Planning a honeymoon in Malaysia? You’re in luck. Malaysia is one of those rare places where you can find tropical islands, cool highlands, dense rainforests, and luxury resorts all without crossing a border. You can literally start your day with a sunrise swim in a private villa and end it with dinner in a rainforest or a stroll through a charming colonial town.
Malaysia is also a great option if you want something romantic but not overly expensive. You don’t need to splurge on long-haul flights or five-star hotels in Europe to enjoy something special. There are plenty of places here that feel exclusive, intimate, and memorable — perfect for starting a new chapter together.
Here are some of the best honeymoon destinations in Malaysia to inspire your plans.
1. Langkawi – for luxury beach lovers
Langkawi is a top honeymoon destination in Malaysia for good reason. This island offers a mix of emerald waters, rainforests, and luxurious resorts tucked away in private coves. It’s easy to get to, but feels worlds away from the city. And whether you’re after full-blown luxury or a quiet villa in the hills, Langkawi will deliver.
Couples can enjoy lazy days on soft white-sand beaches, romantic dinners under the stars, or adventurous activities like island-hopping, cable car rides, and mangrove kayaking. The island is duty-free too, which means that sunset cocktails and chocolates come a little cheaper!
- Best time to go: November to April, when it’s dry and sunny.
- Perfect for: Classic beach honeymoons, couples who love nature, spa days, and luxury
Best things to do in Langkawi for couples
- A private sunset cruise with dinner
- Couple’s spa treatment in a rainforest villa
- The Langkawi Sky Bridge for epic honeymoon selfies
- Dinner at The Pavilion (at The Datai) or Langkawi Kitchen (at the Ritz)
Read: Langkawi Travel Guide: Things to Do in Malaysia’s Most Popular Island Destination
Best resorts in Langkawi for couples
📍 The Datai Langkawi — Nestled in an ancient rainforest with direct access to a private beach, The Datai is legendary for its peaceful surroundings, world-class service, and sustainability efforts. Villas come with rainforest or sea views, and many have private pools. You will feel completely pampered yet deeply connected to nature.
👉 Perfect for: Nature lovers, wellness-focused couples, and privacy seekers.
📍Ambong Pool Villas — If you want a boutique feel with lots of privacy, Ambong Pool Villas is an excellent choice. Each villa comes with a private infinity pool and spectacular views of the Andaman Sea or forest canopy.
👉 Perfect for: Couples who want a more private romantic escape.
📍 The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi — For that ultra-lux honeymoon experience, the Ritz-Carlton has stunning overwater spa pavilions, a beachfront infinity pool, and villas that open up to the sea or rainforest.
👉 Perfect for: Sophisticated honeymooners looking for impeccable service and amenities.
2. Cameron Highlands – for a chilly romantic escape
If you’re looking for something a little cozier than tropical beaches, Cameron Highlands is the perfect romantic retreat. Located high in the mountains, the air here is cool and fresh — ideal for snuggling up over cups of tea and lazy afternoon walks through mossy forests.
The highlands are dotted with colonial-era buildings, English-style gardens, and endless tea plantations. It’s peaceful, slow-paced, and naturally romantic — just the thing if you and your partner want a quiet break surrounded by green hills.
- Best time to go: March to September
- Perfect for: Couples who love cold weather, English charm, and slow, peaceful days
Romantic things to do in Cameron Highlands
- Afternoon tea with scones overlooking the tea fields
- A dreamy stroll through the Mossy Forest
- Visiting the Boh Tea plantation
- Strawberry picking for two at a local farm
Read: Cameron Highlands Travel Guide & Things to Do in This Tea Region
Best hotels in Cameron Highlands for couples
📍 The Smokehouse Hotel & Restaurant — This charming English-style hotel is filled with old-world charm, with Tudor architecture, antique furniture, fireplaces, and romantic rose gardens. It’s perfect for couples who want something nostalgic and a little different.
👉 Perfect for: Vintage romance and afternoon tea lovers.
📍 Cameron Highlands Resort — Elegant and spacious with a colonial feel, this resort is one of the most luxurious in the area. The in-house spa and tea lounge make it extra special for honeymooners.
