Pulau Ketam (Crab Island) Malaysia Travel Guide

Over the years, Pulau Ketam, or Crab Island, has gained attention. Pulau Ketam, a small island near Port Klang in Selangor, Malaysia, is surrounded by muddy shores and nearby islets where the river meets the sea. Entirely built on wooden stilts above mangrove swamps, it has gradually become a popular tourist destination in Malaysia.

Weekends, public holidays, school holidays, and the year-end break draw countless locals and foreign tourists to Pulau Ketam (FREMANTLE AUSTRALIA THINGS TO DO). For those with flexibility, the island is best visited during off-peak seasons and weekdays. It also serves as a getaway for urbanites, offering an escape from the daily rush and stress, an island to relax and walk around before returning to the usual routine of life.

A day in Pulau Ketam with an overnight stay is good enough, as there is only so much to see on this Crab Island in Malaysia. In fact, even without an overnight stay, you would have covered the things to do in Pulau Ketam (VENICE ITALY GONDOLA RIDE).

Pulau Ketam History and Background
As the name suggests, Pulau Ketam is known for its fresh seafood, especially crabs. It is a traditional Chinese fishing village with a self-sustaining community, colourful houses, and a slow-paced, rustic way of life that reflects the nature of coastal living in Malaysia.

Pulau Ketam was first settled in the 1880s by Hokkien and Teochew Chinese fishermen who migrated from coastal areas of China. Over time, more families arrived, drawn by the rich seafood supply and natural mangrove surroundings. The village slowly grew into a complete island settlement with temples, schools, and small shops, yet it has managed to preserve its traditional roots to this day.

 

One unique feature of Pulau Ketam is its mode of transport. Locals get around by bicycle or electric scooter, as cars are not allowed on the island (GANGES VARANASI INDIA SIGHTSEEING).

 

How to Get to Pulau Ketam

To reach Pulau Ketam, head to Terminal Penumpang South Port in Port Klang (Passenger Terminal South Port). You can park your car nearby and leave it overnight. Parking is commonly used by visitors and is generally safe, though charges apply, usually around RM1 per hour or RM5 per entry, depending on the lot. Spaces can be limited during weekends and public holidays.

 

From the terminal, ferries and speedboats depart to Pulau Ketam Jetty. Ticket prices vary depending on the type of vessel. The air-conditioned ferries cost more but offer enclosed cabins and cushioned seating. It's recommended to book your return ticket at the same time.

Ferry and boat at Port Klang pier, ready to take passengers to Pulau Ketam.

Ferry Ride to Pulau Ketam
Once you board the ferry from the Port Klang terminal, the ride takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. As the ferry begins to move, the view first opens up to the industrial port area - cargo ships, containers, cranes, and tugboats are a common sight. It may not be scenic at first, but it offers a true glimpse into Malaysia’s bustling maritime activity.

As the journey continues, the scenery shifts to wide stretches of open water and mangrove forests along the coast. You’ll notice small fishing boats dotting the water, wooden poles jutting out from fish farms, and seabirds gliding overhead or perched on posts. The water appears brownish due to the muddy mangrove terrain, typical of the Straits of Malacca.

Ferry ride to Pulau Ketam, passing mangroves and the Straits of Malacca.

As you near the pier of Pulau Ketam, you’ll see traditional stilt houses built above the water. Enter Pulau Ketam by walking along the long wooden jetty. Most visitors take a moment to rest, perhaps with a drink, or for some, a snack or meal at one of the nearby unassuming coffee shops. When the weather is hot and the sun is scorching, nothing beats coconut juice to cool down and quench your thirst.

Pulau Ketam Accommodation
It’s advisable to book your accommodation in Pulau Ketam, Malaysia, in advance, which is what most visitors usually do. Online platforms offer a range of options, from basic homestays to small island hotels. However, don’t expect luxury; most Pulau Ketam accommodations are simple and modest. Be prepared for a few hiccups, like leaking air-conditioners, tiny bathrooms, or cramped rooms. Some places still use traditional keys instead of smart cards.

 

While there’s no curfew, the island quiets down by around 11 PM, and there’s little to no nightlife, unless you enjoy standing at the pier, watching the sky change colours or the tide rolling in. Still, staying overnight in this coastal village gives you the full Pulau Ketam island experience in Malaysia.

For those staying overnight in Pulau Ketam, the usual next step is heading to their pre-booked hotel or homestay to settle in, put aside their belongings, and maybe even freshen up. It’s advisable to pack more than just clothes, include toiletries, skincare, slippers, and even a towel, as these may not always be provided in the unassuming homestays and hotels.

 

What to do and see in Pulau Ketam, or sightseeing in Pulau Ketam, will follow in the next article.