Kuantan is the vibrant capital city of Pahang, located on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. We visited Kuantan this year for a short 3D2N Kuantan holiday.
It was Little E’s first time in Kuantan and to the East Coast. Here is our Kuantan trip review which we would like to share with you.
As the capital of Pahang, Kuantan has a mix of natural beauty, cultural richness and modern development. It is known for its scenic beaches and its laid-back charm making it one of the best towns to bring the whole family for a vacation.
There are many beautiful places to visit in Kuantan for children and adults. Read on for information about our vacation time in Kuantan below.
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What We Love About Kuantan
- Strolling along Jalan Besar
Walking along Jalan Besar in Kuantan is an experience that you should not miss. The street is full of cosy cafés, boutique shops and nostalgic storefronts. We came to this street a few times during our stay for meals. Check out Soon Woh & Co, a vintage-inspired store selling all kinds of kitchenware and utensils with a unique storefront.
- Beautiful beaches
There are many beautiful beaches in Kuantan that you can visit. This is one of the main reasons why we wanted to visit Kuantan on this trip.
- Cheap seafood
Kuantan is heaven for seafood lovers because you can enjoy fresh seafood. One of the best local specialties that you can get at a cheap price is celup tepung, crispy deep-fried seafood fritters. A good spot for celup tepung is Seaba Seafood, where the seafood is freshly cooked, well-seasoned and comes in generous portions. Also try the keropok lekor, which is a popular choice for the local tea time.
- Artistic and cultural adventures
Kuantan has a rich artistic and cultural offerings which ranges from the design of a mosque to the handmade batik textiles by the locals themselves. The city is full of beautiful architecture, traditional crafts, and places of worship.
Children Friendly Activities To Explore in Kuantan
Kuantan 188 Tower
Kuantan 188 Tower stands tall at 188 meters with an observatory deck with panoramic views of the city and Kuantan River. Use the binoculars to enjoy the view of Kuantan city.
Visit the Skydeck, located 104 meters above ground that features a steamboat dinner with a skyline view. At the base, you can explore Laman Kuantan 188, a public open space with a children’s playground.
Address: Jalan Besar, 25000, Kuantan, Pahang.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 10 AM – 10 PM
Friday to Sunday: 10 AM – 12 AM (midnight)
Entrance Fee:
For Malaysians:
Observation Deck only:
- Weekdays (Mon–Thu): Adult RM13, Child RM10
- Weekends (Fri–Sun): Adult RM23, Child RM18
Skydeck only:
- Weekdays: Adult RM27, Child RM17
- Weekends: Adult RM36, Child RM26
Combo: Observation Deck + Skydeck:
- Weekdays: Adult RM33, Child RM20
- Weekends: Adult RM46, Child RM32
For International Tourists:
- Observation Deck only: Adult RM38, Child RM23
- Skydeck only: Adult RM56, Child RM36
- Combo: Observation Deck + Skydeck: Adult RM76, Child RM46
Zoo Teruntum
Zoo Teruntum is the first hybrid zoo in Malaysia, combining outdoor wildlife exhibits with indoor attractions. The zoo is stroller-friendly.
One of the highlights is the life-like dinosaur park which is a bonus if your kids are in a dino phase. Also, the zoo features a big indoor playground for kids.
Visitors can watch scheduled performances at specific times which often include animal shows or entertaining acts for children.
For added fun, there’s a toy rental station for kids to ride around in battery-operated vehicles. The indoor section includes interactive games, VR rides and food stalls.
Address: Jalan Padang Golf, 25050 Kuantan, Pahang.
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM to 6 PM
Entrance Fee:
Malaysian:
- Adult(13 – 59 years): RM20
- Child (3 – 11 years): RM15
- Seniors (60+ years): RM15
International Tourist: Adult: RM38, Child: RM23
Kuantan Art Street
Kuantan Art Street is an outdoor attraction (located parallel to Jalan Besar) with colourful and interactive murals by local artists that is great for some creative family photo ops. It is perfect for a fun and educational walk for families with children. Kuantan Art Street is clean, wheelchair-accessible, and stroller friendly.
Address: Jalan Teruntum, 25000, Kuantan, Pahang.
