Summer is the perfect time to get the kids out into nature and enjoy the great outdoors. If you’re in Penang, you’re in luck! This beautiful island offers several trails that are not only scenic but also kid-friendly. Here are the top five trails in Penang that are perfect for a fun and memorable summer holiday adventure with your little ones.

1. Penang Botanical Garden

Source: Penang Insider

• Trail Length:  1.9 km (loop)
• Address: Kompleks Pentadbiran,Bangunan Pavilion, Jalan Kebun Bunga, 10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Difficulty:  Easy
• Average Time to Complete:  35 minutes
• Activities:  Birdwatching, walking, jogging

Penang Botanical Garden is a perfect place for parents and kids to enjoy a day outdoors. It's filled with tropical plants like exotic flowers, ferns, and majestic trees. Highlights include the Orchidarium, Sun Rockery, and Fern House, each offering unique sights. Kids will love the whimsical Secret Garden with its colorful flowers and statues. Trails wind through the garden, ideal for a relaxed family walk, while a peaceful stream and waterfall add to the serene atmosphere. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as monkeys and exotic birds, enhancing the garden's natural beauty.

2. Air Itam Dam

Source: Jun Duki

• Trail Length:  2.9 km (loop)
• Address: 11500, Jln Balik Pulau, 11500 Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Difficulty:  Moderate
• Average Time to Complete:  54 minutes
• Activities:  Jogging, running, walking, cycling

The Air Itam Dam is a great spot for jogging, running, walking, and cycling. Starting from the Air Itam parking lot, the paved path winds around a serene lake and offers scenic views of hills and forests. The well-maintained path is suitable for families, with two viewpoints offering panoramic views and excellent photo opportunities. Whether you're walking, jogging, or cycling, the Air Itam Dam is a perfect destination for a day out.

3. Gurney Bay

Source: thevibes

• Address: Gurney Dr, 10250 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
• Activities: Walking, jogging, skateboarding, family outings

Exciting news for families! The first phase of Gurney Bay in Penang is now open, offering a fantastic 27-acre park with a viewing deck, playground, skate park, kiosks, and a scenic promenade with stunning sea views. Completed in nearly 20 months and filled with lush greenery, it promises ample parking and beautiful coastal scenery. Perfect for parents and kids alike, Gurney Bay is a must-visit destination for fun and relaxation. Stay tuned for Phase Two, expected by mid-2025, which will bring even more amenities to enhance your visit!

4. Robina Eco Park

Source: Astro Awani

• Trail Length: 0.8 km (loop)
• Address: 1, Lrg. Aman 7, Taman Robina, 13050 Butterworth, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Difficulty: Easy
• Average Time to Complete: 9 minutes
• Activities:  Hiking, road biking, running

Robina Eco Park has a nice 0.8-km trail near Butterworth, Penang. This easy path takes about 9 minutes to finish and is popular for hiking, biking, and running. It's open all year and is delightful to visit anytime. The park sits by the pretty coast, giving a peaceful setting for a walk or jog on its well-made tracks. You'll feel the cool sea breeze as you see the stunning sea views. Kids can play at the playgrounds, making it great for families. At one end of the path, you'll find a small food area for snacks or meals. Watch the amazing sunset over the sea as the day ends. The park is also a good spot for picnics, with lots of space to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

5. Pantai Queensbay

Source:Aida Masayu

• Trail Length: 17.1 km (out-and-back)
• Address: Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia
• Difficulty: Easy
• Average Time to Complete: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Activities: Hiking, running, walking

Explore the family-friendly 17.1-km trail near Gelugor, Penang, located at Pantai Queensbay. It's an easy route that takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete, suitable for hiking, running, or leisurely walks with minimal crowds. Enjoy year-round access to stunning sea views and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for a memorable day out with your kids, complete with scenic sunrises and sunsets.

6. Pearl Hill Peak

Source: alltrails

• Trail Length:  5.3 km (loop)
• Location:  Near Tanjong Bungah
• Difficulty:  Moderate
• Average Time to Complete:  1 hour and 43 minutes
• Activities:  Hiking, mountain biking, running

Head out on this moderately challenging trail, starting at Jalan Sungai Kelian. The route takes you to the top of Pearl Hill (Bukit Pearl), offering beautiful hill views. The trail is popular for hiking, mountain biking, and running but offers some solitude during quieter times. Remember to bring insect repellent and adequate drinking water for your trip. This trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.

To Wrap Up

Enhance your Penang adventure by renting a car with WAHDAH, ensuring easy access to these trails and the freedom to explore the island's natural beauty at your own pace.