Malaysia’s largest state, Pahang, is a land of spectacular natural beauty. With its endless beaches, tropical islands, lush rainforests, and vibrant towns, Pahang offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re planning to surf, snorkel, trek through jungles, or unwind in luxury resorts, this comprehensive guide will help you explore the very best of Cherating, Pulau Tioman, and Kuantan.
Cherating: Surf Town Meets Eco Paradise
About Cherating
Cherating is a peaceful coastal village located 45km north of Kuantan, beloved for its beaches, mangrove cruises, and laid-back vibe. It’s a hotspot for surfing, turtle watching, and eco-tourism.
Highlights
- Famous surfing spot in East Malaysia
- Rich with mangrove ecosystems and turtle sanctuaries
- Quiet beaches and cultural charm
Things to Do in Cherating
- Learn to Surf at Cherating Beach – Best from October to March (North-East Monsoon season)
- Visit the Cherating Turtle Sanctuary – Learn about sea turtle conservation
- Day Trip to Pulau Ular – A serene, unspoiled island just off Sungai Ular Jetty
- Take a Mangrove River Cruise – Spot fireflies, otters, and exotic birds
- Explore Local Art – Try batik painting or browse village craft shops
Top Stay in Cherating
1. Royale Chulan Cherating Villa
Luxury beachfront villas with private pools and ocean views.
Address: 26100 Balok, Pahang | +609-584 7333
2. The Kasturi Resort
5-star eco-resort with rainforest surroundings and private beach.
Address: KM 32.5, Jalan Kuantan, 26080 Cherating | +609-582 5000
How to Get to Cherating
- By Car: 3 hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur via the East Coast Expressway
- By Bus: KLIA to TBS → TBS to Kemaman (stop at Kampung Cherating Lama)
Top Food in Cherating
- Don’t Tell Mama Eco Bar – Beachside hangout with seafood and cocktails
- Ombok Cherating Surf Cafe – Surfer-favorite with smoothie bowls and burgers
Pulau Tioman: Island Adventures & Marine Wonders
About Pulau Tioman
Pulau Tioman is a duty-free island 32 nautical miles off the Pahang coast. Famous for its coral reefs, clear waters, and jungle interior, it’s a haven for divers, snorkelers, and nature lovers.
Highlights
- Marine park with vibrant coral reefs
- Traditional island villages
- Epic hikes, waterfalls, and turtle conservation
Things to Do on Pulau Tioman
- Snorkel at Monkey Bay – Reachable by speedboat or jungle hike
- Hike to Asah Waterfall from Mukut Village – Tioman’s tallest waterfall
- Volunteer at Juara Turtle Hatchery – Help protect endangered turtles
- Scuba Dive at Renggis Island – Explore coral gardens and sea life
- Island-Hop or Jungle Trek – ABC, Tekek, Salang, Juara, Genting
Top Stay in Pulau Tioman
1. Japamala Resort
Eco-luxury villas built with reclaimed timber, tucked into jungle and cliffs.
Address: Kampung Lanting, Tioman | +609-419 7777
2. Berjaya Tioman Resort
Tioman’s largest resort, with golf course, dive center, and beachfront chalets.
Address: Kampung Tekek | +609-419 1000
How to Get to Tioman
- By Ferry: From Mersing or Tanjung Gemok Jetty (2–2.5 hours)
- By Air: Direct flights from Subang or Johor Bahru to Tioman
- To Mukut Village: Stop at Genting Jetty → transfer via water taxi
Top Food in Tioman
- Tioman Cabana (Tekek) – Fusion dishes with a beach view
- Sunset Corner (Juara) – Relaxed beachfront dining with fresh local fare
Kuantan: Beaches, City Comfort & East Coast Charm
About Kuantan
Kuantan is the vibrant capital city of Pahang, nestled at the mouth of the Kuantan River. It’s known for its long beaches, riverside charm, and a growing blend of modern and traditional Malay lifestyle.
Highlights
- Urban-meets-coastal destination
- Family-friendly beaches
- Excellent base for exploring eastern Pahang
Things to Do in Kuantan
- Picnic at Teluk Chempedak – 1.1 km of beautiful beach and pine trees
- Relax at Pelindung Beach – Quieter and surrounded by cliffs
- Visit Taman Teruntum Zoo – Great for kids
- Cruise the Kuantan River – Scenic mangrove experience
- Shop at East Coast Mall or Kuantan City Mall
Top Stay in Kuantan
1. Hyatt Regency Kuantan Resort
Beachfront resort with 2 pools, family suites, and sea-view dining.
Address: Teluk Cempedak | +609-518 1234
2. Swiss-Belhotel Kuantan
Modern seafront hotel within Kuantan Waterfront Resort City (KWRC).
Address: Jalan Tanjung Lumpur | +609-404 8888
How to Get to Kuantan
- By Air: Fly to Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport (KUA)
- By Bus/Car: From KL (2.5–3 hours) via LPT Expressway
Top Food in Kuantan
- Ana Ikan Bakar Petai – Grilled seafood with spicy sambal petai
- Restoran Zaman – Classic nasi lemak and traditional Malay dishes
Why Visit Pahang?
From turtle hatchlings on remote beaches to luxury eco-resorts nestled in rainforest, Pahang is where tropical beauty meets authentic Malaysian experiences. Whether you’re hiking to a waterfall, sipping coconut water on the beach, or diving in coral-rich seas, Pahang offers something for every traveller.
Best Time to Visit Pahang
- Dry Season (March–October): Great for hiking, diving, and beach trips
- Monsoon Season (Nov–Feb): Good for surfing in Cherating
