This lightly-traveled island sits off the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, squarely between Kuala Lumpur and Penang. The resort beaches are secluded and perfect for sunbathing, swimming and all-around lazy days at the beach.
There’s no question that tourism is the island’s main industry, but traffic is light enough to keep things relaxed and uncrowded. Turtles wash in to lay eggs during the summer and create one of the biggest tourist spectacles on the island.
Access to the beaches varies. In some cases, you’ll have to be a resort resident to avoid paying for admission or being refused entry. In other cases, you can wander in and out at your leisure. The latter beaches may not be centrally located, but they’re wonderfully private and just as nice.
Away from the beaches, the island has a few other attractions. The remains of a 17th century Dutch fort is popular with tourists. Jungle treks through the virtually untouched interior are also gaining popularity with tourists.
Getting There & Away
Pulau Pangkor has its own domestic airport which operates regular flights (five days a week) to Kuala Lumpur. From here, passengers have a broad range of international flight options. The island is also well connected to the mainland via a 40-minute ferry to Lumut, a city with direct overland connections to Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur.
Pulau Pengkor attractions
- Pasir Bogak: the island’s most popular beach is excellent for swimming but is subject to crowds during weekends and high season.
- Kota Belanda: this Dutch fort is two miles south of Pangkor Town and was partially reconstructed in the 1970s.
- Batu Bersurat: this boulder is close to the fort and is carved with pictures and writing that date to the days of the Dutch colony.