12 Places in Malaysia That Feel Like the Maldives

Close your eyes and picture it: overwater villas casting shadows on clear turquoise waves, sea turtles floating lazily under the surface, the kind of silence that’s almost sacred. It’s the Maldives dream, right?

But here’s the thing most travel sites won’t tell you — there are Places in Malaysia That Feel Like the Maldives and come very close to that fantasy... minus the budget stress.

I mean, not to throw shade at the Maldives (it’s gorgeous, of course), but not everyone can drop a few grand just for a weekend surrounded by water.

So, if you’re craving that secluded island feel, the kind with white sands, coral reefs, and villas perched over the sea, then you’ll want to keep reading. Because there are more than a few Places in Malaysia That Feel Like the Maldives — some for families, some for honeymooners, and some just for people who need a break from, well, everything.

From Mabul Water Bungalows in Sabah to barefoot escapes on Langkawi, these Places in Malaysia That Feel Like the Maldives are the kind of tourist destinations that make you forget you're still in Southeast Asia.

So... ready to find your own slice of paradise without flying halfway across the globe?

Why Malaysia Might Be the Most Underrated Maldives Alternative?

Okay, hear me out. There’s a reason people start comparing Malaysia to the Maldives more and more. Maybe not every corner of the country, but certain places... they just hit different. Especially if you’re into that whole beachy, breezy, disappear-into-nature vibe.

Tropical climate? Yep, Malaysia’s got it. The weather’s warm all year round, though the best time to visit most of these islands tends to fall between March and October. That’s when you get clear skies, calm seas, and water so blue it kind of looks photoshopped.

“For real-time updates on tropical storms or coastal advisories, check the Malaysian Meteorological Department.”

But the real win? It’s affordable. You’ll find luxury resorts here — like the dreamy Mabul Water Bungalows or Pangkor Laut Resort — but there’s also budget magic. Cheap places in Malaysia like the Maldives are a real thing. It’s the kind of destination where you can go all-in on a 5-star stay... or throw a backpack on and still get a front-row seat to paradise.

Snorkeling and diving? Wildly underrated. From the coral reefs near Pom Pom Island to the marine life playground of Sipadan Island, it’s a diver’s dream. Even non-divers can get a thrill floating over sea turtles and schools of neon-colored fish.

And accessibility? That’s another plus. If you’re already in Southeast Asia — or even just flying into Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu International Airport — getting to these islands isn’t that complicated. Sure, some require a boat ride or a little local flight (maybe into Tawau Airport or Sandakan), but the journey often adds to the charm. It feels like an adventure.

What’s also kind of lovely is that a lot of these spots prioritize eco-tourism. You’ll find jungle trekking trails, marine parks, and a surprising number of local guides who know their islands inside out. It’s not all polished — and that’s part of the appeal.

So yeah... maybe you won’t find the exact Maldives postcard moment. But in Malaysia? You’ll find something that feels personal, rich, and somehow more real.

🌴 1. Pulau Redang, Terengganu

Let’s start with a heavy hitter. Redang Island is basically the poster child for places in Malaysia that feel like the Maldives — white sand that squeaks under your feet, electric-blue water, and coral reefs you can snorkel without even straying from shore.

It’s part of a marine park, which means the water’s protected... and it shows. Fish dart between corals, sea turtles glide by like they own the place, and the underwater visibility? Unreal.

🌊 Why You’ll Love Redang:

• Water clarity that rivals Sipadan
• Snorkel-ready reefs (just a few meters from the beach)
• Family-friendly resorts and romantic spots
• Access to jungle walks and turtle sanctuaries
• Great for first-time divers or casual swimmers

Now, if you want the full Maldives fantasy, book a few nights at The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort. Their private beach is almost too perfect, and their Spa Villa suites give off serious luxury vibes.

But if you're watching your wallet, there are also plenty of budget beach chalets along Long Beach that still let you wake up to the sound of waves.

