A long layover in Kuantan is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Kuantan Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of KUA:
- Can you legally enter Malaysia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by Taxi / Grab (Ride-sharing), you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the MYR. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
What’s Worth Seeing in Kuantan
For a layover visit to Kuantan, we’d suggest Teluk Cempedak Beach and Sultan Ahmad Shah State Mosque. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at KUA, check out Kuantan Airport Souvenir & Retail or Airport Departure Hall Relaxation to keep yourself occupied.
How to Get Into Kuantan
You have two main options for getting from Kuantan Airport into town:
- Taxi / Grab (Ride-sharing): About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Eating Well on a Kuantan Layover
In Kuantan
If you make it into town, Restoran Sara Thai Kitchen is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Restoran Hoi Yin.
Inside KUA
If you’re staying in the terminal, Kuantan Airport Cafe is your main option. Airport Grab & Go works too if you want something quick.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Kuantan might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$7 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$22 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and KUA is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Kuantan and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Luggage Storage at KUA
Luggage storage options at KUA can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Kuantan for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, KUA has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Kuantan count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave KUA. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.