Penang National Park
Discover lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife at Penang National Park, Malaysia's smallest national park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Penang National Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife at Penang National Park, Malaysia's smallest national park.
"A memorable hike through the jungle to a beautiful beach with a turtle sanctuary."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can be muddy and uneven. Wear good hiking shoes to avoid slips and enjoy the trek.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring at least 1.5L of water per person. There are no water sources on most trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pantai Kerachut (Turtle Beach)
Southern part of the park
Hike or boat to this serene beach, home to a turtle sanctuary and a unique meromictic lake. Perfect for a peaceful escape.
Monkey Beach
Western coast
Known for its playful monkeys and beautiful sandy shores. A great spot for a picnic or a refreshing dip.
Canopy Walkway
Near the park entrance
Experience the rainforest from above on this elevated walkway, offering a unique perspective of the jungle's flora.
Meromictic Lake
Pantai Kerachut
A rare natural phenomenon where two bodies of water don't mix. A fascinating sight at Turtle Beach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tackle the Trails Wisely
Boat vs. Hike Decisions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can be muddy and uneven. Wear good hiking shoes to avoid slips and enjoy the trek.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring at least 1.5L of water per person. There are no water sources on most trails.
💰 Cash for Entrance & Boats
Park entrance fee is RM100 cash only. Boat rides also require cash.
🐒 Monkey Smart
Be cautious of monkeys, especially at Monkey Beach. Do not feed them and keep your belongings secure.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails can be muddy and uneven. Wear good hiking shoes to avoid slips and enjoy the trek.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring at least 1.5L of water per person. There are no water sources on most trails.
💰 Cash for Entrance & Boats
Park entrance fee is RM100 cash only. Boat rides also require cash.
🐒 Monkey Smart
Be cautious of monkeys, especially at Monkey Beach. Do not feed them and keep your belongings secure.
🚤 Pre-book Boat Return
If planning a boat return, confirm your booking beforehand as reception is spotty.
☀️ Embrace the Sun
The tropical climate is humid. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Penang National Park for its natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and unique attractions like the turtle sanctuary. The hiking trails offer an immersive jungle experience, though they can be challenging. Some find the entrance and boat fees quite high for the overall experience, and the trails can be muddy and demanding.
"Beautiful hike through the jungle, it takes about 1.5h from the entrance to turtle beach. The hike is initially mostly uphill for about 40 minutes and it would definitely be best to wear closed shoes since it can be very slippery. Turtle beach is beautiful and empty, however doesn‘t provide any restaurant/shop. We then took a boat to Monkey Beach, which - as the name suggests - is full of the monkeys on the picture. It has two small open restaurants, one of which offers malaysian food, the other offers western food (fries, chicken nuggets etc.). The boat afterwards took us back to the entrance - you could also walk the rest. Entrance-fee to the park is 50 RM per person (senior citizens >60y enter for free!), for the boat we payed 120 RM for two people."
C M.
"We visited the National Park Penang where we had a fantastic day and experience. We hiked the 1 - 1.5 hour tour to the turtle beach where we visited the sanctuary and chilled for about an hour. The boat picked us up and brought us to the monkey beach where we spent another hour and enjoyed a coconut. After that the boat took us back to the spot where we started the day.
We started around 1 pm and finished around 5:30 pm.
Entrance fee is 50MYR per person and the boat fee was 120MYR per group (2 pax). Cash payment only but there is an ATM next to the entrance.
Coke Zero 6MYR
Coconut 10MYT"
Habsbefehl
"Did the hike to turtle beach and boat ride to monkey beach. Rather fun though wet weather caused the soil to be muddy ad slippery. Bring your swimsuit as the turtle beach is nice."
Elaine Quek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by Grab or taxi, which takes about 30 minutes and costs around RM50. You can also take public buses, but this will take longer. The park entrance is clearly marked on Google Maps as 'Penang National Park Office'.
Yes, there is parking available at the park entrance, though it can get busy during peak times.
Cycling is possible, but it's a significant distance from George Town and involves navigating some busy roads. It's generally recommended to use other transport methods.
