Trevo Malaysia ‘Best island in Malaysia’ is what many of us start searching for when Chinese New Year is around the corner, and we feel that familiar holiday excitement in the air.
Chinese New Year is a time of joy, reunion, good food and long chats around the table. It is also one of our favourite times to travel with family. Everyone is already in a festive mood, and work is on pause for a while.
And honestly, nothing feels more Malaysian than celebrating a festive holiday on an island. Warm sun, salty air, slow mornings and seafood dinners by the sea. That is our idea of a good CNY break.
If you are thinking about CNY gift ideas for your parents, your partner or even the whole family, trust us, an island getaway is hard to beat.
Sitting on a beach chair and watching fireworks in the sky at night feels extra special during the Chinese New Year.
Malaysia has so many beautiful islands that it can feel impossible to pick the best one. From the West Coast to East Malaysia, every place has its own charm.
So let us break it down together. We are going to walk you through our favourite islands and help you choose the best island in Malaysia that fits your vibe, your family and your holiday mood.
1. Penang: The Best Island in Malaysia for Food Lovers and Culture
When we talk about the best island in Malaysia, Penang always comes up fast.
Penang is not just about beaches. It is about food, heritage streets and festive vibes that feel alive during Chinese New Year.
We love how George Town lights up during CNY. There are red lanterns, temple visits and lion dances popping up around town. It feels warm and nostalgic.
During the day, you can still head to Batu Feringghi for a beach walk or sit by the sea with coconut water. It is a nice balance of city and island life.
Penang is also easy for families. Everything is close by, and there is always something to eat, even late at night.
Read The Restless Beans’ article to find out about the biggest events in Penang during CNY.
If you want the best island in Malaysia that still feels lively during the holidays, Penang is a safe and fun choice.
2. Langkawi: The Best Island in Malaysia for Duty-Free Treats and Beach Days
Langkawi is another of the best islands in Malaysia that works very well for Chinese New Year trips.
It is easy to reach, and once you are there, everything feels relaxed and spacious. Long beaches, wide roads and plenty of resorts by the sea.
We always enjoy the duty-free shopping here. It feels nice to pick up chocolates, perfumes or even snacks as little festive treats for the family back home.
Langkawi also has lots of island resorts that are great for families. You can go big with a beachfront resort or keep it simple with a cosy hotel near Pantai Cenang.
There are also cable cars, mangroves and sunset cruises. You can be busy, or you can do nothing at all.
If your idea of the best island in Malaysia includes shopping, beaches and easy travel, Langkawi fits perfectly.
3. Sipadan: The Best Island in Malaysia for Divers and Nature Lovers
Sipadan is a dream if you love the ocean.
This island in Malaysia is known for its world-class diving and untouched underwater life. We are talking turtles, schools of fish and clear blue water.
It is not a place for shopping or city vibes. It is about nature and being close to the sea.
Chinese New Year here feels very quiet and peaceful. That is perfect if you want to avoid crowds and just enjoy the beauty around you.
Most people stay on nearby islands or resorts and head out for dives during the day.
If you want the best island in Malaysia that feels far from it all, Sipadan is something special.
4. Perhentian: The Best Island in Malaysia for Chill Beach Time
Perhentian is one of those places that makes you slow down the moment you arrive.
This island is all about simple beach life. Soft sand, clear water and laid back vibes.
It is popular with travellers who just want to swim, snorkel and relax. You will see families, couples and small groups enjoying the quiet.
During Chinese New Year, it is usually calmer than the big West Coast islands. That makes it good if you are not into busy festive crowds.
There are no big malls or flashy shows here. It is just you, the sea and time to rest.
If you want the best island in Malaysia for a gentle holiday, Perhentian feels just right.
5. Tioman: Best Island For Jungle and Sea
Tioman has a different kind of beauty.
Tioman is one of our favourites because it mixes thick green jungle with blue water. You get hiking trails, waterfalls and coral reefs all in one place.
We love how raw it feels. You can spend the morning snorkelling and the afternoon walking through small villages.
Chinese New Year here is quiet and peaceful. It is nice if you want to escape the noise of the city for a while.
Tioman also has good resorts and simple chalets. You can choose how comfortable you want to be.
If you like nature and adventure, Tioman is the best island in Malaysia for you.
6. Redang: Best Island in Malaysia for Clear Water and Soft Sand
Redang is known for its beautiful sea.
