With loads stunning mosques, handicraft bazaars, deliciously rich nasi dagang and a sprinkling of stunning islands, Malaysia’s northeastern state of Terengganu is an evergreen destination for travellers of all persuasions. Whether you’re staying on the mainland for a slow-paced getaway or taking a ferry (or even a private plane!) to Redang for a few days of snorkelling, there’s a memorable hotel experience waiting for you.
Here are four to get you planning your next golf vacay or even romantic honeymoon.
Alunan Resort
Tucked away on a secluded beach on the Perhentian Islands of Terengganu, Alunan Resort offers spacious rooms with balconies overlooking the sea. The eco-conscious resort invites guests to join in on their sustainability journey: it has reduced single-use plastic with refillable water bottles and metal straws, and equipped its rooms with reef-safe soap and shampoo. True eco warriors can embark on the Alunan Coral Project to help restore the island’s coral reefs and even adopt a few of their own! alunanresort.com
Summer Bay Resort
With cerulean waters, tropical rainforest and sandy beaches, Lang Tengah Island has been called the Maldives of the East. It’s also home to the idyllic Summer Bay Resort, which caters to all your tropical whims – be that forest hiking, night walks on bioluminescent beaches, scuba-diving at Perhentian and Redang islands or a lavish beach barbecue. Summer Bay’s pool-facing balcony rooms are the perfect place to rest, refuel and plan the next day’s adventures. summerbayresort.com.my
The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort
On nearby Redang Island, surrounded by the South China Sea and the tropical rainforest, The Taaras offers barefoot luxury through its 125 tropical-chic rooms and the clifftop Taaras Villa. When you’re not snorkeling, pampering yourself at the Taaras Spa or exploring the on-site SEATRU Turtle Lab, enjoy a meal at the Beach Brasserie and sunset drinks at Bayu Bar. You can even splurge on a private flight from Subang Airport in Selangor direct to the island. thetaaras.com
Kuala Terengganu Golf Resort
If you’re less about sea sports and more about stunning fairways, a short drive outside Kuala Terengganu, the Kuala Terengganu Golf Resort is an 18-hole wonderland with plenty to offer non-golfers. Nestled among surrounding forests, the course presents challenges to all skill levels. The clubhouse has an outdoor pool and terrace dining at Saffron Brasserie, and you can do it all over again after spending the night at one of the standard rooms or suites. ancasahotels.com.my/kuala-terengganu
