When the temperature drops and it gets harder to get up in the morning it’s easy for the mind to drift to visions of sandy beaches, warm turquoise waters and exotic rainforests. If this sounds familiar, consider booking a honeymoon or winter getaway trip to Malaysia, with its summery weather and breathtaking island scenery.
Made up of almost 900 scattered islands and a vast 5,000km coastline stretching across both sides of the Malaya Peninsula, Malaysia is a tropical paradise with something for all tastes and budgets. Adventure seekers are spoilt for choice with the amount of exciting activities available, including diving and snorkelling, while those just wanting to relax will love drinking cocktails and watching the sun set at any of these five spectacular beaches.
Tanjung Aru Beach, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Not all world cities can claim to have a stunning beach on their doorstep. Only ten minutes from Sabah’s cosmopolitan capital Kota Kinabalu, Tanjung Aru is home to one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world. With views extending from the beach across the shimmering China Sea to the nearby offshore Gaya Island group, Tanjung Aru Beach is the place to see a sunset like no other.
While only 1,500km long, this beach is blessed with generous low tides and shaded public areas, making it a fantastic place for picnics. For the adrenalin junkie, kayaking, windsurfing and jet-skiing are on offer for day visitors, while those who enjoy the finer things in life will love the local golf course, sailing club and private resort.
