It's been said that Dalit Bay in Tuaran has one of the most beautiful beaches in Sabah and it's not hard to see why. We'd gladly trade the traffic and noise of the city for the white sand, azure blue waters and kaleidoscopic sunset here any day. The beach is also bordered by a dense green nature reserve as far as the eye can see—so if you're into drone photography, this is one place you should go.

Tip: Enjoy a front seat view of the beach over a romantic dinner at Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort & Spa.   

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A beach that's popular with the locals and lesser known to tourists in Kuala Terengganu, Pantai Pandak Chendering's rustic beauty inspired the 1960's song Chendering by jazz musician and composer Jimmy Boyle. 

Come here for the nostalgic scene of the rocky bay, swaying coconut trees and stalls selling coconut drinks and fresh seafood.

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We can't say for sure exactly how many times this gorgeous stretch of beach in Pangkor Island has been photographed, but we will say that one photo is hardly enough to capture its pristine beauty. Guess you'll just have to see it for yourself with a 2021 island staycation.  

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A favourite haunt of both novice and seasoned surfers, Pantai Cherating in Pahang boasts some impressive waves during the monsoon season from November to March. Though typically crowded on weekends, the beach is relatively peaceful on weekdays and boasts plenty of more secluded surfing spots.

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While we love the flurry of activity and fun of families and revellers at the gorgeous Batu Feringghi Beach in Penang, this off-the-beaten-track alternative in Balik Pulau too has everything you need for a perfect afternoon—clean and white sandy stretches, lush greenery and clear waters, minus the big crowds.

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