Getting there:

Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Sultan Mahmud Airport in Kuala Terengganu, then hop on a ferry. Best visited between March and October when the seas are calm.

🏝️ 2. Perhentian Islands, Terengganu

If you’ve ever wished for a Maldives-like escape that feels more... backpacker than billionaire, then the Perhentian Islands might be your place.

They're kind of a sweet contradiction — rustic and dreamy at the same time. You won’t find overwater villas here, but you will get soft white sand, crazy-clear water, and some of the best coral reefs in Malaysia.

And turtles. Did I mention the turtles? You’ll be swimming next to them before breakfast if you’re lucky.

These two islands — Perhentian Besar (the bigger one) and Perhentian Kecil (smaller, more budget-friendly) — offer a slower pace. Think paddleboarding at sunrise, jungle trekking to hidden beaches, bonfires at night. That kind of slow.

🐢 What Makes It a “Mini Maldives in Malaysia”

• Calm, shallow water perfect for snorkeling
• Coral gardens packed with marine life
• Rustic beachfront resorts with major charm
• Budget-friendly AND family-friendly
• Very walkable — no cars, just sandy trails and barefoot mornings

Pro Tip: For families or couples looking for places in Malaysia like the Maldives for families, stick to Perhentian Besar. It has larger resorts and a quieter vibe. If you're solo or traveling with friends, Perhentian Kecil brings more social energy and affordable chalets that are basically steps from the water.

You can dive with licensed operators or just rent a mask and fins from the beach stalls. Either way, the coral triangle here really shows off. And if you’re lucky, you might spot baby reef sharks in the shallows (harmless... and adorable).

Getting there:

Fly into Kota Bharu via Kuala Lumpur, then head to Kuala Besut Jetty for a short boat ride. Dry season? March to September. Avoid the monsoon season unless you're a fan of quiet, rainy days.

🌊 3. Langkawi, Kedah

Ahh, Langkawi. It’s where Malaysia dresses up a little — not showy, just effortlessly polished. You’ve probably seen it on travel lists already, but here’s the twist: if you pick the right resort, it really does give that Maldives feel... with a little extra.

Think Berjaya Langkawi Resort or The St. Regis Langkawi. Both offer overwater villas that stretch into the Straits of Malacca, with private decks, ocean sunsets, and spa tubs that feel a little too fancy for your budget (but somehow still within reach).

But Langkawi isn’t just about resort life. You get mangroves, waterfalls, and island-hopping trips that take you to even quieter beaches. It's also duty-free, by the way, so you can sip wine by the sea without the guilt.

✨ Why Langkawi Feels Like a Malaysian Maldives

• Overwater resorts with full-on sunset views
• Romantic packages (lots of honeymooners here)
• Sunset cruises, snorkeling tours, paddle boarding
• Easy access from mainland Malaysia and regional airports
• Great for quick trips or extended stays

Pro Tip: Want a little bit of everything? Combine Langkawi flaunts — like the Sky Bridge, the Seafront Night Market, or the Perdana Botanical Garden — with a few slow beach days in a Hill Villa or Sea Villa. You’ll leave feeling like you saw both sides of the island: the polished and the peaceful.

Getting there:

Direct flights into Langkawi International Airport from Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and even Singapore. It’s incredibly accessible for anyone doing a multi-stop trip through Southeast Asia.

Bonus: Langkawi works in all seasons. It’s a year-round destination, especially great if you're looking to escape colder weather elsewhere.

🐠 4. Pulau Rawa, Johor

Some places you visit because they’re famous. Others... you whisper about later because they felt like a secret. Pulau Rawa is one of those quiet gems — a tiny, privately-owned island off the coast of Johor that isn’t overrun with tourists (yet), but gives off serious Maldives Malaysia Johor energy.

The beach here is soft and white, the kind that squeaks under your steps, and the water looks like a glassy turquoise mirror. There’s not much to “do,” but that’s sort of the point. You come here to rest, reconnect, maybe read that novel that’s been sitting in your bag for a year.

