Port Dickson has some great choices for visitors who just wish to swim, play in the ocean or snorkel about.
If you prefer a quiet beach away from the crowds then you should try the very small private one at Cape Rachado / Tanjung Tuan.
It does involve hiking up through a beautiful forest reserve on a sealed road to the very old but still active lighthouse atop but the chance is high that you may come across a family of spectacled langurs and if you go in the early morning or late afternoon when it is cooler you will definitely hear, and see, a variety of birds.
Beyond the lighthouse is the track to the beach which is a jungle style trail that has a very steep descent. You will arrive at a small, cute and quiet cove where I’ve only ever seen fishermen trying their luck on the surrounding rocks.
Like all beaches in the area it is best to swim when the tide is high as the receding and low tides expose mudflats as the area contains mangroves. This beach also has some very sharp rocks underwater so care needs to be taken or wear protective booties. I’d suggest it is only for expert snorkelers as the coral is hard to negotiate for children.
If you prefer the fun and flamboyancy the oceanside can offer then Pantai Teluk Kemang and Sri Purnama are the places to go. Here you can ride on banana boats, tubes and jet-skis but you do have to put up with a constant hum of engines on the busy days. Once again check out when the high tide is best for swimming.
The area also offers shade tents, food, drinks and all matter of beach accessories from togs and towels to sunscreen and sunglasses.
Other nice beaches I have been to include Blue Lagoon, near Cape Rachado and Pantai Cahaya Negeri which has a hotel, the Bayu Beach resort, right on the foreshore.
Pantai Saujana area has fine white sandy beaches as well as the jet ski and banana boat rides plus plenty of food stalls, restaurants, toilet and shower facilities.
