If you’re looking for the perfect island getaway, then a visit to Pulau Kapas in Terengganu is a must. Popular among Malaysian and international travelers alike, this blissful island is surrounded by clear waters rich in marine life.
About 6km off the coast of Marang is Pulau Kapas, an island renowned for its clear waters, sandy white beaches and swaying palms. Kapas Island is situated offshore about 30 minutes by slow boat or 10 minutes by fast boat from Marang jetty, 20 minutes south of Kuala Terengganu.
The resorts on Kapas Island are mostly spread out over three beaches on the western shore, facing the mainland. Accommodation here ranges from dorm rooms to moderately priced air-conditioned chalets. More luxurious accommodation is available on Gemia Island, a small islet just a few hundred metres northwest of Kapas.
Pulau Kapas means Cotton Island in Malay and this peculiar name is attributed to the pure white beaches that are the trademark of this island. The name comes as no surprise once you have walked along these beaches. It is a lovely small island with beautiful, quiet, unspoiled sandy beaches; cool and clear blue waters, swaying coconut trees and caves with swallows’ nests. Its waters are home to beautiful marine life such as fish, turtles, corals and others.
Another reason why Kapas Island is popular is because of the excellent snorkelling in the waters surrounding the island. There is an abundance of corals and other marine life, visibility is good and the water is shallow and calm. Because the coral is mainly around the rocky edges of the island, you can still go swimming off the beautiful beaches, even at low tide.
The best time to visit Pulau Kapas is when The monsoon season peaks between November and March every year. You can expect more rain and rough seas and most resorts are typically closed from end October through end-February. Peak season is between July and August. Kapas is popular with locals for day trips and over weekends and public holidays.
There are several ways to getting to Marang. Marang is south of Kuala Terengganu and is not to be confused with Merang which is north of Kuala Terengganu and the departure point for boats to Redang and Lang Tengah Islands. If you came by plane, the closest airport is in Kuala Terengganu, about 30 minutes from Marang. Air Asia and Malaysia Airlines fly daily to Kuala Terengganu from Kuala Lumpur. From the airport you can get a local bus or a taxi (around RM 15-20) to Marang.
If you came by buses, there aren’t any direct coach services to Marang, but buses approaching Kuala Terengganu from the south can drop you off here on request. There are also local buses and taxis from Kuala Terengganu to Marang. Examples if you come from Kuala Lumpur, buses depart from the Hentian Putra bus station. Several choices are available, including Transnational, Damai, Konsortium, Plusliner, Sutera and Mutiara. Tickets cost around RM 30 and the journey takes around 7 hours. Buses depart early in the morning or late evening for overnight journeys. Ask to be dropped off at Marang.
From Marang, the only way to go to Pulau Kapas is by boat. Boat tickets can be bought at the jetty in Marang or pre-arranged with your resort and included in your package. There are regular transfers throughout the day and according to demand. Return trips cost around RM 25 and take 15 minutes by speedboat. Slower, cheaper boats are also available but take 30 minutes.
While Kapas Island is known as snorkelling paradise - partly because of the relatively shallow reefs - there are a number of excellent scuba diving spots as well. Those that prefer to stay out of the water can enjoy the untouched jungle by crossing the island on one of the footpaths that cut through the greenery.
Other than that, the soft white sand on the island is not only a great place to relax and enjoy the view, but makes a perfect beach volleyball field. A few resorts rent out sea kayaks so you can explore the secluded bays and some of the deserted beaches on Kapas Island by paddling there yourself. There are a few beaches on the island that are excellent for swimming, even at low tide, as the coral is further out to sea and there is no danger of stepping on it. The area is also popular for windsurfing and sailing.
Kapas Island is famous for squid catching activities whereby tourist flock to the island from the month of April to September every year for this unique activity. Guest will go squid catching at night time by a local fisherman boat, equipped with the squid catching equipment to catch a squid as big as 20 inches long. The squid caught will be up to the guest for own barbeque and to be cook at the resort restaurant at a minimal charge.
So how is it? Have you guys find it interesting? Will you consider this place to be one of your vacation destination? I really hope so.. So,what are you waiting for? Let's go holiday and travel in our country. For futher information, lets visit www.journeymalaysia.com.
