Pulau Jerejak is a small island off the east coast of Penang island. It has a long eventful past, through the decades – a leprosy colony, a quarantine station, a high-security detention center and now a resort island. Pulau Jerejak or known as The Alcatraz of Malaysia is rich with history, flora and fauna and a secret place which often goes unnoticed and highly missed out by tourists.
A historic island in Penang
Many people are not even aware of this island’s existence or simply have forgotten about it over the years. But that’s all changed in recent months with the opening of the newly refurbished Jerejak Island Resort.
With the opening of the resort, it has upped the ante of Jerejak Island because day visitors are now welcome to come enjoy many of the beautiful hotel’s amenities as well as explore some of the off-property historic sites.
It is easily accessed by ferry
Getting to Jerejak Island Resort from Penang Island is now easy and convenient. The jetty is located next to Persiaran Bayan Indah in Gelugor, Penang. Daily ferry service to and from Jerejak Island starts at 6:30 am and ends at 12:00 am.
You won’t miss the colourful boat dock upon arriving at the Pulau Jerejak Resort Jetty. There are two mysterious Stormtroopers guarding the boat ramp and splashes of other fun decors around the area.
Things to do at Jerejak Island
There is a quiet nearby beach available for those who prefer sand between their toes. But for the more adventurous, there is jungle trekking to the old British prison and bicycle riding down the old prison trail. All these activities are encouraged to go with a guide as the historic sites should be visited safely and respectfully.
Other than tan, rental equipment for archery and paintball is available through the resort’s recreation department. If you prefer watersports, you can rent a kayak for exploring the island’s nearby coastline.
A memorable evening at Pulau Jerejak
Be sure to take an evening walk through Jerejak Island Resort. The entire landscape turns into a kaleidoscope of colour as the trees and shrubbery are strung with millions of colourful lights.
Sunset cruise to wrap up the day
The hour-long sunset cruise will pass below the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge and circles back around Pulau Jerejak past the many fish farms. A relaxing way to wrap up the day in Pulau Jerejak.
Getting there:
Jerejak Island is only 10 minutes by ferry from the island of Penang. The Jerejak Island Resort has its own jetty on Penang which is in the Bayan Lepas area in the south east of the island, south of the Penang bridge and close to the Queensbay Mall.
