Idyllic beaches, clear blue waters, palm trees gently swaying to the rhythm of crashing waves – visitors have always been enchanted by the unspoilt beauty and tranquillity of Malaysia’s islands. Many of them are famous worldwide; more than one Malaysian island has been called a tropical paradise, and aptly so.
hey offer a host of water activities for those who like to get physical. For example Pulau Tioman (Pahang), Pulau Redang (Terengganu) and Pulau Rawa (Johor) are popular spots for scuba diving and snorkelling. Pulau Perhentian (Terengganu), which consists of two islands – Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil – have beautiful coral gardens within its waters.
Pulau Langkawi, which is famous for the Mahsuri legend, is also a duty-free shopping haven. This paradise also offers several attractions besides its beaches. There’s Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells), Tasik Dayang Bunting (Lake Of the Pregnant Maiden), wildlife sanctuary Pulau Singa Besar and Pulau Payar Marine Park, to name a few.
There’s something for everyone at these islands. If you have lots of energy to burn, you can enjoy water sports like sailing, windsurfing, deep-sea fishing, kayaking, snorkelling and scuba diving. And for those who are looking for a relaxing holiday, the beautiful beaches with their awe-inspiring golden sunset/sunrise will leave you with many memories to cherish.
Turtle landings usually occur after dusk. The park has a sensible policy of allowing visitors to see only one landing a night. This allows undisturbed nestings to go on throughout the night. Whilst waiting for the evenings highlight, all that is left to do is to laze around the beach or snorkel. The west side of the island is ideal for this. They are clean, quiet, and offer some interesting coral and sea life for a decent days snorkelling. Have a wander around the island and you'll be surprised how many turtles have landed in the last few days, their tracks, like mini-tractors, remain in the sand for a number of days.
There is a small visitors centre, which is highly recommended, and is open later in the evening. You will not only learn about sea turtles but also of the different parks in Sabah and its unique nature.
The evening's program begins after supper, when the wait for the first landing begins. If you are lucky this could be right after dessert! Once a landing has been sighted by the Park Rangers, the rangers will escort visitors to the nesting turtle. Remember not to shine your torchlight's on the nesting mother, as it is stressful on the turtle.