Best beach hotels in Penang

Freshly renovated, the historic Lone Pine hotel (it’s the oldest hotel on the coastal stretch of Batu Ferringhi) is a must-visit and a must-stay. From the swaying pine trees on a tranquil stretch of the usually crowded beachfront to the neo-colonial decor of the hotel, Lone Pine is like no other resort in Penang. The rooms are spacious and airy, some suites feature private mini lounging pools, and seaside meals at the hotel’s restaurant are another added bonus to a long list of pluses. A massage at their Pure Energy Spa is the icing on the cake.

In September 2009, the Hard Rock brand was launched in Penang. The family-friendly American-style resort brings with it a new breed of guests — both party loving and families (the pool area is perfect for kids and rightly popular) — to the island. The site is further along the coast than the popular night market at Batu Ferringhi, but the resort’s all-in-one concept more than compensates for the slight distance.

As a high-end beach resort in Penang, Rasa Sayang is still unmatched. Modern rooms look out to the Straits of Malacca or to the island’s inner greenery, and the signature spa CHI takes you thousands of kilometres away from it all. The location strikes a good balance between the lively night market and the calm private beach, and if you want to make your stay in Penang that bit more memorable, fork out for a suite. A butler will fix you a bath on your private balcony, draw your remote-controlled blinds, and then leave you alone with your thoughts, which will likely be about how you never want to leave.

Technically a four-star but in the spurious world of stars accredited to certain establishments in Malaysia, Golden Sands is far better than many five-star hotels. Extremely family friendly, it is a regular hit with kids and their parents, even before its recent RM50 million redevelopment. Facilities include several pools, a par-three golf course and a family entertainment centre.

You can tell, from your first step into the high-ceilinged lobby of PARKROYAL Penang, that it’s a beach hotel through and through. Airy and spacious, the lobby extends out to the breezy Javana Lounge, where fans swirl lazily and guests recline on rattan chairs. Rooms and suites here are luxurious and the pool is a welcome oasis.