Kuantan is the capital city of Pahang and is known for its beautiful beaches, serene rivers, and rich cultural heritage. As a gateway to some of Malaysia's most stunning coastal landscapes, Kuantan offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich local culture, and modern amenities.Â
Kuantan is famous for its delicious seafood, charming night markets, and the spectacular Teluk Cempedak beach, a popular spot for both locals and tourists. In the centre of the city, you can find the modern Sultan Ahmad Shah State Mosque which features 5 domes adorned with blue geometric patterns, and 4 towering minarets.
Another interesting fact about the area is that Kuantan has one of the longest rivers in Malaysia, the Sungai Kuantan, which flows gracefully into the South China Sea, offering breathtaking views and an array of water activities.
Travelling around Kuantan is relatively easy as you can find various public transportation options:
The city is served by RapidKuantan, a public bus service with several routes connecting key areas, including the city centre, Teluk Cempedak, and the Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport. The buses are an affordable and convenient way to explore the city, with regular schedules and reasonable fares. RapidKuantan buses are a great option for budget travellers looking to explore Kuantan without renting a car.
Traditional taxis are also available throughout the city, particularly in the central areas and near popular tourist spots. Additionally, ride-hailing services are widely used in Kuantan, providing a convenient and cost-effective way to travel to destinations that are not accessible by bus.
For those who prefer the flexibility of driving, car rental services are available in Kuantan, including at the Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport. Renting a car allows you to explore the surrounding attractions at your own pace, such as the scenic coastal roads and the tropical rainforests in the area. You can book car rentals in Malaysia via Traveloka, offering you affordable rates!
Kuantan is home to many exciting attractions that cater to different interests, from nature lovers to culture enthusiasts. Here are some of the must-visit destinations:
A beautiful beach just 5 kilometres from the city centre, known for its fine white sand, clear blue waters, and a lively boardwalk with numerous eateries and cafes. It’s an ideal spot for relaxing, picnicking, or enjoying water sports.
A popular attraction for both locals and tourists, this majestic waterfall offers a refreshing escape from the heat. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s perfect for a day of swimming, picnicking, or just enjoying the natural beauty.
A beautiful park by the Kuantan River, ideal for morning jogs, evening strolls, or family outings. The park is known for its serene atmosphere, jogging trails, and scenic views of the river.
This grand mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kuantan, featuring stunning blue domes and intricate Islamic architecture. It's an excellent spot to experience local culture and admire the impressive structure.
For those interested in shopping and dining, East Coast Mall is the largest shopping mall in Kuantan, offering a range of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
For budget-conscious travellers, Kuantan offers several affordable yet comfortable hotels that provide great value for money. Here are three of the best cheap hotels in Kuantan:
The V Hotel is known for its modern design and convenient location. It offers comfortable rooms with essential amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel is close to popular attractions like Teluk Cempedak and East Coast Mall. Kuantan Parade is also within 200m from the hotel, making it an excellent choice for budget travellers looking to explore the city.
Located near the Kuantan city centre, Seasons View Hotel provides a blend of comfort and affordability. The hotel offers spacious rooms equipped with basic amenities, a coffee shop, and a restaurant. Its strategic location allows easy access to local attractions, dining, and shopping options, such as Kuantan City Mall within around 1.5km.
Skytree Hotel is another excellent budget option in Kuantan, offering clean and cosy rooms with essential facilities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary breakfast. The hotel is perfect for backpacker who loves to explore the city, with the location super near to the Kuantan City Mall, only around 0.6km away.Â
For couples seeking a romantic getaway at affordable rates, Kuantan offers a range of budget yet charming hotels. Here are three of the best cheap hotels for couples:
Swiss-Belhotel Kuantan is an excellent and premium choice for couples looking for a cosy and intimate stay, but still at a reasonable price. The hotel features stylishly modern decorated rooms with complete amenities, including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and en-suite bathrooms. Swiss-Belhotel Kuantan offers room types with city view and sea view, which have quiet atmosphere, and a relaxing and romantic retreat after a day of sightseeing.
