Islands
Penang has something for every kind of traveller. From buzzing nightlife to quiet beaches, adventure sports to art and culture, here are the activities worth planning your trip around.
Penang's nightlife has to be experienced to be believed — the island turns into a different city once night falls, with pubs and clubs offering all kinds of entertainment. Batu Ferringhi has the liveliest nightlife on the island, with something for both younger and older crowds, and there are plenty of relaxed cafe spots too.
Penang's beaches are made for water activities, and it's a haven for anyone with an adventurous side. Many of the activities are safe for children, so the whole family can join in — just be cautious of unregulated water-sport operators around Batu Ferringhi. Popular options include kayaking, catamaran sailing, speed boating, jet skiing, scuba diving, snorkelling, angling, windsurfing and banana-boat rides.
Beyond the water, there's plenty more to get the adrenaline going:
Penang is the cultural capital of Malaysia, and it's almost always alive with music, old and new. The island has several clubs dedicated to music, buzzing with soothing tunes and lively beats at night. The George Town Festival is one of the most popular events on the island, aimed at lovers of art, music and culture, with performances spanning symphony orchestra, jazz sessions, art exhibitions and live theatre.
Jungle trekking is a great way to explore the island's interior. You can walk through the Teluk Bahang forest reserve, or seek out the old lighthouses and unspoiled beaches on the northwestern side of the island. For a more secluded experience, take a boat to quiet beaches such as Teluk Kampi, Pantai Kerachut and Monkey Beach, and camp there.
The tourist information centre at Balik Pulau offers daily cycling tours of the area. Tours typically run for around two hours, with guides and refreshments provided.
If your budget allows, you'll enjoy golfing in Penang. Among the best clubs are the Bukit Jawi Golf Resort and the island's country clubs, with courses spread over vast grounds and tee-off usually held early in the morning.
If you love music and lively crowds, take a stroll through Little India in George Town. Home to much of Penang's Indian community, it's always bustling, with music drifting from the shops — a wonderful place to buy authentic Indian goods such as spices, herbs and condiments.