Kapas Island , Pulau Kapas , Malaysia

Kapas Island, Kuala Terengganu Overview

Kapas Island is a tranquil island located 6 kilometres from Marang, part of Terengganu state in Malaysia. It translates to Cotton Island in Malay that refers to its white sandy beaches. It is most accessible of the East Coast islands and is widely known as the paradise for kayaking, diving and snorkelling. This tranquil scenic island boasts of its clear seawater, jungles, coral reefs and the white sand beaches.

The island itself isn’t too big and can be explored in a day or two. However, the ambience is extremely peaceful and refreshing from the daily hassles. It is an ideal place for a romantic getaway or to spend a weekend with friends or family. Adventure lovers can involve in hiking in the Gem Island and Bukit Singa and jungle trekking. You can also bask in the sun and the splendid view that mesmerises every traveller. Places to stay range from camping on the beach to booking a hotel or resort as Kapas Island has some of the cheapest island resorts in Malaysia. The islands closes down during the monsoon season from November to March.

1. Snorkeling & Diving

Snorkeling is of the most famous and key activities of Kapas island. Tourists can also rent snorkels for about RM 10 or invest in a snorkeling tour for about RM 40. Diving too is an enjoyable ex (Read More)perience here. You will find dive shops that offer gears. Underwater diving is pretty popular on the island’s western shore and shallow coral reefs. An annual ’Swimathon’ event is held here that attracts a lot of swimmers and competitors.

2. Kayaking

You can also race in kayaks across the beaches to tour the island if you don’t want to walk for a price of RM 20, an hour.

3. Hiking

Hiking at Bukit Singa can be done on the jungle trek that is across the island. It takes about 45 minutes to an hour. There is a substantial amount of climbing and crossing dried river beds along the (Read More)way. Gem Island is a must-visit. Don’t forget to wear proper shoes and bring water and sun protection along with you!

4. Beaches

The famous white-sand beaches and palm trees give the island its recognition. They are kept mostly clean throughout the year. There is a pier on the island. You can spot black-tipped sharks by the ree (Read More)f. Look out for the absolutely breathtaking sunsets and early sunrise. There are plenty of Nemo fishes around the beach. The soft and hard corals are a sight to behold. You can also encounter jellyfishes, so be careful to not touch them! Research about Amphidromus Snails are conducted extensively in this area. Activities like squid catching are also done here.

Read More on Kapas Island

How to Reach

Buses travel from Kuala Terengganu to Marang and it usually takes about 30 minutes. The first bus leaves as early as 6:45 AM and are available almost every hour. A rental car or taxi from Kuala Terengganu to Marang jetty costs about RM 30 for one-way.

You can ferry to Kapas Island from Marang jetty, in about 10-15 minutes. It costs about RM 40 to travel both ways. The boat transfer services start early. The speedboat departs from Marang jetty at 9AM, 11AM, 1PM, 3PM and 5PM with returns half an hour later.

You can avail a taxi from Kuala Terengganu airport or the bus terminal for the journey to Marang Jetty.

The ferry departure from 01:00 PM (Marang Jetty – Kapas Island) and 01:30 PM vice versa is not available on Friday.

Marang Jetty Boat Departure Times:

9.00am
11.00am
1.00pm
3.00pm
5.00pm
Pulau Kapas Boat Departure Times:

9.30am
11.30pm
1.30pm
3.30pm
5.30pm

Best Time to Visit

February to August is the most suitable time to visit Kapas Island as it provides the perfect balance of a pleasant and cosy climate, while October to December is not recommended if you want to visit the beach because of the unpredictable weather. Public Holidays attract many tourists. However, early March is supposed to be the best time of the year to visit.

Pulau Kapas is closed for tourists during the months of November - February, during the monsoons.

Suggestion: Early reservations are recommended for your stay at the island. A two day trip would cost about RM 150.

Food at Kapas Island

You will find local cuisine available. However, they might be a little expensive compared to the mainland. There is a beach café that provides delicious food. Zaki’s is a place that you should definitely check out while you’re here! Captain Longhouse is the local favorite go-to place for beers and stable Wi-Fi. Kapas Turtle Valley is a beautiful spot, right over the hill for a hearty meal.