10 Affordable beachfront hotels in Kuantan and Cherating with family rooms, fun waterparks and more from RM 80!

Written by Beverley Lennon

Coming from an island myself, I have to confess that my best memories as a child were of the days spent by the beach with my family. Now, I don’t mean to rant but the only challenge I have been facing ever since I moved to Kuala Lumpur, is being so far away from the beach.

Of course, you’ll come right at me saying that Port Dickson is just a mere 1-hour drive from KL but can I say something too? “Port Dickson? Agaaaainn ahh?!”. And now you’ll say “Go Langkawi laaah”. But seriously who wants a 6-hour drive + ferry ride for a short weekend escape?!

And because I am always on the lookout for quick getaways from the city to enjoy the best of what Mother Nature has to offer, I make sure to spend extra time researching for nearby beach towns and found out that Kuantan and Cherating could be my best bet for an almost Bali-like vacation, a mere 3-hour drive away!

To my surprise, this is where you can even find hipster beach bars and surfing schools in Malaysia so if you’re looking for a short escape from the city, or maybe a weekend getaway with the whole family, plenty of time by the beach and fun in the sun, you’ll love opting for one of these affordable luxury family beach stays along Kuantan and Cherating’s blue lagoons.

They come with exciting mini-waterparks and comfortable family rooms for when you’re K.O. from wandering around the rockpools, and searching for hermit crabs and seashells with the kids!

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Note: The prices reflected below are the low season rates, and they exclude tax and service charges. Accommodation rates often change with room availability, and low or high seasons. We recommend double-checking for the final prices before confirming your booking.

1. It’s hard to believe that this is Malaysia!! – The Kasturi Resort

The first word that comes to my mouth when I look at The Kasturi Resort is “stylish”. Well, you might think that it is not necessarily what you look for when travelling with little ones but hey it’s a bonus, am I right?

Whether you’re a jet-setting family or group of friends who appreciate classic opulence, we see no downside in considering this spot for your next reunion! With villa categories that go up to 3 bedrooms, you can be sure that everyone who tags along will be able to sleep comfortably.

To do a family beach holiday right, you need a large space for running around, pools, easy access to everything, and quiet spots for the parents. Guess what? The Kasturi Resort ticks all these boxes!

Now, it’s really the beach villa though that takes over the crown; think ocean views and private pool for all your family fun and on cloudless days, you’ll find a cooling respite from the heat as you laze on the airy deck before you all reunite around a delicious meal at The Kenyang Restaurant – the onsite gastronomic paradise celebrating Malaysia’s cultural influences through its cuisine.

And if you’re worried about what’s there for the kids to do (besides beach and pool time), they also have a turtle hatchery where the eggs of endangered sea turtles are incubated until they hatch. As a guest, you can not only visit the conservation centre but also help release the hatchling turtles into the sea for a contribution fee of RM 20.

Note: Hatchling season is between April and October.

2. Love an Insta-worthy vacation?This one’s for you!: SwissBel-Hotel Kuantan

Every now and then (if not always), don’t we love staying at an Instagrammable hotel? Same applies for when you’re on a vacation with the family; you could be going back home with some cute pictures for your social media feed and especially when your stay is as trendy as the SwissBel-Hotel Kuantan!

Considered as the newest kid on the block (as at February 2020), the SwissBel-Hotel sits beachfront at Tanjung Lumpur and forms part of the Kuantan Waterfront Resort City (KWRC) which is the region’s first integrated leisure, retail, dining, entertainment, hospitality and residential  destination.

Designed to cater for kids, and with lots of attention lavished on parents, you will also find a marina walk, green promenade, waterfront bars and restaurants, including a floating restaurant, duty-free shopping and a golf course, plus waterpark and watersports just walking distance from your stay!

At the hotel, children can dip their toes, jump and scream at the kids pool while you relax in one of their cabanas. And while most of your fun times will take place outdoors, rest assured that it is a comfortable and spacious family room that’s waiting for you at the end of the day. It features a kitchenette, living room and can accommodate up to four adults and two kids!

3. Everyone’s favourite option!: Hyatt Regency Kuantan

When a resort deems itself as “family-friendly”, you definitely know that you’ll attract more empathy than stares when coming over with a bunch of loud kids; and that, my friends, would definitely put you in an instant relaxed mode!

Hyatt Regency offers a serious holiday for families with tiny-tots in tow – family-friendly facilities, two outdoor swimming pools and a variety of restaurants and bars, the resort is the ideal spot to relax and recharge over meaningful connections that last a lifetime. The whole resort set-up has been created with guests of all ages in mind.

For the kids, extra energy is burnt off at the beach, swimming or cycling all day long while parents can enjoy a drink or two at the stunning Sampan Bar that’s located on the beachfront with the most spectacular view of the South China Sea!

At night, feel free to drop by their onsite bar Chukka and groove away with first-class live entertainment and a variety of popular hits spun by their resident DJ!  Once the day comes to an end, you’ll love to cosy up with your little ones – freshly renovated 5-star accommodation with options for family-oriented rooms await!

