Things To Do
in Cukai

Cukai, Malaysia, is a picturesque coastal town located in the Terengganu state, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant fishing community. The town is characterized by its cultural diversity, blending Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences, reflected in its architecture and local cuisine. Cukai serves as a gateway to nearby attractions such as the Cherating Beach and the islands of Redang and Perhentian.

Visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while exploring the rich natural beauty and local traditions of this charming destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Cukai
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Cukai Wetlands, where you can enjoy birdwatching and see various wildlife in their natural habitat.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market for lunch, trying out some street food. Afterward, visit the nearby Cherating Beach for some relaxing sunbathing and swimming.

evening
:

Enjoy a seafood dinner at a beachside restaurant while watching the sunset over the South China Sea.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Visit the Cukai Heritage Museum to learn about the local history and culture.

afternoon
:

Explore the traditional fishing village nearby and perhaps try your hand at fishing with the locals.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a visit to a local night market, where you can sample various dishes and shop for souvenirs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$3
Coffee at a café$1.50
🚌Bus fare$0.50
🛒Groceries for a week$20
🏨Budget hotel per night$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and beaches.
  • Rich cultural experiences and diverse cuisine.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Possible language barrier in rural areas.
  • Monsoon season can disrupt travel plans.
  • "Selamat datang" - Welcome
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
  • "Di mana tandas?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Boleh saya minta bil?" - Can I have the bill?

Places to Visit in Cukai

Visit one of these nice places.

Cherating Beach

Known for its stunning sunsets and tranquil waters, it's a perfect spot for beach photography.

Cukai Heritage Museum

The museum's traditional architecture and cultural exhibits offer great photo opportunities.

Cukai Wetlands

Capture the beauty of the wetlands and its diverse wildlife, especially during sunrise.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cukai

Cukai offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its multicultural heritage, with a variety of delicious local dishes to try.

Cukai Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Dagang

A traditional rice dish served with fish curry and pickled vegetables, popular in the region.

Must-Try!

Keropok Lekor

A type of fish cracker made from fish and sago flour, often enjoyed as a snack.

Sotong Goreng

Deep-fried squid seasoned with spices, served with chili sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cukai Night Market

A bustling market where you can find a variety of local street food, snacks, and fresh produce.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cukai has a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity and temperatures averaging between 24°C to 32°C year-round. The monsoon season from November to March brings heavy rainfall, while the dry season offers plenty of sunshine. Visitors should prepare for warm weather, especially during the dry season when outdoor activities are most enjoyable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites, dress modestly to respect local customs.

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders and use polite language when addressing them.

Remove Shoes Indoors

It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cukai is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid isolated areas at night and keep valuables secure. It’s advisable to use reputable transportation services and be cautious when swimming in unfamiliar waters.

Tipping in Cukai

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also used in larger establishments; ATMs are available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Monsoon (November - March)

Expect heavy rains and rough seas, which can affect beach activities but also bring lush greenery.

Dry Season (April - October)

Ideal time to visit for sunny days, perfect for outdoor activities and beach outings.

Festive Seasons (Eid, Chinese New Year)

Cukai celebrates various festivals with vibrant local events and special food offerings.

Summer (June - August)

Hot and humid, great for beach trips but stay hydrated and use sunscreen.

Nightlife Guide

Cukai at Night

Cukai's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, focusing more on local night markets and beachside eateries. After sunset, visitors can enjoy fresh seafood dinners by the beach and explore vibrant markets offering local snacks and crafts. Some small bars and cafes may feature live music, creating a relaxed atmosphere for evening outings.

Hiking in Cukai

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bukit Besi Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers views of the surrounding landscape and is suitable for all skill levels.

Kuala Abang Trail

A moderately challenging trail featuring lush rainforest and opportunities to spot wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Cukai by plane.

Kuala Terengganu Airport (TGG)

Located approximately 40 minutes from Cukai, this airport offers domestic flights and connections to major cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cukai is a moderately walkable town, with many attractions and amenities located within a short distance of each other. Sidewalks are available in the main areas, but some roads may be less pedestrian-friendly. Overall, walking is a pleasant way to explore the town, especially along the beach.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Malay Community

The majority ethnic group in Cukai, known for their rich cultural traditions and practices.

Chinese Community

A significant minority in Cukai, contributing to the local economy and cultural diversity, particularly in cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport among locals, with many community teams and matches held regularly.

Sepak Takraw

This traditional sport, similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, is widely played and enjoyed in the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cukai is generally light, especially compared to larger Malaysian cities. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around. However, during peak hours, minor congestion may occur near market areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cukai.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Halal

Most food in Cukai is halal, but it’s advisable to check for certification in non-Muslim establishments.

Vegetarian/Vegan

While there are vegetarian options, vegan choices may be limited, so it's best to ask before ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Cukai is basic, with several clinics and a local hospital available for minor ailments and emergencies. For more serious conditions, larger hospitals in nearby towns or cities may be required. Travelers should ensure to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Malaysia

Read more in our Malaysia 2025 Travel Guide.

Malaysia Travel Guide