For many people, Cherating is best known for its clean beach and waters, as well as for holiday resorts such as Club Med. However, there's so much more to do here besides just going to the beach. Cherating has many attractions from the fascinating biodiversity in its mangrove forest to historical landmarks a short drive away. If you're planning a holiday to this picturesque town and want to make the most of your time, here are some of the top places to see around Cherating.
Cherating Beach
For residents of east coast towns such as Chukai and Kuantan, Cherating Beach is a popular weekend getaway destination. Here, you can have a picnic with your family, take a dip in the sea, or try watersports such as jet skiing. If you stay at Club Med Cherating, you can learn to sail on a small catamaran and partake in many other activities provided by the resort.
For a unique experience, you can try your hand at surfing as Cherating is one of the top surfing beaches in Malaysia. In fact, surfers from around the world visit Cherating each year for the annual Malaysian Surfing Competition held here.
Cherating Turtle Sanctuary
Turtles are an important part of Malaysia's marine ecosystem especially on the east coast, and Cherating is one of a handful of turtle nesting grounds in the country. The Cherating Turtle Sanctuary was established in 1972 as a hatchery to protect the sea turtle population in Malaysia. Here, you can learn about the various local turtle species and see baby turtles in the hatchery. During peak nesting season, from June to October, you can even help the rangers release baby turtles back into the sea.
Cherating River Cruises
The Cherating River runs through a diverse mangrove forest. There are two main cruises available on the river; the mangrove river cruise in the daytime and the firefly river cruise after dark. On the mangrove river cruise, you'll get to enjoy a serene boat ride down the river while learning about the local ecosystem.
You'll also get to see exciting wildlife including otters, monkeys, snakes, crabs, and even eagles. On the firefly river cruise, you can see hundreds of fireflies lighting up the forest in the dark, and even have them fly right up to you and your boat.
Local Kampung and Night Market
For a glimpse into the local villages around Cherating, you can visit a nearby kampung and see what it's like to live in a local coastal village. While you're there, you can even sample some authentic kampung cooking. Besides getting a taste of some kampung hospitality, why not visit the Cherating night market? There are a number of night markets nearby which open on different days and they sell delicious east coast meals, snacks, and every other item you'd expect to find at a night market.
Sungai Lembing Mines
The Sungai Lembing Mines is one of the oldest tin mines in the country, and one of the deepest in the world. Although you have to drive out of Cherating to get there, the sheer size and historical value of the mines make it a must-visit attraction near Cherating. Besides seeing the machinery used to transport and process tin, you'll get to explore the depths of the mines as well.
Kuantan Town
A short drive from Cherating, Kuantan town is a town with loads to do. You can visit the multiple historical landmarks here including the Sultan Ahmad Shah Mosque, Sri Mariamman Hindu temple, and Lao Zi Temple with its dragon and dinosaur statues. You can also visit the local batik factory to see how the colourful traditional garment is made. Then, go around the town to sample the various delicious food from curry noodles to Kuantan's famous mango cheesecake.
Whether you're into relaxing at the beach or like to see exotic wildlife, Cherating has the attraction for you. At Club Med Cherating, we not only offer world-class service and amenities with our all-inclusive stay, but we can arrange activities and outings that suit your preferences. So what are you waiting for, book a stay with us!