If you’ve ticked off Johor Bahru, Indonesia’s Bintan and Batam, and day trips like Malacca and Desaru Coast…we’ve discovered a lesser-known paradise destination just FOUR hours drive from Singapore. Port Dickson is a stunning escape in Malaysia just south of Kuala Lumpur and it’s totally cheap.
Holidaymakers will be treated to a blissful holiday whether it’s for family time, with friends, or a romantic getaway. Wonderfully, the route is easy via the North South Highway. Depending on traffic, you could reach Port Dickson in over three hours. But on average it takes four hours and 45 minutes to reach the tropical town home to 18km of golden beaches and a range of top attractions.
Interestingly, the old Malay village got its name from Sir Dickson during the British colonialism. Today, it’s a thrilling mecca for its stylish hotels resembling Maldives resorts, seaside restaurants, watersports, and the largest growing fishing destination in Malaysia.
Places to stay in Port Dickson
There are a number of unique hotels and affordable accommodations in Port Dickson. From teepee huts at mid western-themed hotel Eagle Ranch Resort to cheap hostels along the beach costing as little as RM69 (S$19) per night…you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Particularly, Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson is a famous 5-star beach resort along Pasir Panjang beach. The hotel is inspired by Malaysia’s iconic Hibiscus flower as the overwater resort is shaped like a flower. Feel like you’re vacationing in the Maldives with 639 pool villas, 522 overwater villas, and 117 elegant tower rooms with sun decks facing the ocean.
In fact, this architectural masterpiece has been named in the Guinness World Records for the most swimming pools and overwater villas in a resort on earth. Meanwhile, you can pay as little as S$207 per night for two people – making it much cheaper than the Maldives.
Things to do in Port Dickson
Additionally, there are many thrilling activities for people of all ages to enjoy. Discover hidden sculptures and artworks inside Malaysia’s largest hedge maze PD Maze, jump into more than 50 interactive paintings at Alive 3D Artwork, get up close with animals at Port Dickson Ostrich Farm, try ATV rides around a scenic lake in a forest, spa sessions, to name a few.
Ocean lovers can enjoy beachside fun and watersports like snorkeling and boating on Blue Lagoon Beach and Port Dickson Beach. Otherwise, hop on an affordable sunset cruise, Dickson Dragon, which boasts a saltwater jacuzzi.
Plus, there’s dozens of activities to do with children. From the rustic Wild West Cowboy Indoor Theme Park, to a 5D Motion Adventure cinema ride, hike through the jungle to the 16th century Cape Rachado Lighthouse, posing for pictures at ig-worthy places, and more. Meanwhile, history buffs can explore historic tombs and get educated at the Army Museum and there’s plenty of hidden gems to discover.
Food and drinks
Eat your way through Port Dickson and savour authentic local cuisines. There are popular buffets, seafood specials like steamboat and fish head curry spots, delicious Chinese eats, mouthwatering bakeries…the list is endless. Of course you’ll be able to quench your thirst at trendy cocktail bars along the beach. Plus, the buzzing nightlife scene is perfect during the high season with live performances, fire shows, and other entertainment.
Certainly, Port Dickson offers a world-class coastal weekend holiday a short drive from Singapore.
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