10 Short Getaways In Malaysia For Couples
Take a break from your hectic day-to-day routine and plan a local getaway!
If you’ve been putting off a holiday because you run a busy schedule, planning a short getaway would be the best option.
With this “Short getaway in Malaysia for Couples” guide, you’ll have no more excuses to not plan a romantic trip with your loved one!
10 Short Getaways In Malaysia For Couples
1. Georgetown Heritage
Georgetown, Penang is one of the top places to plan a short trip in Malaysia for couples. It has everything you would want from a romantic yet adventurous getaway. From sandy beaches to heritage sites, you’ll never run out of things to do.
Additionally, Penang has been named one of the best places in Asia for food, so be sure to take your foodie partner to visit the island for local street food and cafe-hopping.
Top things to do in Penang:
- Walk along Armenian Street
- Visit Penang Hill
- Explore Penang Street Food
- Explore Street Art in Georgetown
- Hike Penang National Park
Best food to try in Penang:
- Asam Laksa
- Char Koay Teow
- Char Koay Kak
- Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul
- Cakes at China House
2. Cameron Highlands
If you’re looking for a short weekend getaway in Malaysia with a cooler climate, Cameron Highlands in Pahang would be the go-to destination.
Influenced by the British, Cameron Highlands is modelled on a traditional English village, making it a famous staycation spot among couples because of the colonial buildings.
A vacation on these hills are great for tea enthusiasts and nature lovers. Explore unique flower gardens and have a romantic time with your partner at this nature retreat.
Top things to do in Cameron Highlands:
- Tour the Boh Tea Plantation
- Go strawberry picking
- Explore Lavender gardens
- Visit Time Tunnel: First Memorabilia Museum of Malaysia
- Visit Butterfly Farm at Mossy Forest
- Mingle with cute sheeps at The Sheep Sanctuary
Best food to try in Cameron Highlands:
- Steamboat at Cameron Organic Produce Steamboat Restaurant
- Afternoon tea at The Lakehouse Restaurant & Bar
- Indian-western fusion meals at Barracks Café
- Ice Cream at Mr. Aisu
- Cakes at Strawberry Cottage
3. Redang Island
Redang island, Terengganu is known for its sandy beaches, blue seas, and beautiful marine life. A popular touristy thing to do would be to explore underwater activities like snorkelling and scuba diving.
If your partner and yourself are not interested in water sports, Redang island is also a relaxing staycation spot with scenic sights, perfect for other nature activities such as jungle trekking. Alternatively, take the opportunity to relax, rejuvenate and soak up the sun, sand and sea.
Top things to do in Redang Island:
- Visit The Redang Marine Park Centre
- Scuba Diving or Snorkelling
- Get pampered at a Spa Hotel
- Volunteer at The Chagar Hutang Turtle Sanctuary
- Hike Up The Laguna Redang Hiking Trail
Best food to try in Redang Island:
- Chicken Satay at Sharizal Cafe
- Drinks and Finger food at Luna Bar
- Fresh Seafood at Aima Grill Fish Restaurant
- Kaya Toast and Nasi Lemak at Kopitiam Redang Beach
- Roti Canai at Warong Makanan
4. Kuala Lumpur
Who says you can’t have a short getaway in KL for couples? Whether you’re from the city or not, Kuala Lumpur will always be an exciting place to plan a short escape in Malaysia.
Some of the best staycations for couples in Malaysia are in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, surrounded by tourist spots and shopping malls such as KLCC and Pavillion.
Top things to do in Kuala Lumpur:
- Visit KLCC (Aquaria, Petrosains, Kinokuniya bookstore)
- Go for hi-tea
- Shop local at Central Market
- Visit Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
- Explore the National Museum
Best food to try in Kuala Lumpur:
- Nyonya Laksa at Baba Can Cook
- Chilli Pan Mee at Kin Kin Restaurant
- Coffee and Cakes at VCR
- Roti Canai at Restoran Yusoof Dan Zakhir
- Asian-fusion meals at Merchant’s Lane
5. Melaka Heritage
No matter which part of the Peninsular you’re from, Melaka will always be a recommended spot for short getaways because of its central location; perfect for couples looking to reconnect in a heritage city filled with food, sights and more.
If you’re looking for one of the best short getaways from KL, the nearest option would be Melaka because it’s a short 2-hour drive by bus or car from KL.
Melaka is one of the two historic cities along the Straits of Melaka. In this city, you’ll explore fascinating architecture, delicious local street food and remnants of war left behind by the Portuguese, British and Dutch – making this the perfect staycation for couples in Malaysia who love exploring culture together.
Top things to do in Melaka:
- Shop at Jonker Street
- Go cafe-hopping
- Explore Historical Sites at Red Square
- Hike St. Paul’s Hill
- Visit Maritime Museum of Malacca
Best food to try in Melaka:
- Chicken Rice Ball at Hoe Kee Chicken Rice
- Portuguese Egg Tarts at Jonker Street
- Chinese Biscuits at Jonker Street
- Satay Celup at McQuek’s
- Nyonya Laksa at Calanthe Art Cafe
6. Langkawi Island
Langkawi is a popular holiday spot whether you’re with friends, family, travelling in a group or by yourself . It has one of the best Malaysian nature resorts – The Datai, offering a luxurious stay and a worthy treat-yourself experience.
