Hotels in Kuantan

Kuantan: Where River Serenity Meets Adventure Awaits

Discover the charm of Kuantan, Pahang, a delightful blend of small-town allure and coastal beauty. Nestled along the eastern shores of Malaysia, Kuantan boasts stunning beaches like Teluk Cempedak, where golden sands meet the South China Sea. Immerse yourself in local culture at the bustling night markets or explore the serene Kuantan River on a leisurely cruise. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the exciting waterpark, while families can create memories at the nearby zoo. With its picturesque landscapes and warm hospitality, Kuantan is the perfect getaway for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. For the best hotel rates in Kuantan and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Kuantan

Some of the best places to stay in Kuantan are Teluk Cempedak, Bandar Indera Mahkota and Semambu. Kuantan, Pahang, offers diverse attractions for travelers. Teluk Cempedak boasts beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Bandar Indera Mahkota features local markets and cultural experiences, while Semambu offers a quieter, more residential vibe. Accommodations range from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious options, ensuring a comfortable stay in any area. Whether you choose beachfront resorts or city hotels, Kuantan has something for everyone seeking a memorable experience in Malaysia. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Kuantan:

1. Teluk CempedakOpens in a new window: Teluk Cempedak is an ideal destination for families and beach lovers, offering stunning beach views and a vibrant atmosphere. This area is known for its attractions like Teluk Cempedak Beach, perfect for sunbathing and water sports, and the nearby Kuantan City Mall for shopping and entertainment. Notable hotels include Grand DarulMakmur Hotel KuantanOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel offering dining options and nearby golf activities. Another option is Hyatt Regency Kuantan ResortOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star resort with direct beach access and business facilities. For business travelers, AC Hotel by Marriott KuantanOpens in a new window is a great choice with extensive conference amenities and a professional environment.
2. Bandar Indera MahkotaOpens in a new window: Bandar Indera Mahkota is a family-friendly area close to various attractions like Darul Makmur Stadium and Kuantan City Mall. The hotels here include Sri Manja Boutique HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel catering to business travelers with essential amenities. For a more luxurious experience, Mangala Estate Boutique Resort - Small Luxury Hotel of the WorldOpens in a new window is a 5.0-star hotel offering adventure activities and family-friendly services, while Zenith KuantanOpens in a new window provides a spa and business facilities, making it perfect for both relaxation and work.
3. SemambuOpens in a new window: Semambu is a culturally rich area with easy access to popular attractions like Teluk Cempedak Beach and Kuantan City Mall. The hotels in this area include Swiss-Garden Beach Resort KuantanOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star resort with direct beach access, suitable for families and business travelers alike. Swiss Garden Resort Residences KuantanOpens in a new window also offers beach access and family amenities like a water park, ensuring fun for all ages. For a luxury experience, consider Royale Chulan Cherating VillaOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel that combines beachside relaxation with upscale features.

Things to do in Kuantan for first time

Kuantan offers a delightful three-day getaway with its charming blend of riverside beauty, serene beaches, and lush parks. Travelers can enjoy sunrise views, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and various water activities, along with hiking through verdant forests. It's an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Kuantan:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration in Kuantan at the Kuan Ti Kong Chinese Temple, a beautiful sanctuary showcasing intricate designs and cultural significance. After soaking in the serene atmosphere, make your way to the Sleeping Buddha Cave, where you can marvel at the stunning limestone formations and the impressive reclining Buddha statue. Conclude your day with a visit to Sungai Sangka Dua, a picturesque river perfect for a leisurely stroll or a tranquil boat ride, allowing you to unwind amidst nature.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Bukit Cerung Kelubi, where hiking enthusiasts can enjoy scenic views and fresh air. After your hike, visit the Sultan Ahmad Mosque, a magnificent architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the city’s rich history. In the afternoon, unwind at Cherating River, where you can engage in activities like boat tours or simply relax by the riverside, soaking in the beauty surrounding you.
• Day 3: Spend your morning at Cherating Beach, a stunning stretch of coastline where you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or trying your hand at water sports. Afterward, head to Pantai Cherating, known for its laid-back vibe and charming beachside cafes—perfect for grabbing a refreshing drink. Wrap up your day at Bukit Pintu Gerbang, a scenic viewpoint where you can capture breathtaking sunset photos, making for a memorable end to your Kuantan adventure.

5 tips to find a great Kuantan hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Kuantan is during September, November, and December, when hotel prices are at their lowest. For international travelers, it's best to book your flight at least 8 months in advance to secure cheaper fares. A stay of at least 2-3 days is perfect for discovering the area's main attractions, which include charming small towns and a fun waterpark. This makes Kuantan a great value for money destination, ideal for those traveling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Kuantan, it's worth checking out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com. Here, you may discover lower rates on hotels just before your travel date. To stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you're more likely to catch great savings on your accommodations in Kuantan.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and season. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Kuantan.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Kuantan is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars, buses, and taxis to explore the area, which is more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Kuantan and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Kuantan

Here are a few popular dishes in Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia:

• Nasi Lemak: This iconic Malaysian dish is a must-try in Kuantan. It features fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, served with sambal, fried crispy anchovies, peanuts, boiled eggs, and cucumber. Often enjoyed as breakfast, it’s a delicious reflection of local flavors and traditions, frequently found at kampung restaurants that emphasize home-cooked authenticity.
• Satay: A popular street food, satay consists of skewered and grilled meat, usually served with a rich peanut sauce. It's a social dish perfect for sharing, often enjoyed during gatherings and festive occasions. Look for stalls that offer a variety of meats, including chicken and beef, to experience the diverse flavors of this beloved delicacy.
• Char Kway Teow: This stir-fried noodle dish is a flavorful mix of flat rice noodles, shrimp, Chinese sausage, and bean sprouts, all cooked in a smoky wok. Traditionally enjoyed as a quick meal, it embodies the blend of cultures in Kuantan, showcasing the region’s culinary heritage.

Best time to go to Kuantan

Kuantan experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 77.5°F (25.3°C), while May is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.0°F (27.8°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Kuantan are February, March, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. In contrast, January, April, and November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.