Batu Ferringhi Penang – beach, nightlife and accommodation
Batu Ferringhi is a buzzing entertainment resort
Many holidaymakers arriving in Penang give Georgetown a miss and head directly for the beach resorts of Batu Ferringhi. As probably the most developed stretch of coastline in the entire country, the congested four kilometres of five star hotels has dampened the idyllic natural splendour somewhat.
However, Batu Farringhi never gets as busy as the top beaches on Langkawi, for example, and there’s still plenty of palm trees and glistening white sand to go around, along with some fabulous restaurants and decent nightlife options.
Things to see in Batu Ferringhi – attractions
Muka Head Lighthouse: this is situated at the northwestern point the island of Penang and serves as a warning beacon to ships and their sailors why ply the treacherous Straits of Malaca. Tourists wanting to visit the lighthouse must either clamber over the hills or ask one of the local boatmen for a lift from Teluk Bahang jetty. Those that make the effort will be greeted with spectacular ocean views.
Butterfly Farm: nature lovers should take a day out from basking on the beach to visit the 4,000 inhabitants and 120 different species here. This ‘live museum’ has been arranged as a means to educate the public about the oft-misunderstood insects but also as a research centre to investigate and develop methods of breeding. (830 Jalan Teluk Bahang, tel:+60 (0)4 885-1253, email:info@butterfly-insect.com, open: 09:00 -17:30)
Toy Museum: children will be dragging parents off the beach to visit the Toy Museum. This has fast become one of Penang’s star attractions with an engrossing display of more than 100,000 dolls, toys, models and other amusing items. The collection includes many famous characters from comics, computer games, movies, sports and novels and is suitable for all ages plus adults as well. (Tanjung Bungah, Tel:+60 (0)12 460 2096, 09:00 – 21:00, admission: RM10/6 adult/under-12s)
Things to do in Batu Ferringhi – activities
Jungle trekking and camping: if the soft linen of your five star hotel is getting a little tiresome then why not get back to nature with a camping trip through the virgin forest in Teluk Bahang. It is possible to walk from Muka Head in the northwestern cape and bed down for a few nights for an unforgettable experience sleeping under the starry sky on the deserted beach.
Watersports: although visibility does not normally allow much scuba diving around Penang, that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun in the water. Many visitors to Batu Ferringhi decide to indulge in some seaside activities such as parasailing, tubing or jetskis. But remember to watch out for jellyfish and to treat any sting with vinegar quickly. For more on Penang activities.
Relax: most people come to Batu Ferringhi to relax and soak up some rays by the gorgeous deep blue ocean. Despite the area being very developed it is always possible to grab a lounger and most of the big hotels have security and waiters tending to guests’ needs. Plus there are always masseurs on hand to rejuvenate tired muscles and hawkers so you can do your shopping where you lie. For more on Penang beaches.
Shopping: the night market just down the road from Golden Sand Hotel towards Park Royal Hotel as some interesting curios and souvenirs while Sidewalk Bazaar by Casuarina Hotel is great for all your tourist staples such as sun cream and insect repellent. For more on shopping in Penang.
Hotels and guesthouses in Batu Ferringhi
Golden Sands Resort in Batu Ferringhi
There is little problem finding accommodation in Batu Ferringhi as the entire beachfront is taken up with a range of five star hotels. Competition keeps prices relatively low and there are always some bargains to be had with our partner organisations, especially in low season. Alternatively, for budget and backpacker accommodation head down the beach past the Parkroyal Resort or reserve a room with Hostelbookers. For more hotels in Penang.
Dining in Batu Ferringhi
Although lovers of authentic Southeast Asian cuisine may find the tourist-orientated varieties dished out in Batu Ferringhi a little tame, there is certainly much more variety when it comes to quality international fare. Imported steaks, fresh lobster and real thin-based pizzas grace the menus here.
For a special treat it is worth exploring the cluster of seafood restaurants at Teluk Bahang pier by Penang’s north-western cape. Just wander past all the fresh displays until you spot something you particularly desire. And for a true taste of the East, try the bustling hawker centres and fruit stalls by the beach.
Kids can choose from a massive range of dishes and then you just pay the waiter when it arrives at your table. Generally keep to the Asian dishes to be sure of good quality. For more on the tastes of Penang, see Penang restaurants.
Getting there and around
Batu Ferringhi is found half-an-hour west of Georgetown and is accessible by taxi, bus or car. Take Transitlink bus 202 or 93 from downtown although visitors arriving from the airport should take a taxi for around RM60 as there is no direct transfer. Coupons can be bought from the desk immediately outside the arrivals hall. Taxis are available in town on the main thoroughfare although getting drivers to use their meters is a struggle. Always agree a price before commencing a journey but it can be hard to get anywhere for under RM15.
