Islands
and Beaches of Terengganu
The magic of
Terengganu
begins the moment one enters Kemaman, with its
picture-postcard fishing village and scenery. This
atmosphere of peace and tranquility is heightens as one
proceeds along the exquisite shores--passing through
idyllic fishing villages, dreamy seaside towns, placid,
palm-dotted lagoons and secluded bays.
Tanjung Jara
Tanjung Jara is a stretch of golden sandy beach
embraced by the blue-green waters of the South China Sea.
Located here is the Tanjung Jara Beach Resort. Styled
after a Malay palace, but with all the modern amenities
one could wish for, the resort is the recipient of the
prestigious Aga Khan award for the best hotel
architecture. Recreational activities on the beach
include windsurfing, sailing and speed boating. Tours to
the neighboring islands such as Pulau Tenggol and Pulau
Kapas can be arranged.
Getting there:
There are regular bus services and many taxis plying
the Kuala Terengganu - Dungun route.
Marang
About ten kilometers south of Kuala Terengganu is the
fishing village of Marang, famous for its sweeping
scenery. Beauty and function converge in the rows of
colorful, elegantly carved fishing boats moored on the
sparkling waters. They have made for many a winning
photograph, and are even more breathtaking when seen up
close.
Kapas Island
Marang is also the take-off point for Kapas Island,
about a half hour by boat. The waters around the island
are home to an infinite variety of corals, seashells,
fish, and turtles. On land, there are the famous Murai
Batu--a song bird which reputedly has 23 different and
equally beautiful melodies in its repertoire. The
relative isolation of its spotless beaches, and the
laid-back atmosphere, make this another favorite retreat.
Getting there:
To get to the islands, board a bus or taxi at Kuala
Terengganu for the fishing village of Marang. It costs
about RM 1 by bus and RM 10 by non-air conditioned taxi.
Air-conditioned taxis charge RM 15.
Pulau Perhentian
Pulau Perhentian is a resting spot for fishermen and
seabirds alike. The island lies 21 km off Besut in
Terengganu. The sea journey takes about one and a half
hours from Besut. Blessed with a long stretch of white
sandy beach and exceptionally clear waters, Pulau
Perhentian is a fine destination for snorkeling,
scuba-diving, wind surfing, sailing and deep-sea fishing.
Chalets and campsites are available.
Getting there:
From Kuala Terengganu, take a bus or taxi to the
jumping-off point of Kuala Besut.It takes about an hour.
From the Fisheries Complex at Kuala Besut, take a boat to
Pulau Perhentian. The boat ride takes about 1 1/2 hours.
Pulau Redang
Another enchanting island off the coast of Terengganu
is Pulau Redang. It is relatively uninhabited except for
a fishing village built on stilts over the sea. Its
surrounding waters support a variety of marine life--hard
and soft corals of every hue, anemones, and colorful
clams. The crystal clear waters make this an ideal spot
for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
Getting there:
Ferry service is available from the Kuala Terengganu
jetty and it takes 45 minutes.
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