Besides pretty beaches, there are many sites and sights to explore. From lakes and islands to historical sites, and mighty mountains. The thrilling cable car rides are not to be missed! If you’re in Langkawi, you can island hop to neighbouring islands to explore the richness and abundance of nature on your getaway.
Top things to do in Langkawi:
- Go for a Langkawi Cable Car ride.
- Explore Underwater World Langkawi
- Go on a mangrove tour of Kilim Geopark
- Try parasailing along Cenang Beach
- Visit the 3D art museum
Best food to try in Langkawi:
- Laksa Ikan Sekoq
- Wan Tan Mee at San Restaurant
- Plant-based mains at Kolma Langkawi
- Tom Yam Seafood at Pai Kin CFood Thai Cuisine
- Nasi Campur at Kak Yan Nasi Campur
- Bento Set at Unkaizen Japanese Restaurant
7. Ipoh
An underrated place for a couple’s staycation in Malaysia would be Ipoh. Many assume that there’s nothing much to do in this small town, but the truth is, Ipoh is rich with sights and adventure. In fact, Ipoh is the more relaxed version of Georgetown, packed with culture, great food and breathtaking sights.
A must-do thing in Ipoh would be to try out some extreme activities such as rock climbing and caving as Ipoh is blessed with natural caves and limestones.
Top things to do in Ipoh:
- Go cave exploring
- Explore the Lost World of Tambun
- Walk along Concubine Lane
- Visit Kellie’s Castle
- Explore street art at Oldtown Ipoh
- Visit The Banjaran Hot Springs
Best food to try in Ipoh:
- Dim Sum at Foh San Restaurant
- Ipoh White Coffee at Nam Heong White Coffee Shop
- Cowan Street Ayam Tauge & Koitiau
- Tau Fu Fah at Woong Kee Bean Curd Bercham Ipoh
- Hong Kee Mah Chee
8. Kuching
Kuching, Sarawak is known for being the home of a number of indigenous groups such as the Iban and the Dayaks.
If you’re looking for a short couple getaway in Malaysia with unique culture and food that you don’t find in the peninsular region, add Kuching to your travel bucket list.
Visit this part of Borneo for a chance to visit traditional longhouses, a wide range of museums and elegant colonial buildings.
Top things to do in Kuching:
- Visit the Sarawak Cultural Village
- Explore the Cat Museum
- Explore Bako National Park
- Stroll along the Kuching Waterfront
- Hike Gunung Gading National Park
Best food to try in Kuching:
- Sarawak Laksa at Choon Hui Cafe
- Kolo Mee at Min Joo Café
- Sarawak Kueh Chap at Woon Lam Cafe 1999
- Gula Apong Ice Cream at Jalan Chan Chin Ann
- Kueh Lapis at Mira Cake House
9. Genting Highlands
Tired of the Malaysian humid weather? If you’re looking for a short vacation in Pahang with cool climates, Genting Highlands is the perfect local getaway.
Go on a leisure stroll and take in the fresh air or get on a thrilling ride at the theme parks. And if none of that interests you or your partner, a little shopping spree at Genting Premium Outlet might do just the trick!
Top things to do in Genting Highlands:
- Go on rides at Genting Skyworld (outdoor theme park)
- Explore Genting Skytropolis (indoor theme park)
- Shop at Genting Premium Outlet
- Visit the Chin Swee Caves Temple
- Experience glamping (Glamz at Genting)
Best food to try in Genting Highlands:
- Five Guys (famous USA burger joint)
- Burger & Lobster
- Beauty In The Pot
- Awana Garden
10. Port Dickson (PD)
If you’re looking for a beach vacation with your partner after an exhausting work week in the city, Port Dickson is the short getaway from KL you desperately need!
Just an hour away from the city, Port Dickson has 18 km of coastline. Cape Rachado Nature Reserve with its lush forest and a cool 16th-century Portuguese lighthouse is just the perfect greenery escape you need. For some sun time, the Blue Lagoon and its gorgeous teal waters is a must-visit.
Top things to do in Port Dickson:
- Picnic by the beach (Purnama Beach, Saujana Beach)
- Explore Cape Rachado Nature Reserve (Cape Rachado Lighthouse)
- Visit Alive 3D Art Gallery
- Visit Army Museum (gain insight into Malaysia’s military achievements pre and post-independence).
Best food to try in Port Dickson (PD):
- Roselle Coffee House
- Ayam Bakar Station PD
- PD Famous Cendol Coconut Shake
- Warung Salai PD
- Embok Village Steamboat & Seafood
Going on a Road Trip? Download Etiqa+ App
Before you take a short trip with your loved one, download Etiqa+ App for a smooth drive down the road.
With the app, you’ll be able to retrieve your policy details, request for 24/7 roadside assistance and make claims in just a few clicks.
Make managing your insurance simple and convenient so you can focus on what matters most to you.
There you have it, a list of short getaways in Malaysia for couples. With this guide, you know the best places to go, what to do and where to eat the best food in the area. So what are you waiting for? Book that couple’s staycation and have a good time!
If you’re looking for best nature retreats for a relaxing vacation with your partner, this top 5 nature retreats in Malaysia will be perfect!
The information contained in this blog is provided for informational purposes only. It should not be construed as advice on any matter. Etiqa accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from reliance on information contained in the article. This information is correct as of 30th July 2024.
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