Idyllic Pantai Bersih

Scenic beach for “makan angin” and tasty seafood

This is a recreational beach with seafront eateries and a placid shoreline where people enjoy strolling, fishing and searching for clams. Locals come here to “makan angin” (literally in Malay, to “eat” the outdoor air) as it also offers a pleasant view of the sea and the distant vistas on Penang island.

Inshore fishermen can be seen returning to the Pantai Bersih beach on their boats in the late afternoons with their bounty. The catch is sold directly to the waterfront restaurants here which serve mainly Chinese seafood dishes, Steamboat and noodles in the evenings. Meanwhile, Malay seafood hawkers dot the path along the beach northwards, serving treats like Ikan Masak Merah, Kerang Rebus (blanched cockles) and seafood Tom Yam.

Nearby along Jalan Pantai Bersih is the Thean Hock Keong Temple, famously known as the Dragon Temple. Founded in 1888, the present building, with two ornate pavilions on its raised front court, was completed in January 1997. The popular Bagan Ajam Public Market is also a short distance away and teems with fresh groceries, hawker fare and restaurants.

The beauty and rustic tranquillity to be found at Pantai Bersih typify the simple yet delightful essence of daily life in Butterworth. It is such charms that remind us of the myriad sights and sounds that are waiting to be explored and celebrated in this historic – and highly promising – part of Penang.

Below are other notable attractions in and around Butterworth.