Located on the coast of the Malacca Strait, the Malaysian fishing town of Merlimau is where dense rainforest meets the ocean. Modern villas and a rocky sea wall line a good portion of the shore, while palm and banana trees sway in the breeze. The area is home to a diverse mix of Muslim, Hindu, and Christian influences, which come together to offer a unique cultural fusion. If you follow Merimau’s main road, you’ll find plenty of restaurants specializing in Malay-Chinese fusion as well as a wide range of food markets with vendors selling everything from Halal burgers to spicy fish stew.

Merlimau experiences a tropical rainforest climate, which means rain is likely no matter the season or month. Be sure to pack an umbrella and an extra layer, especially in November when rainfall is at its peak. From April to July, the temperature and humidity spikes, so stay hydrated and plan your time outdoors accordingly. Monsoon season in this area of the country stretches from late May through September, when you’re more likely to encounter high winds and choppy waters. If you’re planning on spending a lot of time on the beach, then the driest months are January and February.

Pantai Siring

South of the city, you’ll find a number of beachfront parks with paved pedestrian pathways, picnic areas, and public restrooms. The most popular is Pantai Siring, which is about halfway between Merlimau and Malacca. There’s a large adjacent parking lot here, which makes this beach easy to access. If you’re planning on swimming, pay attention to the current and know that jellyfish can be common in the strait.

Demang Abdul Ghani Gallery

This museum is housed in a traditional Malay home with intricate painted tile, hand-carved wooden features, and a pitched red roof. Inside, you’ll find beaded period clothing, gold jewelry, ceramics, silk textiles, and decorative furniture covered in gold leaf. Informational plaques provide details about ancient Malay history and culture in the area, and you can also walk around the small garden outside.

Pulau Besar

Take a ferry from the nearby towns of Pernu or Umba to the island of Pulau Besar. Here you’ll find white-sand beaches that are great for sunbathing, as well as shallow, clear water with coral reefs that make for excellent snorkeling. Check out the island’s historical sites, including Islamic tombs from the 16th century. You’ll also find a small museum and a couple of beachside restaurants, where you can enjoy a cool drink at an outdoor picnic table.