Overlooking the South China Sea, Kuantan is blessed with waterfront parks, revered mosques and excellent Malaysian restaurants. This coastal town features a range of cultural attractions while accommodating surfers with a nearby beach and collection of museums.

Things to do

Teluk Cempedak is the main beach at Kuantan, popular for its excellent surf breaks, kayaking, boating and waterfront cabanas. You can also see monkeys around the connecting Missionary Bay. Head to Beserah, a cosy fishing village, if you want to purchase fresh seafood or visit Balok for excellent windsurfing conditions and luxurious spa treatments at Swiss-Garden Resort & Spa.

Discover Kuantan’s religious culture at the Sultan Ahmad Shah State Mosque, which features eye-catching blue domes and towering minarets. It’s located near the Pahang Art Museum, an intimate gallery showcasing local artwork comprised of drawings and paintings. Don’t forget to stroll down the nearby Esplanade, which leads you along the Sungai Kuantan river past food stalls and boutiques.

Meet some of Malaysia’s native wildlife at the Mini Zoo Taman Teruntum, which houses monkeys, crocodiles and ostriches. The Royal Pahang Golf Club is next door, offering 18 challenging holes with sand traps and water hazards. Don’t miss the waterfront Taman Gelora park, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through native flora.

Kuantan is known for its waterfalls, but you’ll need to drive out of the city to see them. The cascading Sungai Pandan Waterfall is one of the best and features walking trails, a suspension bridge and barbecue area. Travel about 35 kilometres to see the seven-tier Berkelah Falls, where you’ll find swimming holes and nearby campsites.

Getting around

Travellers can reach Kuantan by flying into Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport, driving the East Coast Expressway from Kuala Lumpur or catching a cruise to Kuantan Port. Certain parts of the city can easily be explored on foot, while taxis and buses provide transport for longer trips.