Things To Do
in Cukai
Cukai is a coastal town in Terengganu's Kemaman District, known for its laid-back vibe and access to fresh seafood. It sits along Malaysia's east coast, with the Pantai Cukai area offering easy sea views and relaxed beach walks. The town blends traditional Malay fishing culture with growing cafes and small eateries that showcase Terengganu flavors.
Visitors can explore beaches, markets, and nearby mangrove trails while experiencing local hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Cukai and settle into your accommodation. Take the morning to relax and freshen up after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Malaysian dishes.
Spend your afternoon exploring the charming local market, where you can find fresh produce and handmade crafts. Don’t miss the chance to try some street food while mingling with friendly locals. After your market visit, stroll along the nearby beach to soak in the vibrant coastal scenery.
As evening descends, head to a seaside restaurant for dinner, enjoying delicious seafood dishes. Capture the stunning sunset over the ocean for unforgettable memories. Wind down your evening with a walk along the beach, feeling the cool sea breeze.
Start your day by kayaking on the tranquil Sungai Cukai, surrounded by lush mangroves and diverse wildlife. Early mornings are perfect for spotting birds and enjoying the peaceful ambiance of nature. After paddling, enjoy breakfast at a riverside café.
In the afternoon, visit a nearby fishing village to learn about local fishing techniques and the traditional lifestyle of the communities. Participate in a fishing activity or simply observe the fishermen at work. Treat yourself to a freshly cooked seafood lunch prepared by the villagers.
Return to your accommodation to freshen up, then venture out to a local night market. Savor an array of local delicacies and find unique handcrafted items. Enjoy the lively atmosphere filled with music and laughter while sampling different foods.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥤Soft drink or coffee | $1-3 |
| 🏨1 night at a budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚗Taxi or rideshare within town | $3-6 |
| 🛍️Groceries and snacks | $4-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed coastal town vibe with excellent seafood
- Affordable prices and friendly locals
- Short drives to mangrove and beach nature
- Limited nightlife and major attractions
- Public transportation can be sparse; reliance on cars
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Boleh saya bantu?" - Can I help you? / May I assist?
- "Berapa harga?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the toilet?
Places to Visit in Cukai
Visit one of these nice places.
A long, palm-fringed beach ideal for sunrise photography and tranquil sea shots.
Calm river scenes with boats and golden-hour reflections along the banks.
Colorful boats and street scenes at dusk, with local life and markets nearby.
Food in Cukai
Cukai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried or grilled fish crackers served with spicy chili sauce; a Terengganu staple best tasted at coastal stalls.
Must-Try!
Fragrant coconut-milk rice served with fish curry and sambal; a Terengganu specialty often found in seaside eateries.
Smoked fish paste skewers wrapped in banana leaves and grilled; rich, smoky flavors typical of the region.
Spiced fish paste wrapped in banana leaf and grilled; fragrant and savory.
Grilled fish with a flavorful sambal; fresh catches are often prepared this way along the coast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Coastal stalls offering freshly grilled fish and other seafood with simple sides.
Public market with stalls selling fish, vegetables, spices, and local snacks.
Local lanes where you can sample snacks and small bites from various vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms by covering shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites; remove shoes where required.
Islam is the predominant religion; observe prayer times, use halal options, and avoid public eating during daylight hours in Ramadan if applicable.
Safety
Tipping in Cukai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Malaysia; rounding up bills or giving a small tip for good service is appreciated in tourist areas.
Cash (MYR) is widely accepted; many places also take credit/debit cards and popular digital wallets, especially in towns and larger eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with clear skies; great for beach activities and boat trips. Afternoon showers can occur, so carry water and sun protection.
Northeast monsoon brings heavier rains and rougher seas; some outdoor activities may be limited. Indoor attractions and seafood dining are good alternatives during this period.
Cukai at Night
Hiking in Cukai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy, short boardwalks through mangrove ecosystems with birdwatching opportunities.
Short hikes in nearby nature reserves and coastal forests within a few hours’ drive.
Airports
How to reach Cukai by plane.
Kuala Terengganu airport; regional flights to Kuala Lumpur and other cities; travel by road to Cukai is typically a 2–3 hour drive.
Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport in Kuantan; serves domestic routes; roughly 3–4 hours by road from Cukai.
Smaller regional airstrip near Kemaman; limited services but convenient for private or charter flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant group; Islam is the major religion; many local customs reflect Malay culture.
Smaller communities contributing to markets, food offerings, and shops.
Small communities in rural pockets; influence local crafts and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local matches and informal games are common.
Popular recreational sport in community centers and clubs.
Coastal town culture supports fishing, boating, and occasional snorkeling or diving along nearby coastlines.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cukai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many places; look for vegetable dishes, tofu, and mushroom-based options. Most halal eateries can accommodate vegetarian requests; ask about fish sauces or shrimp stock if you have strict restrictions.