Lonely Planet

Pulau Redang
One of the largest and most beautiful of the east-coast islands, Redang has, inevitably, been targeted by big developers, and there are few options for the independent traveller; nearly all visitors come on all-inclusive package deals.

Redang is one of  nine islands that  form a protected marine park, and it offers excellent diving and snorkelling. Silt and rubble from resort construction is said to have caused some coral damage, and there are ongoing problems with building waste, carelessly dumped on the beach. However, concerted efforts are being made to prevent further damage - even snorkelling is restricted to certain areas.

Of most interest to travellers are the beautiful bays on the eastern side of the island, including Teluk Dalam, Teluk Kalong and Pasir Panjang. The huge Berjaya Beach Resort and the airport are on the north shore and the island's main village is in the interior. There's also a small camp site near the park headquarters on nearby Pulau Pinang.

Note that Pulau Redang basically shuts down from 1 November to 1 March; the best time to visit is from mid-March to late September.

Pulau Lang Tengah
The small, idyllic island of Lang Tengah lies roughly halfway between Pulau Redang and Pulau Perhentian, and with only three resorts to choose from, it's a much quieter, less developed place than its better-known neighbours. It's a hidden gem, with soft white-sand beaches, clean turquoise waters and reputedly some of the best snorkelling in Malaysia just offshore. Like Redang, the resorts offer all-inclusive packages, as well as diving courses.

SLEEPING
Accommodation on Pulau Redang is best organised as a package in Kuala Terengganu; Ping Anchorage (Tel : 626 2020) sells packages for all the resorts listed at competitive prices. Note that package prices are per person, based on two sharing.