Redang Island Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Redang Island is a gorgeous Malaysian island which is famous for being one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters attract visitors from near and far. Moreover, its pristine coral reefs and abundant marine life make it the perfect destination for snorkelling and diving. The island also has a great range of beachfront resorts which offer great Redang Island package deals. Find out more in this Redang Island destination guide.

What is Redang Island Malaysia famous for?

Redang Island is famous for its white sand beaches, crystal clear water and pristine coral reefs. A popular snorkelling destination, this marine park is known for the amazing visibility in the water as well as the abundance of tropical fish and marine life.

Why you should visit Redang Island

Redang Island is the ultimate Malaysian bucket list destination! This stunning Malaysian Island has everything you could want in an island destination. Its dazzling white sand beaches are surrounded by unbelievably clear turquoise water. Located in Terengganu Marine Park, its waters are home to colourful coral reefs and a wide array of marine life including sharks, rays, turtles and of course many species of fish. Not only that, but the water clarity around Redang Island provides unbeatable snorkelling and diving. Furthermore many resorts on the island provide all inclusive packages, including snorkelling trips which makes planning your trip a breeze.

Redang Island Destination Guide: Know before you go

Basic info about Redang Island

• City name in other scripts – ڤولاو رداڠ (Jawi), 利浪岛 (Chinese), Pulau Redang (Malay)
• Language – Malay. Terengganu Malay is a dialect of Malay spoken in Redang Island. There are 10 dialects of Malay used throughout thought the country, with Standard Malay being the unifying language. English is becoming more widely spoken in the country. However not everyone you meet will be able to speak English. Mandarin Chinese, Malaysian Chinese, Tamil, other Indian languages as well as Creole are spoken by the various ethnic groups that live in Malaysia.
• Currency – Malaysian ringgit (MYR). This has been the official currency of Malaysia since 1967. Currency exchanges can be found in most cities and ATMs are also available widely throughout the country.
• Population – 1,744 (2015)
• Area – 30 km² (11 sq mi)
• District – Kuala Nerus
• State – Terengganu
• Emergency number – 999
• Police number – 999
• Marine park entry fee – 30 ringgit for non-Malaysian adults

Utilities in Redang Island

• Electricity – Malaysia uses Type G power plugs. The country operates on a 240v supply voltage at 50Hz. Power outages are reasonably common in Malaysia.
• Water – the tap water in Malaysia is not generally safe to drink. Tap water is usually treated, but pipes may be old. Therefore most locals boil their water or use a water filter just to be safe.
• Toilets – sit-down flushing toilets as well as Asian style squat toilets are common in Malaysia. Toilets generally come equipped with a spray hose (sometimes referred to as a Muslim shower). The spray hose is like a European bidet and is used for cleaning personal areas as an alternative to toilet paper. All of the accommodation we stayed in throughout the country was equipped with the western style sit-down flushing toilets with spray hoses. Toilet paper is also usually provided. Don’t flush your toilet paper – use the bins provided. The use of bathroom slippers is customary and is provided in accommodation and sometimes also in public bathrooms. Public bathrooms often offer both sit-down and squat style toilets. Public toilets are common in Malaysia. The charge is usually around 30-50 sens.
• Telephone country code: +60

Where is Redang Island?

Redang Island is the largest island in the Redang archipelago. It is located in the Kuala Nerus district off the coast of the state of Terengganu Malaysia. The island is towards the northern end of the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia in the South China Sea.

The closest city to Redang Island is Kuala Terengganu. Redang Island is around 1 hour 15 minutes by ferry from Kuala Terengganu.

How to get to Redang Island

Redang Island destination guide: Arriving by land

Redang Island intercity land transport

Because Redang Island is an island, it is impossible to get there overland. However land transport can be used to get to the jetty on mainland near Kuala Terengganu. There are two jetties that service Redang Island – Shahbandar jetty which is in Kuala Terengganu as well as Merang jetty which is 40 minutes drive from Kuala Terengganu.

