It’s Time To Swap City Lights For Ocean Sights. Splash Your Way Into Exciting Adventures With These Thrilling Water Sports In Malaysia!
If there’s one thing most of us can agree on, it’s that even the most adventurous thrill-seekers amongst us have beef with Malaysia’s stifling humidity. So what is one to do when this is our tropical country’s natural climate? I mean…we can’t exactly change the weather.
Some of us may embark into the world of jungle trekking and hiking. But for those of us who aren’t fans of bugs, green-dwelling creepy crawlies, and are simply not keen on the idea of giving our knees a stress-test, we dip into the exciting world of water sports.
The very same tropical climate that keeps us indoors huddled up in air-conditioned rooms year round is also what makes Malaysia the perfect destination for exciting water sports with our pristine beaches, stunning Malay islands, and abundance of calm rivers.
Malaysia is home to adrenaline-pumping types of water sports and relaxing, leisurely ones that even couch potatoes are willing to leave home for. From zipping across the coastline on a speedy jet ski to abseiling down rushing waterfalls and reef spotting in crystal clear waters, there’s definitely something for everyone in the vast list of water sports in Malaysia.
So clear your calendar and start planning your next aquatic escape, because we’re going to embark on epic adventures through the waters of Malaysia!
11 Types Of Exciting Water Sports In Malaysia For Thrilling & Memorable Aquatic Adventures
1. Jet Skiing
Imagine zipping across distances on a high speed motorbike, but instead you’re doing it over water with the ocean as your horizon. That’s the thrill and beauty of jet skiing, a water sport that involves riding a jet-propelled personal watercraft (PWC).
Fun Fact: Did you know that “jet ski” is actually the brand name of a personal watercraft developed by Kawasaki? The brand eventually became synonymous with the sport that most simply refer to this particular water sport as “jet skiing” to this date!
Jet skis can typically accommodate up to three, but the more comfortable amount is to have no more than two on board at a time for a comfortable open water adventure. The very mobility of this sport also makes it an exciting way to explore coastal areas.
The best part about jet skiing is how accessible it is in Malaysia. Almost any state with a sandy beach in Malaysia offers it. Some of the most popular ones for jet skiing are the beaches in Langkawi island, Penang island’s Batu Ferringhi and Tanjung Bungah beaches, Port Dickson, and Kuantan’s Cherating Beach and Teluk Cempedak Beach along Malaysia's East Coast.
Thankfully you don’t need to do any serious preparation before jet skiing. Just make sure to show up in quick-dry clothing or comfortable swimwear, have SPF 50++ applied to protect against UV rays, and cash on hand as most jet ski operators typically accept cash or QR pay over credit card. You may also want to bring sunglasses or polarised goggles to protect against the glare of the sun for a more comfortable jet skiing experience.
2. White Water Rafting
White water rafting is one of the most exciting yet scary-looking water sports in Malaysia. While it looks a little intimidating to the uninitiated, it’s actually not as you’ll be navigating through a river together with a team and a skilled team leader on an inflatable raft while wearing protective gear.
This water sport sees you navigating through various degrees of water rapids, which are classified from Grade 1 being very easy, all the way to Grade 5 which is the most challenging one. It’s an incredibly thrilling activity that combines teamwork, physical endurance, core strength, while encouraging love for the great outdoors as you paddle through rushing rivers.
White water rafting is not as easily accessible compared to most water sports in Malaysia as there is one very specific condition needed to carry out this activity; a flowing river.
Some of the more popular and well established places in Malaysia where beginners to advanced rafters can go white water rafting safely include Gopeng’s Sungai Kampar in Perak, Sungai Selangor at Kuala Kubu Bharu in Selangor, and the Slim River in Perak.
These places offer rapids between Grades 1 to 4 along with experienced guides to lead and help you navigate through for a truly enjoyable experience. Bookings to participate in this water sport are typically made with the on-site white water rafting operators or through any of the local resorts in the area.
All you have to prepare for your white water rafting adventure are quick-drying clothes, comfortable water shoes that fit securely, or sandals with straps, a change of clothes and a towel, SPF 50++ sunscreen applied, some snacks, a plastic bag to keep your wet clothes after, and a bottle of your favourite thirst quencher in the Montigo Ace Bottle to stay hydrated.
3. Scuba Diving
Love the idea of swimming with fishes and getting up and close to majestic corals underwater? Then you’ll want to give scuba diving a try! Scuba diving is an underwater activity where divers use self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) to explore the underwater surface.
Divers get up and close to marine life going about their lives, stunning coral reefs, gorgeous underwater landscapes, and ancient wreckages that are only visible to those brave enough to venture beneath the water’s surface.
Scuba diving is both a recreational and technical sport in how you must be certified by a recognised agency such as PADI, SSI, or NAUI to dive independently. Whereas beginners without certification can participate only under the direct supervision of a certified instructor, after undergoing a basic theory lesson and shallow dive test.
