When you ask a local what is there to do is Penang, they'll probably come up with a few themes such as 'A day in Penang Hill', 'Eat until you drop', shopping, culture & heritage trails or beaches & water sports. For my most recent trip (well, which only happens last week), I have skip all the hustling and bustling in town and hide myself in Batu Ferringhi for 2 days.
Batu Ferringhi is probably the most beautiful and well-known beaches in Penang island. It is located on North-east of Penang island. From the airport, it is directly the other end of the island. By road, it will probably takes you about 30 minutes from the bridge, depending on the traffic in town. You'll know you've reached the coastal area the moment you hit Tanjung Bungah. Beautiful resort, beautiful seaside condominiums and hosts of international eateries lined up the few kilometres stretch.
The latest and hippest hotel that joins the crowd is the Hard Rock Hotel. It is located quite at the tail end of Batu Ferringhi and need I say more, it has the hippest crowd. Every single night, you can feel the hype where a rock band will performed.
At day time, you get to soak in the pool or play at the beach. Another interesting thing about Batu Ferringhi beach is that they have a lot of water sports available. Be it para sailing, jet skiing or even canoeing. The sea is never quiet. What's more, the price is absolutely reasonable, I mean MYR50 for para sailing ... that's the cheapest you can get anywhere.
Finally, may I add that the sunset in Batu Ferringhi is absolutely beautiful.
Location : Penang, Malaysia
Date of travel : May 2011