Open 24 hours
FREE Entrance
Taman Esplanade Kuantan
Taman Esplanade is a scenic riverside park for families to explore. It’s a well-maintained outdoor public space, perfect for parents looking to enjoy quality time with their children. Here, you can rent bikes and scooters. The paths are stroller and child-friendly with plenty of seating areas.
Address: Jalan Tanah Putih, 25100 Kuantan Pahang.
Open 24 hours
FREE Entrance
Natural Batik Village
The main highlight here is the hands-on batik colouring located on the side of the main building that allows visitors to express their creativity while learning about Malaysia’s traditional craft.
You can choose from a wide variety of pre-drawn batik canvas designs in different sizes from RM15 (charged based on canvas size and design). As a personalised souvenir, the kids can bring home their completed painted batik.
Address: Kampung Cengal Lempung, 26100 Balok, Pahang.
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday : 10AM to 7 PM
Free entrance
Kuantan River Cruise
Take a cruise along Sungai Kuantan, complete with a knowledgeable guide who shares interesting facts about the local fishing villages, mangrove ecosystems and the boating industry. The cruise is about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours and is safe for kids or elderly family members. Enjoy the changing riverside views and can look out to spot some local wildlife.
Address: Jeti Shahbandar, Jalan Tanah Putih, 25100 Kuantan, Pahang. Near McDonald’s Riverside and opposite HTAA.
Opening Hours: Slots available daily at 9 AM, 11.30 AM, 2.30 PM, and 5PM. The 7.30 PM slot has river cruise with fireflies watching and wild crocodiles spotting.
Entrance Fee: Adult RM99, Child RM56
Private trip available at separate charge.
Sungai Pandan Waterfall
This waterfall has shallow pools that are safe for toddlers and makes it a wonderful spot for children to splash and play. With multiple depths, everyone from younger children to teenagers and adults can enjoy the water.
The picnic-friendly environment with clean surroundings and public toilets makes it easy to spend an entire morning or afternoon here. There is an easy walking trail that leads to the waterfall which has steps and an easy hanging bridge.
Address: Air Terjun Sungai Pandan, 26250 Kuantan, Pahang
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays: 9 AM – 6 PM
Closed on Fridays for maintenance
Entrance Fee:
Malaysian with MyKad: RM2 (Adult), RM1 (Child)
Non-Malaysians: RM5 (Adult), RM3 (Child)
Parking Fee: RM3 per car
Taman Gelora Kuantan
This outdoor park has a wide and open layout with plenty of features that appeal to both children and adults. Kids can enjoy the playground, feeding the fishes in the pond and the open grassy areas. The sand-jogging trail is gentle on the feet with shaded walkways that are easy to navigate even for children.
Address: Jalan Dato Abdullah, 25050 Kuantan, Pahang
Open 24 Hours
Free Entry
Muzium Sultan Abu Bakar
The Pahang Museum provides a spacious and air-conditioned environment making it comfortable for patrons of all ages (great to escape the heat outdoors on hot afternoons or on rainy days).
Children will find the museum engaging with its diverse exhibits, including ancient artefacts, traditional textiles, and displays on the Pahang Sultanate. The museum’s layout is designed to be easily navigable for children to explore and learn at their own pace.
Address: Perbadanan Muzium Negeri Pahang, Jalan Sultan Ahmad, Kampung Pancur, 26600 Pekan, Pahang.
Opening Hours:
Monday: Closed.
Tuesday to Sunday: 9 AM to 4.30 PM
Entrance Fee:
Malaysian with MyKad (12 years and above): RM1
Students in school uniform: Free
Non-Malaysians: RM5
Explore Two Other Towns Nearby Kuantan (If You Have Extra Time)
Sungai Lembing is a former mining town about 45 minutes away from Kuantan. Explore the Sungai Lembing Museum, walk across old suspension bridges and visit the Rainbow Waterfall. The kids can learn about Malaysia’s tin mining heritage.
Cherating is about 30 minutes from Kuantan and promises pristine beaches, mangrove swamps and a firefly river cruise that you can enjoy with your children.
How To Get To Kuantan
- Drive
This is the most convenient way for visitors with a car from Kuala Lumpur. If you’re flying into Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and plan to continue your journey to Kuantan by road, the distance is roughly 270 km. The drive takes about 4 hours.
- Private Vehicle Hire
For those who prefer not to drive themselves, you can hire a taxi and GrabCar. Using Grab makes it easy to navigate around Kuantan town.
