10 Things to Do in Malaysia with Your Family
As a melting pot of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures, Malaysia presents a rich tapestry of traditions, cuisines, and attractions. With a wealth of Malaysian tourist attractions, ranging from natural wonders and urban marvels to cultural sites, you’ll be sure to get an enriching experience for every one of your family members!
And what better way to explore this diverse country than to discover the myriad things to do in Malaysia on an amazing cruise from Royal Caribbean? With our carefully curated itineraries, it can be easy to discover the best things to do in Malaysia while enjoying the comfort and convenience of our cruise ships!
Exciting Things to Do in Malaysia with Your Family
Let’s explore the best things to do in Malaysia that will create unforgettable family memories!
1. Visit the Batu Caves
The Batu Caves are a Hindu shrine and a journey into the heart of Malaysian culture and spirituality. As you climb the rainbow-hued staircase (don't worry, it's not as daunting as it sounds!), you'll be greeted by curious macaque monkeys who call this place home.
Once you reach the top during your Batu Caves exploration, you'll enter the main cave, known as Cathedral Cave. The sheer size of this natural wonder will leave you and your kids in awe. Inside, you'll find Hindu shrines and statues, each with its own fascinating story. It's a great opportunity to teach your children about different religions and cultures.
Pro tip: Visit early in the morning to beat the heat and crowds. And don't forget your camera – the colorful steps and cheeky monkeys make for some fantastic family photos!
2. Explore George Town's Street Art
Penang Island activities include exploring George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can embark on a unique treasure hunt of culture and history. This charming city has become an open-air gallery, thanks to the vibrant street art that adorns its walls.
Your family will love discovering the whimsical murals hidden around every corner. From the famous "Little Children on a Bicycle" to the interactive "Boy on a Bike," these artworks bring the city's history and culture to life in the most delightful way. It's like stepping into a storybook!
Consider taking a self-guided walking tour – it's a fantastic way to explore the city at your own pace. Many of the artworks have plaques nearby explaining their significance, turning your walk into an engaging history lesson. If you prefer a more structured experience, guided tours are available and can provide deeper insights into the art and the city's heritage.
Don't miss the chance to create your own masterpieces by interacting with the 3D artworks. These installations are perfect for silly family photos that will have you laughing for years to come. And when you need a break, pop into one of the many quaint cafes or try some delicious street food – George Town is a foodie's paradise!
3. Attend a Traditional Wayang Kulit Show
Malaysia's traditional shadow puppet theater, Wayang Kulit. This ancient art form is a window into Malaysian folklore and culture that will captivate both adults and children in your family!
As the lights dim and the show begins, the skilled puppeteers bring intricate leather puppets to life behind a white screen. The flickering shadows, accompanied by live gamelan music, create a magical atmosphere that will transport your family to another time and place.
The stories told in Wayang Kulit often draw from ancient epics and local legends, offering a unique way for your children to learn about Malaysian mythology. If you don't understand the language, the visual spectacle alone is enough to keep everyone engaged!
Many cultural centers in Kuala Lumpur and Penang offer Wayang Kulit performances. Some even provide workshops where your little ones can try their hand at puppet-making or manipulation.
4. Orangutan Spotting in Borneo
Borneo is the third-largest island in the world and home to one of our closest relatives — the orangutan.
In fact, Borneo is one of the last places on Earth where you can see orangutans in their natural habitat. A visit to a rehabilitation center like Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah offers a chance to observe these incredible creatures up close while supporting crucial conservation efforts.
As you enjoy your Borneo rainforest adventures, keep your eyes peeled for a flash of orange swinging through the trees. Watching a mother orangutan teach her baby to climb or seeing juveniles play together is an experience your family will never forget.
5. Taman Negara National Park Trek
The Cameron Highlands tea plantations provide a serene contrast to Malaysia's wilderness areas, offering families a chance to learn about tea production while enjoying cooler temperatures.
Taman Negara National Park is a biodiversity hotspot that will awaken the explorer in every family member.
