Table of Contents
Planning a visit to Penang in 2025? Don’t miss the Penang Youth Park, a beautiful park located near the famous Botanical Gardens. While it may not be as well-known as other attractions in Penang, it offers a range of exciting activities and the chance to immerse yourself in nature. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know to plan a trip to the Penang Youth Park.
Where is the Penang Youth Park located?
The Penang Youth Park is located next to the Botanical Gardens at the base of Penang hill. It is a short walk from Gurney Plaza. It is FREE of charge to visit the Penang Youth Park.
How do you get to the Youth Park in Penang?
To reach Penang Youth Park, driving is the most convenient option. There is a spacious and free car park available at the entrance. Another fast, cheap and convenient way to get around is to use a Grab taxi. Just buy a local sim card with some data, download the grab app, register an account. Find out more about using Grab in Malaysia. You can request taxis online. It is likely to cost around RM5 – RM25 for a taxi in Penang depending how far your traveling (this is roughly £1 – £5 or $1.20 – $6). Alternatively, you can take the 101 bus from Georgetown and alight at the Gurney Plaza stop. From there, it’s approximately a 20-minute walk to the park.
Things to do in the Penang Youth Park
Penang Youth Park offers a variety of activities and things to do
Kids Play Park
The park features an extensive kids play area with climbing frames, slides, swings, and more. This free-of-charge facility is suitable for children aged between 5 and 10 years old, providing them with hours of fun and entertainment. There is a small obstacle course next to the kids play park.
Skate Park
For the more adventurous, Penang Youth Park boasts a large and challenging skate park. Complete with ramps, jumps, and half pipes, this facility is perfect for those with advanced skating skills. Like the kids play park, the skate park is also free to use.
Café and a small shop
Adjacent to the skate park, you’ll find a café serving a range of hot drinks and snacks, as well as a shop offering gifts, snacks, and cold drinks. Take a break, grab a refreshment, and recharge before continuing your exploration of the park.
Outdoor Swimming Pool
Penang Youth Park features a small, shallow, and free outdoor swimming pool. Take a dip in the cool and refreshing water, but be mindful that there are no changing rooms, showers, or lockers available. It’s recommended to come prepared by wearing your swimming attire and bringing a towel and sunscreen. Also, be cautious of leaving your bags unattended near the pool, as mischievous macaque monkeys may attempt to snatch them.
TOP TIP: We recommend keeping bags zipped up. Try strapping them or tying them to the chairs around the swimming pool to stop monkeys running off with your bags.
Wildlife and Nature in the Penang Youth Park
One of the highlights of Penang Youth Park is its abundant wildlife and natural surroundings.
Macaque Monkeys
Keep an eye out for macaque monkeys, which are commonly seen playing in the park. Although they can be aggressive and territorial, it’s essential to maintain a safe distance and refrain from feeding them. Enjoy observing these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
Monitor Lizards
The park is also home to monitor lizards, impressive reptiles that can often be spotted roaming the area. While they are generally not aggressive, it’s advisable to keep a respectful distance as they can bite if they feel threatened.
Tropical Birds and Dusky Leaf Monkeys
Bird enthusiasts will have the opportunity to spot tropical birds of paradise within the park. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the beautiful black dusky leaf monkeys, known for their shy and timid nature. These monkeys are often seen playing in the canopy, adding to the park’s enchanting atmosphere.
Snakes (don’t panic)
Ok, Malaysia is a tropical climate and there are some more terrifying critters around. Do be aware of snakes in this area. We have seen some pretty terrifying snakes in Malaysia (actually in the Botanical gardens). You don’t need to be terrified, only vigilant. Don’t let kids play in the undergrowth or climb trees.
Other things to do in Penang
In addition to Penang Youth Park, there are several other attractions worth exploring in the vicinity:
- Gurney Plaza: Visit this remarkable shopping destination that houses an indoor climbing wall and a cinema, perfect for leisure and entertainment.
- Penang Hill: Take a stroll up Penang Hill and discover a host of captivating attractions at its summit. The The Habitat Biosphere Reserve, with its canopy walkways and viewing platform, is particularly popular among visitors seeking an immersive jungle experience. Don’t miss our full Guide on Penang Hill
- Penang National Park: To the northwest corner of the island, you can visit Penang National Park. Don’t miss the chance to explore Turtle Beach and witness the conservation efforts at the turtle sanctuary. It’s an opportunity to learn about these incredible creatures and contribute to their protection.
- Escape Adventure Theme Park: For thrill-seekers, a visit to the Escape Adventure Theme Park is highly recommended. This park offers a wide range of exciting outdoor activities and challenges suitable for all ages. From ziplining and rope courses to water slides and obstacle courses, there’s something for everyone seeking an adrenaline rush.
Amazing place to eat near the Youth Park
Don’t miss the Nasi Kandar at Restoran Jaya (on Jalan Gottileb). They do amazing Malaysian-Indian food such as Dosai, Roti Chenai and Fried Chicken. The food is deliciously fresh and delightfully cheap – most dishes ranging between RM5 – RM10 (£1 – £2 or $1.20 – $2.50)
Is the Penang youth park worth a visit?
Penang Youth Park is an underrated gem in Penang. It offers a fantastic array of activities and natural wonders. From the kids play park and skate park to the outdoor swimming pool and diverse wildlife, the park provides a unique experience for all ages. If you only have a limited time in Penang, we recommend focusing on the Botanical Gardens, Penang Hill, the National park and other attractions like Entopia or Escape. BUT if you do have some free time in your itinerary the youth park is well worth a visit.