There’s really just one main place to stay: the Rawa Island Resort, which is fancy enough to feel like a treat but still grounded in barefoot charm. Their villas are tucked between palm trees and face the sea. No over-the-top amenities. Just ocean, air, and quiet.

🌴 Why Rawa Is a Hidden “Mini Maldives in Malaysia”

• Private island experience with limited guests
• Clear, reef-rich water perfect for snorkeling
• Great for honeymooners or solo escapes
• Surprisingly close to Singapore and Johor Bahru
• No roads, just sandy paths and hammocks

Pro Tip: Rawa’s small size makes it ideal for couples or families wanting real privacy. For those seeking places in Malaysia like the Maldives for families, it’s cozy, controlled, and safe for kids to explore on their own. Bring reef-safe sunscreen — the coral here is delicate and gorgeous.

Getting there:

Drive or fly into Johor Bahru, then catch a boat from Mersing Jetty. It’s a smooth ride. Some travelers even come via Singapore, making Rawa a convenient weekend getaway.

🛶 5. Pulau Tioman, Pahang

There’s a reason Pulau Tioman keeps showing up on “best islands in the world” lists. It’s wild, rugged, a little unpredictable — and somehow still manages to deliver that Maldives-style experience in Malaysia.

Unlike some of the smaller isles, Tioman brings the best of both worlds. It’s got that castaway energy (jungle, waterfalls, random monkeys stealing snacks), but also polished resorts like Japamala Resort and Berjaya Tioman Resort that give you the full overwater villa treatment.

The diving here? Out of this world. Especially near Coral Island and Tiger Reef. You’ll find reef sharks, parrotfish, and — if you’re lucky — a manta ray gliding past like it’s in slow motion.

🐚 Tioman Island Highlights:

• Overwater villas with rainforest backdrops
• Amazing dive sites and marine biodiversity
• Local villages for cultural immersion
• Access to jungle trekking, waterfalls, and remote beaches
• Family-friendly and honeymoon-perfect all at once

Pro Tip: For travelers seeking cheap places in Malaysia like the Maldives, Tioman offers a solid range. You’ll find guesthouses, boutique eco-resorts, and a few luxury spots too — all within a compact island experience.

There’s also a certain rawness to Tioman that sets it apart. Some trails aren’t marked, some beaches aren’t developed... and that unpredictability? It kind of becomes part of the magic.

Getting there:
Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Tioman Airport, or take a bus to Mersing and hop on a ferry. Travel times vary depending on monsoon conditions, so always check the forecast if you’re heading there between November and February.

🌅 6. Pulau Kapas, Terengganu

You know that feeling when you stumble onto something that’s not even on most maps? That’s Pulau Kapas. Small, sleepy, and kind of perfect — but in a quiet way. It’s not trying to impress you with giant villas or infinity pools. It just is. And that might be the best part.

Pulau Kapas translates to “Cotton Island,” and honestly, the name fits. The sand here is ridiculously soft, and the sea has this slow, almost syrupy movement when it’s calm.

The island doesn’t have cars, fancy resorts, or crowds. What it does have is affordable beachfront chalets, coral gardens right offshore, and a rhythm that almost forces you to slow down.

✨ Why Kapas Deserves a Spot on the List

• One of the cheapest places in Malaysia like the Maldives
• Ideal for digital detoxing or solo travel
• Coral reefs just meters from the beach
• Great for beginner snorkeling
• No ATMs, no fuss — bring cash and chill

Pro Tip: Don’t expect luxury. Expect peace. Kapas is best enjoyed if you’re okay with a fan instead of air conditioning, and local fish BBQs instead of buffets. That said, for travelers chasing low-key Maldives vibes in Malaysia, this is as close as it gets without the frills.

Also... keep an eye out for bioluminescent plankton at night. Not always visible, but when they are? Magical.

