Best things to do in Terengganu

Enjoy the clean sand and clear waters at Redang Island, a large island and protected marine park off the east coast. Explore the numerous coral reefs surrounding the island at a host of popular dive sites. The beaches also offer opportunities to view sea turtles landing at night and laying their eggs on the shore. A paradisal place with a good tourist infrastructure that doesn't spoil the scenery, the island enjoys a tropical climate. However, it is affected by a severe monsoon season, with many resorts closed between November and February, ferry crossings restricted and, at times, unadvisable.

Discover the party side of the island at Long Beach. Rent an umbrella for the day to enjoy the pristine sands and swimming in the clear waters that surround. Relax or get active with a range of boating, diving, and snorkeling choices along the long strip of coastline. Come night time, the restaurants and bars that line the beach turn the volume up, so you can dance the sand out of your shoes.

Just off the coast of West Malaysia, Perhentian Islands offer access to sandy beaches, azure seas, and dense green jungles providing a home for many wild animals. Ideal for snorkelers, most of the islands' beaches feature shallow waters, frequented by cuttlefish, parrotfish, and rays. Scuba divers can take advantage of various reefs and wrecks, swarming with marine life. If you can bear to drag yourself away from your perfect spot on the sand, the islands' interiors provide jungle trekking, with monitor lizards, giant spiders, and the occasional monkey. Restaurants, bars, and resorts on the two main islands provide dining and entertainment.

Lounge on the soft white sands of Turtle Sanctuary Beach, a place where blue skies and crystalline waters come together. Snorkel and see a myriad of fish, colorful coral reefs, sea anemones, and even small sharks. With any luck, you may spot the large sea turtles that give this beach its name. Make sure to bring refreshments, as there are no facilities on this isolated beach, reachable only by water taxi.

Discover the underwater kingdom with Universal Diver. Choose from a range of courses, fit for everyone from beginners to seasoned divers. Explore the corals and underwater rock formations of the lush, green islands. Dive among colorful fish, abundant plant life, and other marine animals, such as turtles, stingrays, and small sharks. Experience various diving sites, including a few shipwrecks. Relax on the boat, hang out with the friendly crew and instructors, and enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks.

Explore colorful stores, grocery markets, and coffee shops in Kampung China (Chinatown), a bustling Chinese enclave. Established several centuries ago by Chinese merchants, this small but picturesque quarter offers a vibrant atmosphere year-round and makes a good base for exploring the islands. Numerous cafes and restaurants serve traditional Chinese, but also Malay and Indian food. Try pork ribs with tea or fried noodles served in "kopitiams," traditional Chinese coffee shops.

Grandiose and aptly named Crystal Mosque is made of glass and steel and features crystal domes. Standing on an artificial island, this 21st-century mosque appears as though floating on the water. If you are interested in architecture, you can appreciate the blend of Moorish and Gothic elements, and the eye-catching glass facade. A colorful array of lights illuminate the building every night.