Kapas Turtle Valley

Top choice in Peninsular Malaysia's Northeast


Hidden in a rocky nook on the island’s southern end, Kapas Turtle Valley has eight bungalows – all furnished with colourful local batik – and sits above a white-sand beach that's perfect for swimming, lounging and snorkelling. There’s an excellent on-site restaurant with a daily-changing menu, cold beer, wine and good coffee. Dutch expat hosts Peter and Sylvia are very welcoming.

Kayaks and snorkelling gear are free for guests. Meals cost extra – expect to pay around RM30 to RM45.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Peninsular Malaysia's Northeast attractions

1. Masjid Tengku Tengah Zaharah

8.05 MILES

The most famous religious structure in the state is the Floating Mosque, located 4.5km southeast of Kuala Terengganu. It’s not really floating, just set…

2. Cultural Centre Stage

10.61 MILES

Across the road from Pantai Batu Buruk, the main beach, is the Cultural Centre Stage; check with the Tourist Information Office to see if any shows are…

3. Pantai Batu Buruk

10.96 MILES

This city beach is popular with families; children will enjoy flying kites here. However, it’s not the best beach in Malaysia given the strong winds and…

4. Zainal Abidin Mosque

12.04 MILES

The gleaming Zainal Abidin mosque dominates the city centre. The interior is relatively austere, but enlivened by sunlight streaming through nine domes…

5. Sultan Mahmud Bridge

12.11 MILES

This landmark bridge was under construction at the time of research. It's due to be completed in 2019.

6. Istana Maziah

12.13 MILES

On the eastern flank of the hill near the Central Market is the sultan’s palace. It’s built in colonial-era style, but renovations have given the…

7. Bukit Puteri

12.17 MILES

Across the road from the Central Market, look for an escalator and steep flight of steps leading up to Bukit Puteri, a 200m-high hill with good views of…

8. Turtle Alley

12.19 MILES

This Chinatown alleyway is covered with attractive mosaics and metal plaques about Kuala Terengganu's endangered turtles.