7 Dreamy Locations To Catch Sight Of Blue Tears In Malaysia

Have you heard of the 'blue tears' phenomenon? Caused by the result of a chemical reaction called bioluminescence, the blue tears phenomenon occurs naturally at night, contributed by algae or marine plankton that emit blue-green light upon nightfall. This beautiful, otherworldly sight has been spotted at beaches across the globe in Australia, Puerto Rico, The Maldives, Japan, and more.

However, did you know that you can also catch sight of the magical beauty of blue tears at several destinations across Malaysia? We've compiled a list of spots in Malaysia where you can marvel at the magnificent blue streaks as you stroll along the beach or cruise through a river in the darkness. Start adding them to your bucket list now!

Many people know Kuala Selangor for its fireflies, cheeky monkeys, and the iconic Sasaran Beach Sky Mirror, but did you know that you can also catch sight of the blue tears phenomenon here? Located just an hour's drive from Kuala Lumpur, the Selangor River in Kuala Selangor is home to beautiful lights emitted by microscopic creatures, which you can witness by hopping on a night cruise. Book your Blue Tears Boat Cruise on Klook and get ready for an unforgettable sight. Do note that the best time to witness the blue tears in Kuala Selangor is on the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd day of the month in the lunar calendar when the sky is the darkest!

Bagan Datuk is a quaint, laid-back coastal town located in Perak just an hour from Teluk Intan. Spend a fun and relaxing day here exploring Bagan Datuk's peaceful fishing village, sunflower fields, old town (home to vibrant street art), and Perak's very own Sky Mirror (similar to the salt lakes of Bolivia!). To catch a glimpse of the blue tears, stay till nightfall and witness the waters of the Bagan Datuk sea glimmer with blue as millions of bio-luminescent planktons get washed up ashore!

Pulau Sembilan is a cluster of islands off the coast of Perak (it's just a short boat ride away from Bagan Datuk) that can only be accessed if you sign up for a local package tour. Besides the popular blue tears phenomenon, the islands are also rich with other unique sea creatures such as adolescent bamboo sharks, seahorses, butterflyfish, blue-ringed angelfish, tuna, vibrant coral reefs, and more! Unfortunately, Pulau Sembilan have been closed off to the public for recovery after sustaining damages due to excessive tourism. There have been announcements of its reopening after the state borders are lifted, so make sure to add it to your bucket list.

The beaches of Pulau Pangkor may seem sandy and unassuming in the morning, but you may be lucky enough to lay your eyes on glowing blue tears as you walk along the shore of Teluk Nipah at night. We heard that you require some luck in spotting them though - so make sure you keep your eyes peeled on the sand while you're there and who knows it'll be your lucky night.

Pulau Lang Tengah is a secluded paradise located between the more popular Perhentian Island and Redang Island, a short 45-minute speedboat ride from Merang Jetty, Terengganu. There are literally no roads on this little island and only three operational hotels, so you know you're in for a relaxing adventure when you step foot here. Sign up for a guided night tour and watch the coastline come to life with a dreamy, bioluminescent glow under the unpolluted night sky.

Also known as Mermaid Island, Pulau Mantanani is an untouched, secluded gem in Kota Belud, Sabah. While it's located a bit out of the way compared to other more popular islands in the vicinity, the island's unpolluted natural beauty is worth it for those in search of a tranquil getaway. Besides the blue tears, you may even get to catch sight of the Milky Way on a clear night!

The blue tears phenomenon at Tusan Beach (located a 40km drive from Miri city) was discovered just a couple of years ago, attracting the locals and tourists to the beach when it came to light. Besides the blue tears phenomenon, Tusan Beach has a lot more to offer with its white, sandy beach and breathtaking sunsets. Head over in the evening and stay till nightfall for a stroll along the coast dotted with fossils, seashells, and glowing algae.