Best outdoor holiday activities in Malaysia for year-end 2025

Lifestyle
December 9, 2025
  •  
By 
Ashwinee Rvan

We’re halfway through the year — and there’s no better time to start planning ahead for your year-end holiday! Whether you’re after a relaxing break, a festive getaway, or a chance to explore the great outdoors, Malaysia offers the perfect mix of adventure, culture and celebration. From vibrant city lights to tranquil island escapes, there’s something in the outdoors for every traveller.

As December approaches, Malaysia transforms into a festive wonderland filled with colourful events, mouth-watering food, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple or with family, here’s your guide to making the most of your outdoor year-end holiday in 2025.

Experience the best of Malaysia’s year-end festivities

Malaysia’s year-end season is full of festive cheer and cultural richness. From traditional parades to child-like fun, here are some top events to mark on your calendar:

1. Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta 2025

Soak up the excitement at one of Malaysia’s most anticipated water sports events. The Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta brings together teams from around the world for two days of high-speed competition and cultural celebration along the beautiful Straits Quay Marina.

When: 28 – 30 November 2025

Where: Straits Quay Retail Marina, Penang

2. Comic Fiesta Kuala Lumpur

Comic Fiesta is Malaysia’s premier anime, comics, and gaming convention. It returns to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in mid-December 2025, drawing tens of thousands of fans for cosplay, artist booths, and live entertainment. Whether you're a fan or a casual observer, it's a colourful celebration of creativity and fandom.

When: 20 – 21 December 2025

Where: KL Convention Centre, Kuala Lumpur

3. Brick Fest at LEGOLAND Malaysia

Say hello to Brick Fest — LEGOLAND Malaysia’s new brand of festive cheer! Enjoy interactive building workshops, festive character meet-and-greets, themed parades, holiday shows, and seasonal games. It’s a hands-on holiday treat for builders of all ages.

When: 22 May – 21 September 2025

Where: LEGOLAND Theme Park, Iskandar Puteri, Johor

Explore Malaysia’s natural gems this holiday season

Looking for a refreshing break away from the city? Malaysia’s rich natural landscapes make it easy to unwind or get adventurous — even during the rainy season, when everything is lush and refreshed.

National parks for jungle trekking and wildlife spotting
  • Taman Negara Pahang – One of the world’s oldest rainforests, offering canopy walks, river cruises, and night safaris.
  • Gunung Gading National Park – A Sarawak gem famous for the blooming Rafflesia flower and scenic forest trails.
  • Niah National Park – Explore limestone caves filled with ancient paintings and archaeological history.
Tropical islands for snorkelling and beach bliss
  • Sipadan, Mabul, & Kapalai – World-class dive sites with vibrant marine life and clear waters.
  • Perhentian Islands – Family-friendly and great for laid-back snorkelling, sunbathing, and island hopping.
Scenic lakes for peaceful retreats
  • Lake Kenyir – Malaysia’s largest man-made lake, ideal for fishing, kayaking, and eco-tours.
  • Temenggor Lake – A serene rainforest-fringed lake that’s perfect for spotting hornbills or relaxing at a floating resort.
  • Putrajaya Lake – A city-based escape with boat rides, lakeside picnics, and well-kept urban parks.
Waterfalls to explore after the rains
  • Ulu Chepor Waterfall (Perak) – A cooling spot popular with locals for weekend dips.
  • Kota Tinggi Waterfall (Johor) – Easily accessible and ideal for family fun.
  • Sekayu Waterfall (Terengganu) – Surrounded by forest and suitable for short hikes.
  • Sungai Chiling Waterfall (Selangor) – A nature lover’s favourite with river crossings en route to the falls.

Don’t miss Malaysia’s famous street food and night markets

A year-end holiday in Malaysia isn’t complete without a food adventure! Visit these bustling night markets to enjoy local favourites like satay, nasi lemak, apam balik, and more — all served fresh and flavourful:

  • Gurney Drive, Penang
  • Jalan Alor Food Street, Kuala Lumpur
  • Taman Connaught Night Market, Cheras

Quick trip ideas for a short and sweet getaway

Whether you’re pressed for time or just want to squeeze in one last trip before the year ends, these mini-holidays are easy to plan:

Weekend escape to the highlands

Head to Kundasang, Sabah, for cool mountain air, breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu, and a visit to Desa Dairy Farm. Ideal for couples and families looking for a peaceful refresh.

Short city break with something for everyone

Spend 3–4 days in Sunway City, Selangor — packed with theme parks, shopping malls, festive attractions, and easy access to KL. A convenient choice for families or friend groups.

Beachside recharge

Unwind on Langkawi’s Pantai Cenang with its white sands, water sports, and sunset seafood dinners. Bonus: it’s duty-free!

Your perfect year-end starts with a plan

From festive parades and theme parks to scenic adventures and unbeatable food, Malaysia is packed with experiences to end your year on a high. Planning early means more savings, better choices, and a stress-free holiday — so start now, and get ready to celebrate the end of 2025 in true Malaysian style.

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