Surfing is often a secondary thought in many people's minds when thinking about what to do in Malaysia. However, the distinct coastline of the country holds some surfing jewels. Whether you're learning to surf for the first time or just want the thrills of the sport as an experienced surfer, you should try Malaysia's beaches during monsoon. Of course, the waves are at their peak during the cloud burst, giving you an unforgettable surfing experience.
In this travel guide, we will explore the best beaches for surfing in Malaysia. From veterans to amateur surfers, there is surely a perfect fit for everyone planning their next Malaysia tour or adventure. So, let’s walk into the best beaches of Malaysia for surfing for an immersive experience.
Beaches for Surfing in Malaysia: The Complete Travel Guide
1. Cherating Beach, Pahang
Already a popular name in Malaysian surfing scenes, Cherating Beach in Pahang is said to be the birthplace of surfing in Malaysia. This laidback beach spot has good wave consistency during the monsoon season between November and March. Surf schools here are perfect for beginners, making Cherating one of the most sought-after Malaysian beaches both by locals and foreign surfers alike.
- Best Time to Surf: November to March
- Why to Go: Long rides, good for beginners
- Local Tip: Don't miss the turtle sanctuary nearby!
2. Juara Beach, Tioman Island
Situated on the eastern side of Tioman Island, Juara Beach has turned out to be a tourist paradise for all lovers of riding a wave, with the finest waves culminating during the monsoons. In fact, the island is a bit remote, and hence an awesome destination both for surfing and admiring the beauty of Tioman. The Tioman Surf Festival will remain a catalyst for the surfer community around the world as it remains one of the favourite tourist destinations.
- Best Time to Surf: November-March
- Why Go: Suitable for surfers of all levels
- Local Tip: Surf lessons with local operators before attempting the wave that is too rip-rap to catch
3. Pantai Batu Burok, Terengganu
Pantai Batu Burok near Kuala Terengganu is another must-go attraction on the east coast. The beach always boasts great surf during the Northeast Monsoon season from November to April, and it attracts not just locals but international surfers to its shores. This is indeed the most popular platform for surfing competitions, which further cements its position among the best beaches in Malaysia for surfing.
- Best Month to Surf: November to April
- Why to Go: Epic swells, crowds of surfers on the surface
- Local Tip: Arrive during a contest to witness Malaysia's young surf culture
4. Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, Sabah
Increasingly a surfing destination on the northern tip of Borneo is found in Kudat's Tanjung Simpang Mengayau. With its picture-postcard headland where the South China Sea meets the Sulu Sea, surfing is not an easy experience here, but the waves and growing surfers' interest recommend this location. Lush greenery and rich culture make this a unique surf destination for East Malaysia.
- Best Time to Surf: July-September, December-March
- Why to Go: Great scenic location, challenging surf
- Local Tip: Explore the local cultural attractions during your stay
5. Tanjung Balau Beach, Johor
Surfing beaches on the southern coast would hardly be complete without heading on to the Johor surfing beaches, particularly Tanjung Balau Beach. Surfing here is just one of the most accessible experiences there could be: waves as tall as three feet and perfect for first-timers. They also hold surfer-friendly competitions on this beach, so it pretty much goes to be one of the prominent spots in Johor's fast-rising surf culture.
- Best Time to Surf: November to March
- Why to Go: It's very family-friendly and awesome for newbies
- Local Tip: Try out other water sports offered at the beach
6. Desaru Beach, Johor
Nearest to Tanjung Balau, Desaru Beach is an excellent choice for a quieter but still surf-friendly destination. The waves here aren't as strong compared to others so it's good for a longboard and people just learning the sport. Desaru's family-friendliness makes it a great travel destination for those bringing their kids along.
- Best Time to Surf: November to March
- Why to Go: Less busy, easy for beginners
- Local Tip: Bring your own, but rentals may not be so easy to find
7. Teluk Melano, Sarawak
For a surf adventure off the beaten path, head to Teluk Melano in Sarawak, Malaysia. The beautiful destination borders Indonesia on the island of Borneo. The southwest monsoon brings good surfing from May through September here, with surfing opportunities in a particularly isolated and untouched location.
- Best Time to Surf: May to September
- Why to Go: Secluded, pristine environment
- Local Tip: Remember to ask the people about the weather forecast since, in this isolated area, you don't get all that advancing facilities
Final Words:
Certainly, Malaysia may not offer the level of surfing fame as Bali or Hawaii might, but opportunities exist for almost any surfer who visits the country. If you're a rookie who just started discovering the thrill of catching your very first wave, or a veteran surfer searching for new surfing hotspots, then Malaysia surf beaches all have excellent reasons to make them stay on your surfing radar.
Whether it's the vibrant surf scene at Cherating Beach or the secluded waves of Teluk Melano, there's surely surfing in Malaysia experience that suits anyone. Use this Malaysia tour guide to plan your next adventure and not miss out on the country's wealth of cultural and natural experiences.
We hope this travel blog caters to your requirements for the best travel destinations in Malaysia for surfing.
