While Kuala Lumpur is known for its bustling city life with impressive architecture and stunning luxury malls, sometimes you just need to get away to sandy shores and turquoise waters, and get that much-needed R&R.

Luckily, the Malaysian coastlines offer some of the most beautiful beaches and for this list, we’re giving you six of the best beaches that are just under two hours away from Kuala Lumpur! On top of that, they all operate twenty-four hours a day and have no entrance fees.

Whether you’re craving a peaceful retreat or a fun seaside adventure with the whole family, these beach destinations promise the perfect coastal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Blue Lagoon Beach

Tanjung Biru (Blue Lagoon) got its nickname for its stunning emerald and deep blue waves, which makes it a great place to go snorkeling. The beach is a secluded bay at the base of Cape Rachado adjacent to Pantai Cermin, and is located along Port Dickson, a ten-mile coastline just an hour and a half drive from the city.

This small crescent-shaped beachfront boasts lush jungles (it’s close to Tanjung Tuan Forest Reserve), a well-maintained beach dotted with picnic spots, and calm waters ideal for water sports such as stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. If you’re looking for a chill beach destination where you can enjoy campfires, go banana boating with friends, or explore sand banks and crab holes with your kids, this is it.

Location: Tanjung Biru, Port Dickson 71050

Saujana Beach

Another favorite family spot and perfect for campers is Pantai Saujana which is situated along the fourth mile of Port Dickson. It has a wide and spacious coastline, which makes it a popular kite-flying spot.

The beach boasts a central location too, being nestled right next to a resort and the entrance opposite the Sunday Night Market. There are also various facilities such as playgrounds, changing rooms, gazebos, restrooms, and food market vendors, so it’s easy and convenient to spend a full day here.

Location: Negeri Sembilan, Port Dickson 71050

Morib Beach

Situated near the town of Klang, Pantai is only about an hour and fifteen minutes from Kuala Lumpur and is one of the closest beach destinations on this list, making it an ideal spot for day trips. Despite being popular among locals and tourists, it’s still quite comfortable and uncrowded, especially on weekdays. It’s a great place for a relaxing stroll along the shores with your loved ones or to simply lounge by the sands and enjoy a stunning sunset view.

The beachfront has a recreation park where guests can have picnics or go camping. There are also plenty of restaurants and food stalls in the area, as well as opportunities to participate in beach sports like volleyball, kite-flying, and golf at the Sri Morib Golf Club. The beach has ample parking spaces but take note that it can get crowded on weekends and holidays. There are also several resorts in the area, including Gold Coast Morib which has a water theme park.

Location: Morib Beach, Morib, Banting, Selangor 42700

Teluk Kemang Beach

As one of the largest and most popular beaches along Port Dickson, Teluk Kemang Beach is filled with swanky resorts with stunning waterfronts perfect for families and honeymooners. Due to its gorgeous beach and convenient amenities, it’s one of the more popular beach destinations so yes, it can get packed during the weekends or public holidays.

The beach is well-maintained and is lined with food stalls and restaurants selling local fares. You can enjoy your meal at one of the open huts, tables, and chairs which are available for rent twenty-four hours a day. There’s also a variety of recreational activities to try from windsurfing and jet skiing to parasailing. Whether you’re looking for a water adventure or a relaxing beach getaway, Teluk Kemang Beach has something for everyone.

Location: Jalan Pantai eight, Port Dickson 71050

Bagan Lalang Beach

This picturesque beach is home to several local and international resorts and hotels and is known for its “ikan bakar (barbecued fish)" sold at the beachfront food courts. Located in Sepang district, this beach is the closest to the capital and is only about an hour's drive from the city. It’s also only 30 kilometers away from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), so it’s also a great spot to pass the time while you wait for your flight.

Pantai Bagan Lalang offers a wide range of amenities such as designated swimming areas, restrooms, and beachside stalls. Several lifeguards can also be seen on duty along the coastlines for safety and visitors can participate in various fun activities like horseback riding and camping. The beach’s waves are also quite gentle here so it’s great for novice surfers and other water sports.

If you’re up for a little more adventure, you can also visit the nearby fishing village, Tanjung Sepat, twenty minutes away from the beach where you can experience some local culinary delights.

Location: Batu 3, Jalan Pantai, Kampung Bagan Pinang, Port Dickson 71000

Cahaya Negeri Beach

Also located near Port Dickson, Pantai Cahaya Negeri is known for its vast sandy shores, clear waters, and scenic views, making it an ideal spot for swimming or sunbathing. This beach houses a wide range of resorts and hotels to choose from and features an artificial cape with a recreational park lined with picnic gazebos, making it a hotspot for camping and barbecuing. The waves here are also great for water sports, fishing, and boating.

Its main highlight, however, is the small mangrove island called, “Pulau Burung,” connected to it via a long wooden bridge, which visitors can stroll through on foot during low tide. There’s also a boardwalk on the island that leads to a platform where you can go up a watchtower and witness a panoramic view of Port Dickson’s gorgeous coastline.

Location: Negeri Sembilan, Port Dickson 71050