As we enter into the last few weeks of 2025, the time for reflecting and setting goals for the new year has us dreaming of making time and building memories with those we love. And with the Malaysian calendar offering long weekends almost all year round, 2026 couldn’t come sooner. Here’s a vacation guide from us to you on how to make those long weekends count!

Visit a Malaysian island

A long weekend calls for a swift getaway to one of Malaysia’s beautiful islands. Whether you’re thinking of heading to the crystal clear waters off the coast of Johor or Sabah, unwinding on the Perhentian Islands, or planning a family getaway to Langkawi, Redang, or Pangkor Island, they’re all great ways to spend some time out of the city surrounded by sand and sea.

While the monsoon season slows things down on most islands between November and February, with the wet months beginning in September for some islands, the rest of the year is a good time to enjoy a beachy vacation.

Head to the highlands

The Malaysian highlands remain a charming destination for weary travellers looking to take life at a slower pace. With the cooler temperatures offering respite from the usual heat and humidity, any opportunity to spend time tucked away in the hill stations is an opportunity worth taking.

Cameron Highlands is a no-brainer, but Fraser’s Hill, Penang Hill, and Bukit Tinggi, Pahang are equally lovely options for a British colonial and European-influenced destination. If you’re travelling with family, we’d suggest Genting Highlands, where there is something for everyone. From theme parks to shopping at the Genting Highlands Premium Outlets or a trip to the Genting Casino. If you’re looking for a trip with views that will take your breath away, Kundasang, Sabah, is the place for you.

Spend the weekend at a luxury hotel

If you’re looking to spend some time away over the long weekend but don’t want to be deprived of creature comforts, why not check yourself into a luxury hotel or resort? A few options that come to mind are The RuMa Hotel and Residences, The Datai Langkawi, Else Kuala Lumpur, The Majestic Malacca, Macalister Mansion Penang, E&O Penang, and The Chow Kit. These hotels are perfect if you want to spend some time at the spa, make the most of the hotel amenities, dine at the hotel restaurant, and explore the surrounding areas without straying too far from the property.

Detox at a forest retreat

Trust the Malaysian rainforest to tug at your heartstrings with its lush greens, calming bird songs, and gentle creatures inhabiting the jungle. Take the opportunity to spend the long weekend at a forest retreat, often situated only an hour away from KL city.

Happi Village, Gibbon Retreat, and The Shorea are some of our favourite places for a short stay. Catered to individuals looking for a peaceful escape from the usual grind, most nature-based retreats only allow Wi-Fi access in designated common areas, provide trails for forest walks, and pools surrounded by trees so you can log off and completely immerse yourself in the natural environment.

Book a couple of days at a theme park

Treat the kids to a weekend at their favourite theme park. With thrilling park rides, fun excursions, water rides, interactive shows, and all-around fun activities for kids and adults, it’s a foolproof plan for an exciting family weekend.

For families with little children, we’d recommend Dino Desert at the Monkeys Canopy Resort, Cheras or LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort, Johor. If you’re travelling with a group of different ages, FunPark Gamuda Luge Gardens, Rawang and Lost World of Tambun, Ipoh provides plenty of attractions for the kids and grown-ups. For the grown kids and adults, Genting SkyWorlds and Sunway Lagoon Theme Park may offer more choices in entertainment.

Go camping

Whether you’re a camper or glamper, Malaysia has some of the most serene camping sites. For lovers of the great outdoors with little interest in pitching your own tent, Tiarasa Escapes in Janda Baik and the Gopeng Glamping Park will be right up your street. Parents of fur babies need not worry about a pet-sitter when Moribreeze on Morib Beach and IKAN Glampsite in Janda Baik welcome your four-legged friends with open arms.

Star gazers, set your sights on Stellar GoldenHill in Cameron Highlands and Cherengin Hills Sky Camp in Janda Baik. For the adventurous, pitch your own tent at Zen Forest’s camping ground in Bentong or Hammocks By The River in Hulu Langat.