6 Hotels & Resorts In Malaysia That Feel Like A Holiday Abroad
Get a taste of an overseas escape without the passport stamp.
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1. The St. Regis Langkawi, Kedah

With its beachfront setting along the Andaman Sea, The St. Regis Langkawi offers the kind of tropical luxury usually associated with an overseas island escape. The resort features elegant suites and overwater villas, with some offering private pools and views of the sea.
Guests can also enjoy the infinity pool, spa, and beachfront facilities, making it easy to spend an entire holiday at the resort.
Book your stay here: Skyscanner | Agoda | Trip.com | Traveloka | Klook
2. Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, Johor

Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas combines a beachfront location with lush gardens, private villas, and tropical surroundings that could easily pass for a Southeast Asian island getaway.
Families can choose from spacious rooms, villas, and residences, with some featuring private plunge pools. There are also kids' and teens' clubs, making it a good option for a family holiday.
Book your stay here: Skyscanner | Agoda | Traveloka | Klook | Trip.com
3. Pangkor Laut Resort, Perak

Want the private-island experience without flying overseas? Pangkor Laut Resort sits on its own private island off the coast of Perak, surrounded by rainforest and clear waters.
Accommodation ranges from rainforest and beach villas to overwater Sea Villas, while the resort also offers pools, dining, and nature experiences. The short boat transfer to the island adds to the feeling of being somewhere far away.
Book your stay here: Agoda | Traveloka | Klook | Trip.com | Skyscanner
4. Borneo Beach Villas & Suites, Sabah

For a more private tropical escape, Borneo Beach Villas & Suites sits along the Karambunai coastline near Kota Kinabalu. Its spacious villas offer a more secluded alternative to a typical hotel room, with some units featuring private pools and direct beach access.
The combination of beachfront views, villa-style accommodation, and Sabah's natural surroundings makes it a good pick for a slower island-style getaway.
Book your stay here: Traveloka| Agoda | Trip.com | Klook | Skyscanner
5. Cameron Highlands Resort, Pahang

For an overseas-style holiday that does not involve beaches, Cameron Highlands Resort offers a charming countryside escape inspired by British colonial architecture. Think cool weather, rolling hills, wood-panelled interiors, and afternoon tea.
The resort also offers tea-related experiences and is close to Cameron Highlands' famous tea plantations and farms, making it ideal for a slower-paced weekend away.
Book your stay here: Trip.com | Traveloka | Skyscanner | Klook | Agoda
6. Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai, Sabah

Set along a long stretch of beach near Kota Kinabalu, Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai has the feel of a sprawling tropical destination resort. Its coastal location, landscaped grounds, and range of leisure facilities give guests plenty of reasons to stay on the property.
It is a good option for families and couples who want a proper resort holiday in Sabah, while still being close enough to Kota Kinabalu for a day trip.
Book your stay here: Trip.com | Skyscanner | Agoda | Klook | Traveloka