4. A resort with not one but THREE swimming pools + a waterpark !!: De Rhu Beach Resort

De Rhu Beach Resort is an iconic family-friendly stay that distinguishes itself among other beachfront options in Kuantan. Blame it on its constellation of family-oriented amenities, more specifically its three swimming pools, waterpark and playground that take the centre stage for kids!

But that isn’t all! From a karaoke lounge to organised ATV rides, the wide array of amenities and activities at De Rhu Beach Resort ensure that your family stays entertained, no matter their age or interests.

Rooms on the other side are considered pretty basic. Although spacious and comfortable, they date a little but won’t fail to make you feel right at home!

The resort also features two on-site restaurants with De Rhu Oriental Restaurant serving halal Chinese cuisine and De Rhu Cafe offering light bites and refreshing beverages for when it gets too hot by the beautiful beaches of Kuantan!

5. There’s even a Bali-like beach bar here!: Adena Beach Resort

No Kuantan is not as lively as Bali or Langkawi but that’s exactly what you’ll love as a family, trust me! One of my best memories dates back to family holidays where we would wake up early for a walk by the beach when the rest of the world is still asleep, there’s nothing quite like enjoying your parents all to yourself ;)!

Adena Beach Resort is located on a tranquil stretch of sandy beach away from the ever-so-popular Teluk Cempedak, this means you get to enjoy quiet time by the beach with your family without having to worry about those coming on a honeymoon and giving your kids death stares!

No fancy kids’ club or over-the-top family-friendly amenities here; it’s really the home-away-from-home feels and beachfront location that steal the hearts of families!

Check into beautiful little chalets lined up on a green lawn, surrounded by trees and wake up to fresh sea breeze in the morning. It’s the perfect spot if you’re keen to let the kids run free while you enjoy a sip or two at their Puteh Beach Bar!

6. One with a mini-waterpark!: Swiss Garden Beach Resort Kuantan

Your accommodation choice can either make or completely destroy your family holiday. That’s why going with a reputable kid-friendly option like Swiss Garden Beach Resort might well be the best of ideas!

The resort is soooo family-oriented that it might not be the ideal choice for those looking to spend time with the kids as they’ll very likely prefer being left at the onsite mini-waterpark!

There are plenty of options (namely, a great pool and petting zoo) to keep the kiddies entertained when all you want to do is lie down for a rest.

And for all your last minute weekend getaways, the team at Swiss Garden has curated a special 2D1N Family Day Package, filled with memorable experiences for you and your loved ones, with over 40 choices of telematch games and access to the kids’ club!

Following a day full of happiness by the beach, you’ll look forward to all the cuddles in one of their spacious family rooms that comes with two interconnecting rooms. I mean, it’s a family vacation but daddy and mommy always need some privacy, am I right?!

7. You won’t want to leave this aparthotel!: Timurbay Seafront Residence

Timurbay Seafront Residence is a place you might return every year for your annual family holiday. It’s not a resort or a hotel but rather your home-away-from-home residence.

Nevertheless, a stay here guarantees you an exclusive seafront lifestyle, resort-themed facilities and impeccable sea views with direct access to the popular Balok Beach.

Having children shouldn’t change your holidays and Timurbay understands this statement! After a calm morning strolling along the beach, let the teens burn their energy off on the badminton court, while younger ones can enjoy the playground or kids’ club while you relax on the sunken sun loungers right in the pool!

Tantrums are easily hidden; there is room to run around and you’ll find plenty of spots for post-lunchtime snoozes, though your room looks pretty inviting too (choose between a penthouse or family suite if you’re coming with a crew). Remember to stock up on some fresh meat to make full use of the BBQ facilities too!

8. Dislike the sun? This stay has an indoor pool!: Mawar Villa

Luckily once in a while you come across places like Mawar Villa – affordable, all the while featuring family-friendly amenities! Here you can keep the kids safe from the sun yet have an amazing time in their… indoor pool!!

When it comes to the rooms, you can expect nothing fancy at Mawar Villa, rather they’re where you’ll feel at home – especially good for those of you who plan on spending the whole time out at the beach and only looking for a place to get some sleep at the end of the day. Their family suite featuring up to 4 king beds is especially great for big groups!

And thanks to its location and spacious grounds, Mawar Villa seems to be popular for wedding celebrations too – we all dream of saying yes by the beach, unfortunately organising a destination wedding at places like Bali often comes at an exorbitant price. Now you won’t have to go too far!

9. Enjoy a slow-paced traditional Malaysian lifestyle: Villa de Fedelia

Nothing comes more charming than a traditional little chalet that brings you back to the old days. We seem to be so caught up with our phones and tablets (yes even the kids) that it’s hard to disconnect and truly make the most of a holiday nowadays but Villa de Fedelia will tempt you to take a break and truly enjoy precious family time!

