When it comes to tourism in Malaysia, there are a few places that stand out to visitors. A common option many choose is arriving in Kuala Lumpur and heading straight to KLCC. (After all, nothing says “I’m in KL” to Instagram like a shot of the Petronas Towers!) After spending the night in Kuala Lumpur, they will then move to either Penang for a gastronomic affair, or visit Langkawi where they can sit back and relax by the beach while sipping on cheap booze. Many also find their way to the heritage city of Melaka, too, with still others heading for the hills of Cameron Highlands.

Another popular tourist approach is to head over to Sabah and check out the lush rainforest of Borneo, climb Mount Kinabalu, experience water activities in the pristine beaches of Semporna, or even get up close with an orangutan at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sandakan.

However, apart from the aforementioned locations, Malaysia has a lot more to offer. Here’s our pick of hidden gems in Malaysia, places which are not commonly found in a tourist’s checklist:

1. Tusan Beach, Sarawak

What do Matsu Islands of Taiwan and Vaadhoo Beach in Maldives have in common? Well, they both have the magical ‘blue tears’, which is a phenomenon that sees the ocean glow in luminous bright blue. And guess what? We have such an event happening in Tusan Beach, Miri as well. The phenomenon, also known as ‘bio-luminescence’, is when micro-organisms in the water react with oxygen to produce a bright blue light visible from the beach.

What was once a rather ordinary-looking beach, today has gained instant popularity – thanks to Albert Song, a Malaysian photographer who captured the magnificent view of the beach and shared it on social media. Located along Jalan Pesisir Pantai Miri-Bekenu, the beach is secluded, and visitors can only get to the location after driving through palm oil plantations and descend 30 metres from a cliff to reach the beach. Although it seems like a rather adventurous route, it’s sure to be worthwhile, if only for this stunning view.

2. Teluk Senangin, Perak

If you’re not a local, chances are you’ve not heard of Teluk Senangin. Located in Perak, this less-populated island is a little-known (but famous to those ‘in the know’) destination for a weekend family outing. With no disturbance of the hectic city life, visitors come to this island to sit back and relax while enjoying the unparalleled sea view and the cool sea breeze.

Apart from relaxing and unwinding, tourists can also learn more about turtles at the nearby Turtle Conservation and Information Centre. If you’re feeling the need to be closer to nature, we recommend you rent a boat from the villagers and embark on a fishing trip. While here, it’s also best to make your way to Pantai Remis, which is only 10 minutes away, to enjoy the freshest seafood imaginable.

3. Sasaran, Selangor

Have you ever scrolled Instagram and stumbled upon the beautiful Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, the world largest sea flats? Well, Malaysia has something similar, too. Situated in Kuala Selangor, Sasaran is a newfound favourite among locals as it makes a perfect photography location.

Famously known as “Mirror in the Sky”, the beach is as wide as 100 football fields and offers panoramic views of a picturesque background and mirror-like reflection – all thanks to its super-thin clear water against a sandy beach. However, getting a clear mirror image only happens four to five days every month, when the sea level is perfectly balanced. But that shouldn’t stop you from visiting this natural wonder because you’re still all but guaranteed an Instagram-worthy picture at the end of the day.

4. Gem Island, Terengganu

Just like its name, Gem Island in Terengganu is indeed precious to Malaysia. Locally known as Pulau Gemia, the island is a privately owned one off the East Coast of Peninsular, and has white sandy beaches, pristine waters, stunning coral reefs, and breathtaking marine life. You might be wondering why this island is so special, since many beaches in Malaysia have such features. Well, the answer is that this island is not as famous as neighbouring islands like Pulau Redang or Lang Tengah.

So, if you’re looking to explore a beautiful island, but without the crowds, then Gem Island is the perfect choice for you.

5. Crystal Mosque, Terengganu

Viewed as one of the world’s most beautiful mosques, Crystal Mosque is built on a man-made island called Pulau Wan Man in Terengganu. Constructed within the grounds of Islamic Heritage Park, the mosque is made of steel and glass, which gives it a crystal-like appearance. Opened in 2008, the mosque adopts a contemporary style infused with Moorish and Gothic elements.

When you enter the mosque, you’ll witness a large crystal chandelier in the main prayer hall. If this place is next in your must-visit place, we suggest you go at night as the entire mosque shines vibrantly with a stunning display of lights that transforms the domes and minarets into shades pink, green, yellow, and blue.

6. Rainbow Waterfall, Pahang

Most of us have seen a rainbow at least once in our lifetime – in the sky. But seeing one at a waterfall is different indeed. If you visit Rainbow Waterfall in Pahang, you’re almost guaranteed to see one. Located at Sungai Lembing, the formation of a rainbow is caused by the sun-bathed water spray from the falls as they plunge off a stone ledge. While it’s common to spot a rainbow at waterfall once in a while, here, you’re all but certain to find one. It’s not for nothing that it’s called Rainbow Waterfall, after all.

7. Lake Chini, Pahang

Located about 85 kilometres from Kuantan, Lake Chini is Malaysia’s second-largest freshwater lake and has UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status attached to it. Despite its scenic and idyllic view, the lake is often overlooked by many. Did you know that the forests around the lake are among the least disturbed in the country? This means that visitors can often expect to see nature at its best. If you happen to pick Lake Chini as your next travel destination, be sure to explore the striking waterfalls and caves in the vicinity, and be prepared to occasionally spot wild boars and elephants crossing your path. But if you’re a bird enthusiast, then the locals recommend that you visit between October to March, when birds from Northern Asia flock to the area.

Apart from its natural beauty, historian believes that Lake Chini is the site of an ancient Khmer city. However, the local folks believe that the lake is guarded by a mysterious monster called Naga Sri Gumum, just like the Loch Ness monster in the Scottish Highlands. So pack your back and head over to Lake Chini and you might get a chance to bump into our own version of the Loch Ness monster!

So there you have it – seven brand new destinations that you can add to your own travel list. Since these places are not too popular (for now), you can also be certain to enjoy your holiday with the least amount of disturbance.