Driving to Redang Island from within Malaysia

The main ferry terminal to Redang Island is Shahbandar jetty at Kuala Terengganu. Here are travel times and distances to Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia:

• Jerteh, Terengganu – 1 hour 35 minutes (104km, 65miles) without tolls
• Kuala Besut, Terengganu – 1 hour 58 minutes (107km, 66miles) without tolls
• Kuantan, Pahang – 2 hours 38 minutes (214km, 133miles) with tolls or 2 hours 56 minutes
• Kota Bharu, Kelantan – 2 hours 46 minutes (160km, 99miles) without tolls or (205km, 127miles) without tolls
• Kuala Lumpur – 4 hours 35 minutes (449km, 279miles) with tolls or 7 hours 18 minutes (458km, 285miles) without tolls
• Mersing, Johor – 5 hours 9 minutes (416km, 258miles) with tolls or 5 hours 41 minutes (396km, 246miles) without tolls
• Malacca, Malacca – 6 hours 2 minutes (484km, 301miles) with tolls or 6 hours 50 minutes (468km, 291miles) without tolls
• Johor Bahru, Johor – 6 hours 38 minutes (560km, 348miles) with tolls or 7 hours 41 minutes (523km, 325miles) without tolls
• George Town, Penang – 6 hours 55 minutes (444km, 276miles) with tolls or 7 hours 39 minutes (475km, 295miles) without tolls

Intercity trains to Redang Island

Redang Island does not have a train station. The closest train station is at Tanah Merah, which is 2.5 hours drive plus a 1 hour 15 minute ferry ride away.Tanah Merah is a train station on the Malaysia East Coast Railway Line (also known as the KTMB Jungle Train). This Malaysian railway line services the east coast Peninsular Malaysia states of Pahang and Kelantan between Gemas and Tumpat. It also connects to the west coast line at Gemas. Train travel in Malaysia is a cheap and scenic way to see the country.

Malaysia train travel vlog

We spent about a week travelling along the jungle railway in Malaysia, starting at Kota Bharu and stopping along the way at Kuala Krai, Dabong, Gua Musang and Kuala Lipis. Travelling by train in Malaysia was a very memorable journey and we never expected to affect us so much. Watch the Malaysia train travel video below to find out all about our Malaysia jungle train experience. In this Malaysia vlog we show you how to travel Malaysia by train. We provide everything you need to know about travel by train in Malaysia, including Malaysia train costs, train amenities in Malaysia, how to book trains in Malaysia as well as Malaysia travel tips so you can plan an amazing Malaysia trip for yourself.

Intercity buses to Redang Island

A common way to get around Malaysia is by using intercity buses. These are budget friendly and the network is also extensive. Intercity bus companies in Malaysia include KKKL Express as well as S&S International. It is possible to get an intercity bus to Kuala Terengganu and then a 1.25 hour ferry to Redang Island. Popular bus destinations from Kuala Terengganu include:

• Kuala Besut Malaysia – travel time 2 hours. Tickets cost 10.80 ringgit one way.
• Kuantan Malaysia – travel time 2 hours 30 minutes. Tickets start from 17 ringgit one way.
• Kota Bharu Malaysia – travel time 3 hours 40 minutes. Tickets start from 15 ringgit one way.
• Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Malaysia – travel time 6 hours 30 minutes. Tickets start from 34 ringgit one way.
• Penang Malaysia – travel time 8 hours 30 minutes. Tickets start from 49 ringgit one way.
• Johor Bahru Malaysia – travel time 9 hours. Tickets start from 38 ringgit one way.
• Malacca Malaysia – travel time 7 hours 30 minutes. Tickets start from 45 ringgit one way.

Redang Island destination guide: Arriving by air

There is an airport on Redang Island called Redang Airport, Malaysia (Airport code RDN).

Other nearby airports include:

• Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (Airport code KBR). This airport is 90km (56 miles) away.
• Sultan Mahmud Airport (Airport code TGG). This airport is 126km (78 miles) away.
• Narathiwat Airport (Airport code NAW). This airport is 163km (101 miles) away.

The national airline of Malaysia is Malaysia Airlines.

Redang Island destination guide: Arriving by boat

There are ferries from Redang Island to Kuala Terengganu on Peninsular Malaysia. These go to either Shahbandar jetty in Kuala Terengganu or Merang jetty which is 40 minutes drive from Kuala Terengganu. Most resorts on Redang Island have their own ferry transfer service that is included in the accommodation package. The only public ferry goes to Shahbandar jetty and costs 50 ringgit for adults one way.

There are no regular scheduled ferries between Redang Island and the Perhentian Islands. However there are often day trip boats and dive boats that go between the two islands and private transfers are also often available. Expect to pay around 400 ringgit for a boat for 6 people. The journey time between the two islands is approximately one hour.

All visitors to Redang Island must pay the marine conservation fee. This is 30 ringgit for adult foreigners (as at 2022).

Redang Island destination guide: How to get around Redang Island

Walking in Redang Island

By far the easiest and also the cheapest way to get around Redang Island is to walk. Most of the main attractions on the island are within walking distance.

Local buses on Redang Island

There are no local buses on Redang Island.

Trams on Redang Island

There are no trams on Redang Island

Local trains in Redang Island

Redang Island does not have a local train line.

