, so it gives you a very relaxed vibe.
Famous for: Kayaking, coral reefs, and quiet beach stays.
Many of these Malaysia islands are not on regular travel itineraries. That’s why they remain peaceful, clean, and mostly natural. These are ideal for people who want to escape the usual tourist spots and enjoy some quiet time in nature.
A. Redang Island is considered one of the nicest islands in Malaysia. It has clear blue water, white sandy beaches, and beautiful resorts. It’s great for snorkeling, relaxing, and enjoying peaceful nature with fewer crowds compared to other places.
A. Malaysia has around 878 islands in total. These are spread across both Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. Many are uninhabited and still untouched, while others are popular tourist spots with resorts, beaches, and water sports.
A. Malaysia is divided into two parts because of geography. One part is Peninsular Malaysia, and the other is East Malaysia on Borneo Island. They are separated by the South China Sea but are part of the same country.
A. Langkawi is the biggest island in Malaysia. It’s located in the northwest and is known for its beaches, cable car, and shopping. It’s well-developed and one of the most visited islands in the country by tourists.
A. Pulau Ketam (Crab Island) is the closest island to Kuala Lumpur. It’s just 1.5 hours away by train and boat. It’s a small fishing village island, known for seafood, wooden houses, and peaceful local life.
