Terengganu

Malaysia
Pulau Perhentian Besar showing colorful reefs, landscape views and rocky coastline
Come to this coastal region and discover picture-perfect tropical islands, bustling markets filled with local crafts and the largest museum in Southeast Asia.

The wonderfully clear waters of the islands off the Terengganu coast are famous with divers the world over, but the state holds other attractions too. Kuala Terengganu is a culturally rich capital city with museums, markets and fascinating architecture, while the coastline to the east has several beautiful spots of its own. 

Terengganu’s main attractions are the idyllic island chains of Perhentian and Redang. Take the ferry from Kuala Besut on the eastern coast and find yourself in a tropical dream of white sand beaches, dense jungle and clear waters filled with colorful marine life. Both groups of islands offer excellent diving and snorkeling. Perhentian caters more for travelers on a budget, while Redang is more of a resort. 

Back on the mainland, head to the state capital, Kuala Terengganu. This striking city is known for its oil riches, but is home to a number of cultural treasures as well. Take a walk around Chinatown and see houses that date back to the 18th century. Shop for local handicrafts such as batiks and songket in Pasar Payang, the city’s central market, where locals buy their fruit and vegetables. 

Learn about the city’s history by spending an afternoon in the State Museum. The largest museum in Southeast Asia, it features exhibits on marine life as well as a gallery charting the area’s Muslim heritage. In this vein, don’t miss the Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque, which sits on a floating platform in the Terengganu River.

Take a daytrip to the coast or visit Kenyir Lake, the largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia. It is surrounded by a rainforest where over 2,500 species of plant have been discovered. 

Terengganu has a warm year-round climate, but the best weather for diving is from June to October. Internal flights land here daily from Kuala Lumpur. A reliable network of buses connects Kuala Terengganu with the rest of Malaysia.

Popular cities in Terengganu

Pulau Perhentian Kecil
Pulau Perhentian Kecil
Known for Beaches, Islands and Snorkeling
Pulau Perhentian Kecil is calling! Discover its island views, beaches, hiking, and more.

Reasons to visit

  • Long Beach
  • Teluk Aur
  • Pantai Cendrawasih beach
Pulau Perhentian Besar showing landscape views, tropical scenes and swimming
Pulau Perhentian Besar
Known for Beaches, Islands and Snorkeling
Enjoy the stunning natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere of these Malaysian islands covered with lush jungles and surrounded by crystal-clear water.

Reasons to visit

  • Tuna Bay
  • Turtle beach
Kuala Terengganu showing a bridge, night scenes and a river or creek
Kuala Terengganu
Known for Chinatown, Budget and Marinas
Quaint Kuala Terengganu awaits: its marina, culture, castle, and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Kampung Cina
Before sunset.
#LifeAtExpedia
Setiu
Known for Beaches, Dining and Swimming
Escape to relaxing Setiu! Enjoy its beaches, food, and oceanfront.
The serene east coast of Malaysia. Watching the shores at Tanjong Jara Resort #lifeatexpedia
Dungun
Known for Dining, Beaches and Friendly people
Relaxing Dungun awaits: its beaches, food, oceanfront, and more!
Western style food
Kuala Besut
Known for Marinas, Islands and Ferries and boats
Trip time! Discover the marina and local cuisine in Kuala Besut.