Metro trains (subway or underground) on Redang Island

Redang Island does not have an underground train line.

Vehicle hire on Redang Island

Boats can be chartered to travel around Redang Island and surrounds.

Shuttles on Redang Island

Our accommodation provided a shuttle service between the resort and the jetty as well as the airport.

Taxis on Redang Island

There are no taxis on Redang Island.

Ride-share services in Redang Island

There are no ride-share services on Redang Island

Redang Island destination guide: Is Redang Island Malaysia worth visiting?

Our answer to this question is a resounding yes! Redang Island is an unbelievably beautiful Malaysian destination. It is the ideal tropical island getaway. From the amazing sunsets to the world class snorkelling, Redang Island has it all. This really is a piece of paradise and once you get here you’ll never want to leave.

Redang Island destination guide: How long to spend in Redang Island

Pulau Redang, or Redang Island is a picture perfect island in a marine park off the coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It’s an idyllic spot which is perfect for rest and relaxation. However it is one of the more expensive places in Malaysia, so most people visit the island for just a quick getaway. It’s proximity to Singapore also makes it perfect for a long weekend away. Many of the resorts on the island offer 2 or 3 night packages which include transfers, accommodation and sometimes also food. We spent 3 nights in Redang Island and enjoyed sunset walks, swimming in crystal clear water as well as enjoying spectacular sunsets.

Redang Island destination guide: What to do in Redang Island Malaysia

Redang Island is a gorgeous island destination where you can do as much or as little as you want. We highly recommend taking it slow and just enjoying nature. However if you are feeling more active, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. The island has a range of great free activities as well as paid activities.

Redang Island destination guide: Free things to do in Redang Island Malaysia

There are enough free activities in Redang Island Malaysia to keep you entertained for a weekend:

• Redang Marine Park Centre
• Relax on one of the many beautiful beaches around the island
• Hike around the island
• Swim in the crystal clear water of the South China Sea
• Turtle watching
• Watch the sunset or sunrise
• Stargaze
• Redang Island Sun Batik Gallery
• Bouldering

Redang Island destination guide: Paid activities in Redang Island Malaysia

A number of attractions in Redang Island Malaysia charge a fee:

• Snorkelling
• Scuba Diving
• Kayaking
• Boat Tours/Island Hopping
• Massages and spa packages

Some of these activities may be included in your accommodation package.

Weather in Redang Island Malaysia

The climate for Redang Island is classified as tropical, with relatively uniform hot temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The hottest month is May with an average temperature range of 23°C to 32°C (73°F to 90°F) and conversely the coldest month is January with an average temperature between 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F). Redang island is most affected by the monsoon season from November to early March and not impacted by the June to September monsoon that affects the western part of the Malaysian peninsula. The period of March through to June between the two monsoons is the hottest and also the most uncomfortable weather of the year.

Best time to visit Redang Island Malaysia

The best time of year to visit Redang Island is between June to September. During these months, the water is calm and clear and the weather is amazing. This makes it ideal for enjoying everything the island and its surrounding marine park has to offer. However if you want to avoid higher prices and crowds, we recommend not staying on Redang Island during public holidays and weekends. In this part of Malaysia, weekends are Fridays and Saturdays. Additionally, peak season on Redang Island is in June, which is also when prices are high. Another important thing to note is that most of the tourist facilities on the island shut down during the monsoon season (November to March). During this time transport to the island is limited, the seas are rough and water visibility is poor. As such we don’t recommend a trip to Redang Island during monsoon season.

Internet and mobile phones on Redang Island Malaysia

We stayed at Laguna Redang Island Resort and there was only wifi around the reception area and not in the rooms. That’s a common feature of accommodation on Redang Island.

Major internet and phone companies in Malaysia – Celcom, Digi, Hotlink (Maxis), U Mobile, UniFi Mobile, Tune Talk, Yes, XOX Mobile / ONEXOX, redONE, Yoodo, Telekom Malaysia and Time dotCom.

5G has been in Malaysia since December 2021. 2G will not be be switched off in Malaysia. 3G is was switched off in March 2022.

Malaysia is ranked 61^st fastest in the world for mobile internet speeds and 38^th fastest for fixed broadband. For Fixed Broadband the average download speed is 90mbps and upload is 51mbps (as at October 2022).

Cell phone SIM cards can be bought in a numbers of places throughout Malaysia. These include phone stores, in shopping malls, at bus stations as well as at airports. Some form of ID, such as a passport, is required in order to purchase a SIM card in Malaysia.

How much to budget for Redang Island Malaysia?

Is Redang Island Malaysia expensive?

