This small island belonging to the state of Pahang sits around 20 miles off Peninsular Malaysia’s east coast. It’s largely a forest wilderness with a small population, members of which preside predominantly in its eight main villages.
Nobody goes to Tioman Island expecting major tourist development. On the contrary; it’s the destination’s unspoilt beauty that is its chief attraction. Back in the 1970s, TIME magazine put Tioman on a list of the most beautiful islands in the world. Thirty-plus years on and it’s still as deserving of such an accolade.
Scuba diving opportunities in the waters around the island are a popular draw card but if that sounds too much like hard work then its picture postcard beaches are the perfect places to enjoy endless days of relaxation.
Getting There & Away
Pelangi Air and Berjaya Air operate daily flights to Pulau Tioman from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital city or you can take by car (and then take a connecting ferry) in around 5 hours. Berjaya Air also operates flights to the island from Singapore. There are ferry services from both Singapore and Mersing.
Things to Do
Pulau Tioman Attractions
- Juara
-
One of the island’s most beautiful beaches and certainly one of its most tranquil during the low season.
- Scuba diving
-
The tioman dive centre offers excursions for divers of all abilities.
- Snorkeling
-
Air batang is one of the best locations for this acitvity but paya and tekek are also worth checking out.