Penang activities and sports
A day out boating is a fun activity in Penang
There are countless activities and sports in Penang for visitors who want to do a little more than just lie on the beach all day. As one might expect from a seaside resort, there are lots of opportunities for watersports on or below the water with diving, snorkelling and sailing particularly popular. But landlubbers will not be disappointed with a dazzling array of sporting pursuits on offer including championship golf courses and tennis courts in most of the big resorts.
And, of course, there is a burgeoning assortment of wildlife wonders which provide ample opportunity for nature activities in Penang. Bird watchers, climbing enthusiasts and hikers will find no end of trails and cliffs to explore as well as pristine beaches and virgin rainforest filled with adventure possibilities. More on Penang attractions.
Water sports in Penang
One only has to wander down the beach at Batu Ferringhi to be confronted with watersports vendors trying to launch bewildered tourists up into the sky on parasails.
Watersports in Penang is big business and most beachfront resorts have their own jetskis and other facilities for hire. Kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing and waterskiing are all popular activities in Penang while speedboats are available for family days out on the ocean.
The untouched islands of Pulau Song, Pulau Bidan and Song Pulau Telur are easily accessible from Batu Ferringhi with great fishing and snorkelling opportunities for those that want to get close to nature without the hassle of tonnes of scuba gear.
Bird watching in Penang
Penang National Park is close to Georgetown and a paradise for ornithologists and all manner of bird enthusiasts. Large varieties such as the infamous brahminy kite, white-bellied sea eagle and kingfisher can all be spotted on a regular basis. And the annual return of migratory water birds to the mangroves and coastal wetlands is a magical experience. There is also the Penang Bird Park which is packed with exotic species.
Golf in Penang
Great watersports to be enjoyed in Penang!
Golf is an extremely popular activity in Penang and many people travel to the island to play a few rounds at some of the world class courses. Green fees are reasonable although smart dress is normally obligatory as are caddies or golf carts. Many golf courses in Penang are located in country clubs which have a full range of facilities including swimming pools and tennis/squash courts.
Noted Penang golf courses include nine-hole Air Force Golf Club (Butterworth Road, Tel: +60 (0)4 332 2632), Bukit Jambul Golf and Country Club (2 Jalan Bukit Jambul, Penang, Tel: +60 (0)4 644 2255, email: bjcc@po.jaring.my), Kristal Golf Resort (364 Jalan Valdor, Sungai Bakap, Penang, Tel: +60 (0)4 582 2280), Bukit Jawi Golf Resort (6 Jalan Paya Kemian Sempayi, Penang, Tel: +60 (0)4 582 0759/60/61/62) and Penang Turf Club (Jalan Brook, Georgetown, Tel: +60 (0)4 226 6701) which also hosts horse racing.
Scuba diving in Penang
Many people visiting the regions attempt some diving in the lovely tropical waters off Penang’s coast. Visibility depends largely on the season but can reach up to 100ft during calm spells. Both eerie shipwrecks and brilliant coral reefs can be visited with some of the dive shops in Batu Ferringhi and the surrounds with equipment and tuition normally of a high standard. But there are also popular snorkelling excursions available for those that do not want to don wet suits and clamber around with tanks.
Horseback riding in Penang
What better way to delve into the majestic beauty of Penang’s natural environment than by pony trekking through the rolling hills of the countryside. Horses galloping down the beach at Batu Ferringhi are a common sight and there are many horseback riding excursions in Penang that can be booked through the majority of hotels. And there are dedicated stables that can provide inexpensive tuition to youngsters and adults who want to get experience in the saddle.
Sailing in Penang
This popular family activity in Penang is easy to arrange given the number of dingies and catamarans anchored at the Georgetown jetty and off the coast. Lessons are available for the inexperienced and all safety gear in included with wearing life vests compulsory. The warm waters are extremely pleasant and it can be nice to mix a day of sailing with some snorkeling and kayaking as well.