Getting there:
Hop on a boat from Marang Jetty (not to be confused with Merang Jetty for Redang). Closest airport? Kuala Terengganu, with direct flights from Kuala Lumpur.

🐚 7. Pulau Tenggol, Terengganu

Let’s switch gears for a second. If you’re someone who doesn’t just want pretty beaches but thrilling underwater experiences, then Pulau Tenggol might hit the mark. It’s more rugged. A little harder to reach. But for seasoned divers and underwater explorers? It’s absolute gold.

Part of the Tun Sakaran Marine Park ecosystem, Pulau Tenggol offers some of the most dramatic dive sites in the country. Think steep coral walls, schools of barracuda, and (during the right season) the possibility of spotting whale sharks. Yeah... it’s that kind of place.

It doesn’t have much of a party scene. Actually, no party scene at all. Just a few dive lodges, soft sand, and world-class marine life. If you're craving a Maldives-level scuba adventure, but want it raw and real — this is it.

🌊 Why Divers Love Tenggol:

• Excellent visibility and coral health
• Encounters with sea turtles, reef sharks, and occasionally whale sharks
• Jungle trekking in the island’s untouched interior
• Fewer tourists = more intimate experiences
• Modest resorts with all the essentials for divers

Pro Tip: Not a diver? You might still enjoy snorkeling or lounging on the quiet beaches, but honestly, this one’s built for underwater lovers. Also — bring motion sickness pills if you're boat-sensitive. The ride from the mainland can get a little choppy.

Getting there:
Fly to Kuala Terengganu, then make your way to Dungun Jetty. From there, it’s about a 45-minute speedboat ride to the island. Best months to visit? April through September, when the sea is at its calmest and visibility is top-tier.

🌿 8. Pulau Lang Tengah, Terengganu

Tucked right between the popular Perhentian Islands and Redang, Pulau Lang Tengah is the underrated middle child — which honestly makes it even more loveable. It’s like the one nobody’s talking about... and that’s what makes it such a gem.

Lang Tengah gives off serious “just us and the sea” vibes. There are only a handful of resorts here — no big crowds, no noise, just clear blue water, vibrant coral reefs, and a jungle backdrop that makes you feel like you’re on your own private slice of paradise.

Perfect for romantic getaways, honeymooners on a budget, or anyone who wants a slower, softer kind of beach trip. It’s also got surprisingly decent snorkeling straight from the beach, and yes — if you’re lucky, you might even spot a reef shark or a sea turtle.

🌺 Why Lang Tengah Stands Out:

• Feels almost secret, even in peak season
• Beautiful balance of comfort and quiet
• Best place for snorkeling in Malaysia without needing a boat
• Some resorts offer all-inclusive packages — super budget-friendly
• A peaceful alternative to Redang

Pro Tip: Lang Tengah has limited transport options. So, once you're there, you're there. Stock up on anything you might need before the boat ride. Also, bring reef-safe sunscreen — this place is still pristine, and it’d be nice to keep it that way.

Getting there:
Head to Merang Jetty in Terengganu. From there, it’s a short boat ride to Lang Tengah. If you're flying, the closest airport is again Kuala Terengganu.

🌊 9. Sipadan Island, Sabah

Alright, we saved a big one for now — Sipadan Island. If you’ve even Googled “top 10 diving destinations in the world,” chances are this one popped up. And yeah... it absolutely lives up to the hype.

Located off the east coast of Sabah, Sipadan is often called Malaysia’s crown jewel of scuba diving. And once you descend into its waters, you get why. It’s a drop-off reef — meaning one minute you’re floating over a shallow garden of coral, and the next, it plunges into the deep blue like a vertical cliff of life.

Barracudas in tornado-like spirals. Sea turtles floating by like it’s no big deal. Reef sharks cruising casually through crystal-clear water. It’s all here. And the best part? The Malaysian government takes marine conservation seriously — limiting the number of daily dive permits to preserve the ecosystem.

