Mynn Lee at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast
Cover Travel blogger and mum Mynn Lee shares her top recommended holiday staycations in Malaysia for families with small kids. (Photo: Mynn Lee)

5 parent-approved resorts for the whole family to enjoy when it's safe to travel again this year

Mynn Lee has travelled a lot. For six years, this KL-based mum has inspired readers through her travel blog, She Walks The World, chronicling her picturesque travel experiences alongside heartwarming tales of motherhood and tips for families embarking on their own wanderlust adventures.  

Related: Private Retreats In Malaysia For A Post-Quarantine Staycation

"For me, a 'family-friendly' destination now means tighter SOPs and clear steps taken to ensure hygiene and health safety," shares Lee. "I love beach destinations, as it's easier to maintain social distancing during these times." 

Lee shares with Tatler Malaysia her top recommended family vacation spots around Malaysia, starting with a luxe beach resort in her hometown of Kuantan.

Hyatt Regency Kuantan Resort, Pahang

Tatler Asia
Photo: Hyatt Regency Kuantan Resort
Above Photo: Hyatt Regency Kuantan Resort

Lee's favourite city spot by the beach is Hyatt Regency Kuantan Resort in Teluk Cempedak. The recently refurbished resort has two outdoor pools and family-oriented facilities like a kids zone with plenty of children's activities. Parents also have the option of treating their kids to a picnic overlooking nearby waterfalls, visiting a turtle sanctuary on Chendor Beach or taking an evening river cruise to watch fireflies along Cherating River. 

Although the spa at Hyatt Regency Kuantan Resort is temporarily closed, guests can enjoy the swimming facilities here as well as the fitness centre, tennis court, the steam and sauna rooms. Dining at the Sampan Bar is a treat since it looks out on the beach. 

Related: The Most Idyllic Luxury Holiday Resorts In Malaysia

Tatler Asia
Photo: Mynn Lee
Above Rainbow Falls at Sungai Lembing. Pahang (Photo: Mynn Lee)

"Cherating, which is about 45 minutes out of Kuantan, also has a range of resorts and hotels, from villas and chalets to backpacker places," says Lee. "In the day, there’s the beach, and at night, you can go for a cruise in search of fireflies." 

For nature-loving families, Lee recommends this exciting outdoor spot:  "Another small town to check out near Kuantan is Sungai Lembing. It used to be a mining town, so you can explore a mine and learn its history in the local museum. The town is also the starting point to see the famous Rainbow Waterfalls."   

More: 6 Stunning Beaches In Malaysia To Visit In 2021
 

Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, Johor & Penang

Tatler Asia
Mynn Lee at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast
Above Mynn Lee at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast
Tatler Asia
TThe Roxstars Toys and Sweets zone of this family-friendly resort will make even adults feel like a kid in a candy shop (Photo: Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast)
Above The Roxstars Toys and Sweets zone of this family-friendly resort will make even adults feel like a kid in a candy shop (Photo: Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast)

It's no surprise that Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast and its Penang counterpart along Ferringhi Beach are beloved destinations for Lee and her family. These resorts offer direct access to sprawling beaches as well as dedicated kids' clubs and activities.

"Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast and Hard Rock Hotel Penang have plenty of facilities for families, and a kids club too. It's fun for everyone, and even adults can't help but let out their inner child."

See also: The Coolest Hotel Pools In Malaysia

At the Roxity Kids Club, children aged four to 12 can keep busy with music-themed activities. Does the whole family have a sweet tooth? Then the Roxstars Toys and Sweets section is the place to go to stock up on candy and toys before heading out to the beach.   

Welcoming guests back with open arms, Hard Rock Resort Desaru Coast is offering up to 25 per cent in discounts on its room rates for guests who book the Get Away Together package from now till April 30, 2021 for stays between now and December 15, 2021. 

arrow left arrow left
arrow right arrow right
Photo 1 of 2 The Seaview Deluxe Suite (Photo: Hard Rock Hotel Penang)
Photo 2 of 2 Parents can opt for a Teepee Tent in their room for kids aged 12 and below at Hard Rock Hotel Penang.

Reopened on March 8, 2021, Hard Rock Hotel Penang is also ready to offer families peace of mind along with rockstar-worthy treatment. In-room dining is available in family-friendly suites like the Seaview Deluxe Suite, which comfortably sleeps two adults and two kids. Throw some extra fun into the mix by requesting for Teepee Tents for kids aged 12 and below. There's even an entire suite designed expressly for junior travellers, complete with its own mini playground and outdoor courtyard.     

Along with the reopening of its famous Hard Rock Cafe, the resort has also reopened facilities like the Roxity Kids Club, the TABU Teens Club, swimming and spa facilities and its fitness centre. 

Hotels In Penang: Author Bettina Chua Abdullah Recommends 6 Beautiful Places

 

Mangala Resort & Spa, Pahang

Tatler Asia
Mangala Resort & Spa
Above Mangala Resort & Spa

A lush plantation with wide open green spaces and peaceful luxury villas with their own private pools, Mangala Resort & Spa promises an idyllic break for the whole family.       

"I would definitely recommend the Mangala Resort and Spa for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature," shares Lee. "This luxurious resort is completely surrounded by greenery, which includes a huge lake and wetlands."

Check out the resort's 2D1N Family Getaway Picnic package for two adults and two kids (aged six years old and below) to enjoy perks like a free picnic, complimentary dinner for the kids, water sports activities for two and in-villa breakfast. 

Tatler Reviews: One&Only Desaru Coast—Malaysia's Newest Luxury Resort

 

Bonus: The Acres Resort, Pahang

arrow left arrow left
arrow right arrow right
Photo 1 of 2 Photo: @lulupauu/Instagram
Photo 2 of 2 Photo: @lulupauu/Instagram

Stylish mum of three Pei Lu Lim has family travel photos on Instagram down to an artform. From a stay at the Ritz-Carlton Langkawi to under-the-radar eco-luxury spots like The Acres Resort, family staycations for Lim lean towards a retreat in the arms of nature. 

"I would strongly recommend The Acres Resort for young families," Lim says. "They have a mini animal farm that's great for the kids to explore." 

Just a 40-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur, this resort sits on eight acres of land bordered by lush mountain ranges. The kids are sure to keep busy and happy here with a kids' cycling trail, a greenhouse, an orchard, an outdoor playground and the spacious Wood Cafe (that also happens to be pet-friendly). If you're a fan of afternoon tea, you're in luck—high tea here is definitely not to be missed.      

Related: The Most Expensive Airbnb Properties In Malaysia

Topics