Combine a day-trip with excellent seafood at these destinations
1. Kuala Selangor
Distance from KL: 6o minutes
This may be a list of day trips, but Kuala Selangor is one destination that is best experienced at night. Head over in the evening for an early seafood dinner along the river – take your pick from the many seafood restaurants that line the banks, and order your fill of fresh crab, squid, prawns and clams. Then, come 8pm, make your way to the jetty and hop onto a boat cruise to witness Kuala Selangor’s main attraction: beautiful clusters of fireflies that live in the mangroves.
2. Pulau Ketam
Distance from KL: 45 minutes
Don’t jump on the ferry expecting to be greeted with white sands and swaying palm trees – Pulau Ketam is not one of Malaysia’s most picturesque islands. The island is mainly mangrove and operates chiefly as a fishing village. Other than the stilted houses that stretch out into the waters, there’s not much to see – but the seafood is undeniably fresh and abundant.
3. Sekinchan
Distance from KL: 90 minutes
Sekinchan is known for its lush green paddy rice fields that stretch out as far as the eye can see. Drive out for a serene walk and photo opportunity amongst the rice fields, where if you’re lucky you might even spot some herons. Throw a stone and you’ll hit a seafood restaurant in Sekinchan, most of them known for their Teochew style of cooking, featuring braised and steamed dishes. If you want to get right to the heart of the action, stop by Bagan Fishing Village to witness the local fishers hauling in their catches.
4. Pulau Carey
Distance from KL: 70 minutes
Pulau Carey is an island just off Port Klang, carved out of the mainland by the river Sungai Langat. It’s best known for its miles of oil palm estate, and for being the native home of indigenous Orang Asli people, the Mah Meri – who are in turn known for their great skill in wood-carving. The Mah Meri Cultural Village is well worth a visit, to witness the people’s unique culture and artwork. And when you’re ready, drive out for a feast at one of the many seafood restaurants. Settle in for a steamboat meal and cook your own food to really savour the freshness of the fish.
5. Hulu Langat
Distance from KL: 45 minutes
This district of primary forest, waterfalls and jungle trails is a favourite of hikers, bikers and adventure-makers all over Malaysia. Spend the morning exploring the many trails and waterfalls that wind across the rainforest (the Sungai Gabai waterfall is particularly spectacular), then refuel and rehydrate at one of the many seafood restaurants that line the riverside.