🐠 Why Sipadan Is World-Famous:

• Ranked among the top diving spots globally
• Ideal for advanced divers and underwater photographers
• Close encounters with big marine life — sharks, rays, turtles
• Strict permit system = healthy reef + uncrowded dives
• Nearby islands like Mabul and Kapalai offer dreamy overwater resorts

Pro Tip: You can’t stay on Sipadan Island anymore — it's a protected marine park. Most divers base themselves in Mabul or Kapalai, both offering accommodations that float above the sea. Just plan ahead and book your Sipadan dive permits early. They go fast.

Getting there:
Fly into Tawau Airport, head to Semporna Jetty, and from there, boat transfers take you to Mabul or Kapalai. Sipadan dives are arranged from your resort — usually early morning trips.

🌴 10. Pom Pom Island, Sabah

If you’ve ever daydreamed about staying in a private villa on stilts above turquoise water, Pom Pom Island is where that daydream becomes real — minus the price tag of the Maldives.

Pom Pom is a small, palm-fringed island in Sabah’s Celebes Sea, mostly known to divers and honeymooners who like their luxury low-key and their beaches nearly empty. There are no roads, no shops, no tourist traps. Just soft white sand, coconut trees, and water so clear you can spot sea turtles from your room.

The island is also part of a marine turtle conservation area, so it’s not unusual to spot turtle nests — or even witness a hatching, if your timing’s right.

💡 Why You’ll Love Pom Pom Island:

• Boutique, eco-conscious resorts — perfect for couples
• Private island experience in Malaysia without crowds
• Great for snorkeling and beginner diving
• A hotspot for turtle sightings year-round
• Popular with digital detox retreats

Pro Tip: Pom Pom has solar-powered resorts and limited Wi-Fi... which is honestly part of the charm. Bring a book, a journal, or maybe that sketchpad you’ve been ignoring since college.

Getting there:
Fly to Tawau, drive to Semporna, then take a boat to Pom Pom Island. Most resorts handle the transfer for you — just check in advance.

🐢 11. Lankayan Island, Sabah

Now this one really flies under the radar.

Lankayan Island is a tiny, tear-shaped coral island located in the Sulu Sea, about 90 minutes by boat from Sandakan. It’s part of a marine protected area, which means its reefs are absolutely bursting with life — and the island itself is one giant postcard.

It only has one resort — the Lankayan Island Dive Resort — which makes it one of the best off-the-beaten-path beach getaways in Malaysia. If you're looking for serenity, this is as close to a castaway island fantasy as it gets.

Oh, and the diving here? Unreal. Wreck dives, muck dives, macro photography, and of course... turtles galore.

🧳 What Makes Lankayan a True Hidden Gem:

• Only one resort = full tranquility
• Sustainable tourism and marine conservation focused
• Great for diving and eco-friendly travel
• Known for turtle hatcheries and occasional whale shark sightings
• Unplugged, unspoiled, unforgettable

Pro Tip: Because there’s only one place to stay, Lankayan gets booked up quickly — especially during turtle nesting season. If you’re planning a Malaysia diving holiday, reserve early.

Getting there:
Fly into Sandakan, take a boat arranged by the dive resort. Everything’s pretty much handled once you book — meals, dives, and even conservation talks.

🐚 12. Mataking Island, Sabah

Mataking Island is like the upscale cousin of Pom Pom and Lankayan — a secluded, upscale island resort in Sabah where luxury and nature go hand-in-hand.

It’s actually two islands connected by a sandbar during low tide: Mataking Besar (Big Mataking) and Mataking Kecil (Small Mataking). Walking from one to the other? Easily one of the most romantic things you can do in Malaysia.

The island is also home to The Reef Dive Resort, which attracts scuba lovers from around the world. It’s part of the Semporna Archipelago, which includes Sipadan and Mabul — some of the best diving spots in Malaysia.