- By Plane
Another quick and comfortable way is by domestic flight. The city is served by the Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport (KUA), which connects to major cities in Malaysia. The flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kuantan takes about 50 minutes.
- By Bus
Traveling by express bus is a budget-friendly and comfortable option. The journey usually takes around 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and rest stop breaks. Buses arrive at Terminal Kuantan Sentral (TSK), which is well-connected to the city by local taxis and Grab.
Best Time To Visit Kuantan
- March to September
This is the best period to visit Kuantan because the weather tends to be dry and sunny, great for beach outings, sightseeing, and nature exploration.
- Avoid the monsoon months
Do avoid visiting during the monsoon season as you may experience heavy rainfall and occasional flooding especially in coastal areas. The wet conditions can limit beach time and outdoor exploration time.
Items To Pack When Visiting Kuantan
Bring light and breathable clothing to keep you comfortable in the tropical heat, swimwear, compact umbrella or raincoat for the occasional rain showers and bring an insect repellent to help protect against mosquitoes and sandflies especially for kids.
Kuantan Hotel Guide (Where To Stay in Kuantan)
- Hyatt Regency Kuantan Resort (Best 5 Star Hotel in Kuantan)
This luxury beachfront resort provides luxurious rooms with private terraces, two outdoor pools, and direct beach access to Teluk Cempedak. It is ideal for families seeking upscale amenities and a serene coastal experience.
- Swiss-Belhotel Kuantan (Best Hotel in Kuantan for Business and Leisure Travellers)
The Swiss-Belhotel boasts modern rooms with sea views, a fitness center and easy access to dining and entertainment options.
- AC Hotel Kuantan
For city explorers, this hotel offers contemporary accommodations with convenient access to Kuantan’s attractions, shopping malls and nightlife. Amenities include an outdoor pool, fitness center and on-site dining. Our family stayed in this hotel during our trip.
- Swiss-Garden Beach Resort Kuantan (Best Hotel in Kuantan With Family-Friendly Facilities)
Perfect for family vacation, Swiss-Garden features family-friendly facilities including a kids’ pool with water slides, multiple dining options and recreational activities.
- Adena Beach Resort (Best Value Resort in Kuantan)
Adena Beach Resort has a tranquil environment with traditional aesthetics. Guests can enjoy two outdoor pools, a children’s pool and direct beach access, making it a budget-friendly option for families and couples.
Kuantan Local Food Guide (Where To Eat in Kuantan)
Restaurant Hoi Yin
This restaurant is best known for its traditional and flavourful curry mee with a light spicy broth that is rich in flavour. Diners can customise their bowls with add-ons including steamed chicken, tofu puffs, fish cakes and more.
Muslim friendly: Yes
Operating Hours:
Tuesday to Sunday: 7 AM – 2:30 PM
Closed on Mondays
Address: No. 31, Jalan Teluk Cempedak, 25050 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
Kedai Nasi Dagang Pak Abu & Mok Ba
Try nasi dagang, a traditional East Coast breakfast of coconut rice and tuna curry in Kuantan. You have the option of the traditional serving of Nasi Dagang with Ikan Tongkol or you may enjoy it the local way with fragrant chicken curry. The rice is soft and fragrant with coconut milk and it’s popular for generous portions.
Address: A-285, Lorong Tanjung Api 8, Kampung Tanjung Api, 25050, Kuantan, Pahang.
Operating Hours:
Tuesday to Sunday: 7:30 AM –1:30 PM
Closed on Tuesdays
Muslim friendly: Yes
Alor Akar Seafood
This is a popular family-friendly spot in Kuantan, known for its affordable prices, generous portions and quality Chinese-style seafood dishes.
Among all the delicious options, two dishes stand out which is the Beggar Chicken that is served in a rich herbal broth with incredibly soft meat and the Salted Egg Squid Fritter which is the crispy, well-battered squid coated in a perfectly balanced salted egg sauce, paired with fried bitter gourd for a unique touch.
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday from 4 PM – 11.30 PM
Non-halal restaurant
Address: Lot 7695 and 7696, Jalan Kubang Buaya, Taman Mariana, 25300, Kuantan, Pahang.
