Going on a Cherating trip and want to know all the best things to do in Cherating, Malaysia? We have you covered! Below you will find our guide to all the best attractions in Cherating to plan your ultimate trip.
Situated on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Cherating is a popular resort destination sitting right on the South China Sea. It’s around a three-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, and once you get here, you’ll realize it’s nothing like the city.
Stunning beachside hotels, fantastic dining and views that will take your breath away, all of that is waiting for you in Cherating. If you love the outdoors, this is the perfect place for you as there are numerous attractions for you to check out and enjoy. Whether you’re up for an active adventure, or you’re just yearning for a drink on the beach, this beach town has it all.
So, Cherating doesn’t just have to be a quick-stop destination on your way to another location. It has enough here to keep you from wanting to ever leave, believe us!
Below, you will find our Cherating travel blog with everything you need to know about the best places to visit in Cherating as well as the best places to stay for your ultimate holiday in Cherating!! There is also a handy map of what to do in Cherating Malaysia.
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Top 10 Things To Do In Cherating, Malaysia
Here are the best Cherating things to do. Read through and select the ones that fit your interests and timeframe.
Cruise Along Cherating River
The Cherating is a long river that snakes through the town and out into the South China Sea, and it’s one of the most popular Cherating tourist attractions. Search for wildlife that are hidden among the trees and on the riverbank while cruising along.
There are several companies that offer a boat and guide, and they’ll provide safety equipment including lifejackets so you can have that piece of mind that your family is safe while on this adventure.
It’s also one of the most exciting night activities in Cherating. As you travel downstream, you’ll gaze upward toward a beautiful starry night, and you can also look from side to side at the glowing fireflies.
The trip will take around 90 minutes, so plan accordingly!
Admire The Sunset In Cherating Beach
A lowkey activity to do during your time at the seaside town is to soak in the sunset while on Cherating Beach. There is no shortage of places to go as the beach is very long, making up a large part of the town’s coastline.
The beach is widely considered as the best place in Cherating, and watching the sunset from it will give you a memorable experience.
If you end up booking a hotel right on the beach, you can also do this activity nightly. And we promise you, it won’t get old! Also, why not have a beach picnic while admiring the Malaysian sunset?
Visit The Cherating Turtle Sanctuary
While holidaying in Cherating, what to do is a common question to ask yourself. Well, going to the Cherating Turtle Sanctuary is an absolute must-do.
It’s a turtle conservation centre that was put together by the Malaysian government to protect the native turtle species, which includes Hawksbill, Leatherback, Green and Olive-Ridley turtles.
If you travel to Cherating from April to September, you’ll be here for the egg-laying season. And from June to October, you can participate in releasing baby turtles into the South China Sea, a truly amazing experience.
Watch as tiny turtles emerge from the sand and instinctually walk toward the sea. And what’s super convenient is that the Cherating Turtle Sanctuary is located right on Cherating Beach, just north of the town’s centre. That means it’s an easy trip to one of the most interesting places in Cherating.
Address: Bukit Cherating, 26080 Balok, Pahang
Enjoy Surfing
If you’re looking for more Cherating Beach activities, surfing is also a top thing to do! It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned veteran or someone that has wanted to learn how to surf, Cherating Beach has something for everyone. Surf season, which is from October to March, attracts people from all over the world.
And even when the season is over, there are still small waves rolling into the beach. And if you’re a beginner, they are the perfect waves to learn on. Several companies will give you surf lessons as well.
But you don’t just have to surf here. You can also rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for one of your Cherating, Malaysia, things to do. Whether you try out yoga on a paddleboard, battle the waves on a sea kayak or ride the waves on a surfboard, you’ll go back to your hotel tired and fulfilled.
Go Firefly Watching
Cherating is known for being a home for fireflies, and they act as one of the most sought after things to do in Cherating, Pahang. Now, of course, fireflies are meant to be watched at night because of their magnificent glow.
You can view them from several areas in Cherating, and as mentioned, cruising down the Cherating River is one of the best ways to see them. But it doesn’t just have to be a part of your Cherating River activities. Kuantan, Pahang, is full of fireflies and you may just see them while you’re out and about.
Remember, be respectful of the fireflies, so don’t try and touch them or grab them. Appreciating their beauty from afar is what it’s all about!
