Well-heeled couples and independent travelers should have no trouble locating a hotel in Penang with plenty of period charm and turn-of-the-last-century atmosphere. Finding a family-friendly hotel in the Malaysian state can be a little trickier. Our favorites offer easygoing vibes where families with small children won't feel out of place, as well as features like waterslide pools, kids' clubs, and multi-room family suites with PlayStations. See our picks for the top kid-friendly hotels in Penang.
Families are absolutely the focus at this six-story beachfront hotel, which offers a kid-friendly take on its rock 'n' roll brand. There's always fun to be had here: The supervised pool is the hub of activity during the day, with kids (and adults!) using the waterslides or participating in organized activities such as pool kayak races. A staffed kids' club takes care of those ages 4 to 12 (expect activities such as arts and crafts, pool time, movie time, dancing, and traditional Malaysian games), while a game lounge can entertain teens with pool tables and video games. Roxity Kids Suites include a children's bedroom with a Playstation, along with various toys and books; some have a courtyard with play area. The Lagoon Deluxe Rooms have direct pool access and are popular for families with older children or couples (families with children under 12 will need to sign a safety waiver to stay in this room type).
Right on the beach, the 387-room Golden Sands Resort by Shangri-La is a sprawling, upscale family-friendly property with indoor and outdoor entertainment for children of all ages. It's the casual sister property to the neighboring Shangri-La's Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa, whose guests can use the services and facilities at the Golden Sands -- Golden Sands guests can use the spa, golf course, and restaurant at the neighboring property but not the pool area or lounge. Rooms are large and have furnished balconies, but views are mixed, and they are showing some wear. In addition to entertainment, kid-friendly amenities include supervised activities and the 10,000- square-foot indoor Adventure Zone, though extra fees apply.
The PARKROYAL Penang Resort, Malaysia is a 309-room, four-pearl beachfront hotel along the picturesque coast of Batu Ferringhi. Apart from the beach and the surrounding gardens, the family-friendly draws here include two outdoor pools, waterslides, and a kids' club. The resort has live entertainment and three restaurants, including a cool alfresco tapas spot with ocean views. It's due for a renovation, but still polished enough to please most of its guests.
