Beach backed by rainforest with turquoise ocean and sun glare on camera.

East Coast Malaysia

The main draw for travellers to the east coast are the glorious beaches and sun-drenched coastline, much of which remains relatively undeveloped. It may not have the history and the multicultural elements offered in the west but it suggests a blend of relaxation and charm unsurpassed in many South-East Asian destinations.

The coastline is dotted with laid back towns, fishing villages and resort islands and in many of these life remains relatively unchanged for the locals, with traditional customs still observed.

Diving off this coast can be excellent with whale sharks frequenting these waters at certain times of the year. The Perhentian Islands in the north are surrounded by untouched coral reefs and the Redang Island archipelago, located within a Marine Park offers a wealth of underwater wonders.

Tioman Island, Malaysia
Tioman Island, Malaysia

Tioman Island

In the south is Tioman Island, famed as Bali Hai in the 1950’s film South Pacific and in addition to fantastic beaches, diving and snorkelling it is home to the lovely boutique hotel of Japamala.

This coastline does have distinct seasons and the best time to visit is during our summer when the weather is dry before the monsoons arrive from about November until March.

Experiences

Tell us what you love doing and we’ll curate a journey that’s perfect for you.

Turtle, Cenderawasih Bay, Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Turtle Nesting

Stay at Tanjong Jara where every year between April and September turtle come to lay their eggs.

Suggested hotel

Traditional Malay carving on a house

Terrapuri – Restored Malaysian Architecture

Step back in time at Terrapuri on Peninsular Malaysia’s east coast, and stay in a restored villa with stunning views towards the Perhentian Islands and Redang.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Beach withcrashing waves backed by rainforest

Desaru Coast

Explore this little known coastline of sandy beaches and lush jungle interiors, just two hours from Singapore.

Underwater Landscape, Borneo

Diving

Head below water to a host of excellent dive sites along the east coast of Malaysia as well as the waters off Malaysian Borneo.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Where to Stay

Every captivating tailor-made itinerary needs a perfect base. Our team has handpicked this collection of properties to give you luxury options in styles to suit any adventure.

More luxury boats More luxury accommodation

Meet our experts

A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.

Clare Higginson

It was my passion for languages that first encouraged me to leave the UK behind and grab my rucksack. Since then, it’s been a mixture of intriguing cultures, jaw-dropping landscapes and the wonder of seeing animals in their natural habitat that sees me continuously extending my travel wish list.

Talk with our experts
  • 01285 880 980

Start planning your trip


Send us an enquiry

Complete our enquiry form and start your next journey.

Review Contact Form

Name(Required)
Hidden

Why Choose Steppes?

Our knowledge, curiosity and expertise set us apart, driving us to create remarkable holidays and Beautiful Adventures tailored perfectly to you, carefully curated to help protect and conserve our planet.

Are you ready to Discover Extraordinary?


More about Steppes

F L E X I B I L I T Y P R O M I S E B O O K W I T H C O N F I D E N C E