Redang Island is a luxury Malaysian destination, so prices are higher than other parts of the country. However as a deluxe tropical island destination, Redang Island is reasonable value by world standards. Expect to pay around three times as much as you would for similar accommodation on the mainland of Malaysia. Some resorts offer package deals with accommodation, food, transport and certain activities included which can help you stay within your travel budget.

Redang Island destination guide: Daily spend for a couple travelling in Redang Island Malaysia

As a rough guide, we recommend the following budgets for a couple:

• Low-budget daily spend – 300 ringgit per day for a couple will get you budget accommodation, meals from bakeries and markets, local transport and free or cheap activities such as going to the beach
• Mid-range daily spend – 500 ringgit per day for a couple will get you mid-range accommodation, local transport, restaurant meals and also a few paid activities
• Luxury spend – 4000 ringgit per day for a couple will get you a premium experience in Malaysia, staying at luxury resorts, travelling by private transport, doing a range of paid activities as well as eating at high end restaurants

Redang Island destination guide: Accommodation in Redang Island Malaysia

Redang Island is one of the more expensive places to visit in Malaysia. Airbnb operates in Malaysia, and there are a number of Airbnb properties in Redang Island. Wifi is not always provided for Airbnb properties in Malaysia, so we recommend checking if it is included in the listing. One thing to keep in mind with hotels in Malaysia is that smoking in hotel rooms is often permitted.

Where to stay on Redang Island Malaysia

We recommend the following accommodation on Redang Island Malaysia:

• Best budget-friendly resort on Redang Island Malaysia – Laguna Redang Island Resort is the best value resort on Redang Island Malaysia. We stayed here ourselves and had a fantastic time. We were impressed at how well organised everything was. From the moment you made your booking everything ran seamlessly. The setting of the resort is picture perfect with a white sand beach and beautiful turquoise water. Our package included a couple of snorkelling tours as well as 3 buffet style meals each day. The snorkelling tours were so much fun and we particularly enjoyed the BBQ dinners.
• Best luxury resort on Redang Island Malaysia – The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort is the best 5-star resort on Redang Island Malaysia. This piece of paradise has its own private beach and with soft white sand and crystal clear water. The staff provide outstanding service. The rooms are spacious and clean with a balcony overlooking the sea. It’s a great place to relax and unwind with great amenities and delicious food.

How much is accommodation in Redang Island Malaysia?

For short-term accommodation, a general price per night is as follows:

• Budget accommodation – we couldn’t find any dorm accommodation on Redang Island. The cheapest private rooms are 220 ringgit a night
• Mid-range accommodation – 220-600 ringgit for a private room
• Luxury accommodation – 1500-2000 ringgit a night for a luxury hotel
• Rental property – 160-750 ringgit a night for a fully furnished 3-4 bedroom home

Tourist tax on accommodation in Malaysia

From 1 January 2023 there is a tourist tax of 10 ringgit per accommodation per night in Malaysia. This tax is collected by the property. Permanent residents and also Malaysian nationals are exempt from the tax. Furthermore the tourist tax does not apply to homestays and kampung stays registered with the Ministry of Tourism.

Redang Island destination guide: Food in Redang Island Malaysia

Some accommodation packages on Redang Island have food included. We were impressed with the meals at Laguna Redang Island Resort. In addition to the resort restaurants, there are also a number of cafes and eateries scattered around the island.

Redang Island Malaysia culture

Weekends in Terengganu Malaysia

Which days are weekdays and weekend days vary in Malaysia depending on the state you’re in. In the state of Terengganu weekdays are Sunday to Thursday and weekends are Friday and Saturday. Keep this in mind as weekends can affect prices and availability (particularly for accommodation). Additionally weekends may impact opening hours as well as how crowded attractions are.

Terengganu public holidays

Malaysia has one of the highest number of public holidays in the world. In total, there are between 18 and 20 public holidays observed in each state. This includes national holidays as well as state based holidays. Public holidays for the state of Terengganu are as follows:

• Chinese New Year’s Day – 1^st day of 1^st lunar month, in January or February
• Chinese New Year Holiday – 2^nd day of 1^st lunar month, in January or February
• Isra and Miraj – 27 Rejab (Islamic calendar)
• Sultan of Terengganu’s Coronation Day – 4 March
• Nuzul Al-Quran Day – 17^th day of Ramadan
• Sultan of Terengganu’s Birthday – 26 April
• Labour Day – 1 May
• Wesak Day (Buddha’s birthday) – May or June, date varies
• Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Hari Raya Puasa – the last day of Ramadan, date varies
• Hari Raya Aidilfitri Holiday or Hari Raya Puasa Holiday – day after the last day of Ramadan, date varies
• Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s Birthday (King’s Birthday) – 1^st Monday in June
• Arafah Day – 9 Zulhijjah (Islamic calendar)
• Hari Raya Qurban (Aidiladha) (Feast of the Sacrifice) – date varies
• Awal Muharram (Islamic New Year) – date varies
• Merdeka Day (National Day, Independence Day) – 31 August
• Malaysia Day – 16 September
• Maulidur Rasul (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday) – 12^th day of the 3^rd month of the Islamic calendar
• Deepavali – date varies, October or November
• Christmas Day – 25 December