There are limited places where one can partake in scuba diving due to safety reasons and conservation efforts. These places include the stunning Sipadan Island in Sabah, which is renowned for its crystalline waters and rich biodiversity, the Perhentian islands – great for beginner divers seeking to earn a certificate, Redang island, Tioman island, and Mabul island, known as the gem of Borneo’s underwater world. That said, there are more places but these are some of the more popular ones amongst Malaysians.
Some things you ought to prepare before embarking on a diving trip to these islands are your certification card and logbook for those who have a diving certificate, your wetsuit, diving equipment or some cash on hand to rent them, a waterproof bag, motion sickness medication, an underwater camera for those who want to capture their underwater moments, and your accommodation booked.
Do ensure to allocate at least a minimum of 24 hours after your dive to decompress, especially if you arrived at the diving location via flight. This safely prevents you from falling ill with decompression sickness commonly known as “the bends”, where nitrogen bubbles form in your bloodstream due to the rapid decrease in pressure if you ascend too quickly. Some of the milder side effects of the bends include vomiting, nausea, ruptured eardrums, and hearing loss.
4. Banana Boat Rides
Banana boat rides are a fun group activity that even families with young children can partake in. Participants basically sit on an inflatable banana-shaped boat that is towed by a speedy motorboat. Riders will then be in for sharp turns and thrilling sudden accelerations as they try to hold on to the banana boat without falling into the water.
The best part about banana boats is how accessible it is as most beaches that offer jet skiing almost always offer banana boat rides too. Think popular beaches like Pantai Cenang in Langkawi, Batu Ferringhi Beach on Penang island, and Desaru Coast in Johor.
All you need to prepare for a banana boat ride are comfortable swimwear or quick-dry clothing, sunglasses or polarised goggles to protect your eyes and avoid losing them in the sea, and strappy sandals over flip-flops for a more comfortable time in the boat, and to also avoid losing it should the boat capsize.
You’ll also be given an inflatable life vest to wear before getting on the boat so make sure that’s strapped on properly for your safety and peace of mind before embarking on your aquatic adventure!
5. Snorkeling
Those who aren’t confident to embark on a scuba diving adventure but dream of exploring the wonders beneath the sea can always opt to give snorkelling a try! Snorkeling is a popular and accessible water activity in Malaysia that involves swimming just below the water’s surface while wearing a diving mask, a snorkel tube, and swim fins.
Snorkelers are in for a treat as they observe underwater marine life and coral reefs without complex equipment or the technical know-hows required by scuba divers. It’s fantastic for those looking to dip their toes into an underwater sport before fully committing to the full scuba diving experience.
Snorkeling is mostly available in islands such as the Perhentian and Redang islands in Terengganu, Tioman island in Pahang, the Pulau Payar Marine Park near Langkawi, and the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and Sipadan island in Sabah.
You don’t need any certification to go snorkeling, nor do you need to prepare special gear as life jackets and snorkeling gear are typically available for rent at most snorkeling locations if you don’t have your own. Just come prepared with a rash guard to protect against sunburn and jellyfish stings, some snacks and water, along with some cash on hand to grab a quick bite after your snorkeling activities as you will get hungry!
6. Wakeboarding
Wakeboarding isn’t exactly a new sport, but it’s only become more known in recent years thanks to its growing accessibility. Wakeboarding is an exciting water sport that combines the elements of water skiing, skateboarding, sailing, and surfing, all into one thrilling activity.
Participants will have their feet attached to the wakeboard (a short board with foot bindings) as they grab hold of a cable – be it attached to a cable system or a motorboat – and be prepared for a thrilling ride as the motorboat tows you across the water.
The speed of the tow creates waves that the rider can ride, much like surfing, or perform jumps, flips, and other tricks that involve balance and coordination. Which is why it’s best to mentally prepare yourself to channel your upper body strength for the ride as you hold on tightly to the cable’s handle.
Even so, it is still one of the more beginner-friendly water activities in Malaysia that one can partake in, no matter beginner or advanced rider. Wakeboarding is now offered at the Putrajaya Lake, the Mines Resort City at Selangor, and Prima Lake at Puchong in Selangor, so pick your nearest spot and plan a day to head over for a thrilling ride across the lake!
While you don’t need any certification to enjoy this sport, I highly recommend taking at least an hour to two of lessons from qualified instructors to get a hang of proper techniques and safety practices. This can make a world of difference in your first wakeboarding experience, which is why you’ll want to start on the right foot.
7. Surfing
Surfing is perhaps one of the coolest water sports that many aspire to take up. You’ll probably see influencers making occasional trips to Bali or Phuket to catch some waves, but did you know that you can also enjoy surfing in Malaysia?