👉 Perfect for: Couples seeking refined luxury in a calm setting.
📍 Avillion Cameron Highlands — A modern option with apartment-style suites, ideal for couples who prefer space and a contemporary look. It’s close to town but still peaceful.
👉 Perfect for: Couples who want convenience and comfort.
3. Tioman Island – for off-the-grid romance
Tioman is a lesser-known gem perfect for couples who want to unplug and disappear into nature for a few days. It’s more rustic than Langkawi — there are fewer tourists, and more hidden waterfalls, coral reefs, and jungle trails.
Imagine waking up to the sound of waves, snorkeling with colorful fish, and having a candlelit dinner right on the sand. It’s laid-back and some parts are just remote enough to feel like your own secret island.
- Best time to go: March to October
- Perfect for: Nature lovers, adventurous couples, and digital detox getaways
Best things to do in Tioman for couples
- Snorkelling at Coral Island or Renggis Island
- A jungle trek to Asah Waterfall
- Watching the stars on a clear night
Best places to stay in Tioman for couples
📍 Japamala Resort by Samadhi — This eco-luxury boutique resort is built into the jungle, with villas and chalets hidden among the trees and perched over the sea. It’s secluded, peaceful, and designed with romance in mind.
👉 Perfect for: Honeymooners who want privacy and nature with a touch of luxury.
📍 Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort — Located at the foot of a mountain, this resort offers beachfront villas and spa services — ideal for relaxing after a day of diving or snorkeling.
👉 Perfect for: Couples who love the beach and wellness.
📍 Berjaya Tioman Resort — A full-service experience with great facilities like a pool, private beach, spa, fitness center, bicycles, and diving facilities.
👉 Perfect for: Couples who like to stay active.
4. Kuala Lumpur – For urban luxe and skyline views
If you’re a couple who loves city life, with plenty of dining options, luxury shopping, spa days, and skyline views, Kuala Lumpur can make a surprisingly romantic destination. It’s a great place to start or end your Malaysian honeymoon if you love a blend of culture, luxury, and nightlife all in one place.
By day, explore iconic landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers or take a day trip to Batu Caves. By night, enjoy rooftop cocktails, private spa suites, or even in-room bubble baths with KL Tower views.
- Best time to go: Year-round
- Perfect for: Foodie couples, luxury lovers, and city staycations
Best things to do in KL for couples
- Dinner with a view at one of the rooftop restaurants
- Couple’s spa day at a luxury hotel
- A private photoshoot around KL’s landmarks
Best hotels in KL for couples
The RuMa Hotel and Residences — Stylish, modern, and perfectly located near KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Center). Rooms are elegant and spacious, with stunning city views and top-notch service.
Perfect for: Sophisticated couples who want city luxury with personal touches.
Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur — Famous for its skyline views, rooftop bar, and romantic ambience. The in-room bathtub with a view is a favorite among honeymooners.
Perfect for: Couples seeking indulgent spa treatments and memorable nights.
EQ Hotel Kuala Lumpur — A stunning 5-star hotel with sleek design, panoramic views, and luxurious amenities. Its rooftop bar and infinity pool offer incredible photo ops, while its spa and fine-dining options complete the honeymoon vibe.
Perfect for: Honeymooners who want comfort, convenience, and skyline magic.
5. Perhentian Islands – For laid-back beach vibes
For a relaxed, no-frills kind of honeymoon, the Perhentian Islands are a dream. Located off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, these islands are known for clear waters, white sand, and incredible marine life.
They’re smaller and more low-key than Langkawi, but has gathered a loyal following with their rustic chalets, beachfront meals, and snorkeling right off the shore.
- Best time to go: March to October
- Perfect for: Low-key honeymooners, beach bums, and sea-loving couples
Best things to do in Perhentian for couples
- Snorkelling trips to Turtle Point and Shark Point
- Beach dinners with grilled seafood
- Watching the sunrise over crystal-clear water
Best places to stay in Perhentian for honeymoon
Bubu Villa, Perhentian Kecil — Just steps from the beach, these private villas are perfect for honeymooners looking for both privacy and comfort. Each villa is stylishly designed with its own outdoor bathroom, and some come with garden views or even partial sea views.
