Find Incredible Cheap Hotels in Kuantan, Malaysia. Search and Compare the Prices of Accommodation Deals to Find Very Low Rates with trivago
A balance of city and beaches on offer at Kuantan
The city of Kuantan lies on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia and is one of largest ports in the country. Also the state capital of Pahang, Kuantan is often a transit city for tourists heading to nearby resorts and islands along the coastline. However, the city offers an array of attractions of its own and as with any major Malaysian city, it is rich in cultural diversity. There are also several beautiful beaches within the city limits which allows Kuantan to be a destination that balances coastal scenery alongside a lively and heterogeneous urban environment.
Easily accessible from the Malaysian capital
Kuantan is on the opposite coast of Peninsular Malaysia to that of the capital city Kuala Lumpur, however it is only a three- to four-hour drive away. As a result, it is a very accessible city which in addition also has a few domestic flights from its small airport. An extensive local bus system ensures that getting around Kuantan is simple and pain free, allowing visitors staying in any Kuantan hotel to be able to access the remainder of the city and peripheral points of interest. Being a traditional port city much of central Kuantan is located around the area where Kuantan River meets the South China Sea. Amongst this central district a great deal of the larger chain hotels in Kuantan are found, conveniently close to the business hub of the city as well as to Padang Square and the iconic Masjid Sultan Ahmad Shah Mosque. The mosque is a must-see; the largest in the state and a prime example of the stunning Islamic architecture on offer in Malaysia.
A diverse city centre with a range of architecture
Although central Kuantan has seen a lot of investment and new structures pop up over the past decade, it also maintains an array of interesting architecture. Wandering around the city centre there are several examples of British colonial buildings still in use, plus a variety of religious structures providing an exotic atmosphere. Mosques, churches and temples all reflect Malaysia and Kuantan’s cultural diversity and offer a delightful aesthetic to the city. The street of Jalan Mahkota and surrounding areas form part of the city’s Chinatown and there are a multitude of independent shops and restaurants providing a taste of local Kuantan culture and cuisine. In terms of shopping, much of the city’s scene is dominated by larger modern shopping malls such as Berjaya Megamall or Kuantan Parade, full with international and domestic brands. Although this feels somewhat homogeneous and culturally diluted, these can be excellent spots for observing everyday life, plus the food courts often offer fantastic local dishes with great value for money. The majority of these points of interest can be accessed on foot from any hotel in Kuantan, or by hopping on a local inner-city bus.
Nearby beaches provide a different focus
Kuantan is shaped by the coastline, literally, economically and in terms of points of interest. Whilst the riverside and city waterfront can provide an attractive backdrop, the real beauty of Kuantan’s coast lies in its beaches and coastal parks. The closest and most popular beach lies just five kilometres east of the city centre, facing out to the South China Sea. This area, known as Teluk Cempedak, houses a one kilometre stretch of sandy beach accompanied by an array of water sport activities, ensuring that it is a popular family destination. There are also a few hotel options nearby which allow visitors to Kuantan a beach focus for their stay. Teluk Cempedak is also close to the green area of Taman Teruntum, which contains a mini zoo and golf club plus a variety of open land to enjoy some time away from the urban city. Around seven kilometres north is Beserah Beach and its accompanying fishing village, another well-visited coastal destination. Visitors can enjoy the beach facilities here as well as sampling some of the freshly caught salt fish on offer at the nearby restaurants.
Day trips to attractions further afield
Aside from the beaches, one of the other prime destinations for families is Bukit Gambang Resort City, home to a huge water park and safari park. The largest facility of its kind on the east coast of Malaysia, it is located around twenty kilometres east of central Kuantan and is a very popular destination with domestic tourists. In addition, on route to Bukit Gambang the Berkelah Waterfalls provide a delightful short stopover around nine miles from the city. Indeed, there are many attractions and points of interest surrounding Kuantan, making for enticing day trips further into the state of Pahang. Heading northeast from Kuantan into the mountains of central Malaysia, lies the old mining village of Sungai Lembing. Once home to the world’s largest underground tin mine, Sungai Lembing now houses an on-site museum which offers an insight into the former industry. Moreover, the nature surrounding Sungai Lembing is nothing short of remarkable and thus many visitors head to the area to begin treks into the mountains or simply enjoy the stunning views.