Kerachut Beach Penang
Secluded beach in Penang National Park, accessible via a scenic jungle trek, home to a turtle sanctuary and unique meromictic lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Kerachut Beach Penang
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Secluded beach in Penang National Park, accessible via a scenic jungle trek, home to a turtle sanctuary and unique meromictic lake.
"The jungle trek to Turtle Beach was one of my highlights of my trip to Malaysia."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Slippery and muddy trails are common. Wear proper hiking shoes, not sandals!
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water. The heat and humidity can be intense during the trek.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jungle Trek to Kerachut Beach
Penang National Park
Embark on a rewarding 1.5-2 hour hike through lush rainforest to reach this secluded paradise.
Turtle Conservation & Information Centre
Kerachut Beach
Visit the sanctuary to learn about marine turtle conservation efforts and see resident turtles.
Meromictic Lake
Near Kerachut Beach
Witness a rare natural phenomenon where freshwater and saltwater layers don't mix.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trek Smart: Prepare for the Hike
Turtle Season & Boat Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Slippery and muddy trails are common. Wear proper hiking shoes, not sandals!
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water. The heat and humidity can be intense during the trek.
🚤 Boat Ride Option
Consider a boat back from Kerachut to save energy and time.
🚫 No Swimming Advisory
Be aware of jellyfish; swimming is generally not recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Slippery and muddy trails are common. Wear proper hiking shoes, not sandals!
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water. The heat and humidity can be intense during the trek.
🚤 Boat Ride Option
Consider a boat back from Kerachut to save energy and time.
🚫 No Swimming Advisory
Be aware of jellyfish; swimming is generally not recommended.
📝 Register at Entrance
Sign in at the Penang National Park entrance before starting your hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kerachut Beach is praised for its secluded beauty and the rewarding jungle trek to reach it. Visitors appreciate the conservation efforts at the turtle sanctuary and the unique meromictic lake. However, some find the park's entry fee steep for foreigners, and swimming is discouraged due to jellyfish.
"A nice beach but not a lot there. We trekked through the jungle then got a boat back with a stop off at monkey beach. There was one turtle at the sanctuary at the end of the beach, the man there said it wasn't quite turtle nesting season yet but there had been some females coming on the beach to lay. Sand was hot hot hot though to be warned! Trek here took us about 1.5/2 hours but we walked it slowly to take everything in."
Megan Danielle
"I had hiked all the way from the entrance of Penang National Park to here. The hike wasn't as difficult as I had imagined, and I was rewarded by this beautiful beach upon reaching the ending point. The signage leading to this location could be improved upon but since there were other hikers coming and going, I wasn't too worried about getting lost (I was hiking solo on a mid day). The beach was beautiful with soft, pale sand and the water was oh so blue. There are quite a number of bathers enjoying the sun! There is also a turtle sanctuary nearby but since this is not the season, I did not get to see any live hatchling. Still, it was somewhat educational perusing the exhibits there and reading what's written on the posters. The midday sun was so hot that my feet got burnt when I took off my sneakers to walk barefoot around the area 😀"
gevs
"Best beach on the island. But there is a forbidden to swim. There is a great number of jelly fish. But it doesn’t metter at least there is not much people so the beach will stay as beautiful as now."
Jéňa V
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Kerachut Beach is by hiking through Penang National Park. The trek starts from the park entrance and takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. You can also opt for a boat ride from the park entrance or Monkey Beach to Kerachut Beach, which is faster but costs extra.
Yes, you can take a public bus (Rapid Penang bus number 101) from George Town towards Teluk Bahang, which will take you close to the Penang National Park entrance.
The hike to Kerachut Beach from the Penang National Park entrance is approximately 7.6KM to 15KM round trip, depending on the exact trail taken and if you combine it with other areas. +1
Yes, there is parking available at the Penang National Park entrance. However, be prepared for potential crowds, especially on weekends.
The trail is generally straightforward, but signage can sometimes be improved. Following other hikers or using a GPS app can be helpful.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Penang National Park is free, but there's a conservation fee of RM 50 for foreigners and RM 10 for Malaysians to enter the park itself. Boat services are additional.
Penang National Park is typically open from 8 AM to 5 PM daily. It's best to check the official park hours before your visit.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for Kerachut Beach. You register at the park entrance, and any boat services can be arranged on the spot.
The main costs are the park conservation fee (for foreigners) and optional boat rides. The turtle sanctuary itself does not have a separate entrance fee.
While you can take a boat directly to Kerachut Beach, the most common way to access the Turtle Conservation Centre is via the hiking trail.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Kerachut Beach, you can visit the Turtle Conservation Centre, see the unique meromictic lake, relax on the beach, and enjoy the surrounding nature. Hiking to and from the beach is a major activity. +1
Swimming at Kerachut Beach is generally not recommended due to the presence of jellyfish. Visitors are advised to be cautious.
Besides turtles at the sanctuary, you might spot various birds, monkeys (especially near Monkey Beach), and other jungle creatures during your hike. +1
Basic facilities like restrooms are available near the Turtle Conservation Centre. It's advisable to bring your own supplies as amenities are limited.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at Kerachut Beach. Remember to bring your own food and drinks, and be sure to pack out all your trash to keep the beach clean.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or food stalls directly at Kerachut Beach. It's essential to bring your own food and drinks for your visit.
After your hike and visit, you can find food options in Teluk Bahang or head back towards Batu Ferringhi or George Town for a wider selection of restaurants.
The nearest food options are typically local Malay cuisine, seafood, and hawker fare found in Teluk Bahang or Batu Ferringhi.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the lush jungle trails, the serene beach, the unique meromictic lake, and the Turtle Conservation Centre. The natural beauty offers many picturesque opportunities. +1
Yes, if you're patient, you might capture images of birds, monkeys, and of course, turtles at the sanctuary. The diverse flora and fauna make it interesting.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Midday can be harsh due to the strong sun.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive beach and jungle scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Trek: A Journey Through Penang's Rainforest
Many visitors recommend registering at the Penang National Park entrance before embarking on the trek.
Conservation Efforts at the Turtle Sanctuary
Even outside of nesting season, the sanctuary often houses injured or rescued turtles that are undergoing rehabilitation.
Navigating Your Return: Boat vs. Hike
Taking a boat also opens up the possibility of combining your visit with a stop at Monkey Beach, another popular spot accessible by boat from the area.
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