Philippe Durant’s travel photography - Ep 7 Around Penang Island (From sunrise to Sunset)

Are you coming to Penang Island?
One of the most exciting ways to explore Penang Island is by taking a leisurely drive around it. If you didn’t drive to Penang, you can hire a private car with a driver for about 80 RM per hour. Start your journey in Georgetown and head to the Clan Jetty for a sunrise view-an ideal spot if you’re hoping to catch a stunning start to your day. From there, visit the Esplanade and Fort Cornwallis, where Penang’s historical roots began. Next, stop by the Eastern & Oriental Hotel, a splendid relic of British colonial times. You can enjoy a coffee on the terrace with views of the Strait of Malacca and explore the hotel's ground floor without disturbing the guests.
As you head north, you’ll pass the Burmese and Thai Buddhist temples on your left, both of which are worth a quick visit. A short distance away is the newly opened Gurney Wharf, perfect for a leisurely walk. If you’re up for more exploring, the Botanical Gardens offer a serene escape with lush trees and playful monkeys. On your way to the gardens, you'll encounter several intriguing Hindu temples, including one on a hill that requires climbing over 200 steps.
Continuing north, stop at Strait Quay to admire the dome of the shopping complex roof and the yacht port. Further along, discover the Japanese bunkers and the fishing port in Tanjung Tokong. Before reaching Miami Beach with its distinctive boulders, make sure to visit the floating mosque on the right side of the road.
A few kilometers further along the winding coastal road, you’ll arrive at Batu Ferringhi, a popular public beach with a variety of restaurants, hotels, and bars along the waterfront-perfect for a leisurely lunch. Nearby, the Spice Garden offers a delightful stroll among local trees, spices, flowers, and plants.
Not far from there is Taman Negara, where an entrance fee of RM 50 applies for non-Malaysians (RM 10 for locals). If you decide to explore, you’ll eventually reach Monkey Beach, a charming spot to relax. The area also features the Batik Factory and Entopia, both worth a visit.
Continuing your drive, you’ll ascend the hill to discover durian plantations and a nutmeg farm on the way down, where you can sample local fruits. The road then takes you to the west coast, characterized by traditional kampungs, paddy fields, and small fishing ports. Balik Pulau, the main village of the west, is known for its vibrant street art.
To wrap up your day and journey, you have two options: Pantai Malindo, which is ideal for sunset views, or Pantai Esen. This route offers a comprehensive experience of the diverse and captivating aspects of Penang, often called the Pearl of the Orient.
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