Top 10 Budget-Friendly Islands in Malaysia

Looking to escape to paradise without splurging? Malaysia is home to some of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful and budget-friendly islands, perfect for backpackers, solo travellers, and families who want beach bliss without a hefty price tag. From the laid-back shores of Terengganu to the hidden gems of Johor, here are the Top 10 Budget-Friendly Islands in Malaysia to explore on a shoestring.

Discover the best islands in Malaysia for a Budget-Friendly holiday trip, from Pulau Kapas, Perhentian to Langkawi, offering pristine beaches, snorkeling and diving.

1. Pulau Kapas, Terengganu

Pulau Kapas (Kapas Island) is an island in Terengganu, Malaysia, known for its white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush jungle.

Why Visit: A tranquil island famous for its soft white sand, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. It’s an off-grid haven for slow travel, popular for activities like swimming, snorkeling, diving, and observing wildlife such as nesting turtles.
Budget Tips: Stay in beach huts or dorm-style chalets. Snorkelling gear rentals start from RM10.
How to Get There: 15-minute boat ride from Marang Jetty, near Kuala Terengganu. Boat transfers to Pulau Kapas depart from Marang Jetty and are a popular way to reach the island for a relaxing getaway.

2. Pulau Perhentian Kecil, Terengganu

Pulau Perhentian Kecil, Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia: Pulau Perhentian Kecil, or Small Perhentian Island, is a budget-friendly Malaysian island known for its lively social atmosphere, stunning beaches, and vibrant marine life, making it popular with backpackers and solo travelers.

Why Visit: A backpacker favourite with lively hostels, budget cafes, and coral-filled beaches.
Budget Tips: Dorms start at RM30 per night. Join group snorkelling trips or just swim off the beach.
How to Get There: Ferry available from Kuala Besut to Jeti Kampung Nelayan every 4 hours. Tickets cost RM 35 and the journey takes 35 min (approximate).

Read More about Pulau Perhentian Islands

3. Pulau Pangkor, Perak

Pulau Pangkor (Pangkor Island) is a tropical island destination in the Malaysian state of Perak, known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and lush greenery, offering a peaceful retreat with opportunities for beach activities, jungle trekking, and exploring historical sites.

Why Visit: A quiet west coast island with charming fishing villages, temples, and scenic beaches.
Budget Tips: Local ferries cost under RM15. Guesthouses and homestays are affordable and welcoming.
How to Get There: Ferry from Lumut Jetty (reachable from Ipoh or Kuala Lumpur).
Key attractions: Pasir Bogak and Teluk Nipah beaches, the historical Dutch Fort (Kota Belanda), and the Foo Lin Kong Temple. The island is accessible via ferry from Lumut, making it a popular destination for both relaxing vacations and budget-friendly trips.

4. Pulau Tioman, Pahang

Pulau Tioman is a tropical island located off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia in the state of Pahang, known for its clear waters, coral reefs, and laid-back villages.

Why Visit: A diving paradise with rainforests, waterfalls, and quiet villages.
Budget Tips: Backpacker-friendly lodgings in ABC Village. Cheap food stalls and jungle treks are aplenty.
How to Get There: Ferry from Mersing or Tanjung Gemok.

5. Pulau Langkawi, Kedah

Pulau Langkawi is a Malaysian archipelago in the state of Kedah, known as the “Jewel of Kedah” and a premier tropical destination. Langkawi is one of the Budget-Friendly Islands in Malaysia and most popular island.

Why Visit: Popular but still affordable, especially around Pantai Cenang. Ideal for budget family trips.
Budget Tips: Duty-free shopping, free beaches, and affordable food courts.
How to Get There: You can reach Langkawi Island either by flying directly to Langkawi International Airport (LGK) or by taking a ferry from various mainland ports such as Kuala Kedah, Kuala Perlis, or Penang. Flying is the fastest option, while ferries are the cheapest and most scenic way to travel.
By Air (Fastest)
Langkawi International Airport (LGK): The most direct way to get to Langkawi is to fly into LGK.
Airlines: Many airlines offer flights to Langkawi, including AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, and others.
From Cities: You can fly directly to Langkawi from various cities, including Kuala Lumpur and Hyderabad.
By Sea (Cheapest & Most Scenic) Mainland Ferries: You can take a ferry from several points on the mainland.
Kuala Kedah: Drive or take a train to Kuala Kedah and then board a ferry.
Kuala Perlis: Drive to Kuala Perlis to catch a ferry to Langkawi.
Penang: You can also take a ferry to Langkawi from Penang.
International Ferries: Ferries are also available from Satun, Thailand.