Restoran Sate Zul
It is known for its perfectly grilled satay skewers with thick peanut sauce. The chicken satay is grilled to perfection, tender and bursting with flavour.
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 12.30 AM to 1 AM, 5.30 PM to 12 AM
Address: A-2600, Lorong Alor Akar, Kampung Alor Akar, 25250 Kuantan, Pahang.
Halal certified restaurant
Kuantan Pickers & Kedai Kopi
Kuantan Pickers & Kedai Kopi is a nostalgic café perfect for families looking to enjoy their day. The menu features local favourites like nasi dagang, nasi lemak, traditional Malay desserts, and classic kaya toast. The cafe has retro-themed decor so you and your family can enjoy dining in while taking cool pictures for your socials.
Address: 22, Jalan Besar, 25000 Kuantan, Pahang
Operating Hours:
Monday to Tuesday, and Thursday to Sunday: 7.30 AM to 3 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Muslim friendly: Yes
Kula Cakes
Kula Cakes is a must visit dessert spot in Kuantan. It is especially famous for their chilled mango cheesecake that is not overly sweet which is loved by both adults and kids. It is topped with a generous slice of fresh mango and drizzled with mango purée that perfectly complements the cheesecake layer. There are other cakes including the choco cheese cake, red velvet cake, walnut carrot cake, and burnt cheesecake.
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM to 6 PM
Address: 96, Jalan Besar, 25000 Kuantan, Pahang.
Halal certified cafe
Ms Elliot at Hock Bee
Ms Elliot at Hock Bee blends minimalist aesthetics with flavourful café-style dining. They have a great selection of smoothies, cakes and vegetarian options.
Order their Kuantan-inspired drinks (we enjoyed the Pantai Batu Hitam – signature award winning drink), pastries and fusion café food. They have a great selection of smoothies, cakes and vegetarian options.
Operating Hours:
Monday to Tuesday, Thursday to Friday: 10 AM to 11 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Saturday to Sunday: 9 AM to 11 PM
Address: 10, Jalan Besar, 25000 Kuantan, Pahang
Halal certified cafe
Kuantan Beach Guide (Best Beaches in Kuantan)
- Teluk Cempedak Beach
This is the most iconic beach in Kuantan with its clean and breathtaking coast with a mix of natural beauty and convenience. There are open spaces for play, and shaded spots to rest and enjoy some food.
- Pelindung Beach
If you and your family want to see the famous Turtle Rock Mural, Pelindung Beach is for you. Simply Waze to Sutra Villa 2 Apartment, then walk about 400 meters to the right of the beach to see the Turtle Rock Mural.
Behind the large turtle mural lies a short climb leading to a second, more secluded beach where a smaller turtle mural awaits. This lesser-known spot is perfect for families who enjoy exploring and snapping creative photos.
- Black Rock Beach (Pantai Batu Hitam)
Black Rock Beach stands out with its black sand and signature black rocks on the beach. The crystal-clear water and calm atmosphere make it an inviting spot for families with kids. Children will especially love exploring the rocks and shallow waters.
- Balok Beach
Balok Beach is one of Malaysia’s top windsurfing and kite-surfing destinations with its clean, gray sandy beach. You can enjoy swimming, shell collecting, and sandcastle building with your children here.
- Teluk Sisek Beach
Teluk Sisek Beach is a quieter alternative compared to other more crowded beaches in Kuantan to watch the waves roll in. Its wide open space provides a great place for kids to run and explore around.
What To Buy In Kuantan (Souvenirs)
- Keropok
Keropok is a crispy fish cracker made from fresh fish paste and sago flour. For something more authentic and traditional, keropok lekor is a great option. Unlike the crispy version, keropok lekor is soft, chewy and deeply flavourful. Check out Keropok Lekor Wanna where they sell freshly fried lekor, served hot with spicy dipping sauce.
- Batik products
Batik is a beautifully hand-dyed fabric featuring intricate patterns and vibrant colours. You can find batik in the form of traditional attire like baju kurung or sarong. For something more modern, you can buy scarves, bags, pillow covers and even bookmarks with batik designs.
Is It Worth Going To Kuantan?
Yes, it is worth going to Kuantan for a relaxing, family-friendly escape that blends nature, culture and local charm. This beautiful east coast town has serene beaches, scenic parks, waterfalls, playgrounds and museums for kids, making it a great destination for families.
