Merang is the gateway to the world famous archipelago of Redang islands. The beach, although not the most famous in the east coast, its long sandy beach and stretches of tall coconut trees and sparkling crystal clear sea water is somehow making Pantai Merang a good stop to enjoy the sea breeze before proceeding to next destination. There are some cheap chalets run by the local offering basic accommodation if you later decided to spend a night or so in this tranquil beach.
In general, the long coastline of Pantai Merang is located about 30 kilometres to the north of Kuala Terengganu.
The name of "Merang" is rather unfortunate as it is often mistaken for another popular beach area that goes by the name of "Marang" to the south of Kuala Terengganu. In recent days, the many beaches along the stretch of coastal Setiu district have gained better visibility to the public with the ever-growing flock of tourists to the idyllic islands off the coast of Pantai Merang, namely Pulau Redang and Pulau Lang Tengah. In fact, regular island goers have to make the compulsory stop at Pantai Merang where the main passenger boat jetty is located.
As Pantai Merang gets out of the ghastly shadow of Pantai Marang, the proliferation of medium- and high-class resorts start to stamp its mark on this long stretch of beautiful beach. Hospitality establishments such as The Aryani and Sutra Beach Resort have been adorning its white sandy beaches for many years, and as of recently, Merang Suria Resort had joined the fray to capture a slice of stopover tourists heading to the popular islands off the coast of Terengganu. It is not uncommon for island-bound visitors originating from different parts of Malaysia and Singapore to stay overnight at the many beach resorts of Pantai Merang before appropriately heading to the islands from Merang Jetty.
Near to the confluence of Sungai Merang and the South China Sea, a massive breakwater has been erected to regulate the depth of the river estuary. The construction has resulted in a man-made lagoon fronting the camping ground on the beach. In the so-called public park area, the beach is decidedly beautiful with swaying coconut trees and shady casuarina trees that produce whistling sounds when the wind is blowing strongly.
A good spot for a visit is the Merang Observatory Station (or Balai Cerap for Universiti Darul Iman). The place looks like a planetarium and is actually used for sky-gazing to determine the beginning of the many special months of Islamic calendar. As the observatory is perched on top of a hill overlooking the vast expanse of Pantai Merang, the view can be considered spectacular.
By Car
Either park your car at a designated safe park (a daily parking rate of RM4 - RM7 fee will be levied) and then hitch a ride on the connecting shuttle to Merang village.
By Bus/taxi
From town, grab a local bus to Merang from the bus terminal although it may be infrequent and often waits till there are enough passengers before leaving.
