Batu Ferringhi - Soft White Sand and Family Fun
Batu Ferringhi has long been a firm favourite for holidays which are all about the sun, sand, and sea. Its wide bays, calm waters, and abundance of beachfront resort hotels make it a great choice for activity-packed family holidays. It’s not just the beaches that Batu Ferringhi offers though, with plenty more natural attractions when you turn to look a little inland. Once the sun drops a different side of this laid-back beach town appears, a vibrant night market where you can shop ’til you drop or kick back at a sidewalk cafe and watch the show!
Fabulous Palm-Fringed Beaches
Batu Ferringhi is unashamedly a beach resort town, and that’s because this stretch of coastline on the north of Penang is home to the islands most picturesque bays. The white sand and azure sea mingle perfectly with green palms swaying as a backdrop. It’s no surprise that many resort hotels have set up close to the shoreline here, providing guests with direct beach access and five star facilities. The further west you go from the main town, the prettier and more isolated the beaches become, so they really are worth exploring even when you have a great stretch of sand on your doorstep. Kilat Beach is a lovely spot for a quiet stroll away from the crowds if you are craving some peace and tranquillity! Keep in mind that on the weekends people from all over the island and beyond descend upon the beaches of Batu Ferringhi, so be prepared to share the sand!
Try Your Hand at Exhilarating Water Sports
Water sports and beaches go hand in hand, so Batu Ferringhi is home to a multitude of exciting activities to enjoy that involve the sea in some way or another. The majority of the hotels on the beaches here have their own waterspouts centre so it’s as simple as strolling out of your room and signing up. There are all sorts to choose from, whether you want to take to the skies with a spot of parasailing or race across the surface of the sea on a banana boat! For a more relaxing option have a go at windsurfing, or if that’s not fast enough for you then take out a jet ski for a spin. If staying dry is a priority but you still want to experience fun on the high seas then book a fishing trip, even if you don’t catch anything you’ll enjoy great views over the Andaman Sea and back across the picturesque coastline of Penang.
Immerse Yourself in Nature
If you need a break from the beautiful beaches you’re in luck at Batu Ferringhi, because a number of natural wonders and eco-friendly attractions await. Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm is a huge sanctuary for over 15,000 butterflies, that can fly freely around the huge greenhouse-like enclosure. Other insects and reptiles also call the sanctuary home, which features ponds, caves, and waterfalls within the gardens. Another great option is the Tropical Spice Garden, home to over 500 different exotic plants all set out within lush landscaped grounds. You can also take a cooking lesson to learn about Malaysian, Indian, and Nyonya cuisine, using herbs and spices from the garden to prepare your dishes! Each of these attractions make for a great day trip away from your hotel, but if you’d prefer some real exploring then head to Batu Ferringhi Waterfall, a great spot to try some jungle trekking before cooling down in the crisp clear water.
New Experiences at the Night Market
Besides spectacular beaches, Batu Ferringhi is also famous for something else. Its bustling night market draws in visitors and locals alike, with a huge array of local handicrafts, colourful clothes, and Malaysian souvenirs on display. There are many bargains to be snapped up here, but you had better practice your haggling before you arrive! Foodies will also love it, as there are many local delicacies being cooked up on the street side stalls. You’ll find both Malay and Western dishes on offer, from fresh seafood to sweet desserts. Try nasi lemak, a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk, it’s considered the Malaysian national dish. Also, don’t miss the many barbecue stands selling satay sticks, skewers stacked with meat served with a signature spicy peanut sauce, these are delicious too! Once you’re shopped out take a pew at one of the nearby bars and cafes and enjoy a refreshment to wind down the evening before heading back to your hotel.