Perfect for: Couples who want a romantic and intimate beachfront escape.
Alunan Resort, Perhentian Kecil — This boutique hillside resort offers stunning ocean views and a focus on eco-friendly stays. Rooms have private terraces, perfect for couples.
Perfect for: Sustainable travel couples looking for peace and privacy.
Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa, Perhentian Besar — A brand-new addition to the islands, this is the first international hotel chain to open here, bringing upscale comfort, beautiful modern design, and top-tier service to the Perhentians.
Perfect for: Couples who want reliable luxury in a stunning natural setting.
6. Pangkor Laut – For private island romance
Pangkor Laut is a private island off the west coast of Perak, and it’s home to one resort only: the iconic Pangkor Laut Resort. That exclusivity alone makes it feel incredibly special — like the whole island is just for the two of you (and the other resort guests).
Surrounded by lush rainforest and calm waters, it’s quiet, intimate, and absolutely gorgeous. Celebrities have honeymooned here (Luciano Pavarotti has a suite named after him!), and once you see the place, you’ll understand why.
- Best time to go: March to October
- Perfect for: Luxury seekers, honeymooners who want exclusivity and seclusion.
Best things to do on Pangkor Laut for couples
- Couples’ massage at Spa Village (often included in honeymoon packages)
- A private candlelit dinner on Emerald Bay
- Jungle walk to explore the island’s wildlife
Where to stay on Pangkor Laut
Pangkor Laut Resort — With overwater villas, hilltop retreats, and spa pavilions surrounded by jungle, this is the ultimate honeymoon escape. Choose a Beach Villa for direct ocean views or the adult-only Spa Villa for direct access to the Spa Village.
7. George Town, Penang – For culture & cuisine
Not every honeymoon has to be about lying on a beach. If you and your partner love art, history, and amazing food, George Town is a unique and colorful choice. This UNESCO World Heritage city is packed with old-world charm, vibrant street art, and one of the best food scenes in Asia.
You can explore the narrow lanes together, sample dishes at hawker stalls, and stay in beautifully restored colonial buildings that feel like stepping into another time.
- Best time to go: November to March
- Perfect for: Foodie couples, heritage lovers, and slow, meaningful travel
Best things to do in George Town for couples
- Taking a street art tour together
- Joining a Penang cooking class as a couple
- Exploring Peranakan culture and mansions
Best hotels in George Town for couples
Seven Terraces — An elegant heritage boutique hotel housed in a row of 19th-century Anglo-Chinese townhouses. Rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated.
👉 Perfect for: Couples who love history and heritage charm.
The Edison George Town — A chic and stylish hotel in a restored colonial mansion, with complimentary wine hours and a pool courtyard.
👉 Perfect for: Couples who love thoughtful design and boutique stays.
Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion — Yes, you can stay at the famous Blue Mansion! This heritage home is now a hotel with a few exclusive rooms and a ton of character.
👉 Perfect for: Couples who want to stay in a literal piece of history.
8. Desaru – For stylish beachfront resorts without the crowd
Desaru is one of Malaysia’s up-and-coming luxury destinations, located just a short drive from Johor Bahru (and even accessible from Singapore). It’s got beautiful beaches, new five-star resorts, and a quieter atmosphere compared to Langkawi or Penang.
It’s goof for couples who want a stylish beach honeymoon without flying too far, or who are looking for a more contemporary, resort-style experience.
- Best time to go: March to October
- Perfect for: Luxury-loving couples, spa seekers, and Singapore-based honeymooners
Best things to do in Desaru for couples
- Sunset walks along Desaru Beach
- Couples’ spa packages with ocean views
- Day trip to nearby fruit farms or mangrove cruises
Best places to stay in Desaru for couples
The Sireya Desaru Coast — Nestled within 128 acres of rainforest, this resort showcases elegant tropical modernism by famed designer Kerry Hill. Villas and suites with plunge pools, multiple dining venues, a beach club, spa, fitness center, and tennis/padel courts make it a seriously romantic setting.
👉 Perfect for: Couples craving modern luxury immersed in nature.
Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas — Sleek and romantic, with beachfront villas and an excellent spa. The service is outstanding, and the vibe is both relaxed and refined.
