Cherating

Cherating is a beach town on the east coast of Pahang, about 45 km north of Kuantan. It is a popular backpacker destination with beautiful beaches, the Cherating Turtle Sanctuary, and a laid-back vibe. It was one of the first backpacker beach destinations in Malaysia.

By road from Kuantan via Route 3 (40 minutes). Buses from Kuantan.

• Cherating Turtle Sanctuary — A turtle conservation centre.

• Cherating Beach — Clean, calm waters.

• Club Med Cherating — The iconic all-inclusive resort.

• Swimming and sunbathing.

• Snorkelling and kayaking.

• Visit the turtle sanctuary.

• Watch fireflies at the Cherating River.

• Water sports — Windsurfing, catamaran.

• Beachfront restaurants serving grilled fish, seafood, and Western food.
• Cherating Food Court.
• Club Med (for all-inclusive guests).

Fresh young coconut; beer at beach bars.

Cherating has a long-established backpacker scene of budget guesthouses and chalets along the beach road, plus mid-range chalets further back from the sand. Club Med Cherating, an all-inclusive beachfront resort, is the town's best-known upscale option.

Souvenirs at the beach shops.

• Kuantan — 45 km south. City.
• Kuala Terengganu — 200 km north.
• Tioman Island — Via road to Mersing + ferry.