Does Malaysia Bay Exist? Which Is The Best Coastal Area?

Malaysia Bay is a misnomer as no such place really exists in the world. However, you need to understand the geography of the country first.

Malaysia has Peninsular Malaysia. The Strait of Malacca surrounds the Peninsula on the west and on the east, it has the South China Sea. The Strait of Malacca separates Malaysian peninsula from the island of Sumatra in Indonesia.

The South China Sea separates East Malaysia from the Peninsular Malaysia and the East Malaysia is on the island of Borneo.

Again, the southern tip of Malaysia stretches along the Straits of Johor, which separate the country from the islands of Singapore.

So, Malaysia Bay may be a common term for the long coastal areas of Malaysia. However, the coastal areas of Malaysia are primarily divided into two categories, the Eastern Coast and the Western Coast.

Which Part Of The Malaysia Bay (Coastal Area) Is More Beautiful? Eastern Or Western?

It’s difficult to pick a favorite between the eastern and western coasts of Malaysia as both areas are very different in their vibe.

On one hand, the Eastern coast of Malaysia is more suitable for a cultural exploration and understanding the rich traditions of the country. On the other hand, the western coast of Malaysia offers a more urban experience and is more eclectic in its vibe.

Here is a detailed comparison.

1. The East Coast Of Malaysia

The east coast of Malaysia or the eastern Malaysia Bay area shares its borders with the South China Sea. Pahang, South China Sea and Terengganu are the states on the eastern coast.

Furthermore, the serene beaches here include:

Redang
Tioman
Perhentian,

The crystal clear waters and white sands of these beaches serve as the perfect background for vibrant coral reefs.

Redang, among these beaches, has some luxury resorts, and it is a snorkeling hotspot. Redang is mostly untouched, and it is ideal for a backpacking trip.

Moreover, the eastern coast has the Tionam Island, which is a hub for barefoot luxury. Explore the cliffs and jungle treks here. You will also love the trips to coral reefs, spotting the sea turtles, kayaking, and a hell of a lot of water activities here.

The Eastern Coast Of Malaysia Is The Place To Know About Traditions

It is the best part of Malaysia to know about the old Malay way of living. It is also a place with a strong Islamic culture. Kuala Terengganu and Kelantan have numerous royal mosques and palaces that offer insight into the country’s traditional art and culture.

Furthermore, Kota Bharu is the place to see the shadow puppet shows and martial arts shows at night. You can even try some hands-on activities here, such as batik printing, kite-making, and songket weaving.

Overall, the eastern coast of Malaysia allows you to enjoy the magic of slow tourism with a complete cultural immersion.

The Food Of The Eastern Coast Of Malaysia

Have you eaten in Penang and Kuala Lumpur? The food in this part of Malaysia is different. The taste is sweeter, the dishes here have more spice, and they are rich in coconut milk.

Don’t forget to try delicacies such as Kuih Akok, a dessert made with eggs and coconut milk, Nasi Dagang, a combination of fragrant rice and fish curry, and Nasi Kerabu, rice with herbs and a blue color served with dried fish.

Moreover, catch a fish, see how they cook, and be a part of the kampung celebration for the most immersive cultural experience.

2. The West Coast Of Malaysia

Langkawi, Penang, and Kuala Lumpur are the iconic destinations on the west coast of Malaysia. Of course, Malacca is there.

So, this is the place where you learn the colonial history of the country, its multicultural essence, and a vibrant city life.

The Western Coast Of Malaysia Is About Modern Comforts

Kuala Lumpur in the western coast of Malaysia has some of the swankiest malls in the world. It is obvious considering it is the capital of the country.

Furthermore, the skyline of Kuala Lumpur is something that attracts modern tourists. The city also has a vibrant nightlife.

On the other hand, when you are in Malacca, you can explore all the heritage streets on a trishaw and have the best coffee at the street side cafes.

Penang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a little different in its spirit. Its old soul is complemented by boutique resorts, art galleries and the best street markets.

Moreover, if you are looking for luxurious resorts or the best shopping experience, you can head to Langkawi. Langkawi offers you the advantage of duty-free shopping. So, as you can see, the experiences on the eastern coast of Malaysia are quite congruent and seamless.

The western coast, however, is more inclusive, catering to a diverse group of travelers.

Nature In The West Coast Of Malaysia Is Tamed

The eastern coast of Malaysia is untouched. However, the nature in the western coast has been tamed for the convenience of modern tourists.

For example, Pahang has the Cameron Highlands, which is ideal for jungle walks, strawberry plucking and exploring tea gardens.

However, Langkawi island is a better example if you want to know how nature has been tamed in the western side of the Malaysia Bay. Here, you will get a perfect fusion of jungle exploration and resort living.

What Is The Best Time To Plan A Trip To Malaysia Bay Or The East And West Coasts Of Malaysia?

The best time to visit Malaysia Bay will depend on which part of the coastal area you are planning to visit. For example, if you are visiting the eastern coast, November to March is the ideal season for you.

Long sunshine hours, a calm sea and pleasant weather conditions make these months the ideal for a visit to the eastern coast of Malaysia.

On the other hand, if you are visiting the western coast of Malaysia, you can plan your holiday at any time of the year. Like the east coast, the west coast also has the best weather during November to March.

However, even the wet season on the western coast has decent sunshine hours with brief spans of rainfall.