Splashing good time: Mohd Razif from Penaga enjoying the cool waters with his children at Teluk Bahang Recreational Park, commonly known as Taman Rimba in Teluk Bahang, Penang. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: While some families are jetting off to regional destinations this school holiday, many still prefer the charm and convenience of local beaches and parks.
The natural beauty of these spots, paired with their accessibility and affordability, continues to attract both local and foreign visitors seeking relaxing, low-cost outdoor activities.
Housewife Nurul Azlina Mohamad, 38, was seen enjoying a picnic at the Batu Ferringhi beach with her children and husband on Thursday.
“We come here almost every school holiday. It’s free, the kids love the water and there’s enough space for everyone to play and relax.
“With the rising cost of living, places like these are a real blessing,” said the mother of three from Seberang Jaya.
Many other families were seen building sandcastles, flying kites, relaxing under the coconut trees and enjoying the sea breeze and sound of the waves.
Elsewhere, Pantai Robina in Butterworth also gained attention for its relatively calm crowds and clean stretches of sand.
Beyond the more accessible beaches, the National Park in Teluk Bahang managed by the Forestry Department offers a dose of adventure through nature.
For a small entry fee, visitors can hike through forest trails to reach pristine beaches such as Pantai Kerachut, known for its unique meromictic lake, and Teluk Kampi, one of the island’s most secluded beaches.
Monkey Beach, as the name suggests, is another popular spot behind the park where friendly macaques often roam near picnickers and campers.
Visitors can charter boats from the Teluk Bahang jetty to reach these hidden gems faster, enjoying a scenic ride along the rocky coast with opportunities to spot sea eagles and otters.
Not far from the national park lies Teluk Bahang Recreational Park, commonly known as Taman Rimba.
Farmer Mohd Razif Abdul Rahman, 39, who has been a regular there since his schooling days, came with his family this time.
“Over 20 years ago, this was an ideal place to spend the day playing in the stream.
“Today, I’m here with my three children and we came earlier to feast on durians before spending the hot afternoon in the chilly waters within the park,” he said.
The lesser-known but equally beautiful spot nestled among lush greenery includes shaded walking trails, gazebos and freshwater streams that flow from the nearby hills.
Children are often seen wading in the shallow streams while adults cook over portable stoves or unwind on picnic mats.
In recent years, the Penang Island City Council has also stepped up efforts to maintain cleanliness and safety at these recreational sites, deploying workers to manage litter and placing more signage to remind the public to keep the beaches clean.
In its 2025 Budget, the city council placed a strong focus on creating a cleaner and greener city with RM61.35mil specifically dedicated to these efforts.
