Redang Island Guide: Snorkelling, Beaches and Marine Park
Last updated: October 2026
Redang Island sits in the Terengganu Marine Park, 45 km off Malaysia's northeast coast. The island is renowned for crystal-clear water, white sand beaches and some of the best snorkelling in Peninsular Malaysia. Sea turtles nest on its beaches between May and September.
This guide covers how to get to Redang, the best beaches, snorkelling spots, resorts and practical tips — verified in October 2026. Prices are in Malaysian Ringgit (RM).
Long Beach (Pasir Panjang)
Redang's main beach and where most resorts are located. The sand is powdery white and the water is turquoise. Snorkelling directly off the beach reveals coral and fish within 30 metres. Bars and restaurants line the back of the beach.
What to order: Snorkel from the beach, sunset drinks at a beachfront bar.
Marine Park Snorkelling
Redang's waters are part of the Terengganu Marine Park. Snorkelling spots include the Marine Park Centre reef, Shark Point and Tanjung Tengah. Visibility reaches 15–20 metres on good days. Expect to see clownfish, parrotfish, blacktip reef sharks and sea turtles.
What to order: Book a 3-island snorkelling trip through your resort.
Turtle Bay (Chagar Hutang)
Redang's most important turtle nesting beach. Green and hawksbill turtles lay eggs here between May and September. Public access is restricted to protect the nesting sites. Some resorts organise guided night visits during nesting season.
What to order: Ask your resort about guided turtle watching.
Scuba Diving
Redang has over 20 dive sites suitable for beginners and advanced divers. Highlights include Big Mount (soft corals and barracuda), Tanjung Tokong (swim-throughs) and the shipwreck at Terumbu Kili. Water temperature is 28–30 degrees year-round.
What to order: Book a 2-dive package through your resort dive centre.
Redang Island Resort
Mid-range resort on Long Beach with an in-house dive centre. The 3D2N packages include accommodation, meals, boat transfers and snorkelling trips. Rooms face the beach or garden.
What to order: Book 3D2N snorkelling package.
The Taaras Beach and Spa Resort
Redang's most upscale resort with overwater villas and a private beach section. The spa, infinity pool and fine-dining restaurant set it apart from budget options. Dive centre on-site.
What to order: Book an overwater villa, spa package.
How to Get to Redang
Fly to Kuala Terengganu (TGG) from KL (1 hour, RM100–200). From the airport, transfer to Merang Jetty (30 min, RM30–50 taxi). Speedboats to Redang take 45 minutes. Most resorts include boat transfers in their package. The island is closed during monsoon season (November to February).
What to order: Book a resort package that includes boat transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Redang?
The best months are March to October, with peak season in June to August. The island closes during monsoon season from November to February. Water visibility is best from May to September.
How much does a Redang trip cost?
Budget 3D2N packages start at RM400 per person (shared room, meals, boat, snorkelling). Mid-range packages run RM600–800. The Taaras luxury resort starts at RM800/night.
Do I need to know how to swim to snorkel in Redang?
Life jackets are provided on all snorkelling trips. Non-swimmers can float and view the reef. However, basic comfort in water enhances the experience.