Kuantan Malaysia – Tower Views, River Cruise & Night Market

Kuantan, on Malaysia’s east coast, turned out to be a really relaxed place to explore. This episode covers the views from Kuantan 188 tower, a walk along the riverfront, a river cruise, and the night market at Teluk Cempedak.

Kuantan 188. It’s not the tallest tower in Malaysia, but it’s extremely scenic: you can see how Kuantan stretches along the river out to the coast, with the mountains in the distance. The staff gave me first-class service, including a guy who swung around the side of the tower to welcome me. I definitely recommend going up.

Dinner at the tower. The restaurant at the bottom of the tower had just been renovated, and they were looking for feedback, especially from someone from out of town. They were hoping for constructive criticism, but honestly, everything I tried was really good, including an omelet I couldn’t identify half the ingredients in. You can bundle the tower and the river cruise for a discount. A big thanks to MJ, who showed me around the tower and restaurant and walked with me along the river.

The tower and river cruise bundle was RM 76 for international adults when I went. Check current prices before you go.

Riverwalk and river cruise. From the tower, it’s a short walk along the riverwalk to the cruise departure point, a nice way to stretch your legs and get a feel for the city at ground level. Fun fact: the McDonald’s near the departure point is right next to a cemetery. Do with that what you will.

The cruise was okay. Not life-changing, but fun to see the city from the river. They take you out to where the river opens into the ocean and stop in a few spots so everyone can take photos.

Teluk Cempedak night market. As the sun goes down, things pick up by the beach. The night market is a short walk from the Hyatt Regency Kuantan Resort, with everything from street food to snacks. It’s a great place to walk around, grab something to eat and take in the local atmosphere.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from Kuantan, but it’s definitely worth a stop if you’re traveling along Malaysia’s east coast. For a quieter side of Kuantan, see I Put My Phone Down.