Taste The Local Food
One of the best things about travelling abroad, or visiting different places in general, is feasting on the local cuisine. And eating traditional Malaysian cuisine while in Cherating is no exception.
There are numerous restaurants in the beachside town serving up food, ranging from fresh seafood to mee goreng mamak. Two of the best restaurants in Cherating are Don’t Tell Mama and Instant Seafood Restaurant, but we promise there are way more must-try dining establishments than that.
And what’s great about eating in this country is that it’s relatively cheap compared to other holiday destinations around the world.
Drink And Dine At Cherating Beach Bar
Drinking a holiday cocktail while on a beach? Now that’s what life’s all about! When considering what to do in Cherating, Kuantan, checking out a beach bar is highly recommended. There are numerous establishments along the South China Sea, including the Eco Beach Bar, BIZ BEACH CLUB and the Beach Garden Cherating.
It’s a lowkey thing to do and while you relax, you can come up with a list of attraction places in Cherating you want to go to that day or the next. Or, just sit back and relax while taking in the view.
And you don’t just have to drink. Try out local cuisine while at a beach bar, or enjoy international food. There are options for everybody in Cherating.
Address: Kampung Cherating Lama 26080 Kampong Cherating
Learn Traditional Arts And Crafts At Kompleks Kraftangan Kuantan
One of the best parts about travelling to another country, especially when the culture is very unique like Malaysia, is that you can learn a lot. And you can also pick up a new skill like making traditional arts and crafts.
Kompleks Kraftangan Kuantan is a place of interest in Cherating, located right in the village and is a business where you can see how some Malaysian things are made, including wood carvings, kites and pottery. It offers classes for tourists to take to learn some arts and crafts as well, including batik painting.
This is truly one of the best things to do in Cherating, Kuantan, as you can take home a souvenir that you made yourself, putting an exclamation mark on your holiday.
Address: Lot 30850, Jalan Pintasan Kuantan – Kuala Terengganu, Kampung Pandan II, Pahang Darul Makmur, 26070 Kuantan
Camp In Lagoona Resort Cherating
A fantastic Cherating place to visit is the Lagoona Resort Cherating. Sitting right on the Cherating River, it’s the home of several outdoor activities. If you feel like adventuring, this is the place for you to go.
This Cherating, Kuantan, attraction offers things like jungle trekking, ATVing, archery and kite flying if you want to stay dry. And there are also a bevy of water activities to do as well, including jet-skiing, river cruising and swimming.
You’ll also be accompanied by a highly experienced trainer, so you’ll have the peace of mind that your family will remain safe while having a blast.
Address: KM43, Jln Kuantan – Kemaman, Cherating, 26080 Kuantan, Pahang
Relax At Club Med Cherating
If you’re wanting to know what to do in Cherating Beach, then we’re excited to tell you about Club Med Cherating. Sitting on 85 acres of land, this accommodation virtually has everything to do. Whether you want to explore the jungle, hang out on the beach, take a dip in an outdoor swimming pool or play a round of golf, you’ll have all of your needs served here. And that’s just the start of activities at Club Med.
If you just want to relax, that is definitely something you can do at this location. Visiting this beachside property is truly one of the best things to do in Cherating Beach.
We’ve actually written a full review of the accommodation as well, which includes room types and a comprehensive list of activities.
Address: Hvom 29th miles Jalan Kuantan – Kemaman Pahang Darul Makmur, Jalan Kuantan Sungai Lembing, 26080 Kuantan, Pahang
And you can read our full Club Med Cherating review here.
Fun Things To Do At Cherating Map
Best Place To Stay In Cherating
When it comes to where to stay in Cherating, there are some great options close to the beach and nearby. No matter what your budget, your holiday style or who you are travelling with, you’ll easily find a great place to stay.
Below I’ve listed a few different places to consider including a budget, mid-range and more expensive option.
BEST – The Kasturi Review
The best option for you to consider as a Cherating accommodation is The Kasturi, a small, luxurious resort that sits beachside at Cherating Beach. Nearly all of the 23 units are right on the beach, and you can choose from rooms ranging from a rooftop penthouse suite, to a corner studio.
No matter which room you choose, you’ll have air conditioning and WiFi to utilize, as well as a private bathroom, coffee and tea making facilities, a minibar and a TV.
If you don’t feel like hopping into the sea, you can relax in the property’s outdoor pool. There’s also a fitness centre here and a spa.
Now, The Kasturi is one of the most expensive options in Cherating, but you definitely get what you pay for. But maybe the best perk of this hotel is that almost all of the villas have a private pool and verandah, making it an absolute oasis and perfect home away from home.
Click here for the latest prices.
MID-RANGE – Royale Chulan Cherating Chalet Review
The Royale Chulan Cherating Chalet is another prime option for you to consider staying at during your stay in Malaysia. Located right in town, it’s steps away from the beach, as well as plenty of food and shopping options right in Cherating.
As given away in the name of the resort, this property offers either one or two-bed chalets. But whichever you choose, you’ll have a minibar, private bathroom, a TV and air conditioning to keep you comfortable.
WiFi is supplied by The Royale Chulan Cherating Chalet and parking here is free. And if you’re hoping to hop on a bicycle to explore the beachside tourist town, you can rent one from this accommodation for an extra fee.
Lastly, a breakfast is offered every morning to guests, so you won’t have to worry about trying to find a bite to eat to energise yourself for a day of adventuring.
And it’s important to note that you don’t want to get this property confused with the Royale Chulan Cherating Villa, which is a different property that is considerably more expensive.
Click here for the latest prices.
BUDGET – Casa Titik Review
If you wish to save as much money as possible on accommodation, but don’t want to sacrifice comfort, then Casa Titik is the place for you. The rooms aren’t the most luxurious at this beachfront property. However, they have what you need, including air conditioning, a balcony and a private bathroom.
You’ll have the choice to reserve either a standard or deluxe-size room, or a suite. Adults and children have their own pool to use at Casa Titik, and you’re right on the South China Sea if you’d like to swim in that instead.
Parking is free and situated right on the property, and there’s WiFi here as well. There’s no food options at the hotel, but you’re within walking distance of several restaurants.
So, if holding onto as much cash as possible is the name of the game then the Casa Titik is a no-brainer option. You can still enjoy everything Cherating has to offer while having a comfortable headquarters.
Click here for the latest prices.
Click here to see all our recommendations for the best hotels in Cherating.
How To Get To Cherating
It’s easy to get to Cherating by bus or car. If you have your own car, great! You are good to go.
If you need to take a bus, click here for the latest timetables and bus prices.
You can also hire a car to get you there by clicking here.
The easiest way is to take a private taxi from anywhere in peninsula Malaysia. We can book a taxi for you with a safe and trustworthy local operator.
Click here for more details and prices.
The closest airport is in Kuantan, and you can fly there and then get a taxi to Cherating.
Click here to see the latest flight prices.
Cherating With Kids
If you’re worried that there won’t be much for your children to do while in Cherating, don’t fret. There are a ton of activities that are family-friendly and kid-centric, including many of the things on our top-10 list.
They’ll definitely enjoy taking a cruise down the Cherating River, and as mentioned earlier, there are lifejackets for your children to wear while on the boat.
The Cherating Turtle Sanctuary is another great option for a family to visit, as it’s not only something beautiful to witness, it’s also very educational and your children will likely take home some new knowledge about different turtle species. Heck, you’ll probably learn something new too!
If you decide that you want to check out Club Med Cherating, the property has a kids club for children of all ages which includes dining and activities.
And speaking about dining, you’ll broaden your kids’ horizons by having them eat traditional and local Malaysian cuisine, developing their pallets at a young age.
Final Words
After reading this Cherating travel blog, I hope you’ve become even more excited about the prospect of travelling to this beachfront tourist destination. As I’ve outlined, there are numerous things here to keep you entertained and occupied, while learning new skills and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether it’s cruising down the Cherating River while gazing at stunning fireflies, or jungle trekking at Club Med, Cherating is a must-see place when you’re on Peninsular Malaysia.
And what’s great about it is that it doesn’t matter if you’re travelling solo, with your significant other, or you’re with your family or friends, there’s something for everyone here. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Cherating today!
You can also find all the best hotels in Cherating here or read more Cherating guides here.
Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!
