Penang Nightlife-25 Epic Things To Do![2023]

Are you planning to hit the Penang nightlife scene but aren’t quite sure where to start?

Well, you’ve come to the right place! 

The nightlife in Penang is diverse, so you don’t have to travel far. Almost every nightlife spot in Penang is close to another so you don’t have to worry about moving about too much. 

Come along with me as we explore the best things to do in Penang at night and let your inner nocturnal explorer wander!

25 Penang Nightlife Activities 

1. Komtar Rainbow Skywalk
2. Take A Sunset Cruise
3. Dining Atop Penang Hill
4. Lights At Kek Lok Si Temple (During Chinese New Year)
5. An Evening Stroll At Clan Jetties
6. Find Avatar Secret Garden
7. Music At China House Penang
8. Gurney Drive Food Court
9. Chulia Street Hawker Stalls
10. Ferringhi Shopping Spree
11. Dinner At Ferringhi Garden
12. Night Trishaw Ride
13. Night Ate-Venture Vespa Food Tour 
14. Drinks At The Soho Free House
15. Cocktails at Farquhar’s Bar
16. Fine Dining At Blue Mansion
17. Live Music At Hard Rock Cafe Penang
18. Live Music At Sound Maker 2.0 
19. Dance At Soju Room
20. Happy Hour At Javana Lounge
21. Evening Stroll At Monkey Beach
22. Chill At Penang’s Hidden Bars
23. Explore Penang Night Markets
24. Dining At Narrow Marrow Hipster Cafe
25. Beachside Bar Bora Bora 

DISCLOSURE

Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.

1. Get Started With The Komtar Rainbow Skywalk

The Komtar Rainbow Skywalk and Observatory Deck offer a bird’s-eye view of George Town.

After climbing 820 feet (250 meters) to the glass cantilever bridge atop Penang’s tallest skyscraper, you will enjoy the panoramic views surrounding suburbs and landscapes for a great start to your Penang nightlife experience.

Grab a cocktail and some tapas at the Coco Cabana Bar & Bistro while listening to the music of a hanging orchestra.

2. Take A Sunset Walk

Take a sunset walk from Penang National Park which is home to over 1000 hectares of forests and wetlands.

You can also explore these natural treasures and experience the diversity of the park’s vegetation and fauna up close. 

There is still enough natural light, leaving room for plenty of photo opportunities. On the way back, prepare to be mesmerized by the sight of the sunset. 

3. Dine Atop Penang Hill

Dine atop Penang Hill where a funicular train will transport you up Penang Hill on for your evening meal. As you travel up the Penang Hill Railway in George Town, you will be greeted with spectacular views of the city.

The tour generally lasts for about 3 hours.

It includes a hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an expert guide, in addition to the train ride and dinner. If you are in Penang with your special someone, it’s a one-of-a-kind date night activity. 

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4. Check Out The Lights At Kek Lok Si Temple (During Chinese New Year)

The lights at the Kek Lok Si Temple are beautifully-lit at night as the native devotees are called to their prayers.

Sometimes referred to as the Temple of Supreme Bliss, this 10-acre establishment’s most well-liked attraction is that of the temple of Rama VI. The temple houses over 10,000 Buddha sculptures made up of alabaster and bronze. 

There is also the 99-foot-tall bronze statue of Kuan Yin, the goddess of Mercy. 

Admission to the temple is free with a series of popular night activities in Penang such as food stalls and activities around the temple area. 

5. Take An Evening Stroll At Clan Jetties

The Clan Jetties of Penang is an ancient settlement by Chinese immigrants who came to Malaysia. There are 6 village houses with distinct Chinese clans, the Chew clan being the most tourist-friendly and famous.

Also referred to as floating villages, the clan jetties showcase the harmony of 2 completely different lifestyles and cultures.

They are characterized by their previous traditions and are engineered with a special sort of wood that permits them to remain close to seawater. 

The clan jetties that you will find in this picturesque areas are:

• Ong Clan Jetty Penang 
• Commission building
• Lim Clan Jetty Penang 
• Chew Clan Jetty Penang 
• Tan Clan Jetty Penang 
• Lee Clan Jetty Penang 
• New Clan Jetty Penang 
• Yeoh Clan Jetty Penang 
• Peng Aun Jetty Penang 

6. Explore The Avatar Secret Garden

The Avatar Secret Garden has a serene and rocky seashore. Indulge in a relaxing stroll among the statues and as the final rays of daylight hours flip to darkness, you will notice flares of pink and blue as the LED lighting fixtures flicker onto the sea.

It is truly a sight to behold and very much resembles the sacred spirit tree, Eywa in the movie Avatar.

7. Check Out The Music At China House Penang

China House Penang has a cute corner with one of the foremost celebrated Western-styled eating houses in the city. This place is pretty common with the younger crowd. 

This restaurant serves tasty and delicious meals with an assortment of flavors. You will also find a wide array of signature cakes with unique flavors. 

China House also hosts plenty of art and photography exhibitions and they frequently organize several live music and jam sessions.

If you are looking for a laidback ambiance, to enjoy a good cup of coffee and get lost in a book, then this is definitely the place to do it!