With its landscaped grounds, big open spaces and incredible traditional feels, Villa Suami seems to be the perfect backdrop for a big celebration but those same qualities also make it perfect for a family holiday where the kids can run free without you having to worry! Bonus? They have spacious family chalets to accommodate your whole crew and up to two kids under the age of 5 stay for free!

Now, remember I told you about going back in time? This resort might be one of the only stays in the area to feature an on-site library, something so rare nowadays if you ask me! We could all do with a little less of technology right?

Besides, they also help to organise your day trips. Whether it is a trip to Kuantan Farmers’ Market, turtle watching or even waterfall trekking, they’ve got you covered (because we know how hard it is to plan when you’ve got kids in tow)!

10. Be guarded by the South China Sea!: Mandurah Hotel

Deemed as the tallest building on the pristine Balok Beach fronting the azure clear blue waters of the South China Sea, you can be sure to always relish magical views at the Mandurah Hotel.

Beachfront but also close enough (10 minutes’ drive) to Kuantan Town, it’s a convenient and value-for-money spot for your next family vacation. Within walking distance, you’ll find eateries and a supermarket at your disposal.

The hotel features spacious family suites that can accommodate up to four adults and note that all guest rooms at Mandurah Hotel overlook a panoramic view of the mesmerizing South China Sea! Unfortunately there’s no swimming pool but the absence is compensated by the beach!

Special Mentions

Don’t mind being away from the beach? And how about splurging a little? These options might make your whole family happy! There’s a lakeside retreat for those who enjoy immersing in nature and wildlife, a luxury beachfront abode to treat your prince and princess, as well as THE ultimate all-inclusive family resort for a worry-free vacay! Let the kids pick one!

1. Skip the beach for this hidden lakeside retreat!: Mangala Resort & Spa

Mangala Resort & Spa lets you discover the less-visited side of Kuantan, a charming place where you can get pampered by the lake. This is the ideal retreat if you’re looking forward to relaxing, lazing and scenery-admiring.

It’s hard not to imagine your whole little family having the best of times here. Each of their ‘nature-inspired’ villas is designed in small-scale pavilions, allowing the surrounding greenery to flourish between each structure. Guests can choose from a range of relaxing villa accommodation that combines privacy, tranquillity and luxurious flair.

For the most family-friendly option, you might want to book yourselves into one of their 2-bedroom family villas. Ready to splurge? Their 2-bedroom Vana Pool Villa gives you the luxury of enjoying two private plunge pools all to yourselves!

Let’s not forget their lakeside restaurant that is beloved for both its views and delicious menu. The spectacular venue invites you all day to discover the chef’s range of local signature and international dishes.

And  if these aren’t enough to surprise your senses, sign yourself up for a memorable pampering experience at The Mangala Spa which allows you to unwind on top of a hill overlooking the lake and surrounded by lush tropical plants!

Besides, kids will be kept busy all day long with a range of on-site activities and excursions including kayaking, cycling and picnicking by the stunning lake!

2. Got kids under 6? They stay for free!: Royale Chulan Cherating Villas

No one is left out at the Royale Chulan Cherating Villas. The highlight? The location of course! The stunning resort sits on a sweeping natural beach that functions as both playground and aquatic wonderland for families with children! In fact you might be turning your whole family into a group of serious beach bums while holidaying here as you are never more than footsteps away from the beach!

Royale Chulan Cherating Villas also understands that families come in all shapes and volumes. Anyone with kids knows that it can be tricky (read: almost impossible) to find a nice beachfront hotel where you won’t feel like you’ve smuggled in noisy, unwelcome guests.

Luckily you can opt for their 2-bedroom private pool villa that offers ultimate privacy for your whole family; little ones will be free to scream, jump and run without attracting a million stares! Now of course you’ll have to fork out a little more to make everyone happy but don’t we all deserve it sometimes?

To add, you’ll be able to find shared fun with your kids! When you’re tired of your daily dip in the sea or pool, activities like jungle trekking and board game sessions will keep you all occupied! You’ll also find BBQ facilities provided at an additional cost for when you all want to skip the restaurants and get a little bit of home-away-from-home with mommy’s cooking!

3. A hotel that goes out of its way to welcome families!: Club Med Cherating

Club Med Cherating is where you need not worry if your children trek sand through the lobby. It is a place where you’ll have absolutely no fear of the little ones ruining the peace among legions of honeymooners and making noise at breakfast because every corner of this resort screams “FAMILY TIME!”.

Grab the kids and discover this beachfront jungle landscape where treetop adventures, turtle viewing excursions, rock climbing and watersports are part of your daily to-do list!

You can sign up the little ones for their multiple action-packed clubs and fun-filled activities while you enjoy a dip in the adults-only infinity pool with magnificent ocean views!

What’s more, at Club Med Cherating you’re sure to be in for a really carefree holiday as you’ll be paying upfront for an all-inclusive experience so your crew can enjoy unlimited food, drinks, activities and entertainment!

Know of any other nearby beach towns with family-friendly stays that are fit for a quick weekend getaway from the city? Let us know in the comments’ section below!

PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us

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