If you’re looking for a relaxing beach break in Malaysia, Port Dickson is the ideal choice. Just an hour’s journey from Kuala Lumpur this coastal town is a popular retreat for city-dwellers wanting to escape the hustle and bustle for a few days. With sandy beaches, historical landmarks, tropical rainforests and wildlife reserves, there’s plenty to see and do.
For more in-depth information about the town and surrounding area, check out Expedia’s travel guide
. In the meantime, here’s how you can spend 48 hours in Port Dickson.
Beaches
If there’s one thing Port Dickson is known for, it’s flawless beaches. One of the best of the bunch is The Blue Lagoon, which is a popular spot for families thanks to its lush tropical scenery and secluded bay. Due to its close proximity to the Cape Rachado forest reserve
it’s also a great place to spot wildlife, including birds and monkeys. Another of the area’s top beaches is Pantai Cahaya Negeri with its powder-soft sands, clear waters and peaceful ambiance.
For more thrilling activities head to Sri Purnama and Teluk Kemang, where you’ll find a range of water sports including banana boats, jet skis, kayaks and windsurfing. These beaches also offer useful amenities and a variety of places to eat.
Nature and wildlife
Aside from alluring shorelines, Port Dickson offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities. A major attraction is Cape Rachado reserve, located just a short journey south of the town. Nature-lovers will adore exploring the unspoilt forest landscape, with mangrove swamps and hidden bays waiting to be discovered. The famous 16th century Cape Rachado lighthouse
can be found perched on a hill surrounded by woodland, offering fantastic views and bird-watching opportunities.
Port Dickson Ostrich Farm is also fun family activity if you have a few hours to spare, with the chance to get up close and hand-feed these magnificent birds. Alternatively, there’s a small aquarium in the northern part of Teluk Kemang beach which houses an array of marine life.
History and culture
If it’s interesting architecture you’re after you can’t miss the colourful and elaborately-decorated Wan Loong Chinese Temple, which sits proudly on the main coastal road. Fort Tempus, located east of Cape Rachado, is also well worth a visit to see the ancient Islamic tomb and megaliths.
There’s a variety of interesting museums in the area too, including the Army Museum
and the Lukut Museum and Fort. For something a little bit different grab your camera and head to one of area’s quirky art galleries to pose with the 3D paintings and mind-boggling optical illusions.
Shopping
For those who want to indulge in some retail therapy, Port Dickson won’t disappoint. Regina Mall is the area’s main shopping centre and one of the largest outside of Kuala Lumpur
. It offers a variety of stores and boutiques, as well as a bowling alley and selection of restaurants.
If you want to bag yourself a bargain, there’s a vibrant night market that takes place every first Saturday of the month in the town centre, known locally as Souvenir Sanctuary. You’ll also find plenty of stalls dotted along Teluk Kemang beach selling a range of locally-made goods and tasty snacks.
Where to stay
Port Dickson is known for its luxury hotels set in scenic tropical gardens, perched on cliffs and on stilts over the water. Here you can enjoy first-class facilities such as spas and wellness centres, private beaches and on-site bars where you can unwind after a long day of activities. If you’re on a budget, there’s a selection of affordable guest houses and self-catering apartments along the coastline too.
Another option is camping. What better way to immerse yourself in nature than pitching camp in a forest and wildlife reserve? You’ll only be able to stay for one night though, so be sure to make the most of your time.