Port Dickson: Malaysia’s Seaside Town
Less than 60 miles from Kuala Lumpur, Port Dickson serves as one of Malaysia’s most popular seaside towns. With 11 miles of sandy beaches, it’s not hard to see why. Travellers making their way to this part of the world will discover friendly locals, interesting sites, great natural beauty, and, most of all, an easy going pace of life. Not bad if you’re looking to shake off that day-to-day stress and strain.
Life’s a Beach
From Tanjung Gemuk in the north to Tanjung Tuan in the south, Port Dickson is blessed with a sprawling stretch of picturesque beaches. City dwellers from both Kuala Lumpur and Malacca routinely make their way to the coastal town for a weekend by the sea, while savvy global travellers know to seek out this pleasant part of the world. All along the coast you’ll find hotels and resorts, most offering splendid views of the Strait of Malacca.
Teluk Kemang is the busiest of the town’s beaches, thanks in part to its superior facilities. You’ll find bathrooms, showers, deck chairs, food and drink, and more here. Further north, Pantai Saujana is a popular choice, with its white sands and water sports proving to be the main attractions.
Travellers hoping for something a little quieter should make a beeline for the Blue Lagoon. South of the town centre, the lagoon and surrounding woodland is picturesque, while the beach is generally less crowded. The only downside is that the beach is rocky underfoot, making it unsuitable for swimming.
Seashore Activities
In Port Dickson, a trip to the beach doesn’t just mean a spot of sunbathing and the occasional paddle in the sea. In fact, once you arrive at the beach, you’ll find there’s plenty to keep you busy. Canoes, jet-skis, speed boats, and banana boats are all readily available, while landlubbers can partake in fishing and beach volleyball. ATVs and beach buggies can also be rented.
The Royal Port Dickson Yacht Club offers sailing, snooker, tennis, squash, and several dining options. Meanwhile, the Admiral Marina and Leisure Club provides facilities for swimming, boating, beach soccer, kite flying and much more. Both are open to members and non-members, although some activities may be limited to the latter.
Many hotels and resorts are dotted along the coast, offering travellers even more activities and excitement, including swimming pools, restaurants and bars. Depending on the hotel, you may even be treated to a private beach, perfect for unwinding in peace and quiet.
Exploring Cape Rachado
Cape Rachado, or Tanjung Tuan as it’s known locally, is one of the most sought out destinations in the local region. Laying approximately four miles south of the Admiral Marina, the cape features a small wooded area, secluded beach, and nature reserve. The main attraction here though is the Cape Rachado Lighthouse.
The lighthouse you see today dates back to 1863 but it’s reported that there has been a lighthouse on this spot since the days of the Portuguese invasion, way back in the sixteenth century. Access inside the lighthouse isn’t guaranteed, although some travellers have been lucky enough to take in the magnificent views of the Strait of Malacca from upon high.
Even if you don’t get to venture inside the lighthouse, it’s worth making the trek. The area around the lighthouse is ideal for birdwatching and picnics, while the secluded beach is a great spot to while away an afternoon.
Historic Port Dickson
In and around Port Dickson you’ll discover a number of interesting historical sites and attractions. Describing the history of the Malaysian Army, the Military Museum proves a popular choice with visitors. In addition to exhibits and historical accounts, the museums also houses some serious military hardware, including armoured vehicles, helicopters and planes. Visitors are even able to climb inside some of the vehicles, a detail that proves especially popular with children.
Just outside of town, the Lukut Fort and Museum offers an interesting look into the past. The fort itself is little more than a series of ruins, but the well-appointed museum provides a detailed history of the region during the nineteenth century. The picturesque grounds are also worthy of a stroll.
Another intriguing local landmark is the Pengkalan Kempas Historical Site. Situated about 13 miles from the Port Dickson coastline, this small town features the tomb of Syeikh Ahmad Majnus, a fifteenth century scholar. It also houses a megalith formation that comes complete with some intriguing stories.
Temples, Galleries and Other Tourist Delights
Elsewhere in Port Dickson, travellers will come across a selection of other popular tourist attractions. The Wan Loong Chinese Temple proves appealing to some, thanks to some picturesque architecture and the presence of lucky turtles. Meanwhile, the Alive 3D Art Gallery and Upside Down Art Gallery prove popular with those seeking a little fun out of the sun.
One of Port Dickson’s most popular attractions though is the PD Ostrich Show Farm. Here you can see ostriches up close and personal, with children even able to hitch a ride on the back of these giant birds. The farm also houses a mini zoo, with horses, donkeys, peacocks, turkeys, and more. A cat café and dog park, where visitors can pet the animals, are run in association with the ostrich farm.
Of course, Port Dickson also features a good selection of shops, markets, and restaurants. The newly-developed PD Waterfront is emerging as a good choice for food and drink, with an evening stroll along the waterfront recommended before heading back to your hotel.