Arenaa Batik combines contemporary design with traditional Malaysian elements, creating a unique and romantic atmosphere perfect for couples. Arenaa Batik Boutique is situated close to popular attractions like the Sultan Ahmad Shah Mosque and the Kuantan River, providing easy access to the city’s cultural highlights.
Located near the city centre, Cathayana Hotel Kuantan is an ideal choice for couples seeking affordable luxury. The hotel features spacious rooms with contemporary furnishings, offering a comfortable and inviting space to relax. Cathayana Hotel provides great value for couples looking to enjoy a memorable stay in Kuantan, located just next to Gio Mall, only about 100m away.
Visiting with families, here are three of the best cheap hotels in Kuantan for families:
Swiss Garden Residences offers spacious serviced apartments perfect for families. The unit comes with a fully equipped kitchen, living area, and separate bedrooms, providing ample space and privacy for family members. The property is also near Balok Beach (around 2km away) and features a swimming pool and playground, ensuring that kids have plenty of activities to enjoy during their stay.
Located in Cherating, and a setting near the beach area, Holiday Homes at Samsuria is a great option for families looking for a peaceful retreat. The holiday homes come with multiple bedrooms, a kitchen, and living areas, allowing families to enjoy a home-away-from-home experience.Â
Sulong Inn is a private homestay that offers a unique experience for families. The property has a private pool, a fully equipped kitchen, and comfortable bedrooms (2 double beds and 2 single beds), making it an ideal choice for those looking for privacy and relaxation for the whole family. The homestay is close to the beach (Pantai Kempadang, around 2.5km away) providing opportunities for beach activities and family fun.
For travellers who wish to wake up to scenic views of Kuantan's natural beauty, here are two excellent options:
Overlooking the South China Sea, Timurbay Seafront Residence offers stunning beachfront accommodation. The property features modern apartments with balconies that provide sweeping views of the ocean or the pool.
Located in lush greenery and rolling hills, Casa Hill Resort is perfect for travellers seeking a peaceful escape in a scenic area. The resort offers cosy villas with private balconies, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. With its peaceful environment, swimming pool, and proximity to nature trails, Casa Hill Resort is an excellent choice for those looking to connect with nature.
If you want to stay near Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport for convenience, here are some great options:
Located just a short drive from the airport, which is around 13km away, Hotel Grand Continental Kuantan offers comfortable accommodation with easy access to both the city centre and the airport.
While not directly at the airport, Mega View Hotel is conveniently located along Jalan Besar, providing easy access to both the airport and downtown Kuantan. The hotel's proximity to Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport (KUA) airport is within 13km.Â
If you’re planning a trip to Kuantan, finding the best hotel deals can help you save money and make your stay more enjoyable. Here are some top tips to help you find great accommodation at affordable prices:
One of the most effective ways to secure a good hotel deal is to book your accommodation well in advance via Traveloka. Hotels often offer discounted rates for early bookings, especially during off-peak seasons.
Hotel prices in Kuantan can fluctuate depending on the season. The city tends to be busier during public holidays, school breaks, and festive seasons, which can drive up accommodation prices. Consider visiting during the off-peak months when there are fewer tourists, and hotel rates are generally lower.
Before booking your hotel, check if there are any discount codes or vouchers available. Traveloka often has special deals or promotional codes that can be applied to your booking. Additionally, some credit cards offer discounts or cashback on hotel bookings.
Flexibility with your travel dates can help you find the best hotel deals. Accommodation rates can vary significantly depending on the day of the week, with weekends often being more expensive. If possible, try to book your stay on weekdays, when prices are generally lower.
By following these tips, you can maximise your chances of finding the best hotel deals in Kuantan, allowing you to enjoy your stay without stretching your budget. Book your accommodations in Traveloka, using coupon code “JOMJALAN” to able to unlock discounts up to RM250 for new users in Malaysia. Furthermore, you can also book your flight and many attraction tickets all at once, only in Traveloka!
Popular Area | Cherating, Kuantan City |
Popular Hotel | Seasons View Hotel, Skytree Hotel |
Popular Landmark | Kuantan Airport (KUA), Teluk Cempedak Beach |