👉 Perfect for: Couples looking for indulgent, modern comfort.
The Westin Desaru Coast — More affordable but still luxurious, with a great beachfront and wellness-focused amenities.
👉 Perfect for: Couples who want good value without sacrificing comfort.
9. Kundasang – For mountain views and cool air
If beaches aren’t your thing, Kundasang in Sabah offers fresh mountain air, peaceful farmland, and spectacular views of Mount Kinabalu. It’s often called the “New Zealand of Malaysia” for its rolling green hills and dairy farms.
Kundasang is especially lovely for nature-loving couples who want something off the beaten path. You won’t find luxury resorts here, but you will find beautiful wooden lodges, quiet mornings, and cozy nights under the stars.
- Best time to go: March to September
- Perfect for: Nature lovers, cool weather fans, and offbeat honeymooners
Best things to do in Kundasang for couples
- Visiting Desa Dairy Farm for “NZ vibes” and fresh milk
- Catching sunrise views of Mount Kinabalu
- Exploring nearby parks and flower gardens
Best places to stay in Kundasang for couples
Spring Garden — Located in a peaceful corner of Mesilau, surrounded by pine trees, flower beds, and views of the mountains. It’s quiet, beautifully maintained, and perfect for couples who want a garden setting with a touch of European charm.
👉 Perfect for: Couples who love floral landscapes and peaceful mornings.
Mountain Valley Resort — A scenic resort just outside Kundasang town, Mountain Valley offers spacious rooms and sweeping views of the valley below. It’s great for stargazing, relaxing, and enjoying the cool weather with your partner.
👉 Perfect for: Nature-loving couples looking for comfort and privacy.
Sutera Sanctuary Lodges at Kinabalu Park — Located inside Kinabalu Park itself (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), these lodges are ideal for couples who want to stay close to nature. Surrounded by forest and walking trails, it’s a peaceful and cool-weather retreat.
👉 Perfect for: Couples who enjoy hiking, wildlife, and eco-friendly getaways.
10. Semporna – For island-hopping and underwater adventures
Semporna is a paradise for couples who dream of clear turquoise waters, remote islands, and underwater adventures. Located in Sabah on the east coast of Malaysian Borneo, it’s the gateway to some of the best dive sites in the world, including the legendary Sipadan Island.
While the town itself is modest, the surrounding marine parks are simply breathtaking. Semporna is ideal for honeymooners who want something raw, beautiful, and totally unforgettable.
- Best time to go: March to October
- Perfect for: Adventurous couples, sea lovers, and those dreaming of a unique, tropical escape
Best things to do in Semporna for couples
- Island-hopping to Mataking, Bohey Dulang, and Sibuan
- Snorkelling or diving at Sipadan, one of the world’s top dive sites
- Watching the sunrise from your overwater villa
- A romantic beach picnic arranged by your resort
Best places to stay in Semporna for couples
Mabul Water Bungalows — A luxury overwater resort on Mabul Island, offering glass-floor villas, private balconies, and direct access to snorkeling and diving spots.
👉 Perfect for: Couples who want a dreamy overwater honeymoon experience.
Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort — Built entirely on stilts over the sea, this resort gives you Maldives vibes without the Maldives price tag. There’s no land at all, just crystal-clear waters and coral reefs.
👉 Perfect for: Couples who love marine life and unique settings.
Pom Pom Island Resort — A private island escape with beachfront and garden villas, plus a strong focus on conservation (they even have a turtle hatchery!). Quiet, romantic, and surrounded by blue.
👉 Perfect for: Eco-conscious honeymooners and island dreamers.
Final thoughts
A honeymoon is more than just a holiday. It’s the first adventure you share as a married couple. In Malaysia, that adventure can take the shape of serene island mornings, misty mountain afternoons, or evenings spent over incredible food in historic cities.
If one of these destinations has caught your eye, start planning now so you can make the most of the season, secure your preferred stays, and line up those special experiences that turn a trip into a story you’ll tell for years.
There’s more to explore here than a single article can cover. Take a look through the rest of the blog for in-depth destination guides, food recommendations worth travelling for, and travel tips that make exploring Malaysia smoother, easier, and far more memorable.
