Redang Island (Pulau Redang), Malaysia
Redang is the largest island in the Terengganu Marine Park and one of Malaysia's best-preserved coral reef systems, protected since 1994. Its shallow lagoons at Pasir Panjang have visibility often exceeding 20 metres, making it a benchmark snorkelling destination in Southeast Asia. Green and hawksbill turtles nest on its quieter beaches, monitored by conservation teams during the nesting season. The island became widely known across Asia after the 2000 film Summer Holiday was shot here, drawing steady tourist traffic ever since.
Last updated: 19 Aug 2026
Places to visit
- Pasir Panjang (Long Beach), the main stretch with white sand and clear shallow water
- Marine Park Centre at Pulau Pinang islet with feeding platform and information displays
- Chagar Hutang Turtle Sanctuary research beach
- Coral gardens at Tanjung Tengah and Mak Simpan snorkelling points
- Sunset viewpoint above Teluk Dalam
Unique Aspects
- Reef sharks and clownfish visible in waist-deep water at the house reef
- Resorts operate on a package basis including boat transfers, meals and snorkelling trips
- Island fully closes to tourists during the northeast monsoon
- No cars on the island, movement is by resort buggy and boat
Things to do
- Snorkelling trips to three or four reef points per day
- PADI scuba diving courses and fun dives at Tanjung Mak Cantik
- Kayaking and paddle boarding in the lagoon
- Night walks to spot nesting turtles in season with guides
- Jungle trail walk across the island between beaches
Best Time to Visit
March to early October; the island shuts from around November to February during the monsoon
Weather Conditions
Warm and humid year round, 26 to 33 degrees Celsius, with heavy rain and rough seas from November to February
Entry Fees & Permits
Marine Park conservation charge around MYR 30 for foreign adults (roughly INR 600); snorkelling packages typically MYR 100 to 180 (INR 2,000 to 3,600) per trip; resorts operate all day, boat jetty transfers run in fixed morning and afternoon slots
Accessibility
Fly Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu (about 55 minutes), then road transfer to Merang or Shahbandar jetty and a 45 to 90 minute speedboat ride. Berjaya Air also operates seasonal direct flights from Subang to Redang airstrip.
Recommended Duration
3 days and 2 nights
Clothing & Gear Tips
Swimwear, rash guard for sun protection, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, dry bag, and a light jacket for boat rides
Local Food & Souvenirs
Terengganu keropok lekor (fish crackers), nasi dagang with tuna curry, satar; buy batik sarongs, songket pieces and shell craft from Kuala Terengganu's Central Market. Vegetarian and Indian meals are limited on the island, so inform the resort in advance.
