Photo: View of George Town from Bukit Bendera by Visual Works.
Penang is most well-known to visitors as the home state of George Town city, but some of the island’s most rewarding experiences lie outside its UNESCO-listed streets. From forest-fringed coasts to sleepy countryside enclaves, these lesser-known Penang neighbourhoods offer a richer, more expansive look at the state’s cultural and natural treasures.
1. Teluk Bahang
For nature lovers & slow explorers
On the northwestern tip lies Teluk Bahang rugged nature getaway spot. Start with Penang National Park, where trails lead to secret beaches like Kerachut and Teluk Kampi. Don’t miss the Tropical Spice Garden, home to hundreds of species of herbs, tropical plants and an outdoor fish “spa” and Entopia, a green haven for free-flying butterflies. For a glimpse of local life, wander the Teluk Bahang Fishing Village, where colourful boats bob on clear waters and locals repair nets under stilted homes.
2. Tanjung Bungah
Coastal villages & gentle escapes
The breezy suburb of Tanjung Bungah is known for coastal living and and mellow cafés. The Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque, one of Penang’s most photogenic landmarks, is worth a stop. For comfort and easy access to a white sand beach and sea activities, stay at the Mercure Penang Beach. Cafe hunters can drop by the beach-themed, pet-friendly Ang Ang’s Roastery along Jalan Tanjung Bungah for delicious brunch plates and in-house roasted coffee beans.
3 .Tanjung Tokong
Seaside cafés & contemporary living
After you’ve caught a glimpse of Penang’s most coveted modern real estate – gleaming waterfront condos and swanky promenades – head to Straits Quay, a marina-front lifestyle hub lined with shops and restaurants overlooking bobbing yachts. For food, enjoy club sandwiches or crispy waffles at the Korean-inspired Chiloutery, plump and juicy vegetarian dumplings at Real Food, or buttery scones and English tea at Winter Warmers Coffee and Tea House.
4. Batu Ferringhi
Resorts, night markets & hidden beaches
Famous for its long, sandy stretch, Batu Ferringhi is Penang’s resort playground. Try watersports or unwind at spas like The Rock Spa or St. Gregory’s Spa. Experience luxury beach clubs or entertainment hubs like Ferringhi Bay. For foodies and culture buffs, the Batu Ferringhi Night Market buzzes with street food, crafts and local goods. For something quieter, follow secret coastal paths beyond the main beach — fishermen often point the way.
5. Bayan Lepas
Urban energy and recreational fun
If you’re arriving via Penang’s Second Link Bridge, Bayan Lepas is your first point of entry. Beyond its role as a manufacturing and logistics hub, it offers several attractions. Queensbay Mall is a local favourite for its large variety of shopping and dining, while nearby, the Penang War Museum – the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia – adds historical intrigue. For recreation, try the Penang Golf Club or PickleGen Pickleball.
6. Balik Pulau
Countryside Penang at its purest
Crossing the island’s hilly spine to Balik Pulau brings visitors to countryside Penang, where durian orchards, paddy fields and farms showcase the state’s best produce. Rent ATVs and ride along quiet roads beside the paddy fields. Sample the area’s famed asam laksa – Kim Laksa Balik Pulau is a consistent foodie favourite – and cool off with ice-cold nutmeg juice. Stop at Saanen Dairy Goat Farm for a charming petting zoo. During fruit season, stay at Bao Sheng Durian Farm, where luxury stays and durian feasts surprisingly pair well.
7. Bukit Bendera & Air Itam
Hills, heritage and culinary gems
Bukit Bendera and Air Itam offer a quick escape from George Town’s urban bustle. Ride the iconic funicular up Penang Hill, grab sweeping island views and explore the must-visit, elevated a circular steel walkway at the Habitat. If you plan to hike, stop by at the breathtaking Golden Stupas, 20 minutes from the Penang Hill Middle Station. Post-hike, refuel with coffee, pastries and fresh cool air at Kopi Hutan. Down below, explore Air Itam’s cultural gems like Kek Lok Si Temple, the bustling Air Itam Night Market, with over 30 stalls firing up delicious street food.
8. Seberang Perai
Penang’s vast mainland playground
Once part of Bujang Valley, Southeast Asia’s oldest known civilisation, Seberang Perai now thrives as an offbeat travel destination filled with hiking trails, historical villages and foodie gems. Start with a hike at Bukit Tokun, Suling Hill or Bukit Berapit. After working up a good appetite, enjoy fresh seafood at Ong Cheng Huat or a plate of squid fried noodles at Restoran Noor Mohamed. Stroll around Bukit Tambun, a fishing village adorned with colourful street art. Before leaving town, pick up Penang-style baked treats like mung bean biscuits at Soon Seng Heang.
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