National symbols of Malaysia

• Malaysia flag – 14 alternating red and white stripes as well as a blue canton with a yellow crescent and 14 pointed star. The Malaysian flag is called the Stripes of Glory.
• Malaysia coat of arms – two tigers supporting a shield with a yellow crescent and a 14 pointed star on top and a yellow banner with words that translate to “Unity is strength” written in both romanised Malay and Jawi at the bottom.
• National flower – hibiscus
• National bird – rhinoceros hornbill
• Malaysia national animal – the Malayan tiger

Malaysia pastimes

• National dish – nasi lemak
• Popular drinks – teh tarik, Ipoh white coffee, milo ais, sirup bandang
• National sport – sepak takraw
• Religion – 64% Islam, 19% Buddhist, 9% Christian, 6% Hindu (as at 2020)

Is Redang Island Malaysia Safe?

Malaysia travel guide: Safety in Malaysia

We have spent around 4 months travelling extensively through Malaysia over two separate trips. In our experience the country is extremely safe. Malaysia ranks 18^th safest country on the Global Peace Index (as at 2022). As with any country, there are good areas and bad areas. Watch out for pickpockets and bag snatching particularly at crowded tourist attractions. In particular, when eating out don’t leave your bag, phone or wallet on the table or next to you where someone can quickly grab it and run away. Instead keep your belongings physically attached to you at all times. Make sure no-one is watching whenever you are entering pin codes and never lose sight of your credit card when making a purchase.

General safety considerations in Malaysia

Other general safety considerations for travel in Malaysia:

• Drinking water – tap water in Malaysia is not generally safe to drink. Tap water is usually treated, but pipes may be old. Therefore most locals boil their water or use a water filter.
• Mosquitoes – mosquito borne illnesses are a significant risk in Malaysia, particularly dengue, Zika and chikungunya. Malaysia is in the pre-elimination phase of malaria. While malaria is a greater risk in Malaysian Borneo, there have also been cases on the Malaysian peninsula. Take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
• Altitude sickness – Malaysia has areas of high altitude and therefore altitude sickness risk. If you visit high altitude areas in Malaysia, allow sufficient time to acclimatise. If you experience signs of altitude sickness, including headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, tiredness, loss of appetite or shortness of breath, get help immediately.
• Road safety – Road accidents are a significant risk in Malaysia. While road conditions in Malaysia are generally very good, traffic is often very heavy. Furthermore drivers in Malaysia tend to speed up rather than slowing down for amber lights. We also found that roads in Malaysia are not typically built with pedestrians in mind, and footpaths often stop unexpectedly in busy areas.
• Water safety – take care when swimming as currents and waves may be stronger than you expect.
• Earthquakes – Malaysia experiences both regional and local earthquake activity. In an earthquake, stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls and anything that could fall. If inside, get under a table, desk or solid furniture and hang onto it. Cover your head and torso to protect from falling objects. If outside, stay outside and go to an open area away from buildings.
• Sun safety – Exposure to the sun can have adverse short-term and long-term effects on the skin, eyes and immune system. Sun protection such as sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses is very important to ensure you don’t get burnt.
• Dogs – rabies from rabid dog bites is a risk in Malaysia. For more on dog safety while travelling, check out this video.

As with any destination, take all of your normal safety precautions.

Redang Island Malaysia travel vlog

One of the most beautiful islands in the world is Redang Island Malaysia. With pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise water and an abundance of fish and other marine life, it is the perfect place for a Malaysia beach vacation. In the Malaysia vlog below we give you the ultimate Redang island travel guide. We stayed at the best value Island resort in Malaysia – Laguna Resort Redang Island. This Malaysia Island resort is set in the Redang Island Marine park Malaysia. To get to Pulau Redang, it is a short boat ride from Kuala Terengganu Malaysia. Once there, you can enjoy all that Malaysia Islands have to offer including a Snorkeling trip – one of the best things to do in Malaysia! This Malaysia travel vlog shows you everything that the Laguna Redang Island Resort in Malaysia has to offer including Malaysia resort accommodation, food, activities and much more.

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