8. Have A Meal At The Gurney Drive Food Court

The Gurney Drive Food Court is a promenade styled on the waterfront in George Town, Penang. If you’re on the hunt for Penang food at it’s finest, then this is the place to embark on your gastronomic adventure!

This heritage row has been listed by the Penang Club as the world’s 25 best streets to be visited. So you can’t miss it! 

9. Explore Chulia Street 

Chulia Street was built especially for budget travelers.

Here you will find a range of cheap hostels and guesthouses, as well as businesses like laundromats, restaurants, bars, and travel agencies. You will also have the opportunity to explore the famous Chulia Street hawker stalls!

There are 12-24 restaurants serving a variety of western and local food such as wonton noodles, popiah, Hokkien mee, curry noodles. You are bound to find something that tickles your taste buds – in the best possible way!

10. Indulge In A Ferringhi Shopping Spree

Batu Ferringhi is a wonderful place for night shopping, especially at its vivacious night market from 7:00 pm to 12:00 a.m. 

Various stalls take over the road and locals and tourists begin flocking in to do some shopping.

The price of things may vary from USD 1.00 – 5.00, and you should use your skills in bargaining for cheaper rates. The stores provide a variety of things including  CDs, DVDs, artwork, clothes, bags, shoes, and souvenirs. 

11. Have Dinner At Ferringhi Garden

Ferringhi Garden is truly a hidden gem in Penang with its romantic lush ambiance and stunning gardens.

The mini water and koi lake have a tranquil effect with various types of flowering potted plants that extends from the entrance all the way into the back of the restaurant.

This is the perfect place for a date night with your special someone!

12. Go On A Night Trishaw Ride

Trishaw rides in Penang come alive when the sun goes down. It is splendid way to see the city center because the cool weather allows you to really make the most of the sights in a comfortable fashion. 

It’s definitely a relaxing way to see the island. If you feel like the night is still young, you can also go on a walk along Armenian Street to get yourself some supper or yummy desserts. 

13. Go On The Night Ate-Venture Vespa Food Tour 

The Night Ate-Venture Vespa Food Tour is essentially a Vespa excursion in Penang. The tour takes you to nearby meals streets and markets. 

You will embark on a chauffeur-driven journey in antique Vespas to discover and revel in the sounds and tastes of Penang through slim alleys and nearby restaurants for meals and then finish your tour at a nearby pub or speakeasy or your hotel.

14. Have Drinks At The Soho Free House

Here is where they hold live performances and it is located in the heart of Penang’s nightlife. SoHo Free House earned its reputation with its slogan  “Happy Hour, Every Hour, Everyday”. 

The pub has an interior that gives it an English pub feel and the place also serves good real ales. As the nightlife in Penang unfolds, the music gets louder and the DJ puts on wonderful beats that you can dance to.

15. Have Cocktails At Farquhar’s Bar

Farquhar’s Bar is situated at Upper Penang Road at the center of George Town. Farquhar’s Bar is an upscale bar that serves some of the best food and drinks at relatively affordable prices. 

The bar has its colonial-fashion decor and a first-rated beer collection, as well as delicious cocktails. If alcohol is not your thing, you will be happy to learn that they also serve non-alcoholic beverages.

It is a great alternative for date night  or a scrumptious pub dinner to seal your nightlife in Penang.

16. Fine Dining At Blue Mansion

The Blue Mansion is situated in Georgetown and has stunning architecture that is truly worth it to take the time and explore. Inside, you will find the Indigo Restaurant, renowned for its fine cuisine.

The restaurant stays open until 10 p.m. There is also a super cool cocktail bar where you can relax and wind down from the adventures of the day. 

The menu is primarily French and European. The food is well-presented and delicious. And you will be treated to simply impeccable service. 

One of their more popular dishes is the rack of lamb served with crunchy vegetables and au gratin potatoes. The asparagus soup also comes highly recommended. 

If you feel like spoiling the special someone in your life, or hey – you can even spoil yourself – this is one place you should definitely check out. 

17. Listen To Live Music At Hard Rock Cafe Penang

The Hard Rock Cafe Penang at night has plenty of activity and a cozy ambiance. The main attraction is the live music and the cover bands are excellent. Often, you can even find international stars singing their numbers on location. 

You will find that the menu here is jam-packed with American dishes like onion rings and burgers, served in generous portions. For dessert, the apple cobbler comes highly recommended, with its  magical combination of pie crust, walnuts, and caramel sauce.

18. Listen To Live Music At Sound Maker 2.0

Sound Maker 2.0 has routine gigs where they host underground music. From heavy metal to hardcore punk, hip-hop to pop, and rock to reggae, you are sure to find something that gels with your desired Penang nightlife scene.

The atmosphere of the place is elegant and you will be surrounded by artwork that is based on musical themes. You will also be thrilled to learn that you can enjoy stunning views of the sea while you are here. Keep an eye out for well-known local musicians like Cole Yew and try your hand at electrical or acoustic improvisations if you are wondering what to do in Penang at night

19. Dance At Soju Room

The Soju Room is an electrifying party club which is ideal for those who enjoy electronic music. It is located in the basement of Penang Times Square. 