This Malaysian island has some of the clearest water we have seen. Snorkelling here feels like swimming in an aquarium.
Most visitors stay at beach resorts, so everything is easy. Meals, activities and boats are all arranged for you.
Chinese New Year on Redang is quiet and cosy. It is great for families who want a simple beach holiday without stress.
You spend your days swimming, eating and resting. That is all you really need.
If you are looking for the best island in Malaysia for pure beach time, Redang is a lovely pick.
7. Pangkor Laut: Best Island in Malaysia for Luxury and Peace
Pangkor Laut is small but special.
This island in Malaysia is private and known for its high-end resorts and peaceful atmosphere. It feels very exclusive.
It is perfect if you want a calm Chinese New Year away from crowds. No traffic, no noise and no rush.
You wake up to the sound of the sea and go to bed after a quiet dinner by the water.
There are not many activities here, and that is the point. You come here to rest and enjoy being together.
If you want the best island in Malaysia for a slow and romantic festive break, Pangkor Laut is beautiful.
8. Bohey Dulang Island: Best Island in Malaysia for Views and Blue Water
Bohey Dulang is one of those places that looks unreal.
This island in Malaysia is famous for its hike up to a viewpoint where you see bright blue lagoons and green hills.
It is located in Semporna and is usually visited on a day trip. You go there for the views, swimming and photos.
Chinese New Year here is not about festivals. It is about nature and scenery.
If you love taking pictures and being out on the sea, this is a place you will remember.
Bohey Dulang is the best island in Malaysia for travellers who love adventure and beauty.
9. Gaya Island: Best Island in Malaysia Close to Kota Kinabalu
Gaya Island is just off Kota Kinabalu, so it is easy to reach.
This island feels like a tropical escape, even though the city is close by.
There are luxury resorts, nice beaches and good snorkelling. You get comfort and nature at the same time.
During Chinese New Year, Kota Kinabalu is lively, but Gaya Island stays calm. That makes it a nice balance.
You can enjoy festive meals in the city and then come back to the quiet island at night.
If you want the best island in Malaysia with easy access and peace, Gaya Island is a smart choice.
10. Lankayan: Best Island in Malaysia for Families and Wildlife
Lankayan is another beautiful island in Sabah.
This place is known for clear water, turtles and simple beach resorts.
What we especially love about Lankayan is that it is close to Sandakan. That means you can take the kids to see orangutans and wildlife nearby.
Chinese New Year here feels calm and family-friendly. It is not about big celebrations but about spending time together.
You can snorkel, walk on the beach and then go explore Sandakan if you want.
Lankayan is the best island in Malaysia for families who love nature and animals.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Best Island in Malaysia
Choosing the best island in Malaysia for the Chinese New Year really depends on what you want from your holiday.
Some of us want food and culture. Some want quiet beaches. Some want diving, jungle or just a break from the city.
The good news is that Malaysia has it all. From Penang and Langkawi to Sipadan and Lankayan, there is an island for every kind of traveller.
No matter where you go, being by the sea during the Chinese New Year feels special. You slow down, you laugh more, and you make memories that last.
So pack your bags, bring your loved ones and treat yourself to a festive island escape.
Here are a few more fun reads:
- The Best Beach in Johor Bahru: Our Top 10 Picks – TREVO Stories
- 10 Best Affordable Nature Retreats in Malaysia (UNDER 250 MYR!) – TREVO Stories
- 10 Best Holiday Destinations in Malaysia This New Year 2026 – TREVO Stories
FAQs on the Best Island in Malaysia For CNY Holiday
Is Pangkor or Langkawi better?
Langkawi is easier to reach and has more choices for food, spas and shopping. It also connects well to nearby places like Ko Lipe and has duty-free perks.
Which island in Malaysia is like the Maldives?
Semporna is often called the Maldives of Malaysia because of its clear water, white beaches and sunny island views.
Which side of Malaysia is better?
East Malaysia is known for rainforests, wildlife and strong local culture. West Malaysia is more urban with busy cities, industries and a higher population.
Ride with Trevo for Your Island Holiday
Getting around makes a big difference on any trip. That is where Trevo comes in.
Trevo is available in Penang, Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu and many more regions. That means you can pick up a car easily and explore at your own pace.
When you are on an island, having a car makes everything feel more relaxed. You can drive to beaches, food spots and sunset views without stress.
With Trevo, your island holiday feels smoother and more fun. No waiting, no rushing and more time to enjoy the trip.
