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.
"RM50 for park entrance fee, for foreigners. The trail takes about 1.5-2hrs.
Trail start from Hiking Area@Penang National Park (Taman Negara Pulau Pinang). There is to and/or fro boat rides from here, at a chargeable price. Trail ends at Pantai Keracut if you taking boat (follow the memorial lake sign at the split trail). The boat pick up time is pretty on time."
Dor. X
"Cool experience but a bit expensive for all the effort and not so spectacular views. The value of the visit was mainly the monkeys at Monkey Beach, that was memorable. They asked us to register on a form at the beginning and end of the hike, which made the experience a little bit annoying, but other than that it was good. They charge you 80 ringgit for the boat trip back, so we decided to hike back."
Celina Dietrich
"Trekked to Pantai Kerachut. Entrance fee was RM50 per person.
The start of the trek was very steep and goes up and down along the way with some rest points scattered in between. Nearer to the end point near Turtle Beach, there are no rest stops but the trek is much easier here with less elevation. Be physically prepared and bring at least 1.5L of water along as there are no water available and you will need it. Trek is 2 hours there and 2 hours back at a normal pace. Block at least a full day if you want to take it real slow. There are wildlife to see but they mostly stick to the entrance/exit of Pantai Kerachut trail. There are some greater racket tail drongos, dusky langurs and other birds as well. Managed to also spot a pair hornbill in the distance.
In the jungle itself not so much. The path isn't very well maintained so I recommend good hiking and covered shoes. Expect to get soiled and muddy since yellow wet clay is expected along the trails. Trails are made by hikers themselves trotting the path so some paths are really eroded. If it rained in the previous day, expect it to be extra muddy and slippery.
You have to decide if you can endure a 4-5 hour trek there and back or a 2 hour trek is all you can take before embarking on the trip as the boat ride has to be confirmed before you set off since there is no reception nearer to Pantai Kerachut. Also, they will not take you back even if you pay them there as the boats are meant for the people who already booked the boats prior.
Overall still a great experience.
Just remember to bring water, food, and good shoes. Good shoes are top priority here."
ClareVOIyant Tan
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.
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