The loud music and people doing drink tours, while swaying to the electronic beats, is just the tip of the iceberg when dealing with Penang’s vibrant nightlife. The neon-lit dance floors with flashing disco lights add to the rave vibe and will definitely get you grooving on the dance floor!

20. Enjoy Happy Hour At Javana Lounge

Javana Lounge opens at 11:00 am. And we all know the thrill that comes with day-drinking! 🙂 

However, it definitely becomes a little more crowded as the sun sets. Located at the ground floor of the Penang Park Royal Hotel, this quaint little nightspot’s decor is inspired by Bali.

You will find the most delicious Mojitos, Long Island Iced Teas, and Wild Orchids. They also serve meals and snacks. 

If music is more your thing, you will be pleased to learn that they have live performances for you to really relax and unwind. 

21. Take An Evening Stroll At Monkey Beach

Monkey Beach is where tourists generally go for day trips. But all the magic here happens after dark. To have an absolutely stunning experience of swimming with glowing plankton and a  firefly show in the jungle, you must stay overnight here. 

You can do this at the  Lazy Boys Camp Site, which is perfect for backpackers who are traveling on a budget and looking for the ultimate beach to experience nightlife in Penang Malaysia.

22. Chill At Penang’s Hidden Bars

You will find that Penang has many hidden bars and speakeasies scattered all over. If you’re looking to check out the Penang clubbing night out scene, you will certainly be spoilt for choice. 

These are perfect places to chill out with your friends and unwind from the day or week. 

23. Explore Penang Night Markets

Penang has a thriving night market scene and anyone who has been to the island will testify that one can find a variety of items at low prices. These markets are usually held weekly, bi-weekly, quarterly, or daily. So you may want to keep an eye out while you’re there! 

Tourists can buy good souvenirs in these markets and also learn about local life in these markets.

More importantly, there are plenty of food stalls which gives you the chance to sample local cuisine at affordable prices.

24. Dine At Narrow Marrow Hipster Cafe

The Narrow Marrow Hipster Cafe is a rustic cafe that is well-loved among the artists and hipsters of Penang. This cafe is essentially a narrow bar, serving some exquisite fusion dishes and delicious cakes.

This is a wonderful  choice to hang out with friends in Penang because of its affordable prices and variety of dishes.

They also occasionally organize DJ nights, tiny gigs, and film screenings so be sure to keep a lookout for these special events if you’re thinking of going there. 

 

25. Explore Bar Bora Bora 

Bar Bora Bora is a place that combines delicious food and drinks with a beach bar. Who could ask for more?

You can start off with a relaxing dinner and spend the nights on the beach, sipping on colorful cocktails and enjoying a delicious barbecue. 

Tiger Beer is the bestseller here and a must-try for beer lovers. They also have happy hour every day from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. 

What Are The Places To Visit Penang At Night?

Penang, with its vibrant nightlife scene and unique nighttime destinations, is an exciting place to visit. This bustling hub of delicious food and cultural delights undoubtedly is a destination worth discovering and staying awake for.

Some places that you can visit in Penang at night include:

• Night Trishaw Ride
• Night Ate-Venture Vespa Food Tour 
• Drinks At The Soho Free House
• Cocktails at Farquhar’s Bar
• Fine Dining At Blue Mansion
• Live Music At Hard Rock Cafe Penang
• Live Music At Sound Maker 2.0 
• Dance At Soju Room

 

Is There A Red Light District In Penang?

Cintra Street, which is a narrow street near George Town’s Unesco World Heritage Site, has gained a seedy reputation over the years and has become known as the red-light district of Penang. This is even though the origins of the street’s name is actually related to the Eurasian community on Penang Island. 

Is Penang A Good Place To Live?

Penang Island is a good place to live  in as it is one of the best islands in the world to retire on. It is a carefree sunny beach community with a wealth of cultural attractions and festivals. And of course, we can’t forget the variety of local hawker food! 

Can You Swim In Penang Beach?

Penang is surrounded by dense forest and has public and private beaches with fine white sand and cool waters. It is great for a picnic with barbecue and fishing. The water isn’t always fit for swimming because of the presence of jellyfish. So do keep a lookout if you are planning to go into the water!

How Many Days In Penang Is Enough?

Spending at least three days in Penang is almost obligatory. Although the bustling Malaysia capital of Kuala Lumpur is the perfect place for a quick stopover, launching a Penang itinerary is where you’ll really start to love this often overshadowed Southeast Asian country.

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Conclusion 

With so many things to do in Penang, it is almost impossible to be bored. There is a thriving Penang nightlife just as there is during the day with the fun continuing till the early hours of the morning.

Make sure you keep an eye for any upcoming events and festivals.

Penang, with an atmosphere as lively as Kuala Lumpur, promises no dull moments. So leave your heritage hotel or vacation rental and feel the good vibes rise as you explore these Penang attractions at night. 

Along the way, you will gain a better understanding of the rich culture and meet new people and explore the best nightlife in Penang.