Best Beaches in Labuan Island Malaysia
Nestled off the coast of Borneo, Labuan Island is Malaysia’s best-kept coastal secret. Known for its pristine beaches, rich history, and duty-free charm, Labuan offers a serene escape for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you crave quiet coves, picture-perfect sunsets, or a splash of island culture, Labuan’s beaches promise a perfect getaway.
Here’s your guide to the most beautiful beaches in Labuan — each with its own charm and story.
| Beach | What’s Special / Highlights |
|---|---|
| United Nations Beach (UN’08 Beach) | Stretch of coastline on the west side of Labuan. It was awarded the COBSEA Clean Beach Award in 2008 for its cleanliness. |
| Pantai Batu Manikar | Part of the UN Beach group. Beautiful stretch, casuarina & coconut trees, good for relaxing. Near Labuan Bird Park and Chimney. |
| Pantai Pohon Batu | Quieter, more secluded. Natural scenery, food stalls nearby, walking trails. |
| Pantai Pancur Hitam | Well-developed. Market stalls with food, scenic spots, landscaped paths. Good for sunset views. |
| Pantai Layang-Layangan | White sandy beach, calm atmosphere, picnic & shaded areas. Some weekend activities. |
| Pantai Sungai Pagar | On the southern part of the west coast, near UMS Labuan campus. Part of the UN Beach stretch. |
| Pantai Tanjung Purun (Labuan Beach) | On the east coast, right by town centre. Good if you want a beach close to amenities. |
| Tanjung Kubong Beach | Mix of nature and history. Near the Chimney Tower and old coal-mining sites. Nice for scenic views. |
| Surrender Point Beach | Very scenic, also has historical significance (WWII surrender site). Peace Park nearby. |
🏖️ 1. United Nations Beach (UN’08 Beach)
Location: West Coast of Labuan
Highlights: Award-winning cleanliness, stunning sunsets, peaceful vibes
Landmarks: The Cobsea Monument is located on this beach.
Nearby Attractions: It is near the Peace Park, a memorial dedicated to World War II peace efforts and located next to the Surrender Point Memorial.
United Nations Beach is a 9-kilometer stretch of coastline in Labuan, Malaysia, connecting Batu Manikar Beach and Sungai Miri Beach.
Named after the COBSEA Clean Beach Award in 2008, United Nations Beach is a long stretch of golden coastline that defines Labuan’s natural beauty. Lined with casuarina trees and gentle waves, it’s a perfect place for a walk, swim, or picnic while soaking in the breathtaking sunset views.
Many of the beaches on the western coast of Labuan are collectively part of the stretch of coastline that was awarded the COBSEA Clean Beach Award by the United Nations Environment Programme. They are generally known for their clean sand, clear waters, and beautiful sunset views over the South China Sea.
🌅 2. Pantai Batu Manikar
Location: North-West Labuan
Highlights: Palm-lined shores, family-friendly, near attractions
Part of the UN Beach series, Batu Manikar Beach is a scenic stretch ideal for families and travelers looking for a calm escape. Its proximity to the Labuan Bird Park and The Chimney Museum makes it a perfect blend of nature and culture. Sunset photography here is a must!
🌊 3. Pantai Pohon Batu
Location: Northern coastline
Highlights: Quiet retreat, local food stalls, picnic area
If you’re seeking solitude, Pantai Pohon Batu is your spot. It’s less commercialized, offering raw beauty and peaceful vibes. You can enjoy local snacks from nearby stalls and watch fishermen at work — a glimpse of authentic island life.
🌅 4. Pantai Pancur Hitam
Location: Along the west coast
Highlights: Local markets, landscaped paths, vibrant atmosphere
Pancur Hitam Beach is known for its well-developed facilities and lively ambiance. Lush lawns, seafood stalls, and scenic coastal paths make it one of the most popular gathering spots for both locals and tourists. It’s also great for jogging and sunset walks.
🏖️ 5. Pantai Layang-Layangan
Location: Western Labuan
Highlights: Calm waters, picnic spots, weekend events
Pantai Layang-Layangan offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for families and groups. With clean white sands, shaded gazebos, and BBQ areas, it’s ideal for a weekend outing. The beach also occasionally hosts community festivals and kite-flying events.
🌴 6. Pantai Sungai Pagar
Location: Near Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) Labuan
Highlights: Scenic coastline, peaceful environment
Nestled near the university campus, Sungai Pagar Beach is often less crowded — making it a perfect spot for quiet reflection or evening walks. It’s part of the UN Beach stretch, continuing the island’s reputation for cleanliness and beauty.
🌊 7. Pantai Tanjung Purun (Labuan Beach)
Location: East coast, near Labuan Town
Highlights: Urban convenience, close to hotels and restaurants
If you’re staying in town, Tanjung Purun Beach is the easiest to access. It’s great for a quick beach escape without leaving the city. You can enjoy local seafood, stroll the promenade, or simply watch the fishing boats return at dusk.
🏝️ 8. Tanjung Kubong Beach
Location: North Labuan, near The Chimney Tower
Highlights: Historical charm, panoramic views, photo hotspot
Combining history with natural beauty, Tanjung Kubong Beach is close to Labuan’s famous Chimney Tower — a relic from the island’s coal-mining days. The beach offers rugged cliffs, sea breeze, and picture-perfect views for explorers and history buffs alike.
🇲🇾 9. Surrender Point Beach
Location: South-West Labuan, near Peace Park
Highlights: Historical site, Peace Park, symbolic monument
Surrender Point holds deep historical value as the site of the Japanese surrender in WWII. The beach is serene, flanked by Peace Park, where you can reflect on the island’s past while admiring the tranquil waters. It’s both emotional and beautiful — a must-visit for history lovers.
🌺 Why Visit Labuan’s Beaches?
- Clean & Calm: Far from mass tourism, Labuan’s beaches are among Malaysia’s cleanest.
- Historical Significance: Several beaches tell stories from WWII.
- Family-Friendly: Most beaches have picnic huts, play areas, and food stalls.
- Spectacular Sunsets: The west coast beaches offer breathtaking evening views.
🧭 Tips for Beach Travelers
- Best Time to Visit: February to September (dry season)
- Getting Around: Rent a scooter or car for easy access between beaches.
- Stay Options: Choose seaside resorts near Batu Manikar or town hotels near Tanjung Purun.
- What to Bring: Sunscreen, hat, water, and your camera — the sunsets are magical!
🌴 Conclusion
From tranquil retreats to vibrant family spots, Labuan’s beaches capture the essence of tropical Malaysia — serene, clean, and full of character. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, local flavors, or a quiet escape, Labuan invites you to slow down and rediscover paradise by the sea.
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