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The beachfront lap pool at the Pangkor Laut Resort in Malaysia

Malaysia’s Most Magical Resorts

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By Hugh Surtees


Beautiful Malaysia comprises of two diverse and distinct regions – one a peninsula sitting between Thailand and Singapore, the other perched in the northern reaches of the island of Borneo. With two different land masses and a host of sights and destinations, it could be overwhelming deciding what to do and where to stay. We’ve compiled a list of our favourite hotels and destinations to make the decisions a little easier…

Island Paradise

Malaysia has a host of incredible islands – over 800 in fact! If you are planning to explore Borneo, look no further than Gaya Island Resort. Set on the tropical island of Pulau Gaya in a protected marine conservation area, this lovely resort offers a rainforest retreat just 15 minutes by speedboat from Kota Kinabalu.


Backed by lush jungle and fringed by sandy beaches, the hotel has stunning views of the South China Sea and the silhouette of Mount Kinabalu in the distance providing the ideal backdrop for complete rest and relaxation.


An aerial view of a beautiful beach backed by lush rainforest in Malaysia
Gaya Island Resort

Occupying a privately owned tropical island off the west coast of peninsular Malaysia, Pangkor Laut Resort offers a sense of traditional authenticity that few others can equal. Offering exceptional value for money and true Malaysian hospitality this lovely resort is a long time TF favourite.


For extra luxury, consider The Estates at Pangkor Laut – beautiful residences that are concealed on the northern part of the island and provide the ultimate in privacy, space and exclusivity.


A beautiful villa with a pool at the Estates at Pangkor Laut in Malaysia
The Estates at Pangkor Laut

Beautiful Beaches

Set on a sweeping stretch of unspoilt beach overlooking the South China Sea sits Tanjong Jara Resort – a beautiful sanctuary designed in the traditional Malay style.


Spend your days relaxing by one of the pools, unwind with a treatment at the award-winning spa or choose from an excellent range of activities. The hotel also runs a fantastic seasonal turtle conservation initiative which guests can learn about and even take part in.


A four poster daybed at the edge of a quiet pool with the ocean in the background, in Malaysia
Tanjong Jara Resort

Captivating Cities

Dotted between Malaysia’s rainforest, beach and rolling tea country you’ll find captivating cities. Vibrant Kuala Lumpur will be the first stop for many travellers, and much like the city itself our favourite hotels range from the characterful colonial to the wonderfully modern.


History appreciators will love The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur – a lovingly restored landmark that oozes style and grandeur.


The grand white facade of the Majestic hotel in Kuala Lumpur
The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur

For something more contemporary try Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur. Set in the vibrant downtown neighbourhood of Jalan Kamunting, this stylish hotel offers unique rooms that reflect local history and blend contemporary décor with urban chic.


The superb rooftop pool and bar are the star attraction with sublime views over the KL cityscape and the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve.


A view of the KL Tower from the rooftop pool area of the Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur
Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur

If it’s absolute luxury you’re looking for look no further than The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur which offers elegant accommodation, exceptional service and an enviable location in the heart of the prestigious Golden Triangle.

This stunning property is an excellent base for a stay in the capital, offering a sophisticated oasis on the doorstep of the main shopping and entertainment districts.


The Ritz Carlton hotel in Kuala Lumpur with palm trees surrounding the building
The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur

If smaller, more intimate cities are more your scene look no further than charming Malacca - a key historic trading post with an intriguing assortment of historical buildings, boutiques and galleries.


Enjoy a stay at The Majestic Malacca – a historic hotel with an integral part in Malacca’s long and fascinating history. Located on the banks of the Malacca River and just a short stroll from the bustling Jonker Street heritage area, this delightful property exudes colonial grace and charm.


The grand facade of the Majestic Hotel in Malacca at night
The Majestic Malacca

The Highlands

Up in the temperate hills of the Cameron Highlands you’ll find rolling tea plantations, incredible fauna and scenic forested walking trails.


Located at an altitude of 1,500 metres, Cameron Highlands Resort offers welcome respite from Malaysia’s tropical heat and the pretty surrounding area has long been described as ‘a little piece of England in Asia’. Promising nostalgia and colonial charm, this wonderful property is the perfect base from which to explore the area’s vast tea plantations and scenic jungle trails.


The traditional Jim Thopson tea lounge at Cameron Highlands Resort in Malaysia
Cameron Highlands Resort

For more inspiration take a look at our Malaysia Holidays pages.

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Written by Hugh Surtees

Hugh is a Marketing Executive based in our head office in Kensington. Hugh has worked at Trailfinders since 2016 and has travelled to 33 countries. His favourite destinations include Fiji, Vietnam and India.

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