You can either hike to the beaches, which takes about 1.5-2 hours one way, or take a boat from the park entrance. The boat ride is faster but more expensive.
No, there are no shuttle services within Penang National Park. You will need to hike or arrange boat transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for foreigners is RM100 per person, payable in cash only. There might be a conservation fee as well.
Yes, boat rides to different beaches are charged separately. Prices are fixed and can be around RM100 per person for a return trip.
Yes, you'll likely need to register at the beginning and end of your hike at the park office.
The park is generally open from early morning until late afternoon. Specific hours can vary, so it's best to check locally or online before your visit.
Tickets for park entry and boat rides are typically purchased on-site at the park entrance.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most popular trails lead to Pantai Kerachut (Turtle Beach) and Monkey Beach. The hike to Turtle Beach is about 1.5-2 hours and features a turtle sanctuary and meromictic lake.
Swimming is not recommended at Pantai Kerachut due to jellyfish. Monkey Beach is generally safer for swimming, but always exercise caution.
You might spot monkeys, dusky langurs, various birds, and if you're lucky, hornbills. Keep an eye out during your hikes.
Basic restrooms are available at the park entrance. Food and drinks are limited, so it's best to bring your own snacks and water.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity, especially at Monkey Beach and Pantai Kerachut. Remember to pack out all your trash.
📸 📸 Photography
The beaches, the jungle canopy, and the turtle sanctuary offer great photo opportunities. Keep an eye out for wildlife like the White-bellied Sea Eagle.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in national parks. It's advisable to check with park authorities before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens for wildlife would be beneficial. A waterproof camera or bag is also a good idea due to humidity.
While the park is best explored during daylight, the beaches offer beautiful natural light. Sunset views might be better from a boat returning to the mainland.
Yes, but always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Using a zoom lens is recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For younger children or those who prefer less strenuous activity, a boat ride to Monkey Beach is a great option, where they can enjoy the sand and observe monkeys from a safe distance. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection. Sturdy shoes are a must for everyone. Consider the heat and humidity, and plan for breaks. The park offers a wonderful opportunity for kids to experience nature and learn about conservation.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially find fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. If you're on a very tight budget, you might need to prioritize which parts of the park you want to see, as boat trips can be a considerable expense.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
+1 Be prepared for the humidity and the possibility of muddy paths, especially after rain. Key destinations like Pantai Kerachut and Monkey Beach offer distinct natural beauty. Keep an eye out for the diverse flora and fauna, and take the time to appreciate the tranquility of the rainforest. The park's conservation efforts also add an educational layer to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails: Hike or Boat?
Boat rides provide a convenient alternative, especially for those with limited time or physical constraints. You can arrange boat trips from the park entrance to various beaches like Monkey Beach and Pantai Kerachut. While faster and less strenuous, these rides come with a fixed price and require pre-booking for return journeys, as mobile reception is unreliable deeper in the park.
Many visitors opt for a combination: hiking one way and taking a boat back, or vice versa. This allows for a balanced experience, enjoying the jungle trek while saving energy for exploring other areas.
Wildlife Encounters and Conservation
The park is also home to a significant conservation effort, most notably the turtle sanctuary at Pantai Kerachut. This facility plays a crucial role in protecting endangered sea turtles. Visitors can learn about these efforts and observe the turtles, contributing to the park's preservation.
+1It's important to remember that these are wild animals. Visitors are advised not to feed them, as this can disrupt their natural behavior and diet. Maintaining a respectful distance ensures both your safety and the well-being of the park's inhabitants.
Planning Your Day: A Balancing Act
Early mornings are ideal for starting your park adventure to avoid the midday heat and potential crowds. Decide in advance whether you prioritize hiking or a more relaxed boat-assisted exploration. If you opt for hiking, be prepared for a 4-5 hour round trip.
For those on a tight schedule, consider prioritizing one or two key areas within the park, such as Pantai Kerachut for its unique features or Monkey Beach for its accessibility and wildlife. Remember that boat return times need to be confirmed, so factor this into your planning to avoid being stranded.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit