Family
10 Best Family-Friendly Holiday Destinations To Take Your Kids Over In Malaysia 2023
Updated on 20-09-2023 by HappyPreggie
It can be challenging to decide where to bring your family for a vacation, especially if it's a short break and you aren't planning to travel far. Looking for something everyone will like can also be difficult, but luckily, there are many family-friendly holiday spots in Malaysia.
Malaysia has some of the most beautiful, cultural, and kid-friendly cities worth spending a weekend exploring. Whether it's time in the mountains, relaxing at the beach, or cycling around the city, there is a place your family will love. With plenty of hidden gems waiting for you to discover, keep reading to find out where you can plan a family-friendly holiday in Malaysia!
Travelling or going on a holiday can be an enlightening and eye-opening experience for your child. There are new foods, experiences, sights, and, not to forget, quality family time. But travelling with children can also be challenging and overwhelming - unpredictable schedules, long packing lists, and grumpy kids are just a few of the challenges you may face along the way. Here are some tips when travelling with kids:
Before you pick the destination, first ask what your family wants to do. Once you decide how to spend your time off, you can choose where to go. For example, if you want to go sightseeing, you will want to look for places with cultural or historical values. You will also want to ask for your child's opinion to make them feel included.
It is best to have no more than half a day of structured activity and sightseeing because your kids aren't going to have fun if the entire trip is a bunch of tours of museums and historical sites. Take the rest of the day easy - go on a walk at a park, splash around in a pool, or enjoy some relaxing time at the place you're staying.
You will want to look for accommodations that are accessible to places you want to visit and can fit your family size, big or small. Browse easier with sites like Booking.com, Agoda, and many more.
Even if you plan the holiday perfectly, you may still encounter a few bumps. Here's some of what you can do to prepare for the challenges:
You don't have to overpack no matter how many belongings you think your child would need. Learn to differentiate the important stuff from the 'might need' one. You can prepare a list in advance where you list all the essential items. Divide the things into different categories like clothing, toiletries, footwear, and other conveniences.
However old your child is, be sure to do pre-trip research on kid-friendly activities in your destination that you and your family can take advantage of. A little preparation will go a long way. If you have older children, you will want to let them choose one or two activities to do while on vacation so they will be more interested in seeing it through.
After all, you and your children should enjoy every moment of seeing the world and create a lifetime of memories along the way.
Top Family-Friendly Holiday Destinations in Malaysia
Known as a Historical City, Malacca is great for short trips as this vibrant coastal town has history, culture, food, nature, and indoor fun to explore. After sightseeing the cultural spots, you can reward your kids with a few hours at interactive places like Kidzoona or splash out at Melaka Wonderland Waterpark. If you or your child are a comic lover, you will want to visit the Shore Toy Museum.
Other attractions:
i. Cameron Highland
Other attractions:
ii. Genting Highland
Other attractions:
i. Kek Long Tong Cave Temples
Known as one of the gems in Ipoh, this temple sprawls across a large complex that covers 12 acres of land. It has been there for around 100 years and is an important place of worship in Ipoh. Inside the cave, you will find an amazing altar surrounded by Buddhist and Chinese deities. You will also find some pretty trails that take you past two glassy lakes. Your child will surely appreciate the beauty of this place.
ii. Lost World of Tambun Theme Park
This theme park is one of the biggest and best attractions in the area, and you will find a big complex with various exciting sections. Some of these sections include a tiger valley and a water park. If you love animals, you may want to visit the Lost World Petting Zoo or the Lost World Hot Springs. Not to forget the main theme park, which has a range of rides for all different age groups.
i. Langkawi
Perfect for a tropical island getaway, Langkawi has long been famous for family trips to Malaysia, ensuring your child will never have a dull moment here. Take your pick of resorts, from five-stars to rustic resorts, and let your child enjoy clean, safe beaches while you relax on the shore. Besides the beach, the famous glass-bottom Skycab cable car takes you on a thrilling ride over the jungle and mountain.
Other attractions:
#5 KLCC, Kuala Lumpur
i. Aquaria KLCC
Located right beneath the KL Convention Center, Aquaria KLCC is known as a world-class aquarium that showcases marine life and animals worldwide. This family-friendly facility is designed to take you on a journey of discovery while leading you through a series of different water landscapes - from the highlands and flooded jungles of Malaysia down to the Amazon basin, coral reefs, and the open ocean. You may also get to watch well-trained divers feed the fish and sharks underwater during the interactive feeding shows.
ii. Petrosains Discovery Center
Petrosains Discovery Center is an interactive science discovery centre dedicated to the field of petroleum science. Aiming to present science and technology in a fun and entertaining way, Petrosains provides a rich and stimulating environment to enhance your child's science literacy and passion for learning. Divided into 11 main interactive sections with themes that include everything from space age exhibits to fossils, it's easy to see why they're so popular, especially among kids.
i. Legoland
You don't have to be a kid to enjoy a trip to Legoland. While taking a trip to France may still be a distant dream, you can still have a taste of it in Legoland, Johor, where shophouses and decorations are designed to look like Parisian streets. With everything geared toward all-ages fun, it's an excellent choice for a longer family trip.
ii. Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street
(Image credits to iStock)
Malaysia has some of the most beautiful, cultural, and kid-friendly cities worth spending a weekend exploring. Whether it's time in the mountains, relaxing at the beach, or cycling around the city, there is a place your family will love. With plenty of hidden gems waiting for you to discover, keep reading to find out where you can plan a family-friendly holiday in Malaysia!
How To Travel With Children
Travelling or going on a holiday can be an enlightening and eye-opening experience for your child. There are new foods, experiences, sights, and, not to forget, quality family time. But travelling with children can also be challenging and overwhelming - unpredictable schedules, long packing lists, and grumpy kids are just a few of the challenges you may face along the way. Here are some tips when travelling with kids:
a. Interests First, Destination Second
Before you pick the destination, first ask what your family wants to do. Once you decide how to spend your time off, you can choose where to go. For example, if you want to go sightseeing, you will want to look for places with cultural or historical values. You will also want to ask for your child's opinion to make them feel included.
b. Plan an Itinerary and Choose Suitable Accommodations
It is best to have no more than half a day of structured activity and sightseeing because your kids aren't going to have fun if the entire trip is a bunch of tours of museums and historical sites. Take the rest of the day easy - go on a walk at a park, splash around in a pool, or enjoy some relaxing time at the place you're staying.
You will want to look for accommodations that are accessible to places you want to visit and can fit your family size, big or small. Browse easier with sites like Booking.com, Agoda, and many more.
c. Combat Common Challenges
Even if you plan the holiday perfectly, you may still encounter a few bumps. Here's some of what you can do to prepare for the challenges:
- If your kids are exhausted, don't force them to stay up all day hoping they'll crash come nighttime. A 30 minutes to one hour will help them feel better.
- Always travel with a first-aid kit, and bring it with you on board in case your child gets sick. You may also research beforehand which hospital is closest to where you're staying.
- Set rules about screen time on your vacation before you go on your trip to prevent them from being glued all day to the phone.
d. Pack Sufficiently
You don't have to overpack no matter how many belongings you think your child would need. Learn to differentiate the important stuff from the 'might need' one. You can prepare a list in advance where you list all the essential items. Divide the things into different categories like clothing, toiletries, footwear, and other conveniences.
e. Keep Your Kids Engaged
However old your child is, be sure to do pre-trip research on kid-friendly activities in your destination that you and your family can take advantage of. A little preparation will go a long way. If you have older children, you will want to let them choose one or two activities to do while on vacation so they will be more interested in seeing it through.
After all, you and your children should enjoy every moment of seeing the world and create a lifetime of memories along the way.
Top Family-Friendly Holiday Destinations in Malaysia
#1 Malacca City
(Image credits to OYO)
Known as a Historical City, Malacca is great for short trips as this vibrant coastal town has history, culture, food, nature, and indoor fun to explore. After sightseeing the cultural spots, you can reward your kids with a few hours at interactive places like Kidzoona or splash out at Melaka Wonderland Waterpark. If you or your child are a comic lover, you will want to visit the Shore Toy Museum.
Other attractions:
- A'Famosa
- Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum
- Menara Taming Sari
#2 Pahang
i. Cameron Highland
(Image credits to SGMYTAXI.com)
One of Malaysia's favourite highland destinations, this lush hill spot is perfect for relaxing, short trips to escape from the city heat and get your little one engaged with nature. Together, you can handpick and eat strawberries fresh off the farm and admire the blooming lavenders with ice cream. Then, for more adrenaline-spiking fun, there's Holiday Park, which has carnival rides to really wear them out.Other attractions:
- BOH Tea Plantations
- Mossy Forest
- Butterfly Farm
ii. Genting Highland
(Image credits to Mai Singgah)
If your family prefers a day of fun and excitement, Genting Highlands is the best destination place for you. It is famous for its indoor theme parks, winter wonderland, and other fantastic tourist spots. It is also a good destination if you want to treat your child to some fun after long days spent at school. For instance, you can go to the Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park, Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park, and BigTop Video Game Park.Other attractions:
- Awana Skyway Cable Car
- Ripley’s Adventure Land
- Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm
#3 Ipoh, Perak
i. Kek Long Tong Cave Temples
(Image credits to The Heartlander Tourist)
Known as one of the gems in Ipoh, this temple sprawls across a large complex that covers 12 acres of land. It has been there for around 100 years and is an important place of worship in Ipoh. Inside the cave, you will find an amazing altar surrounded by Buddhist and Chinese deities. You will also find some pretty trails that take you past two glassy lakes. Your child will surely appreciate the beauty of this place.
ii. Lost World of Tambun Theme Park
(Image credits to 5 Lost Together)
This theme park is one of the biggest and best attractions in the area, and you will find a big complex with various exciting sections. Some of these sections include a tiger valley and a water park. If you love animals, you may want to visit the Lost World Petting Zoo or the Lost World Hot Springs. Not to forget the main theme park, which has a range of rides for all different age groups.
#4 Kedah
i. Langkawi
(Image credits to TourScanner)
Perfect for a tropical island getaway, Langkawi has long been famous for family trips to Malaysia, ensuring your child will never have a dull moment here. Take your pick of resorts, from five-stars to rustic resorts, and let your child enjoy clean, safe beaches while you relax on the shore. Besides the beach, the famous glass-bottom Skycab cable car takes you on a thrilling ride over the jungle and mountain.
Other attractions:
- SkyBridge
- Telaga Tujuh Waterfall
- 3D Art in Paradise Langkawi
#5 KLCC, Kuala Lumpur
i. Aquaria KLCC
(Image credits to Tickets)
Located right beneath the KL Convention Center, Aquaria KLCC is known as a world-class aquarium that showcases marine life and animals worldwide. This family-friendly facility is designed to take you on a journey of discovery while leading you through a series of different water landscapes - from the highlands and flooded jungles of Malaysia down to the Amazon basin, coral reefs, and the open ocean. You may also get to watch well-trained divers feed the fish and sharks underwater during the interactive feeding shows.
ii. Petrosains Discovery Center
(Image credits to Tripadvisor)
Petrosains Discovery Center is an interactive science discovery centre dedicated to the field of petroleum science. Aiming to present science and technology in a fun and entertaining way, Petrosains provides a rich and stimulating environment to enhance your child's science literacy and passion for learning. Divided into 11 main interactive sections with themes that include everything from space age exhibits to fossils, it's easy to see why they're so popular, especially among kids.
#6 Johor
i. Legoland
(Image credits to KKday Blog)
You don't have to be a kid to enjoy a trip to Legoland. While taking a trip to France may still be a distant dream, you can still have a taste of it in Legoland, Johor, where shophouses and decorations are designed to look like Parisian streets. With everything geared toward all-ages fun, it's an excellent choice for a longer family trip.
ii. Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street
(Image credits to Sunway Hotel)
Located in the Old Town in JB, this historical street is named after one of the city's founding fathers. It is dotted with antique shops, boutique cafes, and restaurants ready to welcome you when you're hungry and looking for a place to escape the heat! #7 Putrajaya
i. Putra Mosque
(Image credits to Islamic Tourism Centre)
Putrajaya is home to many cultural sites, including some of the most beautiful mosques. Among these is the scenic Putra Mosque, the most distinctive landmark on the banks of Putrajaya Lake. The mosque is constructed in rose-tined granite, thus giving it its iconic desert-pink hue.ii. Putrajaya Wetlands Park
(Image credits to Next Escape)
This is Malaysia's first man-made freshwater wetland and the largest one yet. The Putrajaya Wetland Park is a popular eco-tourism spot and also now functions as a wildlife sanctuary. This huge park is perfect for a revitalising and relaxing nature walk if you're looking for a short daytime escape due to its beautiful terrestrial-aquatic environment, attracting various animals, including many different species of birds.
iii. Taman Botani
(Image credits to Travalour)
Taman Botani is one of the earliest parks to open in Putrajaya, and was inaugurated by Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad. Divided into eight botanical themes, namely: Malaysian Ulam and Medicinal, Bambusetum, Zingiberales, Edible Fruit Arboretum, Lawn and Gramineae, Forest Fringe and Aboriginal Medicinal Plants, Conservatory and Ecological Pond, this park was acknowledged as one of Asia’s Most Amazing Gardens by the Royal Chelsea Foundation at London’s Royal Chelsea Flower Show in 2008.
Besides the floral attractions with over 750 plants from different continents, the gardens also has an ethnobotany and conservation sector that plants crops and endangered wild plants for research and conservation purposes. Your child will not only enjoy the scenic view, but they can also learn many from visiting here!
#8 Selangor
i. Serendah
(Image credits to The Star)
At Serendah, you can enjoy the waterfalls with all the conveniences nearby, which is especially handy if you bring along your children or elderly parents for the trip. The parking facilities and the waterfalls are just a short walk away from the entrance, so you will not have to hike very far into the jungle. Besides taking a dip and cooling off in the water, this place is also excellent for a family picnic, where you can show off your outdoor cooking or barbecuing skills!
ii. Zoo Negara
(Image credits to The Star)
While there are many outdoor activities to do in Selangor, nothing beats the experience of visiting Zoo Negara with your whole family. Giant pandas, penguins, and orangutans are just some of the animals your child will get to see when you go here!
#9 Penang
i. ESCAPE Theme Park
(Image credits to Thrillophilia)
Home to the world's longest tube water slide that spans an incredible length of 1, 111m, the ESCAPE Theme Park definitely should be at the top of your to-go list if you're planning a Penang trip with your kids! The theme park offers over 30 thrilling activities, including ziplining, twisting water slides, challenging rope courses, rock climbing, refreshing pools, and more in just one space. Many rides and games are designed for various age groups, abilities, and energy levels, so you'll have as much fun here as your kids.
ii. Batu Ferringhi Beach
(Image credits to Airbnb)
Let your kids run around on the soft sand, fly some kites, build sandcastles, and try out various water spots at Batu Ferringhi! You can pack a mat and some snacks for a picnic to watch the sunsets, then head to the famous Night Market that's open past midnight. You can also consider booking your stay at a hotel by the beach if you love the beach and its waves!
iii. Kek Lok Si
(Image credits to Penang Foodie)
Located at Air Itam on a hillside offering fine views overlooking George Town is Kek Lok Si, one of the most well known attractions in Penang. The main attraction at this temple is the seven storey Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas, which was completed in 1930. The architecture of the pagoda is incorporated with Thai, Chinese and Burmese elements. You can also take your child to see the giant bronze statue of Kuan Yin (The Goddess of Mercy). At the same level, you can also visit the landscaped gardens with carp and tortoise ponds.
There are numerous shops scattered around the grounds selling souvenirs, gifts, refreshments and religious paraphernalia, so you and your child will certainly enjoy some sightseeing here!
#10 Sabah
i. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Sandakan
(Image credits to Wikipedia)
A family vacation to Kota Kinabalu with kids is not complete without a visit to an orangutan sanctuary. If your family are wildlife enthusiasts and love exploring new places, you certainly cannot miss the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. One of the best-known orangutan rehabilitation centres in the world, Sepilok is a sanctuary for injured, orphaned, or rescued orangutans, trained to survive in the forest; a learning process that can take years. Upon graduation, rehabilitated orangutans are released into the surrounding forest. Visitors can still get the chance to be close to the orangutans because many live in the nearby woods and return to the centre twice daily for feeding. Since opening, Sepilok has successfully released over one hundred orangutans into their natural forest habitat.
ii. Desa Cattle Dairy Farm, Kota Kinabalu
(Image credits to The Planet Rover)
The Desa Cattle Dairy Farm, located at the foothill of Mount Kinabalu, is also playfully known as the 'Little New Zealand' of Sabah. The cool air, foggy surroundings, and highland landscapes naturally make you feel like you're on an overseas trip. This place is an ideal destination for a family trip because there are many activities you can do together, such as feeding the calves with bottled milk, feeding the goats, observing how milk is processed, and an educational tour.
Here are a few more ways to spend quality family time and join educational activities with your children. Read our blogs on 10 Best Places to Bring Your Kids for Fun and Animal Kingdom for Kids: Exploring Malaysia's Best Mini Zoos for more recommendations.
While a trip outside the country is fun once in a while, nothing beats travelling locally. Not only does it help you contextualise your country's place in the world, but you will also be able to build a deeper and more meaningful connection with your homeland.
If you are planning to travel with a baby, you may need these gears to make your trip easier. Check out our blogs on Buying A Carrier For Your Baby? Here's Our Top 10 Baby Carrier Brands In 2022 and the 10 Best Baby Strollers In Malaysia May-2022.
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