Malaysia is blessed with many beautiful islands both surrounding the Peninsula and East Malaysia. The soft sandy beaches, the clear blue water and the tropical weather makes these islands one of the best spots for a holiday not only for the locals, but for tourists as well.

When planning a trip to any one of the islands, it is best to make sure your trip doesn’t coincide with the monsoon season. Resorts are still open for business and prices are cheaper during the monsoon season but you might get occasional rainy weather and less people to mingle with. The monsoon season for the east coast is generally from October to February and the monsoon season for the west coast would be from March to September. The west coast sees a milder monsoon so chances are your trip wouldn’t be wrecked by thunder storms and floods.

Here’s a guide to some of the most beautiful beaches in South East Asia:

Pulau Tioman

Located on the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia, Tioman Island is 32 kilometers off the state of Pahang. It is a decently sized island measuring at 39 kilometers long and 12 kilometers wide. Tioman Island gained its fame in the late 50’s when it was used as one of the filming locations for South Pacific and in 1970, this magnificent island was voted by TIME as one of the world’s most beautiful islands. That was way back when the island was relatively unknown and virginal. Now this island has gained so much popularity and the in flux of visitors has somewhat tainted the purity and the secrecy of the island. Now, Tioman Island is pretty much commercialized. High end resorts and developments have been set in place but thankfully, a generous portion of the island still remains untouched. Its clear blue waters are still crystal clear (for now) but there have been reports of dead corals due to the massive construction work so its best to visit soon to avoid disappointment.

Pulau Redang

Redang Island is also another island located on the east coast of the Peninsula off the state of Terengganu. It is one of the largest and most beautiful islands in the country and the more popular destination amongst the locals. The Redang archipelago is made out of nine different islands which form a marine park that is suitable for both snorkelling and diving activities. Redang has yet to be featured in any major movies but it deserves praise as well. Its waters is also the location of two shipwrecks. This historical event set the stage for the Japanese occupation during World War II and the H.M.S Prince of Wales and H.M.S Repulse were the ships that made its home at the base of Redang’s surrounding waters. Being part of a marine park makes Redang island (as well as the nearby islands) relatively safe from the impact of human activities. Minimal development is done and the island is pretty much still untouched so if you’re looking for a more natural, Redang would be a wise choice.

Pulau Langkawi

Located in Kedah state and sitting adjacent to the Thai border is Langkawi island, possibly the most popular island on the west coast of the peninsula. The name Pulau Langkawi means “Eagle Island” which is an apt name as there are indeed many eagles in the area. To commemorate its name even further, the monument of an eagle was erected in Eagle Square which is located in the capital town of Kuah. Langkawi was once called “Malaysia’s best kept secret” with its with sand beaches, its mountains and its lush greenery. Unfortunately, even with the right ingredients, Langkawi is missing out on one of the characteristics that makes a good island, clear blue waters. It is located along the Malacca Straits which makes water visibility very poor. Snorkelling and diving is not an activity to be done at Langkawi. To make up for its shortcomings, the island has been declared a tax free zone. Langkawi would be the better choice if you’re looking for an island holiday with more land activities and do remember to visit its historical sites while you’re there.

Other notable islands on the east coast include Pulau Perhentian, Pulau Lang Tengah, Pulau Besar and Pulau Kapas. Over on the west coast, the island that would attract attention to visitors would include Pangkor Island and Penang Island (which coincidentally is a state by itself). East Malaysia is also home to one of the most popular diving spots in the world. Sipadan Island is located east of Tawau (Borneo) and still remains one of the most beautiful islands in the world. So if you are a diving fanatic, don’t forget to look up Sipadan Island.

Malaysia doesn’t only offer city entertainment. Outside the fast paced world is the perfect backdrop for a relaxing and peaceful holiday. The white sands at your feet, the sound of the waves breaking, the smell of the salt water and the sights of the beautiful marine life is only a few hours away from the city. So take your pick; a thriving city life or the peaceful beauty of the islands. Such diversity is what makes Malaysia an all-in-one travel destination.