Redang Island

Redang Island is located off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia in Terengganu state. This beautiful tourist destination, popular for diving due to its numerous coral reefs and turtle coves, is also known as Pulau Redang in the local language. A gazetted marine park, Redang is still pristine, with only a single road that cuts through the center of the island and most of the resorts occupying a single stretch of beach, other areas untouched.

Much of the island is still draped in its original landscape; a mix of lowland coastal and karst-like rainforest. A single trail through the jungle leads from Long Beach (Pasir Panjang) to Teluk Dalam, crossing a few streams. Along the way, visitors might glimpse some of the wildlife that include coastal birds, monitor lizards, snakes, monkeys and even mouse deer. The large and colourful Tokay gecko is a common inhabitant of these parts; its loud call can be heard ringing in the forest and even from the walls of resorts. An initial short survey in the forest here uncovered a surprising amount of reptiles and amphibians, including several species of frogs, geckos, agamids and snakes.

There are a few marine reefs open for snorkeling or diving in the waters around the island, which are home to a large variety of colourful marine creatures. A turtle sanctuary is also located on Pulau Redang, which runs a volunteer programme each year. Most of these places need to be accessed by boat from the jetty. By chartering a boat, you can also visit the other nearby islands which from the Redang archipelago (9 islands in total).

To head to Redang Island, visitors need to make a trip to the jetty in either Kuala Terengganu or Kuala Merang in Terengganu state. Terengganu is located in the north east of Peninsular Malaysia, far away from most major cities. Both jetties are located 50 km away from each other. Most will use ferries from Kuala Terengganu, as it has a developed jetty with ample parking lots.

If coming from Kuala Lumpur or the south, it is recommended to use the Karak highway to Kuantan and then travel the east coast route up. As Redang Island does not receive as many visitors like Tioman or Langkawi, there are only two departures from Kuala Terengganu during the day; 12.30 pm and 3 pm. Otherwise, you need to hire a private speedboat from Kuala Merang.