What sets Mataking apart is its blend of five-star comfort and marine biodiversity. Think overwater villas, spa treatments, candlelit dinners, and then—bam—manta rays and reef sharks right off the shore.

🌿 Why Mataking Should Be On Your Radar:

• Private island feel with luxury eco-resorts
• One of the best spots for romantic getaways in Malaysia
• Unique sandbar walk between two islands
• Great access to world-class dive sites
• Popular for destination weddings and honeymoons

Pro Tip: They’ve got an underwater post office (yep, really). You can write a postcard, dive down, and mail it underwater. It’s a little gimmicky but honestly kind of cute for couples or travel journaling.

Getting there:
Just like Pom Pom — fly to Tawau, get to Semporna, and hop on a boat. Most resorts include transfers, meals, and dive packages in their rates.

🐠 13. Tenggol Island, Terengganu

Last but far from least, we head to Tenggol Island on Peninsular Malaysia’s east coast — one of the most underrated islands in the country. Tenggol is part of the Terengganu Marine Park and is a go-to for advanced divers, thanks to its deep waters, drift dives, and stronger currents.

It’s a bit more rugged, more raw, and perfect for travelers who aren’t afraid to trade plush beach loungers for coral walls, whale shark encounters, and schools of barracuda. That said, the island does have a handful of charming, mid-range resorts and chalets — so it’s not totally off-grid.

While it doesn’t have the glitz of Langkawi or the honeymoon vibe of Mataking, Tenggol is paradise for ocean lovers.

🌊 What Makes Tenggol a Diver’s Dream:

• Fewer tourists, more marine adventure
• Ideal for deep-sea and drift diving
• Whale shark sightings (April–September)
• Clear water with vibrant coral gardens
• Part of a protected marine reserve

Pro Tip: The diving here is best for those with open-water or advanced certification, but even snorkelers will enjoy the clear water and reef life close to shore.

Getting there:
Fly or bus to Kuala Terengganu, then travel to Dungun Jetty. From there, it’s a 45-minute speedboat ride to the island.

What to Know Before Visiting the Maldives of Malaysia

Planning your escape to the Maldives of Malaysia? Before you pack your bags and dive into paradise, there are a few important things to keep in mind.

• Weather Can Be Unpredictable: Most Malaysian islands have tropical climates with heavy rainfall during the monsoon seasons (typically November to February on the east coast). Always check the weather forecast, especially if you're planning water activities or island hopping.
• Connectivity Is Limited: Many remote islands have limited Wi-Fi or mobile service. It’s a perfect excuse to unplug, but plan ahead if you need to stay connected.
• Local Transportation Can Vary: Some islands require a combination of flights, ferries, and even speedboats. Be sure to leave buffer time between connections.
• Don’t Skip the Essentials: Sunscreen, insect repellent, and reef-safe toiletries go a long way. And most importantly, consider getting travel insurance for Malaysia. It might seem like an afterthought, but it can be a lifesaver if your ferry is delayed, your gear gets lost, or you need emergency medical care on a remote island.

Taking a few smart steps before your trip ensures you get all the beauty with none of the stress. The Maldives of Malaysia are stunning—but a little prep goes a long way.

“For the latest entry requirements and visa policies, always refer to the official Malaysian Immigration Department website.”

Final Words

Whether you're daydreaming about tropical getaways in Southeast Asia, craving some eco-conscious island holidays, or just want to kick off your sandals and listen to waves — Malaysia delivers. And then some.

Each island has its own personality:

• Langkawi offers easy luxury and adventure
• Redang and Perhentian are perfect for a laid-back beach trip
• Sipadan, Mataking, and Tenggol cater to underwater junkies
• Tioman and Rawa blend seclusion with jungle charm

What they all share? Turquoise water, warm weather, vibrant marine life, and fewer crowds compared to nearby countries.

From family-friendly beach resorts to off-the-grid coral havens, you’re honestly spoiled for choice here. The biggest challenge? Picking just one.

Frequently Asked Questions