As you step into this ancient forest, you'll be enveloped by a symphony of sounds – from the chatter of monkeys to the chorus of cicadas. The park offers a range of family-friendly trails, but the real showstopper is the canopy walkway. It’s a beautiful a beautiful view of the rainforest and its inhabitants.
6. Langkawi Sky Bridge and Cable Car Ride
While Langkawi's Sky Bridge offers breathtaking views, Langkawi beaches provide a perfect setting for relaxation and family fun.
For the Sky Bridge, the adventure begins with a steep cable car ride up Mount Mat Cincang. As you ascend, watch the landscape transform from lush greenery to misty mountain peaks. The glass-bottom gondolas add an extra thrill!
At the top, you'll find the piece de resistance: the Sky Bridge. This 125-meter curved pedestrian bridge seems to float in the sky, offering 360-degree views of the Langkawi archipelago and even Thailand on a clear day. Walking on the bridge is an exhilarating experience that will make you feel on top of the world – literally!
For the best experience, try to visit early in the morning when the crowds are thinner and the weather is cooler. Don't forget to bring a light jacket as it can get breezy up there.
7. Relax on the Perhentian Islands
After all that excitement, it's time to slow down and soak up some sun on the pristine beaches of the Perhentian Islands. These beaches here are perfect for building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball, or simply lounging under a palm tree with a good book. The calm, shallow waters also make it ideal for families with young children to splash around safely.
Kayaking around the islands is a great way to explore hidden coves and spot marine life. Many resorts offer equipment rentals and even guided tours tailored for families.
8. Snorkeling in Tioman Island
The calm, clear waters around Tioman are teeming with colorful fish, graceful sea turtles, and even the occasional reef shark.
For beginners or younger children, beaches like Tekek and Air Batang offer shallow waters perfect for snorkeling right off the shore. More experienced snorkelers might want to join a boat trip to nearby islands or marine parks for even more diverse underwater landscapes.
Many resorts and dive shops on the island offer snorkeling equipment rentals and guided tours. They can provide valuable tips on the best spots and how to snorkel safely and responsibly.
For non-snorkelers or when you need a break from the water, Tioman offers beautiful hiking trails through its lush interior. You might even spot some of the island's unique wildlife, like the endemic Tioman walking catfish!
9. Visit the Petronas Twin Towers
Kuala Lumpur sightseeing offers a plethora of experiences, with the iconic Petronas Twin Towers standing as a must-visit landmark.
These gleaming silver giants dominate Kuala Lumpur's skyline and offer an experience that will leave your family starry-eyed.
The real magic happens when you zoom up to the Skybridge on the 41st floor. This connecting bridge between the towers offers a unique perspective of the city below. And then, when you hit the observation deck on the 86th floor, you’ll witness the panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur.
After your sky-high adventure, you can take a stroll through the adjacent KLCC Park. This urban oasis features a children's playground, wading pools, and a jogging track. In the evenings, you can catch the Lake Symphony Water Show — a dazzling display of lights, music, and fountains that will captivate both young and old.
10. Experience Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown
The heart of Chinatown is Petaling Street, a lively pedestrian market where you can find everything from souvenirs to street food. Plus, it's a great place to practice bargaining skills!
Chinatown is also a paradise for adventurous eaters. From sizzling satay to cooling cendol, there's something to tantalize every taste bud. This could be a great opportunity to challenge your family’s taste buds to try a new dish!
While exploring Malaysia, don't miss the opportunity to visit Malacca's historical sites, which offer a glimpse into the country's rich past and diverse cultural heritage.
The Sri Mahamariamman Temple, with its colorful sculptures, and the Guan Di Temple, dedicated to the God of War, offer fascinating insights into the diverse religious landscape of Malaysia.
Explore All Things to Do in Malaysia on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas!
Royal Caribbean makes it easier than ever to explore this diverse and exciting country, along with many other cruise destinations.
With itineraries that include a cruise to Malaysia and other key Asian ports, you can experience the best and most beautiful of what this nation has to offer while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a world-class cruise ship!
Start planning your Malaysian family adventure with Royal Caribbean today and book your cruise today!