6. Pulau Mabul, Sabah

Pulau Mabul is a small island near the coast of Sabah, Malaysia, celebrated for its world-class diving and snorkeling, especially its unique “muck diving” and macro-photography opportunities for small, exotic marine life like crocodile fish and garden eels.

Why Visit: Known for its proximity to Sipadan and incredible marine biodiversity.
Budget Tips: Local homestays and guesthouses offer meals and snorkel packages.
How to Get There: Boat ride from Semporna. From Semporna Jetty, you will take a speedboat to Pulau Mabul. The boat ride typically takes about 45 minutes.

7. Pulau Rawa, Johor

Pulau Rawa is a small, idyllic island in the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park, off the east coast of Mersing in Johor, Malaysia, known for its white-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and proximity to a natural coral reef.

It is owned by the Johor Sultanate and offers a tranquil, unspoiled destination popular with families and couples.

Why Visit: Pulau Rawa is a picturesque private island located in the Mersing District of Johor, Malaysia, known for its stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere. A lesser-known island with calm, clear waters and soft sands. The island features crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and a surrounding coral reef, making it ideal for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and relaxing in an untouched, natural environment.
Things to Do: Activities include snorkeling, paddle boarding, hiking the island’s hilltop trail for panoramic views, and enjoying the resort’s facilities, which feature water slides, a game room, and various water sports.
Budget Tips: Basic beach chalets and all-inclusive day trips keep costs manageable.
How to Get There: Accessible by a 30-minute boat ride from Mersing Jetty, Rawa
Best Time to Visit: The most suitable time to visit Pulau Rawa is generally between March and October.

8. Pulau Sibu, Johor

Sibu Island (Malay: Pulau Sibu) is an island off the coast of Mersing District, Johor, Malaysia. It was declared as a marine park in 1993.

Why Visit: A peaceful island great for nature lovers and couples on a budget.
Budget Tips: Eco-resorts offer full-board deals including transport and meals.
How to Get There: Boats from Tanjung Leman Jetty in Johor, Malaysia, primarily serve the Pulau Sibu islands, with a ~20-minute speedboat ride, and Pulau Tinggi, which takes ~30-45 minutes. Schedules vary, especially for Pulau Sibu, so contacting the specific resort or speedboat operator for Pulau Tinggi and Sibu is recommended to confirm departure times and book your trip.

9. Pulau Tiga, Sabah

Pulau Tiga is a Malaysian island and national park in Sabah, known as “Survivor Island” for its appearance on the reality TV show. Visitors can enjoy activities like snorkeling, jungle trekking, and relaxing in the island’s mineral-rich mud volcanoes. The park includes three islands and can be reached by a 30-minute boat ride from the Kuala Penyu jetty.

Why Visit: Nicknamed “Survivor Island” and great for those seeking adventure.
Budget Tips: Budget lodges or campsites available. Explore mud volcanoes and nature trails for free.
How to Get There: Via Kuala Penyu Jetty and boat.

10. Pulau Besar, Johor

Pulau Besar, about 30 minutes by boat from Mersing Jetty, Johor, is part of the South China Sea coastline. The island is home to six traditional villages, namely Atap Zing, Batu Hitam, Busong, Teluk Bakau, Teluk Kampa and Teluk Penagat, which are inhabited by a Malay fishing community of about 184 people.

Why Visit: A calm and scenic escape from city life with fewer crowds. Come to this tropical island, just a 30-minute boat ride from Mersing Jetty. Enjoy white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and jungle trails full of nature. Snorkel at the beautiful reef area or relax under the coconut trees. Whether you want to relax or look for beach activities, Pulau Besar Johor promises an unforgettable vacation.
Budget Tips: Group accommodation deals and off-peak travel keep things affordable.
How to Get There: Boat from Mersing Jetty.

These budget-friendly islands in Malaysia prove that you don’t need to spend a fortune to experience crystal-clear waters, marine adventures, and beachfront serenity. Whether you’re snorkelling in Terengganu or relaxing on Langkawi’s shores, affordable island adventures are just a boat ride away.