Of all the Malaysian Islands, Pulau
Pangkor has still some beautiful and quiet beaches. Here you can
still find the peace and tranquility many other beaches in Malaysia
have lost. Let's visit them.
Pantai Pasir Bogak
Pantai Pasir Bogak is a few kilometers away from Pangkor Town on the
West side of the island. This beach is probably the most popular of
the beaches of Pula Pangkor. Maybe it is because it is so close to
Pangkor Town.
It has been described as 'the biggest
swimming pool in the world'. True or not I can not say. However, the
water is shallow and crystal clear. You will be able to arrange
water-sport-facilities as jet-skiing, snorkeling or rent a canoe.
All along the beach there are open-air
food-stalls offering specialties such as barbecued squids, satay and
fish crisps. Accommodation is easily available, ranging from luxury
hotels, chalets to the more Spartan comforts of 'attap' huts and
camping sites.
Nipah Bay/Teluk Nipah
Of all the Pangkor beaches, Teluk
Nipah or Nipah Beach is the most beautiful. This beach is located a
few kilometers north Pantai Pasir Bogak. The beach is secluded and
is able to maintain its natural beauty. Unlike other beaches, it has
corals, sea cucumber and bird lovers can find the hornbill (burung
Enggang) on this beach.
Nipah Beach, no doubt one of most beautiful beaches of Pulau Pangkor
with its crystal blue waters.
Nipah Bay Beach has a beautiful view on
two small islands called Pulau Giam and Pulau Mentagor. Both of
these islands are not inhabited although you might find locals
willing to bring you there. It is said that when the tide is out you
can even walk to Giam Island although I have never done that.
Both of these island have beaches too.
If you're really for some exercise, you can rent kayaks for a paddle
out to these islands.
There are hotels and resorts in the middle and
lower-ranged budgets around Nipah Bay. In between the beach and the
hotels there are small local stalls where, like Pantai Pasir Bogak
you can try some of the local specialties. Typical souvenir shops
are also available. For good accomodation, check:
Horizon-Inn
or the
Nipah Bay Villa.
Teluk Ketapang
Teluk Ketapang, an exotic
beach at Pangkor Island |
Teluk Ketapang is sandwiched between
the two more well known beaches of Pasir Bogak and Nipah Bay.
There's no place to stay at Teluk Ketapang but believe me, the beach
is very nice. A large green grass field lies next to the main road
and separates the sand beach from the road. It's a great place for a
swim and a view on the Straits of Malacca. There may be some
boatsmen hanging around the pier and if you interested, they will
give you a tour around the island.
Pantai Puteri Dewi
Just another few kilometers further north of Nipah Beach lies Pantai
Puteri Dewi in the Belanga Bay. It's just near Pangkor's airport.
The name Pantai Puteri Dew means literally Beach of the Lovely
Princess. Access to the beach is restricted to guests of Pangkor
Island Beach Resort though you can visit the beach for RM 50.00.
It is a bright white sand beach with
crystal clear water. There's some beautiful corals to see so don't
forget your snorkel. You can rent boats and snorkels at the hotel.
Teluk Segadas
Teluk Segadas is one of the little
known gems on Pulau Pangkor. Few people, including me until
recently, know about this little beach. Teluk Segadas is a bit
difficult to find. First of all, there's no road to this beach. You
have to take a taxi to Teluk Gedong. You will find the path at the
board "Teluk Gedung". There's a path going into the hills which
leads you directly to Teluk Segadas, In fact it's short jungletrek
of about 15 minutes. There's a bit of climbing included. Bring food
and water as there are no vendors at this beach. (btw, you don't
need a guide as the path is straightforward)
In general the beach is abandoned so
you have it all for yourself. In the bay the water is calm and not
too deep, excellent for playing and swimming. The trees from the
jungle come at a few places close to the waterfront and give shades.
Together with a little breeze this makes Teluk Segadas the best
beach in Pangkor.
Emerald Bay
Emerald Bay is located on Pangkor
Laut. It's maybe one of the most well known Pangkor beaches although
not free accessible. You can still visit Emerald Bay but since
Pangkor Laut is a private resort, the entrance to this beach (and to
Pangkor Laut) for non-guests is RM 80.00.
aving said that, Emerald beach is a
beautiful horseshoe-shaped bay with clear water. There is fine coral
to see. Equipment can be arranged at Pangkor Laut. |