Batu Ferringhi Beach
Batu Ferringhi
A 3 km resort beach on the north coast of Penang Island, with parasailing, jet skis, a night market and resorts. Not as clear as Thai beaches, but the most convenient seaside spot in Penang.
Batu Ferringhi lies on the north coast of Penang Island, about 15 km west of George Town. It is Penang's main beach resort area, with resorts such as the Shangri-La, Hard Rock Hotel and Parkroyal lining a roughly 3 km stretch of sand. The beach has coarse sand and average water visibility, since the northern Andaman Sea water is somewhat murky, so it's not suited for snorkeling. There is plenty to do, though: parasailing (about RM100 to RM150), jet skiing, banana boat rides and horseback riding are all offered on the beach and can be bargained for directly. Resort guests have access to loungers and pools. In the evening, watch the sunset from the sand, then visit the Batu Ferringhi Night Market (around 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.), where stalls on both sides of the main road sell imitation goods, souvenirs and snacks, along with several seafood restaurants. Nearby attractions include Penang National Park 5 km to the west (free entry with registration, a 1.5 to 2 hour hike to Monkey Beach or Turtle Beach, or a boat ride), Entopia Butterfly Farm (about RM70, family-friendly), the Tropical Spice Garden and a batik workshop. The beach is free and open all day. Getting there: take Rapid Penang bus 101 from Komtar, about 45 to 60 minutes, passing Gurney Drive and Tanjung Bungah, or take a Grab for about RM30 to RM40. It's a good idea to stay one night or plan half a day at the beach and half a day at the national park. Note: during the rainy season (September to November), jellyfish are common, so pay attention to red flags and signs. Beach vendors selling water activities will push their offers, so be ready to bargain. Seafood restaurants in Batu Ferringhi are relatively expensive, so consider returning to Gurney Drive in the city for cheaper snacks.
Opening hours
All day (night market 19:00–23:00)
Nearby sights
- Tropical Spice Garden
- ESCAPE Penang
- Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
- Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque
- The Habitat Penang Hill
- Penang Hill
- Penang National Park
- Penang Botanic Gardens