The east coast of Malaysia is one sweeping, golden beach that stretches on for what seems forever. On a stretch of that sits Kijalena Inn, a little b&b that we picked to break the journey to Kuala Besut on our way to the Perhentian Islands. The new East Coast Highway that slices through the palm oil plantations cuts the journey time, and it took us 3.5 hours to get to Kijal. And we found this:
Retirement project for Kak Rose and her husband, the compound is beautifully designed with hand-crafted details. The rooms in the separate guest house are clean and painted bright white, with air conditioning, kettle, fridge and a TV. We just about fitted two extra mattresses on the floor to make space for all four of us. There is even a swimming pool and seats in the shady garden for when you’ve had enough of the beach.
The wide, empty beach is just across the street. Just as Rose says, here you get an island beach without having to travel to one. The boulders in the far end of the beach make it a perfect playground. It is very much a local beach, so do remember to dress appropriately.
Getting stuffed at Kijalena Inn
The breakfast was something else! Not your usual eggs and dry toast, but a feast that kept us going until dinner time! Nasi dagang, kuih and other Terengganu delicacies for the adults, omelet and toast with kaya for the kids – yummy! Breakfast is served inside or in the garden, depending on the weather.
There are a few places to eat in Kijal, just ask the hosts for the options. Al Safina offers a decent Arab fare near the beach, and there are a few stalls a walk away and Chinese seafood places near Resorts World, a 15 minutes drive away – a decent place for a beer.
And don’t miss the sun rise – it was early (6.45am to be specific) so I only managed to grab my phone but watching this in the gazebo by the pool was a great start for the day!
If you are looking for a friendly and affordable place for a quick break on the beach, maybe go surfing, or to break a journey along the East Coast, check this lovely place out – it beats those monstrous 90’s beach resorts populating the East Coast hands down.
7 Responses
I’m soooo going there!
It’s lovely and and “only” took us 3,5 hours to get there.
There are plenty more of mothernature n rainforest nearby to explore…do come again n again..Merci beaucoup
Would love to come back! I didn’t know there is accessible rainforest around, that would be a great outing. Do you happen to know the name of the place or directions to get to it?
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What a great find! The new highway has certainly made the East Coast much more accessible.
Very nice..