Surfing is a dynamic water sport where an individual rides a wave while standing on a surfboard. It’s a real test of balance, skill, and patience. Patience because you’ll have to wait for suitable waves to form before using your board to glide on it towards the shore. These waves can range from beginner-friendly small waves to challenging big waves for the more experienced surfers.
You don’t need formal certifications to surf in Malaysia, but it is definitely crucial to take some lessons from experienced surfers to learn basic techniques. This keeps you safe as you’ll be at a significant distance from the shore while ensuring you make the most out of your time surfing.
Some of the most popular and favoured surfing spots for locals are the Cherating beach at Pahang, the beach at Terengganu’s Kijal township, Desaru in Johor, and Tanjung Simpang Mengayau in Sabah which is known for its less crowded waves.
Don’t worry if you don’t currently own a surfboard as you can easily rent one at any of the beaches that offer surfing. Just come prepared with a wetsuit or swimwear on (I’d recommend a wetsuit for more comfort and protection against the sun), a towel and change of clothes, and sandals for an easier time walking on the beach after you are done surfing.
8. Kayaking
Some of you may have seen a boat full of people rowing in tandem across lakes, rivers, and even in the ocean. What you’ve seen is likely kayaking, which is a water sport that involves paddling a small, narrow watercraft known as a kayak (please don’t call it a boat!) using a double-bladed paddle.
It’s often done on calm lakes and sometimes the open sea, less so in rivers as that usually tends to fall into the territory of white water rafting. But the beauty of doing it on calmer waters allows you to explore the surrounding scenery, go island hopping, observe wildlife, and enjoy a peaceful moment in nature alongside other like-minded kayakers or solo!
This versatile water sport can be done solo or in tandem at the following locations; the Kilim Mangrove Forest in Langkawi, the Belum Temengor Rainforest in Perak, Taman Negara in Pahang (our National Park), and Putrajaya Lake for those who want a tranquil, urban setting.
If you’re kayaking by the coastal mangrove forests, do ensure to pack insect repellent as mosquitoes may be rampant due to the damp nature of the environment. You’ll also want to have a comfortable hat or cap with a rash guard over your swimsuit to stay protected against the harsh UV rays as you will likely be exposed to the sun with no shade.
9. Waterfall Abseiling
Waterfall abseiling is by far one of the most thrilling water sports in Malaysia that involves descending down waterfalls using ropes and specialised equipment. It typically starts with a brief hike up to the higher tiers of the waterfall before you abseil down the on-site waterfall into the waters below for a refreshing swim.
Participants typically wear harnesses and are secured with ropes as they abseil down the cascading water and navigate through slippery rocks. While it sounds exciting, one must also keep in mind that it is a rather challenging water sport that tests your physical endurance and mental fortitude, especially when you try to navigate through with water constantly splashing about your face.
Waterfall abseiling is typically offered in Gopeng, in particular the Ulu Geruntum Waterfall which is a 15m descent and Sungai Pisang in Selangor, which offers a more scenic and accessible location for urban Kuala Lumpur dwellers.
For a more comfortable waterfall abseiling experience, I strongly recommend coming prepared with sturdy water shoes (you can get these at Decathlon) and hiking boots for the hiking session before you partake in waterfall abseiling. Do wear quick-dry clothing as you WILL be getting completely drenched, and bring a change of clothes with a towel. It’s also best to bring gloves to protect your hands while handling the ropes during your descent.
10. Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding is a fun activity that people of all ages can enjoy. Participants stand on a large, buoyant board and use a long paddle to propel themselves across the water, be it a calm lake, the thrilling ocean, or lazy rivers.
The interesting thing about stand-up paddleboarding is how it can either be a leisurely water sport, or a rigorous workout depending on the intensity of the location. But one thing is for sure, participants typically enjoy the benefits of improved balance, core strength, and overall fitness as it is ultimately a full body workout.
One can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding in places like Tanjung Rhu on Langkawi island, the Titiwangsa Lake Gardens in Kuala Lumpur for the resident urbanites, the crystal clear beaches of Semporna, and the Perhentian Islands in Terengganu, to name a few.
No gear is needed as you can rent them from stand-up paddleboarding operators and get basic instructions along with safety guidelines from them. That said, do keep your life jacket on during the paddling experience for peace of mind and an overall safer experience!
11. Flyboarding
Individuals who have always dreamed of flying through the skies without the help of a plane will definitely want to experience flyboarding. This exciting water sport involves being strapped on a flyboard that is connected to a jet ski or PWC via a long hose, which pumps water at an incredibly high pressure to the board. This propels the rider up into the air, allowing them to hover, dive, and fly about above the water’s surface.
It’s an adrenaline pumping activity that one can take part in at places like Marina Putrajaya, where a dedicated flyboarding operator like Flyboard Malaysia offers flyboarding at a fee. Having said that, do note that participants typically need to meet requirements such as being under 120kg and above the age of 16 to be allowed onboard.
